Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

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 Anicka Oyer Meyers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Anicka Oyer Meyers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
(503) 564-1935 View (503) 564-1935
Photo of Brittnai Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Brittnai Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Brittnai and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Oregon. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Anger Management, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+/Gender/Sexuality Topics. Maternal Mental Health, Men's Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Brittnai and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Oregon. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Anger Management, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+/Gender/Sexuality Topics. Maternal Mental Health, Men's Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(971) 257-5046 View (971) 257-5046
Photo of Kathryn Zerbe, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Kathryn Zerbe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
(971) 255-0043 View (971) 255-0043
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 Pacific Northwest Health, LLC, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Pacific Northwest Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
Covid-19 has challenged many basic expectations about how the world functions, and how we live in it. During these complicated and chaotic times, it can be helpful to have a place to explore how all that is happening affects your feelings, relationships, and life course. As a psychiatrist, I am a physician who specializes in psychotherapy and the medicines that support mental health. While I have training and experience in a number of treatment modalities, my primary interest is getting to know you, and understanding your unique experience in the world.
Covid-19 has challenged many basic expectations about how the world functions, and how we live in it. During these complicated and chaotic times, it can be helpful to have a place to explore how all that is happening affects your feelings, relationships, and life course. As a psychiatrist, I am a physician who specializes in psychotherapy and the medicines that support mental health. While I have training and experience in a number of treatment modalities, my primary interest is getting to know you, and understanding your unique experience in the world.
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 Mary E Theodore, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Mary E Theodore, MD, MPH
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I hope we can work together. Practicing for years, in a profession that I love, I have formed deep & lasting bonds with my patients. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist who has a bi-coastal practice in NYC & Portland, Oregon. I care for patients both in-person and virtually. My expertise is in providing both psycho-pharmacology & psychotherapy. I specialize in complex & hard to treat cases & work closely with the LGBTQIA+ community. My areas of expertise include Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, & Personality & Substance Use Disorders.
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I hope we can work together. Practicing for years, in a profession that I love, I have formed deep & lasting bonds with my patients. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist who has a bi-coastal practice in NYC & Portland, Oregon. I care for patients both in-person and virtually. My expertise is in providing both psycho-pharmacology & psychotherapy. I specialize in complex & hard to treat cases & work closely with the LGBTQIA+ community. My areas of expertise include Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, & Personality & Substance Use Disorders.
(646) 593-2134 View (646) 593-2134
Photo of Brooks Oglesby-Junk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
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 VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
(971) 256-8187 View (971) 256-8187
Photo of Nate Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Nate Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm currently accepting clients for medication management only for Oregon residents. As you consider mental health medications, you're likely feeling some mix of overwhelmed, exhausted, unfulfilled, and "stuck." The way you feel might be connected to challenging transitions in your life, a sense of unmet potential, or even long-held emotions and memories of painful experiences and relationships. The good news is that often times medications work and finding the right "fit" in a provider is a big initial step. Please click over to my website to see a full description of my approach. I look forward to hearing from you!
Hello! I'm currently accepting clients for medication management only for Oregon residents. As you consider mental health medications, you're likely feeling some mix of overwhelmed, exhausted, unfulfilled, and "stuck." The way you feel might be connected to challenging transitions in your life, a sense of unmet potential, or even long-held emotions and memories of painful experiences and relationships. The good news is that often times medications work and finding the right "fit" in a provider is a big initial step. Please click over to my website to see a full description of my approach. I look forward to hearing from you!
(503) 962-0493 x2 View (503) 962-0493 x2
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 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 Megan Langworthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Megan Langworthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
You have worked through a crisis, maybe even a few, and continue to not feel like you are able to function at the level you had hoped. Medication may be helping, but your goal was never a partial remission from symptoms and you are burnt out on not performing at your peak. You may not even believe anymore that full recovery is possible, struggle with motivation, and your moods may be compounded by insomnia, weight gain, gut issues or chronic pain. Perhaps just when you figure out how to manage one symptom, you tip out of balance again.
You have worked through a crisis, maybe even a few, and continue to not feel like you are able to function at the level you had hoped. Medication may be helping, but your goal was never a partial remission from symptoms and you are burnt out on not performing at your peak. You may not even believe anymore that full recovery is possible, struggle with motivation, and your moods may be compounded by insomnia, weight gain, gut issues or chronic pain. Perhaps just when you figure out how to manage one symptom, you tip out of balance again.
(503) 563-8979 View (503) 563-8979
Photo of Hannah Frazee, Physician Assistant in Portland, OR
Hannah Frazee
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I specialize in psychiatric medication management. I believe that medication can do great things for people in the right context. I also think there are times that medication should be used in addition to other modalities, like therapy, if needed.
I specialize in psychiatric medication management. I believe that medication can do great things for people in the right context. I also think there are times that medication should be used in addition to other modalities, like therapy, if needed.
(971) 206-3110 View (971) 206-3110
Photo of Megan Vandell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Megan Vandell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Megan is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patients struggling with dual diagnosis (mental health and addictions), PTSD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Focused on patient-centered care and optimizing medication regimen, my goal in treatment is to use the fewest medications at the lowest doses possible to robustly support mood and wellness. I offer a calm, understanding environment during our sessions. Seeking help with mental health is a challenge, and I strive to make it an easy process for my patients.
Megan is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patients struggling with dual diagnosis (mental health and addictions), PTSD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Focused on patient-centered care and optimizing medication regimen, my goal in treatment is to use the fewest medications at the lowest doses possible to robustly support mood and wellness. I offer a calm, understanding environment during our sessions. Seeking help with mental health is a challenge, and I strive to make it an easy process for my patients.
(503) 738-1346 View (503) 738-1346
UltimateProfessionalServices
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Gostine Dankwa is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides comprehensive and individualized psychiatric care for patients who suffer from a variety of mental illnesses such as Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and sleep related disorders. He is an engaging and compassionate practitioner who focuses on patient-centered care and listens to heal the patient from within. He specializes in therapy and medication management for individuals who suffer from mental illnesses. His focus is on holistic care and encourages individuals to be part of their care and help manage their physical and emotional.
Gostine Dankwa is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides comprehensive and individualized psychiatric care for patients who suffer from a variety of mental illnesses such as Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and sleep related disorders. He is an engaging and compassionate practitioner who focuses on patient-centered care and listens to heal the patient from within. He specializes in therapy and medication management for individuals who suffer from mental illnesses. His focus is on holistic care and encourages individuals to be part of their care and help manage their physical and emotional.
(503) 447-8069 View (503) 447-8069
Photo of Alyssa Aurisy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
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
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 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

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.