Psychiatrists in Oregon

View cities and counties in Oregon
Photo of Kathleen Kelley, Psychiatric Nurse in Oregon
Kathleen Kelley
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with advanced training in psychotherapy and medication management. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and the adjustment--both physical and psychological--to parenthood. My background as a Community Health Nurse visiting pregnant and newly parenting families, and my understanding of the hormonal and biological factors that are intertwined with emotional issues during this time, make me an excellent choice for prenatal and postpartum anxiety and depression. I have a certificate from Postpartum Support International in treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with advanced training in psychotherapy and medication management. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and the adjustment--both physical and psychological--to parenthood. My background as a Community Health Nurse visiting pregnant and newly parenting families, and my understanding of the hormonal and biological factors that are intertwined with emotional issues during this time, make me an excellent choice for prenatal and postpartum anxiety and depression. I have a certificate from Postpartum Support International in treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
(503) 967-9232 View (503) 967-9232
Photo of Aspire Mental Health and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Aspire Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97501  (Online Only)
TELEHEALTH SERVICES THROUGHOUT OREGON. Aspire Mental Health & Wellness is committed to providing individualized care to help foster the healing, personal growth, and balance that you seek. We provide mental health care across the lifespan for adults, adolescents, and youth ages 7 and older.
TELEHEALTH SERVICES THROUGHOUT OREGON. Aspire Mental Health & Wellness is committed to providing individualized care to help foster the healing, personal growth, and balance that you seek. We provide mental health care across the lifespan for adults, adolescents, and youth ages 7 and older.
(541) 275-9045 View (541) 275-9045
Photo of Light Side Wellness Co , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Light Side Wellness Co
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. We understand these challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. We understand these challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult.
(503) 994-1898 View (503) 994-1898
Photo of Dr. Dominique Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Dr. Dominique Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Accepting new Clients in OR & TX! Are you questioning college, career transitions or life in general? Having difficulty concentrating? Feeling unmotivated or undesirable? Moody, stressed, or anxious all the time? Questioning identity or acceptance? Have you tried everything? Therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, and still struggling? Entering treatment can be an intimidating process & making that first appointment can be one of our biggest hurdles. But by taking that first step to look for support, you are already making progress. Dr. Dominique is a certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Accepting new Clients in OR & TX! Are you questioning college, career transitions or life in general? Having difficulty concentrating? Feeling unmotivated or undesirable? Moody, stressed, or anxious all the time? Questioning identity or acceptance? Have you tried everything? Therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, and still struggling? Entering treatment can be an intimidating process & making that first appointment can be one of our biggest hurdles. But by taking that first step to look for support, you are already making progress. Dr. Dominique is a certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(855) 704-2004 View (855) 704-2004
Photo of Ayako Garduque - Peach Moon Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Ayako Garduque - Peach Moon Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97306
Currently accepting new clients and immediate openings available! Are you looking for confidential and supportive mental health treatment? You may be ready to seek help and are considering medications but do you have concerns about stigma, your health information being accessible to others in a large hospital system, or running into someone you know in the waiting room?
Currently accepting new clients and immediate openings available! Are you looking for confidential and supportive mental health treatment? You may be ready to seek help and are considering medications but do you have concerns about stigma, your health information being accessible to others in a large hospital system, or running into someone you know in the waiting room?
(503) 744-7954 View (503) 744-7954
Photo of Debra Pugh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Debra Pugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I believe that everyone has within them the power to do well. I believe in a person-centered approach, placing the individual at the center of their own care plan. As a experienced clinician, I provide recommendations regarding diagnostic clarification, psychoeducation, and psychopharmacologic interventions but you are the expert on your own (or your child’s) life experiences. In support of the recovery-model, each person has strengths and the right to set their own therapeutic goals. My goal is to work in collaboration with you, developing a treatment plan that can meet the goals you have identified for yourself.
I believe that everyone has within them the power to do well. I believe in a person-centered approach, placing the individual at the center of their own care plan. As a experienced clinician, I provide recommendations regarding diagnostic clarification, psychoeducation, and psychopharmacologic interventions but you are the expert on your own (or your child’s) life experiences. In support of the recovery-model, each person has strengths and the right to set their own therapeutic goals. My goal is to work in collaboration with you, developing a treatment plan that can meet the goals you have identified for yourself.
(520) 447-4656 View (520) 447-4656
Photo of Kristyn Prockish, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Kristyn Prockish
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working in hospital, residential, and outpatient psychiatric settings. Much of my work is with children and adolescents, however, I have the pleasure of providing care to clients of all ages. In the PMHNP role, I assess, diagnose, and treat a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Treatment typically consists of a combination of supportive therapy and medication management.
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working in hospital, residential, and outpatient psychiatric settings. Much of my work is with children and adolescents, however, I have the pleasure of providing care to clients of all ages. In the PMHNP role, I assess, diagnose, and treat a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Treatment typically consists of a combination of supportive therapy and medication management.
(458) 204-0171 View (458) 204-0171
Photo of Stacey Gramann, Psychiatrist in Oregon
Stacey Gramann
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Not accepting new clients
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
(971) 308-4610 View (971) 308-4610
Photo of Mary E. Theodore, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist in Oregon
Mary E. Theodore, MD, MPH
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty years experience taking care of patients. Practicing for all these years in a field that I love, I have developed deep and lasting bonds with many of them. I am both a psycho-pharmacologist and a psycho-therapist. I treat numerous psychiatric & personality disorders but specialize in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, adult ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, Women's Mental Health, and HIV psychiatry. My goal is to help you create solutions and restore balance and well being in your life.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty years experience taking care of patients. Practicing for all these years in a field that I love, I have developed deep and lasting bonds with many of them. I am both a psycho-pharmacologist and a psycho-therapist. I treat numerous psychiatric & personality disorders but specialize in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, adult ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, Women's Mental Health, and HIV psychiatry. My goal is to help you create solutions and restore balance and well being in your life.
(646) 593-2134 View (646) 593-2134
Photo of NW Mind-Body Wellness - Rebecca Dorsey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
NW Mind-Body Wellness - Rebecca Dorsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, ENP
Verified Verified
Wilsonville, OR 97070
Accepting new patients! As your healthcare provider, I know that one cannot simply separate the mind from the body and the best care uses a holistic approach. I am board certified in psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine; which gives me the unique ability to integrate all areas of your health into treatment planning. I provide mental health services that look at all aspects of care to include physical health concerns, environmental factors, and other barriers to care. My aim is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients and their families that focus on both immediate and long-term goals.
Accepting new patients! As your healthcare provider, I know that one cannot simply separate the mind from the body and the best care uses a holistic approach. I am board certified in psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine; which gives me the unique ability to integrate all areas of your health into treatment planning. I provide mental health services that look at all aspects of care to include physical health concerns, environmental factors, and other barriers to care. My aim is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients and their families that focus on both immediate and long-term goals.
(503) 966-2448 View (503) 966-2448
Photo of Tamara Owen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Tamara Owen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
As a Holistic Health Practitioner and Life Coach, with both a medical and mental health background, I specialize in assessing and treating anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. I provide both medication and supplement evaluation and management with a special focus on genetic testing and balancing neurotransmitters. Once our brains are healthier and better balanced, mental and physical health follow naturally. That’s when therapy and skill building can really start to take effect.
As a Holistic Health Practitioner and Life Coach, with both a medical and mental health background, I specialize in assessing and treating anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. I provide both medication and supplement evaluation and management with a special focus on genetic testing and balancing neurotransmitters. Once our brains are healthier and better balanced, mental and physical health follow naturally. That’s when therapy and skill building can really start to take effect.
(503) 788-7726 View (503) 788-7726
Photo of Tarra L. Baker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Tarra L. Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
**Accepting New Clients** I am the sole owner and provider of a small practice in South Salem. In my practice, I see clients from 14+ for the diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of mental illnesses. I offer brief therapy with specific goals, I use an adaptive modality to focus on each individual client's need at the time. In addition, I also prescribe and manage medications both in person at my brick and mortar practice, and given the advances in security and communication via telepsychiatry appointments scheduled via my office staff with established clients as Oregonian law stipulates at least every six months that we meet.
**Accepting New Clients** I am the sole owner and provider of a small practice in South Salem. In my practice, I see clients from 14+ for the diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of mental illnesses. I offer brief therapy with specific goals, I use an adaptive modality to focus on each individual client's need at the time. In addition, I also prescribe and manage medications both in person at my brick and mortar practice, and given the advances in security and communication via telepsychiatry appointments scheduled via my office staff with established clients as Oregonian law stipulates at least every six months that we meet.
(971) 701-2360 View (971) 701-2360
Photo of Lynnette McLagan, Physician Assistant in Oregon
Lynnette McLagan
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
My practice has been guided by a singular passion: to provide personalized, evidence-based care that addresses the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're a teenager grappling with identity and societal pressures, an adult navigating the demands of work and relationships, or a parent seeking guidance for your child's emotional well-being, I'm here to support you. My holistic approach considers not just symptoms, but also the underlying factors that shape mental health, fostering lasting healing. I offer psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis: through thorough assessments, I can provide accurate diagnoses and personalized treat
My practice has been guided by a singular passion: to provide personalized, evidence-based care that addresses the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're a teenager grappling with identity and societal pressures, an adult navigating the demands of work and relationships, or a parent seeking guidance for your child's emotional well-being, I'm here to support you. My holistic approach considers not just symptoms, but also the underlying factors that shape mental health, fostering lasting healing. I offer psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis: through thorough assessments, I can provide accurate diagnoses and personalized treat
(503) 206-8850 View (503) 206-8850
Photo of Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Gresham, OR 97030  (Online Only)
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, and Mood Disorders.
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, and Mood Disorders.
(503) 487-0067 View (503) 487-0067
Photo of Neupathway (Melissa Osada), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Neupathway (Melissa Osada)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
(971) 315-4970 View (971) 315-4970
Photo of Madeline Jacobs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015
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. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care. In-office visits near Portland, OR available!
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. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care. In-office visits near Portland, OR available!
(561) 823-1255 x2 View (561) 823-1255 x2
Photo of Donna D Templeton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Donna D Templeton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LAC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over twenty years of experience. One thing I have learned in working with a wide variety of clients is that each person is a unique individual. Even though there may be similarities in problems and symptoms, there is no "one size fits all" treatment approach. When you come to me for treatment, I want to get to know you so that together we can figure out the best ways to help you manage the symptoms and deal with the problems you are experiencing. Together we will work toward achieving optimal well being and life satisfaction for you.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over twenty years of experience. One thing I have learned in working with a wide variety of clients is that each person is a unique individual. Even though there may be similarities in problems and symptoms, there is no "one size fits all" treatment approach. When you come to me for treatment, I want to get to know you so that together we can figure out the best ways to help you manage the symptoms and deal with the problems you are experiencing. Together we will work toward achieving optimal well being and life satisfaction for you.
(971) 257-1188 View (971) 257-1188
Photo of Jacklynn Crump, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Jacklynn Crump
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, OR 97756
I am a dual-certified family and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, and my goal is to provide compassionate and effective mental healthcare to children and adults who are struggling with mental illness. My approach to treatment is patient-centered, evidence-based, and tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're battling depression, anxiety, PTSD, or any other mental health concern, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, learn coping skills, and develop a recovery plan.
I am a dual-certified family and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, and my goal is to provide compassionate and effective mental healthcare to children and adults who are struggling with mental illness. My approach to treatment is patient-centered, evidence-based, and tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're battling depression, anxiety, PTSD, or any other mental health concern, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, learn coping skills, and develop a recovery plan.
(458) 236-5653 View (458) 236-5653
Photo of Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Immediate Weekend and Week Nights available! I am thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With immediate openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations with a focus on caring for a broad range of mental health conditions. 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 Weekend and Week Nights available! I am thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With immediate openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations with a focus on caring for a broad range of mental health conditions. 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.
(503) 850-2341 View (503) 850-2341
Photo of Kristen Helms, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Kristen Helms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Accepting new patients. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner I am dedicated to helping you improve your quality of life. My practice is patient centered, holistic and empathetic. I understand that mental illness can permeate many areas of life and I am prepared to start this journey of healing with you. My main focus is anxiety, depression, PTSD and mood disorders,
Accepting new patients. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner I am dedicated to helping you improve your quality of life. My practice is patient centered, holistic and empathetic. I understand that mental illness can permeate many areas of life and I am prepared to start this journey of healing with you. My main focus is anxiety, depression, PTSD and mood disorders,
(971) 306-9240 View (971) 306-9240

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Oregon who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
94% Depression
81% Medication Management
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% ADHD
73% Bipolar Disorder
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% PacificSource

How Psychiatrists in Oregon see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
28% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Oregon?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.