Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Cyd Miller, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cyd Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Cyd and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Oregon. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Life Transitions, Life Coaching, Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Cyd and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Oregon. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Life Transitions, Life Coaching, Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(503) 437-9531 View (503) 437-9531
Photo of Samantha Lau -  elevateher | concierge psychiatry + ketamine, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
elevateher | concierge psychiatry + ketamine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but you don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself. Then you’d feel most alive and aligned with yourself.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but you don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself. Then you’d feel most alive and aligned with yourself.
(971) 286-5038 View (971) 286-5038
Photo of Patricia Lawrence - La Lune Integrative Psychiatry, PMHNP, FNP-BC, GNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
La Lune Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, GNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Patricia specializes in individualizing care to your needs and have over 36 years of health care experience in multiple specialties. She is passionate about helping people achieve an exceptional life by teaching them how to apply both nonpharmacological skills and best practices for utilizing psychiatric medications. She uses an eclectic variety of methods that empower personal growth, bring back the strength needed to meet the demands in our lives, move people away from suffering and towards a higher level of wellbeing.
Patricia specializes in individualizing care to your needs and have over 36 years of health care experience in multiple specialties. She is passionate about helping people achieve an exceptional life by teaching them how to apply both nonpharmacological skills and best practices for utilizing psychiatric medications. She uses an eclectic variety of methods that empower personal growth, bring back the strength needed to meet the demands in our lives, move people away from suffering and towards a higher level of wellbeing.
(971) 314-6627 View (971) 314-6627
Photo of Tuyet Lam Gwardys, PMHNP, CNL, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tuyet Lam Gwardys
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNL, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Online Only
Struggling with mental health can often feel like being trapped in a complex maze, but you don't have to do it alone. As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP, I, Tuyet Gwardys, am here to guide you through this journey with understanding and care. Mental health is more than just a diagnosis; it's about your overall well-being, quality of life, and how you feel about yourself, and that's where I can help make a difference. In today's fast-paced world, many of us grapple with stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental challenges. It's not always easy to recognize when we need help, or to understand the range of treatments.
Struggling with mental health can often feel like being trapped in a complex maze, but you don't have to do it alone. As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP, I, Tuyet Gwardys, am here to guide you through this journey with understanding and care. Mental health is more than just a diagnosis; it's about your overall well-being, quality of life, and how you feel about yourself, and that's where I can help make a difference. In today's fast-paced world, many of us grapple with stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental challenges. It's not always easy to recognize when we need help, or to understand the range of treatments.
(971) 405-5605 View (971) 405-5605
Photo of Dani Maier, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dani Maier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy for patients living in Oregon and New Mexico. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy for patients living in Oregon and New Mexico. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
(503) 461-9509 View (503) 461-9509
Photo of Brooks L Oglesby-Junk - Portland Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Portland Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Join me at Portland Psychiatric Services. As a PMHNP advance practice registered nurse, I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I also worked at Oregon State Hospital. I am a Desert Storm Air Force veteran and retired from the VA in Charleston, SC in 2010 then moved to Oregon with my family. I will provide you with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to determine the most effective treatment possible. The journey you have begun may change the course of your life forever! Serving Oregon, Washington and Idaho virtually. Schedule at headway.co/providers/brooks-oglesby-junk.
Join me at Portland Psychiatric Services. As a PMHNP advance practice registered nurse, I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I also worked at Oregon State Hospital. I am a Desert Storm Air Force veteran and retired from the VA in Charleston, SC in 2010 then moved to Oregon with my family. I will provide you with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to determine the most effective treatment possible. The journey you have begun may change the course of your life forever! Serving Oregon, Washington and Idaho virtually. Schedule at headway.co/providers/brooks-oglesby-junk.
(503) 946-5180 View (503) 946-5180
Photo of Steven Knott - Light Side Wellness Co , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Light Side Wellness Co
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. We understand these challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. We understand these challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult.
(503) 994-1898 View (503) 994-1898
Photo of Linda Bett - Healthcore Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healthcore Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, and Mood Disorders.
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, and Mood Disorders.
(971) 274-5563 View (971) 274-5563
Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), PsyD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 12/3/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 12/3/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(458) 217-8603 View (458) 217-8603
Photo of Jazmyn Price, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jazmyn Price
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I believe therapy and medication management can be useful tools for cultivating change and healing in our lives. Therapy is a space where we can work out the multitudes of ourselves. As we strive to find harmony within these multitudes we examine how past experiences and important relationships have singularly shaped these selves. Medications can provide extra support alongside therapy. My approach to prescribing is holistic, evidence based and attempts to minimize the need for medications.
I believe therapy and medication management can be useful tools for cultivating change and healing in our lives. Therapy is a space where we can work out the multitudes of ourselves. As we strive to find harmony within these multitudes we examine how past experiences and important relationships have singularly shaped these selves. Medications can provide extra support alongside therapy. My approach to prescribing is holistic, evidence based and attempts to minimize the need for medications.
(503) 832-5997 View (503) 832-5997
Photo of Vicki Grossman, PhD, MS, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vicki Grossman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MS, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Wholeness Care for Body, Mind and Spirit for Depression, Anxiety, Mood Changes, ADHD, Grief, and Weight Management. PhD, Board Certified Licensed Psychiatric Provider, Oregon and Colorado. My PhD, is based on Caring Science Psychology with Board Certification as a Licensed Psychiatric Practitioner (PMHNP) in Colorado and Oregon. Over 25 years working in numerous areas of Healthcare including Psychiatry, Critical Care, Emergency and Trauma medicine, this provides me with the important connections in Medical Care and Mental Health Care. PhD with a focus in Caring Psychology, Holistic Psychiatric Care and Evidence Based Medicine.
Wholeness Care for Body, Mind and Spirit for Depression, Anxiety, Mood Changes, ADHD, Grief, and Weight Management. PhD, Board Certified Licensed Psychiatric Provider, Oregon and Colorado. My PhD, is based on Caring Science Psychology with Board Certification as a Licensed Psychiatric Practitioner (PMHNP) in Colorado and Oregon. Over 25 years working in numerous areas of Healthcare including Psychiatry, Critical Care, Emergency and Trauma medicine, this provides me with the important connections in Medical Care and Mental Health Care. PhD with a focus in Caring Psychology, Holistic Psychiatric Care and Evidence Based Medicine.
(303) 586-7754 View (303) 586-7754
Photo of Morgan Huls, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Morgan Huls
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a certificate in Functional Medicine. This specialized education allows me to approach each client's mental health from a holistic standpoint, looking at all aspects of life to determine the underlying cause and assist the client in achieving optimal mental wellness by addressing the root of an issue!
I am is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a certificate in Functional Medicine. This specialized education allows me to approach each client's mental health from a holistic standpoint, looking at all aspects of life to determine the underlying cause and assist the client in achieving optimal mental wellness by addressing the root of an issue!
(503) 809-5622 View (503) 809-5622
Photo of Christina Vaughn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christina Vaughn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
Prior to meeting with me, you will complete intake paperwork regarding practice policies and your health history. This information will be reviewed during your initial assessment. In most instances medication will be prescribed following the initial assessment when indicated. I will work with you to develop a plan of care that is individualized to incorporate your preferences and develop interventions to help you reach your mental health and overall goals.
Prior to meeting with me, you will complete intake paperwork regarding practice policies and your health history. This information will be reviewed during your initial assessment. In most instances medication will be prescribed following the initial assessment when indicated. I will work with you to develop a plan of care that is individualized to incorporate your preferences and develop interventions to help you reach your mental health and overall goals.
(503) 755-1127 View (503) 755-1127
Photo of Njideka Domrufus Dnp Pmhnp-Bc Fnp-C, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Njideka Domrufus Dnp Pmhnp-Bc Fnp-C
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
(971) 252-5319 View (971) 252-5319
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
(971) 256-8187 View (971) 256-8187
Photo of Robert S McKelvey, MD, DLFAPA, LFAACAP, FRANZCP, Psychiatrist
Robert S McKelvey
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, LFAACAP, FRANZCP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Specializing in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of complex cases, psychoanalytically-oriented psychotherapy of children, adolescents, adults, and psychopharmacology. I am especially interested in the care of persons from other cultural traditions, an outgrowth of many years of clinical and research involvement with refugees from Southeast Asia, and particularly Vietnam. Prior to entering medicine, I served as a Captain in the US Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. It was that experience that stimulated my interest in both medicine and cross-cultural psychiatry.
Specializing in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of complex cases, psychoanalytically-oriented psychotherapy of children, adolescents, adults, and psychopharmacology. I am especially interested in the care of persons from other cultural traditions, an outgrowth of many years of clinical and research involvement with refugees from Southeast Asia, and particularly Vietnam. Prior to entering medicine, I served as a Captain in the US Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. It was that experience that stimulated my interest in both medicine and cross-cultural psychiatry.
(971) 253-0615 View (971) 253-0615
Photo of Dr. Reid Zweifel, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Reid Zweifel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Originally from the red rock country of Southern Utah, I completed my undergraduate and medical school training in Salt Lake City. I came to Oregon to train in general psychiatry at Oregon Health and Science University, and have now called the Pacific Northwest home for several years. After graduating from the OHSU psychiatry residency program and completing a psychiatry chiefship, I opened my private practice in Portland, Oregon.
Originally from the red rock country of Southern Utah, I completed my undergraduate and medical school training in Salt Lake City. I came to Oregon to train in general psychiatry at Oregon Health and Science University, and have now called the Pacific Northwest home for several years. After graduating from the OHSU psychiatry residency program and completing a psychiatry chiefship, I opened my private practice in Portland, Oregon.
(971) 626-4674 View (971) 626-4674
Photo of Andrew James Hughes, MD, Psychiatrist
Andrew James Hughes
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
My primary aim is to help patients achieve a more fulfilling life. Available evidence indicates that the best psychotherapy outcomes are associated with strong and trusting provider-patient relationships. As such, I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment for my patients.
My primary aim is to help patients achieve a more fulfilling life. Available evidence indicates that the best psychotherapy outcomes are associated with strong and trusting provider-patient relationships. As such, I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment for my patients.
View
Maggie Gareau
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Are you experiencing distress due to trauma, relationships, fears, internal conflicts, self esteem, or feeling stuck. Some things are just too difficult to go through or examine alone and having compassionate, open and knowlegeable accompaniment can be the key to understanding and growth. I provide psychodynamic therapy to adults.
Are you experiencing distress due to trauma, relationships, fears, internal conflicts, self esteem, or feeling stuck. Some things are just too difficult to go through or examine alone and having compassionate, open and knowlegeable accompaniment can be the key to understanding and growth. I provide psychodynamic therapy to adults.
(503) 766-4889 View (503) 766-4889
Photo of Dr. Dominique Wilson, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Dominique Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Accepting new Clients! Are you questioning college, career transitions or life in general? Having difficulty concentrating? Feeling unmotivated or undesirable? Moody, stressed, or anxious all the time? Questioning identity or acceptance? Have you tried everything? Therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, and still struggling? Entering treatment can be an intimidating process & making that first appointment can be one of our biggest hurdles. But by taking that first step to look for support, you are already making progress. Dr. Wilson, DNP is a certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Accepting new Clients! Are you questioning college, career transitions or life in general? Having difficulty concentrating? Feeling unmotivated or undesirable? Moody, stressed, or anxious all the time? Questioning identity or acceptance? Have you tried everything? Therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, and still struggling? Entering treatment can be an intimidating process & making that first appointment can be one of our biggest hurdles. But by taking that first step to look for support, you are already making progress. Dr. Wilson, DNP is a certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(855) 704-2004 View (855) 704-2004
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

500+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
78% Medication Management
75% ADHD
74% Bipolar Disorder
72% Trauma and PTSD
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
78% BlueCross and BlueShield
69% Regence

How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
26% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Portland?

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.