Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Sarah Notton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MN, PMHNP, RN
Sarah Notton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MN, PMHNP, RN
Portland, OR 97214
I am here to assist you on your journey to live a life according to your values. My approach to treating common mental health challenges integrates medication management with skills, healthy lifestyle practices, and social frameworks that support your ability to thrive and engage in the world around you. Expect to collaborate on non-pharmaceutical interventions and activity plans while also working to find the lowest effective dose of medication(s) to help you function optimally.
I am here to assist you on your journey to live a life according to your values. My approach to treating common mental health challenges integrates medication management with skills, healthy lifestyle practices, and social frameworks that support your ability to thrive and engage in the world around you. Expect to collaborate on non-pharmaceutical interventions and activity plans while also working to find the lowest effective dose of medication(s) to help you function optimally.
(503) 470-2470 x1 View (503) 470-2470 x1
Photo of Ember Moore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP, ACHPN
Ember Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP, ACHPN
Portland, OR 97213
I think most of us are all looking to grow and heal in big and small ways. Living at our desired wellness can be challenged by loss, grief, trauma or our genetics. I understand that you want more wellness because you are here now, looking for support. This bit of strength that you have or the strength of a loved one who is helping you find support is a strength to be built upon. Depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum, PTSD or prolonged grief, coping with serious illness or dying and ADHD are common in making life difficult to live. I want to support those looking for help with these.
I think most of us are all looking to grow and heal in big and small ways. Living at our desired wellness can be challenged by loss, grief, trauma or our genetics. I understand that you want more wellness because you are here now, looking for support. This bit of strength that you have or the strength of a loved one who is helping you find support is a strength to be built upon. Depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum, PTSD or prolonged grief, coping with serious illness or dying and ADHD are common in making life difficult to live. I want to support those looking for help with these.
(877) 796-3132 View (877) 796-3132
Photo of Sheena Munson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Sheena Munson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing holistic and patient-centered care is at the heart of what I do. My approach is warm, empathetic, trauma-informed, and evidenced based. We are not our symptoms and as such deserve to be treated as a whole person. We are shaped and effected by every aspect of our life and this cannot be overlooked when addressing our mental health.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing holistic and patient-centered care is at the heart of what I do. My approach is warm, empathetic, trauma-informed, and evidenced based. We are not our symptoms and as such deserve to be treated as a whole person. We are shaped and effected by every aspect of our life and this cannot be overlooked when addressing our mental health.
(503) 217-6104 View (503) 217-6104
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.
(971) 260-4159 View (971) 260-4159
Photo of Nichole Slykhous, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Nichole Slykhous
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Portland, OR 97209
Nichole practices Integrative Psychiatry to help you identify and treat the underlying cause(s) and contributors to symptoms of depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, brain fog, fatigue, and other contemporary mental health conditions. ​ Integrative Psychiatry is a personalized approach to mental health that uses functional medicine and traditional psychiatry to identify and treat core imbalances which affect your brain, body, and life.
Nichole practices Integrative Psychiatry to help you identify and treat the underlying cause(s) and contributors to symptoms of depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, brain fog, fatigue, and other contemporary mental health conditions. ​ Integrative Psychiatry is a personalized approach to mental health that uses functional medicine and traditional psychiatry to identify and treat core imbalances which affect your brain, body, and life.
(971) 999-3153 View (971) 999-3153
Photo of Asha Jetmalani, Psychiatrist, DO
Asha Jetmalani
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Online Only
— NOTE: Please visit my website and click ‘Request Appointment' to inquire about establishing care with me— I work with individuals who are seeking psychiatric medication management and supportive psychotherapy in an affirming environment where patient autonomy is greatly valued. I am most experienced in providing care to individuals facing anxiety, depression, grief, life or identity transitions and systemic oppression.
— NOTE: Please visit my website and click ‘Request Appointment' to inquire about establishing care with me— I work with individuals who are seeking psychiatric medication management and supportive psychotherapy in an affirming environment where patient autonomy is greatly valued. I am most experienced in providing care to individuals facing anxiety, depression, grief, life or identity transitions and systemic oppression.
(971) 265-9679 View (971) 265-9679
Photo of Tammy Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Tammy Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Sometimes life feels overwhelming, and it’s hard to know where to turn when you’re feeling drained or disconnected. Whether you’re facing stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, or other mental health challenges, I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for adults of all genders and backgrounds. Together, we’ll gently explore your experience and begin working toward greater balance and clarity.
Sometimes life feels overwhelming, and it’s hard to know where to turn when you’re feeling drained or disconnected. Whether you’re facing stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, or other mental health challenges, I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for adults of all genders and backgrounds. Together, we’ll gently explore your experience and begin working toward greater balance and clarity.
(971) 459-8985 View (971) 459-8985
Photo of Shinichi Daimyo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MPH, PMHNP
Shinichi Daimyo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MPH, PMHNP
Online Only
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
(971) 299-7048 View (971) 299-7048
Photo of Keith G Lowenstein - Keith Lowenstein MD, Psychiatrist, MD, MDiv
Keith Lowenstein MD
Psychiatrist, MD, MDiv
Portland, OR 97229
Keith Lowenstein MD, currently practices in 2 different settings. At LifeStance Health he utilizes medication and psychotherapy in the evaluation and treatment of adults to assist patients in achieving health and vitality in the physical, mental and spiritual realms. He works with each individual to develop an integrated and practical plan. At Brain Body Mind LLC (BBM), Dr. Lowenstein works with patients using a wide array of integrative approaches. In particular, he utilizes auricular (ear) acupuncture to enhance the treatment of trauma, anxiety, stress, pain, cravings from food to nicotine. Insurance is not accepted at BBM.
Keith Lowenstein MD, currently practices in 2 different settings. At LifeStance Health he utilizes medication and psychotherapy in the evaluation and treatment of adults to assist patients in achieving health and vitality in the physical, mental and spiritual realms. He works with each individual to develop an integrated and practical plan. At Brain Body Mind LLC (BBM), Dr. Lowenstein works with patients using a wide array of integrative approaches. In particular, he utilizes auricular (ear) acupuncture to enhance the treatment of trauma, anxiety, stress, pain, cravings from food to nicotine. Insurance is not accepted at BBM.
(503) 925-5847 View (503) 925-5847
Photo of Mary E. Theodore - Mary E. Theodore, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Mary E. Theodore, MD, MPH
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty years experience taking care of patients. Practicing for all these years in a field that I love, I have developed deep and lasting bonds with many of them. I am both a psycho-pharmacologist and a psycho-therapist. I treat numerous psychiatric & personality disorders but specialize in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, adult ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, Women's Mental Health, and HIV psychiatry. My goal is to help you create solutions and restore balance and well being in your life.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty years experience taking care of patients. Practicing for all these years in a field that I love, I have developed deep and lasting bonds with many of them. I am both a psycho-pharmacologist and a psycho-therapist. I treat numerous psychiatric & personality disorders but specialize in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, adult ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, Women's Mental Health, and HIV psychiatry. My goal is to help you create solutions and restore balance and well being in your life.
(646) 593-2134 View (646) 593-2134
Photo of Yvonne Amune, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Yvonne Amune
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating Substance use disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating Substance use disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
(503) 843-8708 View (503) 843-8708
Photo of Clivens Fils, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MBA
Clivens Fils
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MBA
Online Only
Hello! I'm Clivens Elie Fils, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering exceptional mental health care. With extensive experience in psychiatric settings, I've developed and implemented treatment plans for a variety of mental health challenges. My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, or trauma. They need compassionate support to understand themselves, build coping strategies, and regain control over their lives. They want to feel empowered, supported, and heard in their journey to healing.
Hello! I'm Clivens Elie Fils, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering exceptional mental health care. With extensive experience in psychiatric settings, I've developed and implemented treatment plans for a variety of mental health challenges. My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, or trauma. They need compassionate support to understand themselves, build coping strategies, and regain control over their lives. They want to feel empowered, supported, and heard in their journey to healing.
(503) 389-6022 View (503) 389-6022
Photo of Chris Kos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Chris Kos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Portland, OR 97239
Navigating generalized anxiety disorder, depression, whether postpartum or ongoing, or bipolar disorder, can feel overwhelming and isolating. You may find yourself struggling with low energy, persistent worry, or difficulty managing emotional highs and lows. Together, we’ll create a path forward that feels balanced and authentic to you.
Navigating generalized anxiety disorder, depression, whether postpartum or ongoing, or bipolar disorder, can feel overwhelming and isolating. You may find yourself struggling with low energy, persistent worry, or difficulty managing emotional highs and lows. Together, we’ll create a path forward that feels balanced and authentic to you.
(971) 315-9204 View (971) 315-9204
Photo of Danielle Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Danielle Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. As a PMHNP-BC, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations in various outpatient settings. My clinical approach integrates an understanding of the biopsychosocial nature of psychiatric conditions, combining psychotherapeutic support with medication management (when appropriate). Patients can expect a safe and relaxed space for them to share what's on their minds. Patients feel heard and supported when working with me.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. As a PMHNP-BC, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations in various outpatient settings. My clinical approach integrates an understanding of the biopsychosocial nature of psychiatric conditions, combining psychotherapeutic support with medication management (when appropriate). Patients can expect a safe and relaxed space for them to share what's on their minds. Patients feel heard and supported when working with me.
(971) 248-7888 View (971) 248-7888
Photo of Uchechi Uka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Uchechi Uka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Dr. Uchechi Uka, DNP, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of healthcare experience, specializing in mental health for more than 6 years. My mission is holistic mental health care, addressing a broad spectrum of disorders, and providing a supportive environment for individuals seeking help on their journey to overall well-being. My mission is holistic mental health care, addressing a broad spectrum of disorders, and providing a supportive environment for individuals seeking help on their journey to overall well-being.
I am Dr. Uchechi Uka, DNP, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of healthcare experience, specializing in mental health for more than 6 years. My mission is holistic mental health care, addressing a broad spectrum of disorders, and providing a supportive environment for individuals seeking help on their journey to overall well-being. My mission is holistic mental health care, addressing a broad spectrum of disorders, and providing a supportive environment for individuals seeking help on their journey to overall well-being.
(971) 626-4779 View (971) 626-4779
Photo of John Benson - BBH Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
BBH Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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) 917-5672 View (503) 917-5672
Photo of Jean Sterry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jean Sterry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Portland, OR 97239
I collaborate with people who seek to identify and achieve their goals and improve their relationships with themselves and others to build a more connected and authentic life. I have experience supporting clients with difficult symptoms related to life transitions, mood, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and neurodiversity, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults and adolescents and see clients in person and via telehealth. I believe that safety, curiosity, compassion, and authenticity are the foundations of a strong and safe therapeutic relationship which is the cornerstone of all therapeutic work.
I collaborate with people who seek to identify and achieve their goals and improve their relationships with themselves and others to build a more connected and authentic life. I have experience supporting clients with difficult symptoms related to life transitions, mood, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and neurodiversity, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults and adolescents and see clients in person and via telehealth. I believe that safety, curiosity, compassion, and authenticity are the foundations of a strong and safe therapeutic relationship which is the cornerstone of all therapeutic work.
(971) 366-2748 View (971) 366-2748
Photo of Tara Ericksen - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Portland, OR 97213
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(971) 315-9993 View (971) 315-9993
Photo of Ramatou Kargbo - Sanusi behavioral Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sanusi behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ramatou Kargbo is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). She approaches mental healthcare with empathy, and a holistic perspective with a primary focus on treating each of her clients as a complete person. Her approach considers patients’ symptoms, life experiences, personal strengths, and social context. By considering the whole person, she strives to provide comprehensive and personalized care that addresses the unique needs of her patients. Ramatou fully understands that addressing mental health issues can be scary, especially for children and parents. So, her approach involves working with famil
Ramatou Kargbo is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). She approaches mental healthcare with empathy, and a holistic perspective with a primary focus on treating each of her clients as a complete person. Her approach considers patients’ symptoms, life experiences, personal strengths, and social context. By considering the whole person, she strives to provide comprehensive and personalized care that addresses the unique needs of her patients. Ramatou fully understands that addressing mental health issues can be scary, especially for children and parents. So, her approach involves working with famil
(971) 396-1532 View (971) 396-1532
Photo of Jonathan W May, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jonathan W May
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Portland, OR 97223
Do you know what you’re capable of but struggle to summon the motivation or focus to follow through? If ADHD, anxiety, or overwhelm leave you feeling “stuck,” you’re not alone—and there is hope. I help individuals who feel easily distracted, have difficulty starting or completing tasks, or struggle with organization. Together, we can create a plan to help you move forward with confidence. I specialize in diagnosing and treating ADHD and related conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and gender dysphoria. When appropriate, I provide medication management to support your overall well-being.
Do you know what you’re capable of but struggle to summon the motivation or focus to follow through? If ADHD, anxiety, or overwhelm leave you feeling “stuck,” you’re not alone—and there is hope. I help individuals who feel easily distracted, have difficulty starting or completing tasks, or struggle with organization. Together, we can create a plan to help you move forward with confidence. I specialize in diagnosing and treating ADHD and related conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and gender dysphoria. When appropriate, I provide medication management to support your overall well-being.
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See more therapy options for Portland

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

500+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
77% ADHD
76% Medication Management
75% Trauma and PTSD
74% Bipolar Disorder
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% Regence

How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% 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.