Psychiatrists in Newport, OR

Photo of Norman Todd Gale, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Norman Todd Gale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport, OR 97365
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for children and adolescents. I work together with you to try and figure out what’s bothering you, and whether medication interventions would be the right choice (spoiler alert: they can be, but they’re not always). I am comfortable talking with you about anxiety, depression, anger, mood swings, ADHD, autism, and other concerns you may have.
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for children and adolescents. I work together with you to try and figure out what’s bothering you, and whether medication interventions would be the right choice (spoiler alert: they can be, but they’re not always). I am comfortable talking with you about anxiety, depression, anger, mood swings, ADHD, autism, and other concerns you may have.
(541) 859-3163 View (541) 859-3163
Photo of Debra Avery, PMHNP, MSN, BSA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Debra Avery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport, OR 97365
Scheduling Oregon patients only. Wait List for CO. My practice offers a unique mix of biology-based pharmaceuticals & holistic modalities. Each treatment plan is developed in collaboration with the client & based upon the clients personal goals for healing & growth. I believe that each individual has the knowledge within them to heal themselves. But sometimes circumstances, illness, stress, trauma, etc. blocks us from accessing this. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for qualifying individuals. Spravato (FDA-approved Ketamine) Certified Clinic. Call for info re: qualifications
Scheduling Oregon patients only. Wait List for CO. My practice offers a unique mix of biology-based pharmaceuticals & holistic modalities. Each treatment plan is developed in collaboration with the client & based upon the clients personal goals for healing & growth. I believe that each individual has the knowledge within them to heal themselves. But sometimes circumstances, illness, stress, trauma, etc. blocks us from accessing this. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for qualifying individuals. Spravato (FDA-approved Ketamine) Certified Clinic. Call for info re: qualifications
(541) 319-8348 View (541) 319-8348
Photo of Phebee William - Pw psych no svcs pllc, MA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Pw psych no svcs pllc
Psychiatric Nurse, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport, OR 97365  (Online Only)
About the Provider: I am a Board Certified, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my professional degree from Walden University. Over the years, I had professional affiliations with reputable mental health facilities including Bakersfield behavior, John George psych and more. I treat children and adults affected by various mental illness with care and compassion. I utilize Evidence Based Practice model to make treatment choices. I am specialized in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety and mood instability. Stimulant and non-stimulant treatment are available. I do conduct ADHD screening and testing before treatment.
About the Provider: I am a Board Certified, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my professional degree from Walden University. Over the years, I had professional affiliations with reputable mental health facilities including Bakersfield behavior, John George psych and more. I treat children and adults affected by various mental illness with care and compassion. I utilize Evidence Based Practice model to make treatment choices. I am specialized in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety and mood instability. Stimulant and non-stimulant treatment are available. I do conduct ADHD screening and testing before treatment.
(503) 386-0190 View (503) 386-0190

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Danielle Kasprzak - Holistic Well, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Well
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Holistic Well serves our clients with personalized care by developing a strong therapeutic relationship. We use evidence-based-practices and takes a holistic approach to treatment, considering not just the symptoms but also the unique needs and circumstances of each client.
Holistic Well serves our clients with personalized care by developing a strong therapeutic relationship. We use evidence-based-practices and takes a holistic approach to treatment, considering not just the symptoms but also the unique needs and circumstances of each client.
(520) 639-9249 View (520) 639-9249
Photo of Shannon Eaton, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Eaton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97123  (Online Only)
Now providing services to clients in WA and OR! If you're struggling with depression, explore our advanced treatment options that offer relief within just 2 weeks. These therapies are different from traditional SSRIs or SNRIs and are covered by insurance with minimal out-of-pocket costs, giving you renewed hope and effective help. For those facing ADHD challenges, our specialized care includes comprehensive Neurocognitive Testing and convenient daily treatments tailored to your lifestyle. We also offer expert psychiatric medication management available online throughout WA and OR. New patients are welcome!
Now providing services to clients in WA and OR! If you're struggling with depression, explore our advanced treatment options that offer relief within just 2 weeks. These therapies are different from traditional SSRIs or SNRIs and are covered by insurance with minimal out-of-pocket costs, giving you renewed hope and effective help. For those facing ADHD challenges, our specialized care includes comprehensive Neurocognitive Testing and convenient daily treatments tailored to your lifestyle. We also offer expert psychiatric medication management available online throughout WA and OR. New patients are welcome!
(425) 678-3582 View (425) 678-3582
Photo of Lacey Evans, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lacey Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97233
Education -MCPHS University- Master's in Nursing -Mercer University- Bachelor's in Nursing -The University of Alabama- Bachelor's, Community Health Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner through ANCC
Education -MCPHS University- Master's in Nursing -Mercer University- Bachelor's in Nursing -The University of Alabama- Bachelor's, Community Health Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner through ANCC
(971) 306-8319 View (971) 306-8319
Photo of Ryan Dozler, PMHNP, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Dozler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97302
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
(425) 584-6910 View (425) 584-6910
Photo of Cecily Allen - Holistic Well, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Well
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
(971) 265-9944 View (971) 265-9944
Photo of Keith Lowenstein, MD, Psychiatrist
Keith Lowenstein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97006
Dr. Keith Lowenstein is board certified in psychiatry and integrative medicine. He works with individuals who would like to optimize their physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. He understands that life’s small and large traumas can contribute to stressrelated physical and psychological disorders. With more than 30 years of clinical experience in psychiatry, obesity medicine, nutrition, breath focused selfregulation, mindfulness, various psychotherapies, and acupuncture, he has a lifelong commitment to a comprehensive approach to human health and development. Dr.
Dr. Keith Lowenstein is board certified in psychiatry and integrative medicine. He works with individuals who would like to optimize their physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. He understands that life’s small and large traumas can contribute to stressrelated physical and psychological disorders. With more than 30 years of clinical experience in psychiatry, obesity medicine, nutrition, breath focused selfregulation, mindfulness, various psychotherapies, and acupuncture, he has a lifelong commitment to a comprehensive approach to human health and development. Dr.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Vanessa Underwood, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vanessa Underwood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97304
Hi, I am Vanessa Underwood, PMHNP. I am now accepting new clients. I work in Salem, Oregon and have over 12 years of experience in mental health. I provide a safe and non-judgmental setting for people looking for medication management to improve their mental health.
Hi, I am Vanessa Underwood, PMHNP. I am now accepting new clients. I work in Salem, Oregon and have over 12 years of experience in mental health. I provide a safe and non-judgmental setting for people looking for medication management to improve their mental health.
(503) 744-6963 View (503) 744-6963
Photo of Kimberly Rickel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Rickel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
Accepting New Patients! My name is Kimberly Rickel, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS. Prior to obtaining my Master’s degree from Gonzaga University in 2022, I worked over a decade as a board-certified mental health registered nurse in a variety of mental health settings with the adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations. My experience includes working with conditions such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, and cognitive disorders.
Accepting New Patients! My name is Kimberly Rickel, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS. Prior to obtaining my Master’s degree from Gonzaga University in 2022, I worked over a decade as a board-certified mental health registered nurse in a variety of mental health settings with the adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations. My experience includes working with conditions such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, and cognitive disorders.
(503) 386-9652 View (503) 386-9652
Photo of Hannah Frazee, PA, Physician Assistant
Hannah Frazee
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I specialize in psychiatric medication management. I believe that medication can do great things for people in the right context. I also think there are times that medication should be used in addition to other modalities, like therapy, if needed.
I specialize in psychiatric medication management. I believe that medication can do great things for people in the right context. I also think there are times that medication should be used in addition to other modalities, like therapy, if needed.
(971) 206-3110 View (971) 206-3110
Photo of Salim Elhalaby - MindRx Group, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MindRx Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
An ideal client is anyone looking for help or in need of help to manage their mental health. These clients often want a life they can be proud of, they want to be there for their families in the best possible way, they want to reach goals, go through life without extreme fears and anxieties. Sometimes we are unaware of our own need for mental health treatment when life gets hectic. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood and personality disorders, etc, can be hindering an individual from reaching their full potential if left untreated.
An ideal client is anyone looking for help or in need of help to manage their mental health. These clients often want a life they can be proud of, they want to be there for their families in the best possible way, they want to reach goals, go through life without extreme fears and anxieties. Sometimes we are unaware of our own need for mental health treatment when life gets hectic. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood and personality disorders, etc, can be hindering an individual from reaching their full potential if left untreated.
(971) 306-5813 View (971) 306-5813
Photo of Valerie Spear, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Valerie Spear
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I assist patients with a wide variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, prenatal and post-partum related disorders, substance dependence, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, thought disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders etc.), dementia with behaviors, and more. I provide care to patients 18 years old to the elderly. In my practice, it is important to me that the patients feel heard and understood. I encourage all of my patients to be active participants in treatment planning to the best of their abilities.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I assist patients with a wide variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, prenatal and post-partum related disorders, substance dependence, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, thought disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders etc.), dementia with behaviors, and more. I provide care to patients 18 years old to the elderly. In my practice, it is important to me that the patients feel heard and understood. I encourage all of my patients to be active participants in treatment planning to the best of their abilities.
(503) 386-1629 View (503) 386-1629
Photo of John Benson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221  (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) 221-8449 View (503) 221-8449
Photo of Tara Ericksen, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tara Ericksen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Tara Ericksen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oregon who has been practicing since 2018. Tara firmly believes it is never too late to heal. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about helping clients of all ages and backgrounds with their mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Tara aims to empower her clients through education, compassion, and evidencebased integrative medicine. She specializes in both PTSD and Complex PTSD, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Postpartum Depression, Women’s Healthcare adjacent psychiatric issues, and Bipolar.
Tara Ericksen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oregon who has been practicing since 2018. Tara firmly believes it is never too late to heal. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about helping clients of all ages and backgrounds with their mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Tara aims to empower her clients through education, compassion, and evidencebased integrative medicine. She specializes in both PTSD and Complex PTSD, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Postpartum Depression, Women’s Healthcare adjacent psychiatric issues, and Bipolar.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
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. 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. I have decades of experience working with adults of all ages, genders, races, and a variety of diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, aggressive and suicidal behaviors, schizophrenia and other psychosis. Don’t wait to start feeling better. Contact me today to take the first step towards positive change.
Accepting New Clients. Medication Management. 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. I have decades of experience working with adults of all ages, genders, races, and a variety of diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, aggressive and suicidal behaviors, schizophrenia and other psychosis. Don’t wait to start feeling better. Contact me today to take the first step towards positive change.
(541) 262-6362 View (541) 262-6362
Photo of Rebeca Catalan, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebeca Catalan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
As a board-certified Doctor of Nursing Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) in Portland, Oregon, I am dedicated to guiding you on your mental health journey with a focus on your unique needs and goals. My practice is set in a welcoming and soothing environment that ensures your visits are both comfortable and confidential. I strive to create a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to discuss and explore your mental health concerns. My dedication to your well-being is grounded in my training at the Oregon Health & Science University and my experience with veterans at the VA Medical Center,
As a board-certified Doctor of Nursing Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) in Portland, Oregon, I am dedicated to guiding you on your mental health journey with a focus on your unique needs and goals. My practice is set in a welcoming and soothing environment that ensures your visits are both comfortable and confidential. I strive to create a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to discuss and explore your mental health concerns. My dedication to your well-being is grounded in my training at the Oregon Health & Science University and my experience with veterans at the VA Medical Center,
(971) 458-1941 View (971) 458-1941
Photo of Trae Stewart, PhD, MPH, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trae Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MPH, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW patients! Make appointments directly at www.psychmatters.net Dr. Stewart is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. He provides quality mental health care through assessment, diagnosis, and medication management via virtual appointments. Dr. Stewart focuses on medication management for adolescents and adults (13+ years old). He treats mental health disorders like anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and sleep disorders. Email us for quickest response at psychmatters (at) outlook.com
Accepting NEW patients! Make appointments directly at www.psychmatters.net Dr. Stewart is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. He provides quality mental health care through assessment, diagnosis, and medication management via virtual appointments. Dr. Stewart focuses on medication management for adolescents and adults (13+ years old). He treats mental health disorders like anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and sleep disorders. Email us for quickest response at psychmatters (at) outlook.com
(503) 832-6847 View (503) 832-6847
Photo of Theresa Webster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are constantly fighting with your own brain? You try to concentrate on a task but your mind constantly wanders off. Your friends joke that you have no concept of time but you wonder when they will tire of your inconsistency. You struggle in social settings with worry that you are talking too much or lose track of what someone is talking with you about when in conversation. Your finances are a mess or you just can’t seem to hold on to savings. Social media has you thinking you might have ADHD and you are ready to find answers.
Do you feel like you are constantly fighting with your own brain? You try to concentrate on a task but your mind constantly wanders off. Your friends joke that you have no concept of time but you wonder when they will tire of your inconsistency. You struggle in social settings with worry that you are talking too much or lose track of what someone is talking with you about when in conversation. Your finances are a mess or you just can’t seem to hold on to savings. Social media has you thinking you might have ADHD and you are ready to find answers.
(725) 600-0263 View (725) 600-0263

Nearby Searches for Newport

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Newport, OR

< 10

Psychiatrists in Newport, OR who prioritize treating:

67% Relationship Issues
67% Depression
67% Anxiety
67% Grief
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Newport, OR see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Newport?

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.