Psychiatrists in Oregon

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Photo of Brooks Oglesby-Junk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Brooks Oglesby-Junk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Specializing in the treatment of PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, and possessing comprehensive skills in addressing various other psychiatric conditions, I am dedicated to your well-being. My ultimate objective is to equip you with the tools necessary to attain your highest level of wellness. Trust in my competence and compassionate approach as you embark on your journey toward mental health and overall well-being.
Specializing in the treatment of PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, and possessing comprehensive skills in addressing various other psychiatric conditions, I am dedicated to your well-being. My ultimate objective is to equip you with the tools necessary to attain your highest level of wellness. Trust in my competence and compassionate approach as you embark on your journey toward mental health and overall well-being.
(503) 751-3453 View (503) 751-3453
Photo of Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist in Oregon
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Roseburg, OR 97471  (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.
(541) 470-8019 View (541) 470-8019
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 Central Oregon Psychiatry, Psychiatrist in Oregon
Central Oregon Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Sisters, OR 97759
I have been in a psychiatrist for 42 years with extra training in Jungian oriented psychotherapy and Process oriented therapy. I work only with adults over 18 and specialize in dream work. My work is depth directed with emphasis on the imagination. I work with all symptom issues with this dream and body approach and prefer clients interested in long term weekly or twice weekly therapy.
I have been in a psychiatrist for 42 years with extra training in Jungian oriented psychotherapy and Process oriented therapy. I work only with adults over 18 and specialize in dream work. My work is depth directed with emphasis on the imagination. I work with all symptom issues with this dream and body approach and prefer clients interested in long term weekly or twice weekly therapy.
(503) 917-3220 View (503) 917-3220
Photo of Neupathway , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Neupathway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ....... Hello, I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in supporting individuals across all ages through mental health challenges. My specialized expertise encompasses treating depression, anxiety, anger, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid dependencies. I employ personalized medication-assisted treatments such as Suboxone for opioid disorders. My approach focuses on fostering healing, empowerment, and guiding each individual's unique journey toward holistic wellness.
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ....... Hello, I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in supporting individuals across all ages through mental health challenges. My specialized expertise encompasses treating depression, anxiety, anger, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid dependencies. I employ personalized medication-assisted treatments such as Suboxone for opioid disorders. My approach focuses on fostering healing, empowerment, and guiding each individual's unique journey toward holistic wellness.
(971) 286-5055 View (971) 286-5055
Photo of Micheal Draheim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Micheal Draheim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
Welcome! I started my journey as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and later earned a Master's in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have a decade of varied experience, from outpatient services to psychiatric hospitals and correctional facilities. My expertise covers conditions like ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more. With a blend of comprehensive knowledge and heartfelt dedication, my goal is to uplift and stabilize the mental well-being of those I serve.
Welcome! I started my journey as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and later earned a Master's in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have a decade of varied experience, from outpatient services to psychiatric hospitals and correctional facilities. My expertise covers conditions like ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more. With a blend of comprehensive knowledge and heartfelt dedication, my goal is to uplift and stabilize the mental well-being of those I serve.
(503) 461-6138 View (503) 461-6138
Photo of Jenn Grant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Jenn Grant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
Now Accepting New TMS Patients at NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS! Hello and thanks for taking the time to invest in your mental health! I’m Dr. Grant and I’m a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) trained in both medication management and psychotherapy.  I treat a variety of conditions including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and psychosis. I also have a particular passion for functional and reproductive psychiatry, including working with clients in the pre-conception, pregnancy, and post-partum stages of life.
Now Accepting New TMS Patients at NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS! Hello and thanks for taking the time to invest in your mental health! I’m Dr. Grant and I’m a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) trained in both medication management and psychotherapy.  I treat a variety of conditions including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and psychosis. I also have a particular passion for functional and reproductive psychiatry, including working with clients in the pre-conception, pregnancy, and post-partum stages of life.
(503) 966-4192 View (503) 966-4192
Photo of Tyler Clark Chipman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Tyler Clark Chipman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
I work in collaborative partnership with individuals who are seeking to regain or retain industry and autonomy in their lives, to identify and achieve their goals, and to improve their relationships with themselves and others. I have experience in treating difficult symptoms related to personality, mood, thoughts, trauma, anxiety, OCD, neurocognition, and autism, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults of all ages and diverse backgrounds. I fundamentally believe that healing happens in relationship and that authenticity, curiosity, empathy, and compassion are the cornerstones of helpful clinical relationships.
I work in collaborative partnership with individuals who are seeking to regain or retain industry and autonomy in their lives, to identify and achieve their goals, and to improve their relationships with themselves and others. I have experience in treating difficult symptoms related to personality, mood, thoughts, trauma, anxiety, OCD, neurocognition, and autism, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults of all ages and diverse backgrounds. I fundamentally believe that healing happens in relationship and that authenticity, curiosity, empathy, and compassion are the cornerstones of helpful clinical relationships.
(971) 351-4294 x1 View (971) 351-4294 x1
Photo of Schuyler B Ellis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Schuyler B Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I began my career at the Menninger Clinic in Houston, TX where I gained invaluable experience working with young adults with complex trauma, substance abuse, and mood & personality disorders. From this experience, I learned that it is a provider’s responsibility to therapeutically guide care that targets the core issues leading to a patient’s mental health challenges, not just treat a diagnosis. Since leaving Menninger, I have had the chance to care for a variety of patients in community, emergency, and forensic settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I began my career at the Menninger Clinic in Houston, TX where I gained invaluable experience working with young adults with complex trauma, substance abuse, and mood & personality disorders. From this experience, I learned that it is a provider’s responsibility to therapeutically guide care that targets the core issues leading to a patient’s mental health challenges, not just treat a diagnosis. Since leaving Menninger, I have had the chance to care for a variety of patients in community, emergency, and forensic settings.
(971) 231-2720 View (971) 231-2720
Photo of Ryan Tateishi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Ryan Tateishi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McMinnville, OR 97128  (Online Only)
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.
(971) 257-1172 View (971) 257-1172
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 Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist in Oregon
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420  (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.
(541) 896-4807 View (541) 896-4807
Photo of Kara Powers, Psychiatrist in Oregon
Kara Powers
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified psychiatrist offering psychiatric consultation, psychotherapy and medication management. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or problems in school or work. Depending on the individual's needs and preferences, I also incorporate components of cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. I join with my patients to understand their suffering and together we find solutions for change.
I am a board certified psychiatrist offering psychiatric consultation, psychotherapy and medication management. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or problems in school or work. Depending on the individual's needs and preferences, I also incorporate components of cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. I join with my patients to understand their suffering and together we find solutions for change.
(503) 438-4503 View (503) 438-4503
Photo of Ross Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Ross Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015
Ross A Brown is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). He holds a Masters of Science and Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, where he completed studies as an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. For fifteen years he worked in preventative cardiology and stroke neurology, then went on to complete his postmaster certificate as a PMHNP at the University of New Mexico. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, he cares for patients ages sixteen and older with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, and treats the mental health needs of senior adults.
Ross A Brown is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). He holds a Masters of Science and Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, where he completed studies as an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. For fifteen years he worked in preventative cardiology and stroke neurology, then went on to complete his postmaster certificate as a PMHNP at the University of New Mexico. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, he cares for patients ages sixteen and older with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, and treats the mental health needs of senior adults.
(971) 257-8147 x2 View (971) 257-8147 x2
Photo of Carmen Kosicek - Visionary Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Carmen Kosicek - Visionary Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
(458) 225-5152 View (458) 225-5152
Photo of Jenna Brown Albright, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Jenna Brown Albright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
My intention is to understand what is important to you in supporting your wellness. Medication can be a tool to use along with therapy and skills. Through mutual collaboration and trust, we will work to determine which medication will be helpful. I will provide education and support while we work together, being sensitive to your questions and concerns.
My intention is to understand what is important to you in supporting your wellness. Medication can be a tool to use along with therapy and skills. Through mutual collaboration and trust, we will work to determine which medication will be helpful. I will provide education and support while we work together, being sensitive to your questions and concerns.
Photo of Paradigm Mental Health and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Paradigm Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97501
Our ideal client wants help. They are ready for a change. It may be that they continue to have symptoms from that traumatic event in childhood, or maybe they can't shake that nagging thought in the back of their head that they would be better off dead. Some may have a lifelong mental health diagnosis that they are all too aware of. Others may be having a more and more difficult time with their work or spouse. Regardless, each of these people has the desire to improve, to move past their current state, to grow.
Our ideal client wants help. They are ready for a change. It may be that they continue to have symptoms from that traumatic event in childhood, or maybe they can't shake that nagging thought in the back of their head that they would be better off dead. Some may have a lifelong mental health diagnosis that they are all too aware of. Others may be having a more and more difficult time with their work or spouse. Regardless, each of these people has the desire to improve, to move past their current state, to grow.
(541) 249-7724 View (541) 249-7724
Photo of Tim Hanson, Psychiatrist in Oregon
Tim Hanson
Psychiatrist, MA, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
I am a general psychiatrist who treats adults suffering from anxiety, depression, and the effects of childhood or adult trauma via weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy and, if needed, medication management. In therapy we will seek to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can come to know and understand yourself more fully through exploration of your current experience, memories, dreams, and more. In my experience, this understanding can provide healing and a way forward.
I am a general psychiatrist who treats adults suffering from anxiety, depression, and the effects of childhood or adult trauma via weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy and, if needed, medication management. In therapy we will seek to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can come to know and understand yourself more fully through exploration of your current experience, memories, dreams, and more. In my experience, this understanding can provide healing and a way forward.
(503) 966-2525 View (503) 966-2525
Photo of Rachel C Ward, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Rachel C Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Struggling with relationships, feeling overwhelmed, and finding it hard to keep up with school or work because of difficulty in social situations, inability to organize yourself, disrupted sleep, or tumultuous moods? You're not alone. I understand the dread and paralyzing effects these symptoms can have on your life.
Struggling with relationships, feeling overwhelmed, and finding it hard to keep up with school or work because of difficulty in social situations, inability to organize yourself, disrupted sleep, or tumultuous moods? You're not alone. I understand the dread and paralyzing effects these symptoms can have on your life.
(971) 265-8603 View (971) 265-8603
Photo of Alyssa Aurisy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon
Alyssa Aurisy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with clients from all walks of life. I treat the breadth of mental health challenges with thoughtful, evidence based medication management and adjunctive psychotherapy. I consider the whole person rather than their cluster of symptoms and provide education and pharmacological interventions that meet clients goals and account for their preferences. I believe in a collaborative approach and welcome input from therapists and other providers on the team.
I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with clients from all walks of life. I treat the breadth of mental health challenges with thoughtful, evidence based medication management and adjunctive psychotherapy. I consider the whole person rather than their cluster of symptoms and provide education and pharmacological interventions that meet clients goals and account for their preferences. I believe in a collaborative approach and welcome input from therapists and other providers on the team.
(503) 487-5819 View (503) 487-5819

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.