Psychiatrists in Yamhill County, OR

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Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
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.
(971) 308-8266 View (971) 308-8266
Photo of Christina "Christy" Cowgill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNA, BCH
Christina "Christy" Cowgill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNA, BCH
McMinnville, OR 97128
Many of my clients are high-functioning professionals, caregivers, and helpers who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, depression, trauma responses, or chronic pain. They may have tried therapy or medication but sense something deeper is driving their symptoms. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Hypnotherapist, I help clients explore meaningful change through an integrative approach that addresses both mind and body. With over two decades of experience as an advanced practice nurse and a background in anesthesia and chronic pain care, I bring both medical and psychological perspectives to healing.
Many of my clients are high-functioning professionals, caregivers, and helpers who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, depression, trauma responses, or chronic pain. They may have tried therapy or medication but sense something deeper is driving their symptoms. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Hypnotherapist, I help clients explore meaningful change through an integrative approach that addresses both mind and body. With over two decades of experience as an advanced practice nurse and a background in anesthesia and chronic pain care, I bring both medical and psychological perspectives to healing.
(971) 459-1370 View (971) 459-1370
Photo of Lecia Boyd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lecia Boyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Dundee, OR 97115
Are you struggling with the mental and emotional challenges of pregnancy, having issues during the postpartum period and you need support? Did you have a traumatic birth, or experienced a pregnancy loss? Feeling overwhelmed as a female, managing life, motherhood, hormone changes, and other stressors? Do you wonder if you might have ADHD, but you don't know what steps to take for an evaluation or treatment? Are there days that you feel tired, painful, more sad than usual? In ANY of these scenarios, please know you are not alone. Navigating mental health can be challenging but you are making the choice to start looking, Good JOB!
Are you struggling with the mental and emotional challenges of pregnancy, having issues during the postpartum period and you need support? Did you have a traumatic birth, or experienced a pregnancy loss? Feeling overwhelmed as a female, managing life, motherhood, hormone changes, and other stressors? Do you wonder if you might have ADHD, but you don't know what steps to take for an evaluation or treatment? Are there days that you feel tired, painful, more sad than usual? In ANY of these scenarios, please know you are not alone. Navigating mental health can be challenging but you are making the choice to start looking, Good JOB!
(971) 464-2086 View (971) 464-2086
Photo of Jennifer Behnke - Thrive Integrative Psychiatry, PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Thrive Integrative Psychiatry, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 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.
(971) 251-9589 View (971) 251-9589
Photo of Lavena McCullum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lavena McCullum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Newberg, OR 97132
Maybe you are exploring ADHD for the first time as an adult. Maybe you have been managing anxiety that disrupts your sleep, focus, or relationships. Maybe you are living with a depression that has quietly eroded your energy and sense of self. Or perhaps you have tried medication before without the results you hoped for and are looking for a provider who will listen carefully before prescribing. Whatever has brought you here, you deserve thoughtful evaluation and a treatment plan built around your life.
Maybe you are exploring ADHD for the first time as an adult. Maybe you have been managing anxiety that disrupts your sleep, focus, or relationships. Maybe you are living with a depression that has quietly eroded your energy and sense of self. Or perhaps you have tried medication before without the results you hoped for and are looking for a provider who will listen carefully before prescribing. Whatever has brought you here, you deserve thoughtful evaluation and a treatment plan built around your life.
(971) 406-3436 View (971) 406-3436
Photo of Ablavi Agomessou - Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, DNP
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 !
(678) 922-4240 View (678) 922-4240
Photo of Ana Tattersall-Cocke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ana Tattersall-Cocke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
If you’re here, something may not be feeling quite right — even if it’s hard to put into words. Maybe you’ve been through experiences that still affect how you feel, think, sleep, or respond to the world around you. Trauma and PTSD can show up in many ways, including feeling constantly on edge, having intrusive memories, avoiding reminders, struggling with trust, feeling emotionally numb, or reacting more strongly than you want to. Maybe anxiety has become your “normal,” making it hard to relax, feel safe, focus, or stay present. Maybe depression has brought low motivation, low energy, irritability, hopelessness, or a loss of inte
If you’re here, something may not be feeling quite right — even if it’s hard to put into words. Maybe you’ve been through experiences that still affect how you feel, think, sleep, or respond to the world around you. Trauma and PTSD can show up in many ways, including feeling constantly on edge, having intrusive memories, avoiding reminders, struggling with trust, feeling emotionally numb, or reacting more strongly than you want to. Maybe anxiety has become your “normal,” making it hard to relax, feel safe, focus, or stay present. Maybe depression has brought low motivation, low energy, irritability, hopelessness, or a loss of inte
(971) 328-4672 View (971) 328-4672
Photo of Helen Caldwell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Helen Caldwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
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.
(971) 376-8235 View (971) 376-8235
Photo of Kivalani McMurrin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Kivalani McMurrin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal clients are people who've felt unseen, over-medicated, or misunderstood by the mental health system. They're ready to dig into the why behind what they're experiencing, not just manage symptoms. I work especially well with neurodivergent folks, LGBTQIA+ individuals, women and AFAB folks, children and adolescents, and those navigating perinatal mental health.
My ideal clients are people who've felt unseen, over-medicated, or misunderstood by the mental health system. They're ready to dig into the why behind what they're experiencing, not just manage symptoms. I work especially well with neurodivergent folks, LGBTQIA+ individuals, women and AFAB folks, children and adolescents, and those navigating perinatal mental health.
(971) 406-4511 View (971) 406-4511
Photo of Stephanie Sweeny - Stephanie Sweeny @ Womens MH Specialists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Stephanie Sweeny @ Womens MH Specialists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(971) 412-4931 View (971) 412-4931
Photo of Timothy Lafolette, Psychiatric Nurse, RN, PMHNP
Timothy Lafolette
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you struggle with anxiety or depression that make day-to-day life feel impossible? Do you feel overwhelmed by pretty much everything? Do you wonder if life could feel just a little easier? Now, more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, and depressed, often feeling bogged down by past traumas and out-of-date beliefs. I believe that we can find ways to feel better and improve our lives, one step at a time. These changes are helpful not only for ourselves, but for everyone around us.
Do you struggle with anxiety or depression that make day-to-day life feel impossible? Do you feel overwhelmed by pretty much everything? Do you wonder if life could feel just a little easier? Now, more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, and depressed, often feeling bogged down by past traumas and out-of-date beliefs. I believe that we can find ways to feel better and improve our lives, one step at a time. These changes are helpful not only for ourselves, but for everyone around us.
(971) 278-9801 View (971) 278-9801
Photo of Mackenzie Callis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 (generalized, social, and OCD) and mood disorders (depression and bipolar spectrum disorders), psychosis, ADHD, 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 (generalized, social, and OCD) and mood disorders (depression and bipolar spectrum disorders), psychosis, ADHD, 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.
(503) 664-9799 View (503) 664-9799
Photo of Jennifer Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Living with anxiety, depression, or the weight of past trauma can feel exhausting. Many of my clients in Oregon describe pushing through work and relationships while quietly struggling inside. Some have tried therapy or medication before without the relief they hoped for. What they want is simple but powerful: to feel calmer, steadier, and more connected to themselves and the people they love. If this sounds familiar, you don’t have to carry it alone—real support and change are possible.
Living with anxiety, depression, or the weight of past trauma can feel exhausting. Many of my clients in Oregon describe pushing through work and relationships while quietly struggling inside. Some have tried therapy or medication before without the relief they hoped for. What they want is simple but powerful: to feel calmer, steadier, and more connected to themselves and the people they love. If this sounds familiar, you don’t have to carry it alone—real support and change are possible.
(503) 843-8722 View (503) 843-8722
Photo of Yosief Berhe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Yosief Berhe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I work with young adults dealing with burnout, anxiety, depression, ADHD, or the lasting effects of trauma. Many have never sought psychiatric help before but have reached a point where they know something needs to change. They're motivated, self-aware, and ready to take action. Thats where I come in :)
Welcome! I work with young adults dealing with burnout, anxiety, depression, ADHD, or the lasting effects of trauma. Many have never sought psychiatric help before but have reached a point where they know something needs to change. They're motivated, self-aware, and ready to take action. Thats where I come in :)
(971) 626-6091 View (971) 626-6091
Photo of Natalia Hicks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Natalia Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
New Clients are Welcome! Medication management and supportive therapy. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues and 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 and 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 & 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 and 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 and 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 & aggressive behaviors, schizophrenia and psychosis.
(541) 262-6362 View (541) 262-6362

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Kyle Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kyle Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Beaverton, OR 97005
I have immediate openings for visits. I have returned to Center of Excellence! See address and number to the right. I see patients ages 18 years and older. My ideal client would be one that desires the help offered, who places importance in themselves and fights for their happiness and their life. I truly enjoy sharing in goal-setting and ultimately goal-achieving with my clients, and find my greatest joy in hearing of their successes and personal growth. I personally enjoy getting to know my clients on an equal footing as fellow human beings. I do not accept patients currently on benzodiazepines (Ativan, Xanax, Klonopin).
I have immediate openings for visits. I have returned to Center of Excellence! See address and number to the right. I see patients ages 18 years and older. My ideal client would be one that desires the help offered, who places importance in themselves and fights for their happiness and their life. I truly enjoy sharing in goal-setting and ultimately goal-achieving with my clients, and find my greatest joy in hearing of their successes and personal growth. I personally enjoy getting to know my clients on an equal footing as fellow human beings. I do not accept patients currently on benzodiazepines (Ativan, Xanax, Klonopin).
(503) 832-0945 View (503) 832-0945
Photo of Julie Morgan-Vaughn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julie Morgan-Vaughn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting New Patients in Washington & Oregon. My journey toward mental health began in maternal and child nursing, where I witnessed firsthand how becoming a parent is truly a life-changing experience. This transition can be both joyful and deeply challenging. I believe individuals and families need compassionate support—especially in nurturing their mental and emotional wellness—so they can truly blossom.
Accepting New Patients in Washington & Oregon. My journey toward mental health began in maternal and child nursing, where I witnessed firsthand how becoming a parent is truly a life-changing experience. This transition can be both joyful and deeply challenging. I believe individuals and families need compassionate support—especially in nurturing their mental and emotional wellness—so they can truly blossom.
(509) 605-6647 View (509) 605-6647
Photo of Natalie C Stone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Natalie C Stone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
I find joy in helping clients who have seen many other providers and have tried other medications but continue to struggle with the right medication or the correct diagnosis.
I find joy in helping clients who have seen many other providers and have tried other medications but continue to struggle with the right medication or the correct diagnosis.
(859) 354-3760 View (859) 354-3760
Photo of Deborah Ford, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Deborah Ford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Deborah Ford PMHNP, FNP is a dually certified board certified Psychiatric- Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is also qualified as a family nurse practitioner. She completed her education at the University of Cincinnati in Ohio and the University of Kennesaw in Ga. Ms. Ford has 10 years of treating patients with mental health issues. Working in various settings such as outpatient, inpatient, private practice and telepsychiatry. Whether you’re struggling with Schizophrenia, ADD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar, Panic, or other mental health disorders.
Deborah Ford PMHNP, FNP is a dually certified board certified Psychiatric- Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is also qualified as a family nurse practitioner. She completed her education at the University of Cincinnati in Ohio and the University of Kennesaw in Ga. Ms. Ford has 10 years of treating patients with mental health issues. Working in various settings such as outpatient, inpatient, private practice and telepsychiatry. Whether you’re struggling with Schizophrenia, ADD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar, Panic, or other mental health disorders.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Photo of Dr. Cheryl Kate Burris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Cheryl Kate Burris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide compassionate, patient-centered care for patients with mental health challenges like mood disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or complex conditions like PTSD, psychosis, or substance use. I work hard to listen, validate, and collaborate with patients to create a treatment plan that aligns with their goals. I enjoy providing a safe space to help patients find relief from symptoms, improved coping skills, and a sense of control over their lives. Above all, I provide a stigma-free, supportive environment where patients can feel empowered and understood on their journey to wellness.
I provide compassionate, patient-centered care for patients with mental health challenges like mood disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or complex conditions like PTSD, psychosis, or substance use. I work hard to listen, validate, and collaborate with patients to create a treatment plan that aligns with their goals. I enjoy providing a safe space to help patients find relief from symptoms, improved coping skills, and a sense of control over their lives. Above all, I provide a stigma-free, supportive environment where patients can feel empowered and understood on their journey to wellness.
(503) 461-1779 View (503) 461-1779

See more therapy options for Yamhill County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Yamhill County, OR

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Yamhill County, OR who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
93% Anxiety
87% Bipolar Disorder
80% ADHD
73% Sleep or Insomnia
73% Medication Management
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
83% Cigna and Evernorth
75% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Yamhill County, OR see their clients

53% Online Only
47% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% 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.

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.