Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Daniel Helfet-Hilliker, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Daniel Helfet-Hilliker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I am a general adult psychiatrist and psychotherapist in Portland, OR. I treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, past trauma, personal loss, identity problems, and other painful feelings that may interfere with relationships, work and self-esteem. In my practice I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy but work with patients to find a balance with medication management that works best for them.
I am a general adult psychiatrist and psychotherapist in Portland, OR. I treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, past trauma, personal loss, identity problems, and other painful feelings that may interfere with relationships, work and self-esteem. In my practice I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy but work with patients to find a balance with medication management that works best for them.
(971) 264-2784 View (971) 264-2784
Photo of Sara Weber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Sara Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201
Sara is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Oregon. She specializes in treating adults with mood disorders and ADHD. She blends her expertise with a patient's mental health goals, using a combination of medication & limited psychotherapy. Building a trusting collaborative relationship is paramount to her. Sara has a particular interest in providing trauma informed care, believing it is essential to consider the impact our past experiences have on emotional and behavioral health. She strives to be neuro-inclusive.
Sara is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Oregon. She specializes in treating adults with mood disorders and ADHD. She blends her expertise with a patient's mental health goals, using a combination of medication & limited psychotherapy. Building a trusting collaborative relationship is paramount to her. Sara has a particular interest in providing trauma informed care, believing it is essential to consider the impact our past experiences have on emotional and behavioral health. She strives to be neuro-inclusive.
(971) 265-6035 View (971) 265-6035
Photo of Willamette Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Willamette Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MSN, LMFT, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Willamette Health & Wellness is a small group practice employing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and therapists from a variety of training backgrounds. We provide counseling, therapy, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
Willamette Health & Wellness is a small group practice employing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and therapists from a variety of training backgrounds. We provide counseling, therapy, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
(503) 444-8729 View (503) 444-8729
Photo of Johnny Tran, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Johnny Tran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
I understand the challenges you might be facing – whether it's struggles with anxiety, depression, addiction, insomnia, or any other mental health concern. Maybe you're seeking a safe space to explore your identity and the unique challenges you face. I'm here to tell you that you're not alone. My approach to mental health care is all about partnership and compassion. I strive to listen deeply to understand your specific needs and work together to create a treatment plan that feels right for you.
I understand the challenges you might be facing – whether it's struggles with anxiety, depression, addiction, insomnia, or any other mental health concern. Maybe you're seeking a safe space to explore your identity and the unique challenges you face. I'm here to tell you that you're not alone. My approach to mental health care is all about partnership and compassion. I strive to listen deeply to understand your specific needs and work together to create a treatment plan that feels right for you.
(971) 290-2692 View (971) 290-2692
Photo of Brian Pollock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Brian Pollock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I welcome and am excited to help people of all backgrounds and identities! I am here if you are looking for relief from emotional pain, mental distress or other struggles. I want to help you through whatever is causing you difficulties in a supportive and collaborative way. I am thoughtful, and I listen with openness and compassion. I strive to create an accepting and safe environment where we work together to decrease your symptoms and struggles and to support your health and growth. One specific passion and areas of expertise of mine is working with college students which I have been doing for 10 years!
I welcome and am excited to help people of all backgrounds and identities! I am here if you are looking for relief from emotional pain, mental distress or other struggles. I want to help you through whatever is causing you difficulties in a supportive and collaborative way. I am thoughtful, and I listen with openness and compassion. I strive to create an accepting and safe environment where we work together to decrease your symptoms and struggles and to support your health and growth. One specific passion and areas of expertise of mine is working with college students which I have been doing for 10 years!
(971) 247-3643 x1 View (971) 247-3643 x1
Photo of Maggie Yorio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Maggie Yorio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
(503) 486-3438 View (503) 486-3438
Photo of private practice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
private practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I love being a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and am honored to help individuals achieve optimal mental health through collaboration and support. I believe everyone can improve mental health and wellness by building on our strengths, learning coping skills, and addressing social supports and physical health. For some clients psychiatric medications are one of the tools for effective healing along with counseling,health education and lifestyle changes. I am happy to provide medication management alone for those already in counseling.
I love being a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and am honored to help individuals achieve optimal mental health through collaboration and support. I believe everyone can improve mental health and wellness by building on our strengths, learning coping skills, and addressing social supports and physical health. For some clients psychiatric medications are one of the tools for effective healing along with counseling,health education and lifestyle changes. I am happy to provide medication management alone for those already in counseling.
(503) 738-1719 View (503) 738-1719
Photo of Lauren Merrell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Lauren Merrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
I treat clients who are seeking both talk therapy and medication management. When clients receive therapy and medication management from the same provider, I find that this leads to better outcomes, less medication, and greater satisfaction in care. In our first few sessions, I'll listen to you intently and then we'll determine a path forward. Most of my clients start to feel better within a few months.
I treat clients who are seeking both talk therapy and medication management. When clients receive therapy and medication management from the same provider, I find that this leads to better outcomes, less medication, and greater satisfaction in care. In our first few sessions, I'll listen to you intently and then we'll determine a path forward. Most of my clients start to feel better within a few months.
(971) 318-1721 View (971) 318-1721
Photo of Dario LaPoma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dario LaPoma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Welcome to my profile! I am a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in Portland, OR. I offer psychotherapy and medication management to adults of all ages and backgrounds. My practice is relationally focused and inspired by various evidence-based frameworks, including Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have a careful approach to prescribing medications, and I feel strongly that a holistic treatment plan leads to deeper recovery. I strive to meet you where you are, and I honor the life experience that has brought you here.
Welcome to my profile! I am a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in Portland, OR. I offer psychotherapy and medication management to adults of all ages and backgrounds. My practice is relationally focused and inspired by various evidence-based frameworks, including Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have a careful approach to prescribing medications, and I feel strongly that a holistic treatment plan leads to deeper recovery. I strive to meet you where you are, and I honor the life experience that has brought you here.
(503) 298-9165 View (503) 298-9165
Photo of Dr. Lana Weber, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Dr. Lana Weber
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
I am board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I take an integrative approach to psychiatric evaluation and treatment that incorporates biologic, psychological, social and culture components. I focus on working with adults with a wide range of issues, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, life transitions, relational challenges, trauma, peripartum and women's mental health issues across the lifespan.
I am board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I take an integrative approach to psychiatric evaluation and treatment that incorporates biologic, psychological, social and culture components. I focus on working with adults with a wide range of issues, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, life transitions, relational challenges, trauma, peripartum and women's mental health issues across the lifespan.
(971) 247-3289 View (971) 247-3289
Photo of Jermiah Floyd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jermiah Floyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is providing holistic and person-centered care. My approach is rooted in empathy, a trauma-informed perspective, and evidence-based methodologies. I believe that individuals are more than just their symptoms and am committed to treating each person as a unique individual. Your mental health is intricately linked to every aspect of your life, and I prioritize this holistic perspective in addressing your well-being. I offer medication management and primary/adjunct psychotherapy to help alleviate your symptoms and help you balance your lived experience.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is providing holistic and person-centered care. My approach is rooted in empathy, a trauma-informed perspective, and evidence-based methodologies. I believe that individuals are more than just their symptoms and am committed to treating each person as a unique individual. Your mental health is intricately linked to every aspect of your life, and I prioritize this holistic perspective in addressing your well-being. I offer medication management and primary/adjunct psychotherapy to help alleviate your symptoms and help you balance your lived experience.
(503) 974-3427 View (503) 974-3427
Photo of Stacey Gramann, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Stacey Gramann
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
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 Dani Maier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dani Maier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
(503) 461-9509 View (503) 461-9509
Photo of elevateher | concierge psychiatry + ketamine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
elevateher | concierge psychiatry + ketamine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but you don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself. Then you’d feel most alive and aligned with yourself.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but you don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself. Then you’d feel most alive and aligned with yourself.
(971) 286-5038 View (971) 286-5038
Photo of Jeffery Wise, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jeffery Wise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Appointment https:provider.kareo.com/jeffery-wise Are you feeling like you need a little extra help right now or maybe some clarity around why you might be feeling the way you do? As a guide, teacher, trainer, mentor, and coach, I empower you to identify your strengths and to turn your struggle into triumph.  Whether focusing on self esteem, stress management, sensitivities, life direction, purpose, or relationship - together we shift consciousness into a more awakened, empowered, alive and aware space; our brain and body chemistry might need some help too!
Appointment https:provider.kareo.com/jeffery-wise Are you feeling like you need a little extra help right now or maybe some clarity around why you might be feeling the way you do? As a guide, teacher, trainer, mentor, and coach, I empower you to identify your strengths and to turn your struggle into triumph.  Whether focusing on self esteem, stress management, sensitivities, life direction, purpose, or relationship - together we shift consciousness into a more awakened, empowered, alive and aware space; our brain and body chemistry might need some help too!
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Photo of Terri Leigh Squires Licensed Medical Provider In Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Terri Leigh Squires Licensed Medical Provider In Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NBCC, LPC, FNP-BC, PNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Triple Boarded Licensed Medical Provider in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology with 9 years of graduate medical/clinical education. Licensed Medical Provider Psychiatry in four states for the last 20 years. Thirty years of experience working in the psychiatry field as a Psychotherapist, Licensed Medical Provider utilizing an Integrative/Holistic approach when prescribing medications; triple boarded in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology; emphasis on mindfulness techniques Buddhist Psychology strategies for difficult to treat anxiety, difficult to treat depression, ADHD, mood swings.
Triple Boarded Licensed Medical Provider in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology with 9 years of graduate medical/clinical education. Licensed Medical Provider Psychiatry in four states for the last 20 years. Thirty years of experience working in the psychiatry field as a Psychotherapist, Licensed Medical Provider utilizing an Integrative/Holistic approach when prescribing medications; triple boarded in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology; emphasis on mindfulness techniques Buddhist Psychology strategies for difficult to treat anxiety, difficult to treat depression, ADHD, mood swings.
(808) 201-3104 View (808) 201-3104
Photo of Black Men & Women In Training LLC MH and Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Black Men & Women In Training LLC MH and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211
We have over 20 years of experience offering face-to-face and telehealth services to change health disparities and improve overall wellness in the lives of our clients. Patients can access mental health counseling and medication management from clinicians who look like them. We offer various therapeutic modalities and extended services through mentorship and advocacy support. (BMWIT) was established in 2022 to support closing the health disparities gap for people of color by offering mental health awareness and wellness services allowing patients/clients to grow into thriving human beings. We have also added a FNP for primary care.
We have over 20 years of experience offering face-to-face and telehealth services to change health disparities and improve overall wellness in the lives of our clients. Patients can access mental health counseling and medication management from clinicians who look like them. We offer various therapeutic modalities and extended services through mentorship and advocacy support. (BMWIT) was established in 2022 to support closing the health disparities gap for people of color by offering mental health awareness and wellness services allowing patients/clients to grow into thriving human beings. We have also added a FNP for primary care.
(971) 606-4912 x1 View (971) 606-4912 x1
Photo of Shannon Anastasiadis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Shannon Anastasiadis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Do you often find yourself overwhelmed and worry that things won't work out? If you (or your child) are described as disorganized, forgetful, overly sensitive, easily frustrated, or the one who talks too much, it likely starts with the unique way that your brain works. These symptoms can make parenting, partnering or just daily life difficult. Many people who work with me have never understood why they experience the world differently than others. Clients often come to me wondering about ADHD. That is one possibility on a long list that should be considered. I am committed to supporting each client in the process of understanding.
Do you often find yourself overwhelmed and worry that things won't work out? If you (or your child) are described as disorganized, forgetful, overly sensitive, easily frustrated, or the one who talks too much, it likely starts with the unique way that your brain works. These symptoms can make parenting, partnering or just daily life difficult. Many people who work with me have never understood why they experience the world differently than others. Clients often come to me wondering about ADHD. That is one possibility on a long list that should be considered. I am committed to supporting each client in the process of understanding.
(503) 852-5611 View (503) 852-5611
Photo of High Desert Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
High Desert Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.
My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.
(541) 625-1617 View (541) 625-1617
Photo of Bradley Williamson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Bradley Williamson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Are you motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond psychiatric medication management? Although medications have a necessary purpose, my primary focus is functional psychotherapy rooted in spirituality, mindfulness, and nature-based techniques. I will help guide you to a deeper understanding of human suffering and courage. "Nature loves courage. You make the commitment and nature will respond to that commitment by removing impossible obstacles. Dream the impossible dream and the world will not grind you under, it will lift you up" -Terence McKenna
Are you motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond psychiatric medication management? Although medications have a necessary purpose, my primary focus is functional psychotherapy rooted in spirituality, mindfulness, and nature-based techniques. I will help guide you to a deeper understanding of human suffering and courage. "Nature loves courage. You make the commitment and nature will respond to that commitment by removing impossible obstacles. Dream the impossible dream and the world will not grind you under, it will lift you up" -Terence McKenna
(971) 299-7273 View (971) 299-7273

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

400+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
95% Depression
81% Medication Management
75% Trauma and PTSD
72% ADHD
72% Bipolar Disorder
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% Aetna
67% PacificSource

How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
26% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Portland?

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.