Psychiatrists in Salem, OR

Photo of Onome Edokun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Onome Edokun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of experience and a commitment to enhancing the well-being of individuals struggling with mental health challenges including depression, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, and perinatal issues. I am passionate about providing holistic care and fostering a supportive environment. With a solid foundation in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring a wealth of knowledge and the skills to assess, diagnose, and develop personalized treatment plans that address the needs of each patient.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of experience and a commitment to enhancing the well-being of individuals struggling with mental health challenges including depression, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, and perinatal issues. I am passionate about providing holistic care and fostering a supportive environment. With a solid foundation in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring a wealth of knowledge and the skills to assess, diagnose, and develop personalized treatment plans that address the needs of each patient.
(971) 459-3224 View (971) 459-3224
Photo of Jennifer Medina - Mind and Soul Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, PMHNP
Mind and Soul Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, PMHNP
Salem, OR 97302
Jennifer is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, holding a Master of Science in Nursing from the Regis Loretto Heights School of Nursing, with a specialization in Psychiatry. She is equipped to provide care for a diverse range of individuals, including children, adolescents, adults, pregnant and postpartum women, as well as geriatric populations. Additionally, Jennifer possesses full prescriptive authority in the states of Colorado, Oregon, and Washington.
Jennifer is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, holding a Master of Science in Nursing from the Regis Loretto Heights School of Nursing, with a specialization in Psychiatry. She is equipped to provide care for a diverse range of individuals, including children, adolescents, adults, pregnant and postpartum women, as well as geriatric populations. Additionally, Jennifer possesses full prescriptive authority in the states of Colorado, Oregon, and Washington.
(503) 832-4780 View (503) 832-4780
Photo of Ellen Barker-Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Ellen Barker-Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Ellen, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. My background has gifted me with unique insights and skills that allow me to connect with deeper understanding. . I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I am also passionate about providing care to first responders and those who work in the medical profession.
My name is Ellen, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. My background has gifted me with unique insights and skills that allow me to connect with deeper understanding. . I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I am also passionate about providing care to first responders and those who work in the medical profession.
(971) 306-8794 View (971) 306-8794
Photo of Dr. Simonpeter Emokpaire, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Simonpeter Emokpaire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97304
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my practice focuses on comprehensive care across all age groups, specializing in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychotic disorders. I have a particular interest in integrating medication management with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness to enhance treatment outcomes, especially for mood disorders.
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my practice focuses on comprehensive care across all age groups, specializing in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychotic disorders. I have a particular interest in integrating medication management with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness to enhance treatment outcomes, especially for mood disorders.
(503) 436-6505 View (503) 436-6505
Photo of Frances Murphy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Frances Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Salem, OR 97301
Frances Murphy is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) offering comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-up visits remotely through telemedicine for adults. She provides medication management and psychoeducation to those suffering from various mental health conditions. She specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addictions, and trauma.
Frances Murphy is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) offering comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-up visits remotely through telemedicine for adults. She provides medication management and psychoeducation to those suffering from various mental health conditions. She specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addictions, and trauma.
(503) 445-8534 View (503) 445-8534
Photo of Kennedy Ogbonna Anyanwu - Sunray Psychiatry and Mental healthcare LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Sunray Psychiatry and Mental healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Salem, OR 97302
I firmly believe in holistic care approach with emphasis on providing individualized and culturally competent care to clients with mental health needs, while embracing innovation and staying updated with the latest advancements in mental health care. This mindset has driven me to leverage technology, such as telehealth platforms, to reach and support patients in remote areas, ensuring access to quality mental health services.
I firmly believe in holistic care approach with emphasis on providing individualized and culturally competent care to clients with mental health needs, while embracing innovation and staying updated with the latest advancements in mental health care. This mindset has driven me to leverage technology, such as telehealth platforms, to reach and support patients in remote areas, ensuring access to quality mental health services.
(503) 647-6318 View (503) 647-6318
Photo of Maggie Yorio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Maggie Yorio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
(971) 306-9491 View (971) 306-9491
Enoch Adomako
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Salem, OR 97304
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15-years’ experience in mental health treatment. I have experience working with diverse client populations in both inpatient, corrections and outpatient settings and strive to create an environment of collaboration and acceptance. I focus on a holistic, client-centered approach by using an evidence-based practice to assist clients in their recovery and wellness journeys. I offer diagnostic assessment and medication management services to people with mental health concerns. My goal is to provide quality mental health medication management services in an acc
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15-years’ experience in mental health treatment. I have experience working with diverse client populations in both inpatient, corrections and outpatient settings and strive to create an environment of collaboration and acceptance. I focus on a holistic, client-centered approach by using an evidence-based practice to assist clients in their recovery and wellness journeys. I offer diagnostic assessment and medication management services to people with mental health concerns. My goal is to provide quality mental health medication management services in an acc
(971) 459-0046 View (971) 459-0046
Photo of Rachel Robilio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Rachel Robilio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, If you’re reading this, I just want you to know—I see you. Life can feel overwhelming when you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or simply feeling disconnected from yourself. Maybe you’ve been told medication is your only option. Maybe you’ve tried different treatments but still feel like something deeper is missing. You deserve more than symptom management—you deserve real healing.
Hi there, If you’re reading this, I just want you to know—I see you. Life can feel overwhelming when you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or simply feeling disconnected from yourself. Maybe you’ve been told medication is your only option. Maybe you’ve tried different treatments but still feel like something deeper is missing. You deserve more than symptom management—you deserve real healing.
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Photo of Nneka Okoh Godwin - Calm Psychiatry- Nneka Okoh Godwin-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Calm Psychiatry- Nneka Okoh Godwin-
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in family practice, post-acute care, tele-psychiatry, and addiction medicine. I take a flexible and integrative approach to managing a wide range of mental health concerns, including ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, depression, and substance use. My goal is to provide personalized care that supports your mental health and overall well-being.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in family practice, post-acute care, tele-psychiatry, and addiction medicine. I take a flexible and integrative approach to managing a wide range of mental health concerns, including ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, depression, and substance use. My goal is to provide personalized care that supports your mental health and overall well-being.
(503) 389-5744 View (503) 389-5744
Photo of Tarra L. Baker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Tarra L. Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
10 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
**Accepting New Clients** I am the sole owner and provider of a small practice in South Salem. In my practice, I see clients from 14+ for the diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of mental illnesses. I offer brief therapy with specific goals, I use an adaptive modality to focus on each individual client's need at the time. In addition, I also prescribe and manage medications both in person at my brick and mortar practice, and given the advances in security and communication via telepsychiatry appointments scheduled via my office staff with established clients as Oregonian law stipulates at least every six months that we meet.
**Accepting New Clients** I am the sole owner and provider of a small practice in South Salem. In my practice, I see clients from 14+ for the diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of mental illnesses. I offer brief therapy with specific goals, I use an adaptive modality to focus on each individual client's need at the time. In addition, I also prescribe and manage medications both in person at my brick and mortar practice, and given the advances in security and communication via telepsychiatry appointments scheduled via my office staff with established clients as Oregonian law stipulates at least every six months that we meet.
(971) 701-2360 View (971) 701-2360
Photo of Wendy Wan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Wendy Wan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Salem, OR 97302
Everything seems extremely challenging, frustrating and unsatisfying when we are not well. This is especially true regarding mental health struggles. Occasional sadness or situational anxiety is a natural part of living. However, when ones mental health negatively impacts behaviors, feelings and thinking, treatment might be needed to help manage symptoms. My experience and education allow me to effectively help people manage mental illness and mental health issues.
Everything seems extremely challenging, frustrating and unsatisfying when we are not well. This is especially true regarding mental health struggles. Occasional sadness or situational anxiety is a natural part of living. However, when ones mental health negatively impacts behaviors, feelings and thinking, treatment might be needed to help manage symptoms. My experience and education allow me to effectively help people manage mental illness and mental health issues.
(971) 314-4880 View (971) 314-4880
Photo of Hope Anderson - Giving Hope Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Giving Hope Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
At Giving Hope Psychiatry, we help individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and insomnia find clarity, focus, and emotional stability. Many of our clients feel overwhelmed or stuck and are looking for support that feels approachable and effective. We offer personalized medication management through convenient telehealth appointments, taking the time to listen and tailor each treatment plan. Our goal is to help you feel more like yourself again — balanced, focused, and ready to move forward with confidence.
At Giving Hope Psychiatry, we help individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and insomnia find clarity, focus, and emotional stability. Many of our clients feel overwhelmed or stuck and are looking for support that feels approachable and effective. We offer personalized medication management through convenient telehealth appointments, taking the time to listen and tailor each treatment plan. Our goal is to help you feel more like yourself again — balanced, focused, and ready to move forward with confidence.
(971) 316-4908 View (971) 316-4908
Photo of Michael Tremko, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Michael Tremko
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
I am always accepting new patients. I see adults, adolescents, and children ages six and older. I specialize in treating symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, irritability, anger management problems, depression, insomnia, loneliness, or suicidal thoughts. I also assist with mental health effects of physical illness (e.g. fibromyalgia). I always do a medical screening with a lab test, to see whether there might be a medical issue that contributes to your psychiatric symptoms. I can prescribe medication but I also teach non-prescription options. If you are interested in medication-free treatment there are many choices available today.
I am always accepting new patients. I see adults, adolescents, and children ages six and older. I specialize in treating symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, irritability, anger management problems, depression, insomnia, loneliness, or suicidal thoughts. I also assist with mental health effects of physical illness (e.g. fibromyalgia). I always do a medical screening with a lab test, to see whether there might be a medical issue that contributes to your psychiatric symptoms. I can prescribe medication but I also teach non-prescription options. If you are interested in medication-free treatment there are many choices available today.
(503) 966-2033 View (503) 966-2033
Photo of Michael Zaurov, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michael Zaurov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new patients! As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. In my practice, I utilize a combination of psychiatric medication and mindfulness based therapy with an emphasis on integrating emotions, exploring beliefs, and resolving deeply held patterns in the body often formed in early childhood or during traumatic experiences.
Accepting new patients! As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. In my practice, I utilize a combination of psychiatric medication and mindfulness based therapy with an emphasis on integrating emotions, exploring beliefs, and resolving deeply held patterns in the body often formed in early childhood or during traumatic experiences.
(971) 265-6154 View (971) 265-6154
Photo of Nelya Curry, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Nelya Curry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
I’m Nelya Curry, a Board-Certified Physician Assistant practicing in Eugene since 2017. I believe in caring for the whole person, meeting patients where they are, and creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment. My practice emphasizes inclusivity, especially for the LGBTQIA+ community, and individuals from all backgrounds. I have a deep commitment to building trust and fostering a supportive space for each patient’s unique journey.
I’m Nelya Curry, a Board-Certified Physician Assistant practicing in Eugene since 2017. I believe in caring for the whole person, meeting patients where they are, and creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment. My practice emphasizes inclusivity, especially for the LGBTQIA+ community, and individuals from all backgrounds. I have a deep commitment to building trust and fostering a supportive space for each patient’s unique journey.
(503) 461-8282 View (503) 461-8282
Photo of Lauri Cody - Amity Mental Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Amity Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
Do you sometimes question whether the way you're feeling is normal? Do you ever wonder why you are so forgetful, find it difficult to concentrate, or become easily distracted? Or perhaps it's a struggle to get out of bed in the morning; you've lost motivation to engage in life, and occasionally you cry for no apparent reason. Maybe you have trouble falling asleep or wake up frequently, leaving you fatigued the next day. Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling uneasy and on edge? Guess what? You do not have to confront these challenges alone! Get in touch with us today for support!
Do you sometimes question whether the way you're feeling is normal? Do you ever wonder why you are so forgetful, find it difficult to concentrate, or become easily distracted? Or perhaps it's a struggle to get out of bed in the morning; you've lost motivation to engage in life, and occasionally you cry for no apparent reason. Maybe you have trouble falling asleep or wake up frequently, leaving you fatigued the next day. Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling uneasy and on edge? Guess what? You do not have to confront these challenges alone! Get in touch with us today for support!
(503) 563-8175 View (503) 563-8175
Photo of Carli VanDenHouten - New Patients Welcomed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carli VanDenHouten - New Patients Welcomed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
You may struggle with depression, bipolar anxiety, PTSD, OCD, personality disorders, or sleep disturbance. You seek compassionate and collaborative care that empowers you on your journey toward wellness. You desire a safe space to explore challenges, build skills, and achieve wellness. You want a provider who understands your unique needs, offers evidence-based options, and empowers you to navigate complex mood patterns, fostering growth and recovery. As this process unfolds, we may also use benchmarks to assess progress or to help us consider additional treatment alternatives.
You may struggle with depression, bipolar anxiety, PTSD, OCD, personality disorders, or sleep disturbance. You seek compassionate and collaborative care that empowers you on your journey toward wellness. You desire a safe space to explore challenges, build skills, and achieve wellness. You want a provider who understands your unique needs, offers evidence-based options, and empowers you to navigate complex mood patterns, fostering growth and recovery. As this process unfolds, we may also use benchmarks to assess progress or to help us consider additional treatment alternatives.
(971) 545-8111 View (971) 545-8111
Photo of Nathaniel Kravitz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNP
Nathaniel Kravitz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
Hi, my name is Nate Kravitz and I'm looking forward to the opportunity to work with you to address your mental health needs. My main focus is usually to work with a person seeking out prescribing of psychiatric medications to help with their mental health concerns, including using some talk therapy, motivational enhancement, and education. I know that by working together we can improve your life and reduce mental health symptoms keeping you from meeting your life goals.
Hi, my name is Nate Kravitz and I'm looking forward to the opportunity to work with you to address your mental health needs. My main focus is usually to work with a person seeking out prescribing of psychiatric medications to help with their mental health concerns, including using some talk therapy, motivational enhancement, and education. I know that by working together we can improve your life and reduce mental health symptoms keeping you from meeting your life goals.
(503) 994-9418 View (503) 994-9418
Photo of Tosin Addeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CIPP
Tosin Addeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CIPP
Online Only
I prioritize your mental well-being with a holistic, individualized approach. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of healthcare experience, I combine conventional psychiatry with integrative methods tailored to your unique needs. I offer personalized medication management, lifestyle interventions, and natural remedies to support your emotional clarity and long-term wellness. I’m committed to providing compassionate care across the lifespan for children, adults, and older adults alike.
I prioritize your mental well-being with a holistic, individualized approach. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of healthcare experience, I combine conventional psychiatry with integrative methods tailored to your unique needs. I offer personalized medication management, lifestyle interventions, and natural remedies to support your emotional clarity and long-term wellness. I’m committed to providing compassionate care across the lifespan for children, adults, and older adults alike.
(503) 967-0004 View (503) 967-0004

See more therapy options for Salem

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Salem, OR

100+

Average cost per session

$180

Psychiatrists in Salem, OR who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
85% ADHD
81% Bipolar Disorder
76% Trauma and PTSD
71% Medication Management
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
79% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Salem, OR see their clients

51% In Person and Online
49% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Salem?

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.