Psychiatrists in Yamhill County, OR

Thrive Integrative Psychiatry, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
McMinnville, OR 97128
Serving Yamhill County - Now Offering TMS! We are a team of clinicians (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, LPC) with a passion for helping people cultivate optimal mental health and wellbeing. We believe medication can be a powerful tool but is often just part of the puzzle of true healing. We value taking time with people, being present and listening to the whole story. We believe we heal best when we feel heard and take an active role in our own treatment.
Serving Yamhill County - Now Offering TMS! We are a team of clinicians (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, LPC) with a passion for helping people cultivate optimal mental health and wellbeing. We believe medication can be a powerful tool but is often just part of the puzzle of true healing. We value taking time with people, being present and listening to the whole story. We believe we heal best when we feel heard and take an active role in our own treatment.

I strive to develop personalized treatments that are designed to suit each person's lifestyle and strengthen self-awareness and resources for self-care. I have a clinical interest in integrative medicine in which the patient and provider are partners in the treatment process and all factors that influence health are taken into consideration. An integrative approach combines conventional medical and psychiatric diagnostic techniques and treatments with alternative strategies such as mindfulness therapy, supplements, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and other complementary approaches.
I strive to develop personalized treatments that are designed to suit each person's lifestyle and strengthen self-awareness and resources for self-care. I have a clinical interest in integrative medicine in which the patient and provider are partners in the treatment process and all factors that influence health are taken into consideration. An integrative approach combines conventional medical and psychiatric diagnostic techniques and treatments with alternative strategies such as mindfulness therapy, supplements, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and other complementary approaches.

Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you ever feel like you’re constantly battling your own brain? Does your mind wander so much that staying focused feels impossible? Maybe friends joke that you lose track of time, or you find yourself worrying about saying too much in conversations. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, or ADHD, you’re not alone — and support is within reach. At Synchronous Mental Health, we specialize in compassionate, comprehensive care that helps individuals manage these challenges and regain control of their mental health to live fuller, more balanced lives.
Do you ever feel like you’re constantly battling your own brain? Does your mind wander so much that staying focused feels impossible? Maybe friends joke that you lose track of time, or you find yourself worrying about saying too much in conversations. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, or ADHD, you’re not alone — and support is within reach. At Synchronous Mental Health, we specialize in compassionate, comprehensive care that helps individuals manage these challenges and regain control of their mental health to live fuller, more balanced lives.

Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, DNP
Online Only
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in Portland, Oregon. I completed my Master’s and Doctorate degrees at Oregon Health & Science University. I have experience working with clients who suffer from a variety of mental health issues including difficulty with focus and attention, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. A majority of my experience has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in Portland, Oregon. I completed my Master’s and Doctorate degrees at Oregon Health & Science University. I have experience working with clients who suffer from a variety of mental health issues including difficulty with focus and attention, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. A majority of my experience has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.

As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide a uniquely and specialized blend of mental health care that includes clinical assessments, medication management, in addition to talk therapy. I enjoy helping clients to identify and head toward their goals. I've been in practice for 12 years and worked with a diverse set of clients in a federally qualified health clinic. I believe in the power of individual work, alongside being involved in relationships to bring about the greatest healing and fulfillment in life. I believe in focusing on client values to collaborate on the plan of care.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide a uniquely and specialized blend of mental health care that includes clinical assessments, medication management, in addition to talk therapy. I enjoy helping clients to identify and head toward their goals. I've been in practice for 12 years and worked with a diverse set of clients in a federally qualified health clinic. I believe in the power of individual work, alongside being involved in relationships to bring about the greatest healing and fulfillment in life. I believe in focusing on client values to collaborate on the plan of care.

I built Women’s Mental Health Specialists because I know what it feels like to be unheard, misdiagnosed, or stuck in a treatment that just isn’t working. Women’s mental health is complex, and too often, it’s treated with guesswork. I refuse to let that happen here. My mission is to get the diagnosis right, build a team that actually supports you, and create a plan that gets real results. Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, or the impact of hormonal shifts, I’m here to help you understand what’s happening, regain control, and move forward with confidence.
I built Women’s Mental Health Specialists because I know what it feels like to be unheard, misdiagnosed, or stuck in a treatment that just isn’t working. Women’s mental health is complex, and too often, it’s treated with guesswork. I refuse to let that happen here. My mission is to get the diagnosis right, build a team that actually supports you, and create a plan that gets real results. Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, or the impact of hormonal shifts, I’m here to help you understand what’s happening, regain control, and move forward with confidence.

Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediate openings in Bend/Redmond Oregon and statewide available for you via tele-Health services ages 12 and up. Now taking Blue Cross/Blue Shield! I am excited to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations and specialize in tailoring medications to your unique symptoms. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
Immediate openings in Bend/Redmond Oregon and statewide available for you via tele-Health services ages 12 and up. Now taking Blue Cross/Blue Shield! I am excited to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations and specialize in tailoring medications to your unique symptoms. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.

Mackenzie Callis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I provide medication management primarily via telehealth for the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders (depression and bipolar spectrum disorders), psychosis, ADHD (after assessment by a psychologist), and substance use (alcohol, tobacco, and opioids). I specialize in managing nuisance side effects, many of which cause folks to discontinue otherwise effective medications. My prescribing philosophy embraces collaborative decision-making and the integration of multiple therapeutic modalities into medication management visits. At this time I do not offer weekly psychotherapy, but can provide referrals to therapists in your community.
I provide medication management primarily via telehealth for the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders (depression and bipolar spectrum disorders), psychosis, ADHD (after assessment by a psychologist), and substance use (alcohol, tobacco, and opioids). I specialize in managing nuisance side effects, many of which cause folks to discontinue otherwise effective medications. My prescribing philosophy embraces collaborative decision-making and the integration of multiple therapeutic modalities into medication management visits. At this time I do not offer weekly psychotherapy, but can provide referrals to therapists in your community.

New Clients are Welcome!
Medication management and supportive therapy. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues & feel lost in your options? I am here to help. With me, you’ll find a safe space where understanding and empathy are at the forefront of our work together. With decades of experience under my belt, I have been working with individuals of all ages & genders, as well as those with a wide range of ethnicities and diagnoses. These include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, suicidal and aggressive behaviors, schizophrenia and psychosis.
New Clients are Welcome!
Medication management and supportive therapy. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues & feel lost in your options? I am here to help. With me, you’ll find a safe space where understanding and empathy are at the forefront of our work together. With decades of experience under my belt, I have been working with individuals of all ages & genders, as well as those with a wide range of ethnicities and diagnoses. These include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, suicidal and aggressive behaviors, schizophrenia and psychosis.

Managing depression with up-to-date medications has become increasingly effective thanks to advancements in pharmacological treatments. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have seen how the management of depression needs someone who understands how to use the right medications. Using the right modern pharmacological agents can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals by alleviating symptoms, restoring emotional balance, and reducing the risk of relapse.
Managing depression with up-to-date medications has become increasingly effective thanks to advancements in pharmacological treatments. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have seen how the management of depression needs someone who understands how to use the right medications. Using the right modern pharmacological agents can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals by alleviating symptoms, restoring emotional balance, and reducing the risk of relapse.
Online Psychiatrists

Are you struggling with burnout, exhaustion, anxiety, and dread? Are you wondering if your hormones may be exacerbating underlying mental health issues? You feel like the more you learn about mental health, the more you are suspicious you are that you're walking through life on "hard mode?" If you're navigating these challenges, you're not alone.
Are you struggling with burnout, exhaustion, anxiety, and dread? Are you wondering if your hormones may be exacerbating underlying mental health issues? You feel like the more you learn about mental health, the more you are suspicious you are that you're walking through life on "hard mode?" If you're navigating these challenges, you're not alone.

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.

Welcome— My name is Dr. Robert Olsen. I am a board-certified medical doctor specializing in psychiatry. I have over 20 years of experience in the field. My clinical experience includes outpatient pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, inpatient psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, and geriatric psychiatry. Currently, I am working as medical director for BestMind Behavioral Health and seeing clients for individual treatment. In addition, I apply interventional psychiatric approaches such as esketamine nasal treatment and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) Therapy for treatment-resistant depression.
Welcome— My name is Dr. Robert Olsen. I am a board-certified medical doctor specializing in psychiatry. I have over 20 years of experience in the field. My clinical experience includes outpatient pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, inpatient psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, and geriatric psychiatry. Currently, I am working as medical director for BestMind Behavioral Health and seeing clients for individual treatment. In addition, I apply interventional psychiatric approaches such as esketamine nasal treatment and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) Therapy for treatment-resistant depression.

I'm accepting new patients! I provide medication management and psychotherapy in the same visit.
I specialize in treating ADHD and anxiety disorders. I take a holistic approach that incorporates the use of medication, psychotherapy, and mindfulness to get your results and have you feeling your best.
I'm accepting new patients! I provide medication management and psychotherapy in the same visit.
I specialize in treating ADHD and anxiety disorders. I take a holistic approach that incorporates the use of medication, psychotherapy, and mindfulness to get your results and have you feeling your best.

Kristen Helms is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oregon who has been practicing since 2024. Kristen is dedicated to helping you improve your quality of life. Her practice is patient centered, holistic, and empathetic. Kristen understands that mental illness can permeate many areas of life and she is prepared to start this journey of healing with you. Kristen’s main focus is anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders. Outside of work, Kristen enjoys hiking, running, horseback riding, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with her son and two cats.
Kristen Helms is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oregon who has been practicing since 2024. Kristen is dedicated to helping you improve your quality of life. Her practice is patient centered, holistic, and empathetic. Kristen understands that mental illness can permeate many areas of life and she is prepared to start this journey of healing with you. Kristen’s main focus is anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders. Outside of work, Kristen enjoys hiking, running, horseback riding, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with her son and two cats.

With 17+ years as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in medication management for ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Autism, Schizophrenia, and more. Serving patients across Oregon, I provide personalized treatment plans for individuals aged 4 to 65.
With 17+ years as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in medication management for ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Autism, Schizophrenia, and more. Serving patients across Oregon, I provide personalized treatment plans for individuals aged 4 to 65.

My practice is trauma-informed, sex-positive, body neutral, anti-racist, and I am a LGBTQIA+ ally. I develop partnerships with my patients based on the principles of self-respect, equality, dignity and mutuality. We will negotiate your healthcare needs through a variety of approaches: education, communication, self-care, medication and complementary treatments. I am honored to walk alongside in your journey towards recovery, happiness and life satisfaction.
My practice is trauma-informed, sex-positive, body neutral, anti-racist, and I am a LGBTQIA+ ally. I develop partnerships with my patients based on the principles of self-respect, equality, dignity and mutuality. We will negotiate your healthcare needs through a variety of approaches: education, communication, self-care, medication and complementary treatments. I am honored to walk alongside in your journey towards recovery, happiness and life satisfaction.

Are mental health problems stopping you from realizing your true potential? At DNP Psychiatry we can help. We provide comprehensive mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults across the life span. We help you reduce barriers blocking optimal mental and psychiatric health.
Are mental health problems stopping you from realizing your true potential? At DNP Psychiatry we can help. We provide comprehensive mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults across the life span. We help you reduce barriers blocking optimal mental and psychiatric health.

Navi Hughes | Provider | EQ Coach | Therapist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
3 Endorsed
Online Only
You deserve to experience mental wellness. You will overcome overwhelm, anxiety, and relationship stress. You'll gain clarity, discover your purpose, and rediscover the joy of each day. With access to medication management, therapy, and emotional intelligence coaching, I'll guide you to a healthier you.
Book your free 15-minute phone call to discover how to transform your mental health
You deserve to experience mental wellness. You will overcome overwhelm, anxiety, and relationship stress. You'll gain clarity, discover your purpose, and rediscover the joy of each day. With access to medication management, therapy, and emotional intelligence coaching, I'll guide you to a healthier you.
Book your free 15-minute phone call to discover how to transform your mental health
See more therapy options for Yamhill County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Yamhill County, OR
10+
Average cost per session
$197
Psychiatrists in Yamhill County, OR who prioritize treating:
91% | Depression |
91% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | Anxiety |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Sleep or Insomnia |
73% | Medication Management |
64% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
90% | Providence |
How Psychiatrists in Yamhill County, OR see their clients
55% | Online Only | |
45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Yamhill County?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.