Psychiatrists in North Bend, OR

Photo of Ashley Phillips - Coastal Roots Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Coastal Roots Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ashley is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to her work and provides competent, respectful mental health care of all ages. She has a passion for working with children and patients with special needs, however she can treat all patients ages 6 and up. Ashley’s goal is to help guide clients to become the best version of themselves. She offers online telehealth appointments with weekend and evening hours to help accommodate your busy schedule.
Ashley is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to her work and provides competent, respectful mental health care of all ages. She has a passion for working with children and patients with special needs, however she can treat all patients ages 6 and up. Ashley’s goal is to help guide clients to become the best version of themselves. She offers online telehealth appointments with weekend and evening hours to help accommodate your busy schedule.
(541) 543-2066 View (541) 543-2066

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Nicole Mutnansky - Neupathway (Nicole Mutnansky), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, MSN, BSN
Neupathway (Nicole Mutnansky)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, MSN, BSN
Serves Area
Imagine a clinic where patients feel genuinely seen and supported—where care is personalized, evidence-based, and grounded in empathy. This clinic serves individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, including adolescence, pregnancy, and postpartum. Their goal is to partner with a provider who brings not only clinical expertise but also compassion and holistic insight. They’re seeking someone who honors each patient’s unique journey and can support them through change and healing.
Imagine a clinic where patients feel genuinely seen and supported—where care is personalized, evidence-based, and grounded in empathy. This clinic serves individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, including adolescence, pregnancy, and postpartum. Their goal is to partner with a provider who brings not only clinical expertise but also compassion and holistic insight. They’re seeking someone who honors each patient’s unique journey and can support them through change and healing.
(360) 996-6088 View (360) 996-6088
Photo of Tanja Quarles - Neupathway (Tanja Quarles), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN
Neupathway (Tanja Quarles)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN
Serves Area
Imagine your ideal clinic: a welcoming space where patients feel safe, understood, and valued. Their challenges include fragmented care, long wait times, and limited access to tailored treatment. They need a provider who listens deeply, integrates evidence-based therapies, and designs personalized plans. Their goal is to improve mental wellness, foster resilience, and achieve lasting balance. They want compassionate expertise that guides them toward meaningful, sustainable change.
Imagine your ideal clinic: a welcoming space where patients feel safe, understood, and valued. Their challenges include fragmented care, long wait times, and limited access to tailored treatment. They need a provider who listens deeply, integrates evidence-based therapies, and designs personalized plans. Their goal is to improve mental wellness, foster resilience, and achieve lasting balance. They want compassionate expertise that guides them toward meaningful, sustainable change.
(541) 721-8066 View (541) 721-8066
Photo of Danielle Norris - Cedar Psychiatric Associates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Cedar Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
12 Endorsed
Reedsport, OR 97467
Unlock Your Potential with ADHD Testing at Cedar Psychiatric Associates! We are now offering ADHD testing with appointments available in less than two weeks! Whether you prefer the comfort of your home or an in-person visit, we’ve got you covered with both telehealth and in-office appointments in Eugene and Reedsport. We welcome new clients with Medicaid, Medicare, and commercial insurance. To get started, simply visit our website and fill out the "Request an Appointment". Our dedicated team is here to support you on your journey to improved mental health and well-being. Don't wait—unlock your full potential today!
Unlock Your Potential with ADHD Testing at Cedar Psychiatric Associates! We are now offering ADHD testing with appointments available in less than two weeks! Whether you prefer the comfort of your home or an in-person visit, we’ve got you covered with both telehealth and in-office appointments in Eugene and Reedsport. We welcome new clients with Medicaid, Medicare, and commercial insurance. To get started, simply visit our website and fill out the "Request an Appointment". Our dedicated team is here to support you on your journey to improved mental health and well-being. Don't wait—unlock your full potential today!
(541) 731-4600 View (541) 731-4600
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(541) 896-4807 View (541) 896-4807
Photo of Jonathan Wayne - NTX , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
NTX
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Your mental health isn't something to put off. Start feeling better today! Expert Help For Your Emotional Health. Online and in- person help for anxiety, depression, insomnia, traumatic stress, ADHD. We have licensed prescribers, therapists and provide ADHD Testing, and Ketamine treatments. We embrace diversity and have a team of clinicians to treat clients of all ages. Please visit our website at www.neuropsychiatrytx.com
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Your mental health isn't something to put off. Start feeling better today! Expert Help For Your Emotional Health. Online and in- person help for anxiety, depression, insomnia, traumatic stress, ADHD. We have licensed prescribers, therapists and provide ADHD Testing, and Ketamine treatments. We embrace diversity and have a team of clinicians to treat clients of all ages. Please visit our website at www.neuropsychiatrytx.com
(541) 800-2169 View (541) 800-2169
Photo of Nathan Patrick Johnson - Nathan P. Johnson - (Stasis Psychiatry), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Nathan P. Johnson - (Stasis Psychiatry)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Vanderbilt in 2016. Prior to starting a private practice, I worked in the acute setting at Salem Hospital treating clients in an inpatient unit. I have experience treating clients in stable, and acute disease states. Prior to beginning my career in psychiatric nursing, I specialized in behavioral neuroscience and studied for 12-years a combination of psychology, counseling, and behavioral interventions. My passion is mental health care and I seek to incorporate different modalities into the care.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Vanderbilt in 2016. Prior to starting a private practice, I worked in the acute setting at Salem Hospital treating clients in an inpatient unit. I have experience treating clients in stable, and acute disease states. Prior to beginning my career in psychiatric nursing, I specialized in behavioral neuroscience and studied for 12-years a combination of psychology, counseling, and behavioral interventions. My passion is mental health care and I seek to incorporate different modalities into the care.
(503) 773-6576 View (503) 773-6576
Photo of Tanja Quarles - Neupathway (Tanja Quarles), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN
Neupathway (Tanja Quarles)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN
Serves Area
Imagine your ideal clinic: a welcoming space where patients feel safe, understood, and valued. Their challenges include fragmented care, long wait times, and limited access to tailored treatment. They need a provider who listens deeply, integrates evidence-based therapies, and designs personalized plans. Their goal is to improve mental wellness, foster resilience, and achieve lasting balance. They want compassionate expertise that guides them toward meaningful, sustainable change.
Imagine your ideal clinic: a welcoming space where patients feel safe, understood, and valued. Their challenges include fragmented care, long wait times, and limited access to tailored treatment. They need a provider who listens deeply, integrates evidence-based therapies, and designs personalized plans. Their goal is to improve mental wellness, foster resilience, and achieve lasting balance. They want compassionate expertise that guides them toward meaningful, sustainable change.
(971) 715-2189 View (971) 715-2189

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Shelby Dobrich, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Shelby Dobrich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Raise your hand if you've ever felt personally victimized by your own brain. Let's put 'Regina George' in its place with a med plan that actually has your back. I believe in personalized care that respects the unique chemistry of your mind and your life. With an evidence-based approach, a touch of humor, and an open mind, I'm here to help you find solutions that truly fit you. Mental health care should meet you where you are and that's exactly what I strive to do.
Raise your hand if you've ever felt personally victimized by your own brain. Let's put 'Regina George' in its place with a med plan that actually has your back. I believe in personalized care that respects the unique chemistry of your mind and your life. With an evidence-based approach, a touch of humor, and an open mind, I'm here to help you find solutions that truly fit you. Mental health care should meet you where you are and that's exactly what I strive to do.
(541) 287-4372 View (541) 287-4372
Photo of Allison Eckert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Allison Eckert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
With a deep passion for mental wellness and over 9 years of experience in the field, I've dedicated my career to providing compassionate and personalized care to patients. In our work together, I strive to create a safe space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I believe that each person's journey is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet your individual needs and goals. I am committed to collaborating with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.
With a deep passion for mental wellness and over 9 years of experience in the field, I've dedicated my career to providing compassionate and personalized care to patients. In our work together, I strive to create a safe space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I believe that each person's journey is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet your individual needs and goals. I am committed to collaborating with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.
(541) 470-8210 View (541) 470-8210
Photo of Katie Halbur, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Katie Halbur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Katie Halbur, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, APRN, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato, her Master’s degree from the University of Colorado, and her Doctorate from the University of Colorado. Katie believes in building lasting, trusting relationships with patients and providing evidence-based, trauma-informed care to address the whole person.
Katie Halbur, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, APRN, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato, her Master’s degree from the University of Colorado, and her Doctorate from the University of Colorado. Katie believes in building lasting, trusting relationships with patients and providing evidence-based, trauma-informed care to address the whole person.
(541) 695-5827 View (541) 695-5827
Photo of Bronwen Flores, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bronwen Flores
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eugene, OR 97401
Waitlist for new clients
Our clients seek meaningful outcomes. They aspire to improve their well-being, enabling them to actively participate in life, achieve peak functionality, and pursue profound purpose. Bronwen Flores is a PMHNP-BC with over 12 years of extensive nursing experience, not including six years of dedicated service, and two deployments, as a combat medic in the United States Air Force. Her military tenure and bedside nursing career experience have profoundly shaped her approach to mental health, allowing her to understand the complexities of trauma and its long-lasting effects on individuals.
Our clients seek meaningful outcomes. They aspire to improve their well-being, enabling them to actively participate in life, achieve peak functionality, and pursue profound purpose. Bronwen Flores is a PMHNP-BC with over 12 years of extensive nursing experience, not including six years of dedicated service, and two deployments, as a combat medic in the United States Air Force. Her military tenure and bedside nursing career experience have profoundly shaped her approach to mental health, allowing her to understand the complexities of trauma and its long-lasting effects on individuals.
(458) 241-6750 x114 View (458) 241-6750 x114
Photo of Cayley Mesterheide, Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-psy
Cayley Mesterheide
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-psy
Online Only
I'm Cayley, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with specialized qualifications in psychiatry. My unwavering commitment is to support individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I'm currently welcoming new clients. In my professional journey, I'm dedicated to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives through effective therapeutic interventions.
I'm Cayley, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with specialized qualifications in psychiatry. My unwavering commitment is to support individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I'm currently welcoming new clients. In my professional journey, I'm dedicated to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives through effective therapeutic interventions.
(541) 873-5824 View (541) 873-5824
Photo of Anicka Oyer Meyers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Anicka Oyer Meyers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and through gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and through gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
(503) 564-1935 View (503) 564-1935
Photo of Natalia Hicks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Natalia Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients! Medication management and supportive therapy. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues & feel lost in your options? I am here to help. With me, you’ll find a safe space where understanding and empathy are at the forefront of our work together. With decades of experience under my belt, I have been working with individuals of all ages & genders, as well as those with a wide range of ethnicities and diagnoses. These include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, suicidal and aggressive behaviors, schizophrenia and psychosis.
Accepting New Clients! Medication management and supportive therapy. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues & feel lost in your options? I am here to help. With me, you’ll find a safe space where understanding and empathy are at the forefront of our work together. With decades of experience under my belt, I have been working with individuals of all ages & genders, as well as those with a wide range of ethnicities and diagnoses. These include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, suicidal and aggressive behaviors, schizophrenia and psychosis.
(541) 262-6362 View (541) 262-6362
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
Byron Patrick Elliott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eugene, OR 97401
I specialize in Psychiatric Medication Management for Children & Adolescents age 6 years and up. I also provide services for adults. My ideal client is someone navigating emotional & behavioral challenges, ADHD, ASD, and trauma. They might be seeking a safe & supportive space where they feel seen & understood. They want help with emotional regulation, improving relationships, or achieving personal goals, like excelling in school. I work best with clients who are ready to collaborate and take steps toward positive change. Together, we’ll create a plan that combines evidence-based care with an understanding of their experience.
I specialize in Psychiatric Medication Management for Children & Adolescents age 6 years and up. I also provide services for adults. My ideal client is someone navigating emotional & behavioral challenges, ADHD, ASD, and trauma. They might be seeking a safe & supportive space where they feel seen & understood. They want help with emotional regulation, improving relationships, or achieving personal goals, like excelling in school. I work best with clients who are ready to collaborate and take steps toward positive change. Together, we’ll create a plan that combines evidence-based care with an understanding of their experience.
(541) 210-8090 View (541) 210-8090
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
(458) 236-3202 View (458) 236-3202
Photo of Dave Ngugi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Dave Ngugi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Corvallis, OR 97330
As a PMHNP-C, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care for individuals struggling with mental health issues. I understand that seeking help can be challenging, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where my clients can feel comfortable expressing their concerns. With a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders and evidence-based treatments, I am committed to tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual.
As a PMHNP-C, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care for individuals struggling with mental health issues. I understand that seeking help can be challenging, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where my clients can feel comfortable expressing their concerns. With a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders and evidence-based treatments, I am committed to tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(503) 744-6053 View (503) 744-6053
Photo of Ross Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ross Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Ross A Brown is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Masters of Science and Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, where he was an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. For 15 years he worked in preventative cardiology and stroke neurology. He worked in social services at AIDS Services of Austin in Austin, TX providing case management to individuals with advanced HIV, then completed a postmaster certificate as a PMHNP at the University of New Mexico. He cares for patients ages sixteen and older with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and specializes in LGBTQIA2S+ affirming mental health care.
Ross A Brown is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Masters of Science and Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, where he was an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. For 15 years he worked in preventative cardiology and stroke neurology. He worked in social services at AIDS Services of Austin in Austin, TX providing case management to individuals with advanced HIV, then completed a postmaster certificate as a PMHNP at the University of New Mexico. He cares for patients ages sixteen and older with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and specializes in LGBTQIA2S+ affirming mental health care.
(458) 203-8585 x2 View (458) 203-8585 x2

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Nearby Searches for North Bend

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in North Bend, OR

< 10

Psychiatrists in North Bend, OR who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Domestic Abuse
100% Eating Disorders
100% Geriatric and Seniors

Average years in practice

1 Year

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Medicaid
100% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in North Bend, OR see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in North Bend?

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.