Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Charisa King, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Charisa King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and holistic care to individuals navigating the complexities of mental health. With expertise spanning over 13 years in the field, I specialize in addressing challenges related to ADHD, depression, anxiety, substance use issues, and bipolar disorder.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and holistic care to individuals navigating the complexities of mental health. With expertise spanning over 13 years in the field, I specialize in addressing challenges related to ADHD, depression, anxiety, substance use issues, and bipolar disorder.
(971) 265-6282 View (971) 265-6282
Photo of Melody Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Melody Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
Navigating the complexities of marriage and parenting can sometimes feel like a delicate balancing act. You may find yourself juggling personal aspirations with the evolving needs of your children while maintaining a healthy relationship. This can lead to moments of doubt and fatigue. It's normal to feel a mix of emotions during this stage. We'll work towards finding harmony in your role as a spouse and parent, enhancing your confidence and resilience in facing these daily challenges. If you are struggling in your marriage, we can work to identify ways to navigate difficulties and care for yourself.
Navigating the complexities of marriage and parenting can sometimes feel like a delicate balancing act. You may find yourself juggling personal aspirations with the evolving needs of your children while maintaining a healthy relationship. This can lead to moments of doubt and fatigue. It's normal to feel a mix of emotions during this stage. We'll work towards finding harmony in your role as a spouse and parent, enhancing your confidence and resilience in facing these daily challenges. If you are struggling in your marriage, we can work to identify ways to navigate difficulties and care for yourself.
(971) 299-7399 View (971) 299-7399
Photo of Paul J. McMahon, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Paul J. McMahon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I am a board certified psychiatrist, providing both medication management and therapy. My therapeutic style focuses on cognitive behavioral techniques. Treatment decisions are personalized, and evidence-based, ensuring they align with your values. I am comfortable working with medically complex cases, and draw from my additional years of experience in neurology, neuroscience and clinical research. Together, we will develop a specific plan to improve your mental health.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, providing both medication management and therapy. My therapeutic style focuses on cognitive behavioral techniques. Treatment decisions are personalized, and evidence-based, ensuring they align with your values. I am comfortable working with medically complex cases, and draw from my additional years of experience in neurology, neuroscience and clinical research. Together, we will develop a specific plan to improve your mental health.
(971) 251-1167 View (971) 251-1167
Photo of Andrna' Christopher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Andrna' Christopher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Our office is currently accepting new clients in Oregon for online therapy. We specialize in anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder. If you're experiencing sadness, loss of interest, disconnection, worry, low self-esteem, or other mental health symptoms, we can assist. Through compassionate, wholesome, and quality care, we can help you achieve lasting relief from mental health concerns. We are dedicated to providing patient- and family-centered care. We are also dedicated to providing individualized care, as every person has a unique need.
Our office is currently accepting new clients in Oregon for online therapy. We specialize in anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder. If you're experiencing sadness, loss of interest, disconnection, worry, low self-esteem, or other mental health symptoms, we can assist. Through compassionate, wholesome, and quality care, we can help you achieve lasting relief from mental health concerns. We are dedicated to providing patient- and family-centered care. We are also dedicated to providing individualized care, as every person has a unique need.
(206) 488-0739 View (206) 488-0739
Photo of Catherine Rose Hensy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Catherine Rose Hensy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223
I provide psychiatric medication management either in person or virtually for children and adults! I offer neurocognitive testing, including ADHD, with treatment plan tailored to test results. I am currently accepting new clients and I can get you in quickly! I offer an evidence based approach. We will focus on limiting side effects and getting positive results from the LEAST amount of medications possible. I will listen to your concerns and we will work together to get you feeling your best!
I provide psychiatric medication management either in person or virtually for children and adults! I offer neurocognitive testing, including ADHD, with treatment plan tailored to test results. I am currently accepting new clients and I can get you in quickly! I offer an evidence based approach. We will focus on limiting side effects and getting positive results from the LEAST amount of medications possible. I will listen to your concerns and we will work together to get you feeling your best!
(503) 966-9547 View (503) 966-9547
Photo of Adam Ellis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Adam Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
(503) 487-5481 x2 View (503) 487-5481 x2
Photo of Jenna Brown Albright, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
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 Andrew James Hughes, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Andrew James Hughes
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
My primary aim is to help patients achieve a more fulfilling life. Available evidence indicates that the best psychotherapy outcomes are associated with strong and trusting provider-patient relationships. As such, I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment for my patients.
My primary aim is to help patients achieve a more fulfilling life. Available evidence indicates that the best psychotherapy outcomes are associated with strong and trusting provider-patient relationships. As such, I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment for my patients.
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Photo of Lynaudry Louise Vickers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Lynaudry Louise Vickers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and have earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice degrees from Oregon Health & Science University. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout the lifespan. I am passionate about providing a holistic and evidence-based approach to psychiatric care.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and have earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice degrees from Oregon Health & Science University. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout the lifespan. I am passionate about providing a holistic and evidence-based approach to psychiatric care.
(971) 233-3831 View (971) 233-3831
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 Madeline Jacobs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97204
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!
(503) 386-0877 x2 View (503) 386-0877 x2
Photo of Philip Cawkwell, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Philip Cawkwell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
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Photo of Shannon LaDouce, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Shannon LaDouce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97218  (Online Only)
Feb 2024- OPEN. I am passionate about supporting those who have dedicated their lives to service (of all types!). I am adept at working with the "givers" - the folks who are often over-extending to those around them. I am committed to creating a safe and judgment-free space for you to finally be the one that receives support. Whether you're a veteran navigating the challenges of post-service life, a healthcare provider managing the pressures of the field, a mom juggling the demands of parenthood, or the friend who everyone turns to, I am here to partner with you to give YOU the support you deserve.
Feb 2024- OPEN. I am passionate about supporting those who have dedicated their lives to service (of all types!). I am adept at working with the "givers" - the folks who are often over-extending to those around them. I am committed to creating a safe and judgment-free space for you to finally be the one that receives support. Whether you're a veteran navigating the challenges of post-service life, a healthcare provider managing the pressures of the field, a mom juggling the demands of parenthood, or the friend who everyone turns to, I am here to partner with you to give YOU the support you deserve.
(503) 438-7830 View (503) 438-7830
Photo of Rachel Scott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Rachel Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
Anxiety and depression can be overwhelming, casting a shadow over every aspect of life. Recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, my focus is on individuals ready to take active steps towards betterment. Leveraging my expertise in psychiatry, I aim to create a supportive environment where we collaboratively address these challenges. Through a careful and compassionate approach to medication management, we can find a path to a brighter, more balanced life, empowering you to reclaim control over your mental health and wellbeing.
Anxiety and depression can be overwhelming, casting a shadow over every aspect of life. Recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, my focus is on individuals ready to take active steps towards betterment. Leveraging my expertise in psychiatry, I aim to create a supportive environment where we collaboratively address these challenges. Through a careful and compassionate approach to medication management, we can find a path to a brighter, more balanced life, empowering you to reclaim control over your mental health and wellbeing.
(971) 265-8908 View (971) 265-8908
Photo of ValueCore Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
ValueCore Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97233
People come to ValueCore to overcome the barriers that hinder their ability to improve their quality of life. We offer the guidance to help you embrace your absolute value. Together we work to foster the realization that happiness is the rule for you, and not the exception. As you accept your personal value, and implement the changes you need for yourself, we hope you will be free to grow, relax and recreate, socialize, work and serve others, educate, and live a fulfilling life.
People come to ValueCore to overcome the barriers that hinder their ability to improve their quality of life. We offer the guidance to help you embrace your absolute value. Together we work to foster the realization that happiness is the rule for you, and not the exception. As you accept your personal value, and implement the changes you need for yourself, we hope you will be free to grow, relax and recreate, socialize, work and serve others, educate, and live a fulfilling life.
(503) 389-1500 View (503) 389-1500
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 Liz Farrell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Liz Farrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients. If you are seeking a psychiatric provider to help with issues of anxiety, panic, depression, mood dysregulation, rumination, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, or sleep problems, I provide psychiatric medication management with solution-based counseling. If you are seeking to change your circumstances, I’d like to help. I enjoy collaborating with clients to identify personalized goals of treatment. I provide an empathic, humorous and pragmatic approach to the therapeutic process.
Currently accepting new clients. If you are seeking a psychiatric provider to help with issues of anxiety, panic, depression, mood dysregulation, rumination, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, or sleep problems, I provide psychiatric medication management with solution-based counseling. If you are seeking to change your circumstances, I’d like to help. I enjoy collaborating with clients to identify personalized goals of treatment. I provide an empathic, humorous and pragmatic approach to the therapeutic process.
(503) 832-6998 View (503) 832-6998
Photo of Nicole Ervin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Nicole Ervin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I support young adults in feeling empowered to address the things that are preventing you from being your most genuine self. I started my career as a primary care provider, where I learned that it is difficult to improve your physical health if your emotional health isn’t in a stable place. My background provides me with the expertise to help you navigate the interplay between physical and emotional concerns.
I support young adults in feeling empowered to address the things that are preventing you from being your most genuine self. I started my career as a primary care provider, where I learned that it is difficult to improve your physical health if your emotional health isn’t in a stable place. My background provides me with the expertise to help you navigate the interplay between physical and emotional concerns.
(206) 312-4314 View (206) 312-4314
Photo of Stefan Bulatovic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Stefan Bulatovic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220
Our therapeutic alliance is the very foundation of successful outcomes. By taking the time to listen to and understand the client, I explore various factors that could be contributing to the clinical presentation, and in turn, aim to develop a mutually agreeable, practical, and effective treatment plan.
Our therapeutic alliance is the very foundation of successful outcomes. By taking the time to listen to and understand the client, I explore various factors that could be contributing to the clinical presentation, and in turn, aim to develop a mutually agreeable, practical, and effective treatment plan.
(503) 461-4039 View (503) 461-4039
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

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
68% 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.