Psychiatrists in Sweet Home, OR

Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Sweet Home, OR 97386  (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(503) 714-9811 View (503) 714-9811
Photo of Dr. Peace Banks - PeaceHaven Behavioral Center LLC, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
PeaceHaven Behavioral Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Sweet Home, OR 97386  (Online Only)
You are not alone. Do you lack the drive and concentration needed to achieve your goals at work or in school? Dr. Peace Banks, DNP, works with you to provide hope and help you achieve peace through our tailored treatment plan. Let us help you navigate your mental health journey to peace of mind. Your care will be individualized, and you will be listened to. We are taking care of South Dakota, Oregon, Texas, and Washington state residents. Currently, telehealth is only available. We are accepting NEW client appointments now.
You are not alone. Do you lack the drive and concentration needed to achieve your goals at work or in school? Dr. Peace Banks, DNP, works with you to provide hope and help you achieve peace through our tailored treatment plan. Let us help you navigate your mental health journey to peace of mind. Your care will be individualized, and you will be listened to. We are taking care of South Dakota, Oregon, Texas, and Washington state residents. Currently, telehealth is only available. We are accepting NEW client appointments now.
(503) 300-2954 View (503) 300-2954

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Nichole Slykhous, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nichole Slykhous
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Nichole practices Integrative Psychiatry to help you identify and treat the underlying cause(s) and 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 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) 314-4643 View (971) 314-4643
Photo of Sana Goldberg, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sana Goldberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I practice with warmth and curiosity, accepting others where they are in the present and respecting the many experiences they arrive to it with. I am devoted to helping those I work with develop a new understanding of their patterns, desires, inner conflicts, and pain carried in the body from overwhelming life conditions and experiences. I meet others where they are, embrace their stories, and offer a therapeutic relationship that is nurturing, collaborative, and growth oriented.
I practice with warmth and curiosity, accepting others where they are in the present and respecting the many experiences they arrive to it with. I am devoted to helping those I work with develop a new understanding of their patterns, desires, inner conflicts, and pain carried in the body from overwhelming life conditions and experiences. I meet others where they are, embrace their stories, and offer a therapeutic relationship that is nurturing, collaborative, and growth oriented.
(503) 386-0729 View (503) 386-0729
Photo of Laura Meaney, DNAP, PMHNPBC, CRNA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laura Meaney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNAP, PMHNPBC, CRNA
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
Ideally, I work with clients who are looking for relief from anxiety and depression, those suffering from PTSD, and those with chronic pain. Fortunately, ketamine is compatible with many medications and you may continue your current therapy throughout induction phases. After this initial phase, it is often possible to wean or eliminate certain medications, as well as alleviate troubling symptoms from your daily life.
Ideally, I work with clients who are looking for relief from anxiety and depression, those suffering from PTSD, and those with chronic pain. Fortunately, ketamine is compatible with many medications and you may continue your current therapy throughout induction phases. After this initial phase, it is often possible to wean or eliminate certain medications, as well as alleviate troubling symptoms from your daily life.
(458) 237-4632 View (458) 237-4632
Photo of Hadi Farah, MD, Psychiatrist
Hadi Farah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
I'm an adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist with a particular focus on psychotherapy. I use different modalities including, psychodynamic psychotherapy, behavioral, and family systems. Whenever possible, I prioritize non-pharmacological interventions.
I'm an adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist with a particular focus on psychotherapy. I use different modalities including, psychodynamic psychotherapy, behavioral, and family systems. Whenever possible, I prioritize non-pharmacological interventions.
(971) 299-6167 View (971) 299-6167
Photo of Jonathan McCully, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonathan McCully
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701
My name is Jon McCully. I am a board-certified PMHNP located in Bend, Oregon seeing patients via the internet throughout Oregon. I am accepting new patients ages 18 to 65. I have a strong military, first responder, and social services treatment background and understand the unique situations these professions face. I work with people from all different walks of life as well. With a "think like a nurse first mentality," the core of how I practice is understanding the whole person and the interplay of biological, socio-cultural, and environmental factors that influence mental health and wellbeing unique to only you.
My name is Jon McCully. I am a board-certified PMHNP located in Bend, Oregon seeing patients via the internet throughout Oregon. I am accepting new patients ages 18 to 65. I have a strong military, first responder, and social services treatment background and understand the unique situations these professions face. I work with people from all different walks of life as well. With a "think like a nurse first mentality," the core of how I practice is understanding the whole person and the interplay of biological, socio-cultural, and environmental factors that influence mental health and wellbeing unique to only you.
(458) 200-4087 View (458) 200-4087
Photo of Eva Gillespie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eva Gillespie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
If you are coping with anxiety, depression, trauma or ADHD, life becomes even more complicated. Having a foundation that supports you through your journey can expedite healing and bring joy back into your life. I would be honored to be a part of your success story.
If you are coping with anxiety, depression, trauma or ADHD, life becomes even more complicated. Having a foundation that supports you through your journey can expedite healing and bring joy back into your life. I would be honored to be a part of your success story.
(520) 614-4705 View (520) 614-4705
Photo of Anna Long, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anna Long
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Oregon. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+ Care, Life Transitions, Loss/Grief, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sexual Health/Dysfuntion, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. 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 Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Oregon. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+ Care, Life Transitions, Loss/Grief, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sexual Health/Dysfuntion, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. 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) 755-5227 View (503) 755-5227
Photo of Melanie Ramsey, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melanie Ramsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing distress due to internal conflicts, trauma, relationships, fears, or feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, and unmotivated? Some things are just too difficult to go through alone. Working with someone in a safe and compassionate environment without judgment can be the key to your understanding and growth. Your success and happiness are rooted in a partnership that we share. You do the hard part of being vulnerable; to the best of my ability, I will work to listen to and understand you, before developing a shared treatment plan. I am honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
Are you experiencing distress due to internal conflicts, trauma, relationships, fears, or feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, and unmotivated? Some things are just too difficult to go through alone. Working with someone in a safe and compassionate environment without judgment can be the key to your understanding and growth. Your success and happiness are rooted in a partnership that we share. You do the hard part of being vulnerable; to the best of my ability, I will work to listen to and understand you, before developing a shared treatment plan. I am honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
(971) 232-3233 View (971) 232-3233
Photo of Madeline Jacobs, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corvallis, OR 97330
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy, and takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy, and takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
(503) 386-0877 x2 View (503) 386-0877 x2
Photo of Victor Gomes, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victor Gomes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
As a lifelong learner with a multicultural background, I believe that every individual comes with a story that needs to be told. My objective as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to help guide each individual to realize their narrative by utilizing individualized tools and resources to navigate their mental fitness journey. I intend to meet you where you are in your process and to support you while carefully considering your goals, aspirations, limitations, and fears alike.
As a lifelong learner with a multicultural background, I believe that every individual comes with a story that needs to be told. My objective as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to help guide each individual to realize their narrative by utilizing individualized tools and resources to navigate their mental fitness journey. I intend to meet you where you are in your process and to support you while carefully considering your goals, aspirations, limitations, and fears alike.
(503) 543-1034 View (503) 543-1034
Photo of Pierre-Cédric Crouch, PhD, PMHNPBC, ANP-BC, CARN-AP, ACRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pierre-Cédric Crouch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNPBC, ANP-BC, CARN-AP, ACRN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Are you feeling overwhelmed about life or work? Are you looking for help with your substance use? Do you feel more comfortable talking to another queer person? Do you need help sorting out who you are and how you fit in this world? I can help you manage depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, identity issues, and regulating your emotions. I also provide trauma-informed access to buprenorphine (suboxone) for managing opioid use.
Are you feeling overwhelmed about life or work? Are you looking for help with your substance use? Do you feel more comfortable talking to another queer person? Do you need help sorting out who you are and how you fit in this world? I can help you manage depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, identity issues, and regulating your emotions. I also provide trauma-informed access to buprenorphine (suboxone) for managing opioid use.
(971) 265-6146 View (971) 265-6146
Photo of Amanda MacLeod, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Amanda MacLeod
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clackamas, OR 97015  (Online Only)
Amanda MacLeod, PA-C, holds a Master’s in Medical Science from Midwestern University in Arizona and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Kansas. She specializes in medication management for psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder with experience in novel treatments for resistant depression including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and esketamine intranasal treatments. Amanda treats most ages 13-65, but has found a passion in treating adolescents and young adults with building strong rapport and fostering a collaborative treatment environment.
Amanda MacLeod, PA-C, holds a Master’s in Medical Science from Midwestern University in Arizona and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Kansas. She specializes in medication management for psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder with experience in novel treatments for resistant depression including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and esketamine intranasal treatments. Amanda treats most ages 13-65, but has found a passion in treating adolescents and young adults with building strong rapport and fostering a collaborative treatment environment.
(503) 461-0223 View (503) 461-0223
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
(458) 236-3202 View (458) 236-3202
Photo of Tara Valenzuela, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tara Valenzuela
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97231
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a mental health enthusiast, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a professor of psychiatric nursing. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, and person-focused. This involves customized strategies for medication management. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy.
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a mental health enthusiast, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a professor of psychiatric nursing. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, and person-focused. This involves customized strategies for medication management. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy.
(808) 563-4918 View (808) 563-4918
Photo of Leann Yamanaka, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leann Yamanaka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
Accepting new patients! Are you wondering if medication is right for you? You've heard it can help, but you've probably also heard some scary stories. Maybe your medication isn't working as well as it used to, or you want a second opinion about the diagnosis you were given. Maybe you are looking for a more holistic approach, or someone who will take the time to hear your whole story. Wherever you are on your journey, I'm here to help.
Accepting new patients! Are you wondering if medication is right for you? You've heard it can help, but you've probably also heard some scary stories. Maybe your medication isn't working as well as it used to, or you want a second opinion about the diagnosis you were given. Maybe you are looking for a more holistic approach, or someone who will take the time to hear your whole story. Wherever you are on your journey, I'm here to help.
(503) 683-8152 View (503) 683-8152
Photo of Nathan Patrick Johnson - Nathan P. Johnson - (Stasis Psychiatry), MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nathan P. Johnson - (Stasis Psychiatry)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Vanderbilt in 2016. Prior to starting a private practice, I worked in the acute setting at Salem Hospital treating clients in an inpatient unit. I have experience treating clients in stable, and acute disease states. Prior to beginning my career in psychiatric nursing, I specialized in behavioral neuroscience and studied for 12-years a combination of psychology, counseling, and behavioral interventions. My passion is mental health care and I seek to incorporate different modalities into the care.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Vanderbilt in 2016. Prior to starting a private practice, I worked in the acute setting at Salem Hospital treating clients in an inpatient unit. I have experience treating clients in stable, and acute disease states. Prior to beginning my career in psychiatric nursing, I specialized in behavioral neuroscience and studied for 12-years a combination of psychology, counseling, and behavioral interventions. My passion is mental health care and I seek to incorporate different modalities into the care.
(503) 773-6576 View (503) 773-6576
Photo of Anna Cox, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anna Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you ready to reach out for help, tired of feeling overwhelmed and confused? You've come to the right place. I have years of experience helping people feel better, and getting their lives going in the right direction again.
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you ready to reach out for help, tired of feeling overwhelmed and confused? You've come to the right place. I have years of experience helping people feel better, and getting their lives going in the right direction again.
(503) 461-9883 View (503) 461-9883
Photo of Becky Gordon, MD, Psychiatrist
Becky Gordon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
I am currently accepting women and teens that need support related to focusing, organization and time planning challenges. I offer a dynamic three or four month process of: 1) assessing to the extent possible whether ADHD and/or other mental health conditions exist, 2) identifying your personal strengths and challenges related to organizational and time management, and 3) do a 'deep dive' into what many call executive function skills of the brain and explore what external supports strengthen these abilities for you.
I am currently accepting women and teens that need support related to focusing, organization and time planning challenges. I offer a dynamic three or four month process of: 1) assessing to the extent possible whether ADHD and/or other mental health conditions exist, 2) identifying your personal strengths and challenges related to organizational and time management, and 3) do a 'deep dive' into what many call executive function skills of the brain and explore what external supports strengthen these abilities for you.
(971) 231-3449 View (971) 231-3449

See more therapy options for Sweet Home

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Sweet Home, OR

< 10

Psychiatrists in Sweet Home, OR who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Medication Management
100% Stress

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Sweet Home, OR see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Sweet Home?

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.