Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Ayisha Sanda, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Ayisha Sanda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more . My approach is holistic, evidenced based individualized strategies tailored towards your needs.
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more . My approach is holistic, evidenced based individualized strategies tailored towards your needs.
(971) 247-1627 View (971) 247-1627
Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(458) 217-8603 View (458) 217-8603
Photo of Kelly Witbeck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Kelly Witbeck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Accepting new clients! VISIT www.kelementalhealth.com to schedule your appointment. Kelly’s ideal patient is the one who is open minded, patient with the process, willing to be actively engaged and involved in their treatment, and understands that little things over time produce measurable changes in progress. She believes in a team approach, working together with her patients toward treatment goals, encourages patients to engage by asking questions and learning more about their path along their wellness journey.
Accepting new clients! VISIT www.kelementalhealth.com to schedule your appointment. Kelly’s ideal patient is the one who is open minded, patient with the process, willing to be actively engaged and involved in their treatment, and understands that little things over time produce measurable changes in progress. She believes in a team approach, working together with her patients toward treatment goals, encourages patients to engage by asking questions and learning more about their path along their wellness journey.
(503) 739-9219 View (503) 739-9219
Photo of Crabtree Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Crabtree Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I am currently accepting new clients. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I have been trained in evidence based and trauma informed treatment modalities that aim to address the entire patient as a whole. We are more than just a diagnosis or a grouping of symptoms, we are individuals seeking balance and understanding of how and why we interact with our environment and in our relationships in the ways that we do. Through collaboration in a holistic and therapeutic relationship, we can work together to build a picture of what good mental health means to you.
I am currently accepting new clients. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I have been trained in evidence based and trauma informed treatment modalities that aim to address the entire patient as a whole. We are more than just a diagnosis or a grouping of symptoms, we are individuals seeking balance and understanding of how and why we interact with our environment and in our relationships in the ways that we do. Through collaboration in a holistic and therapeutic relationship, we can work together to build a picture of what good mental health means to you.
(971) 306-4257 View (971) 306-4257
Photo of Robert Geistwhite, MD, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Robert Geistwhite, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Despite being successful, many creative and talented people live with a negative inner world. Often thinking, "If I only had someone to talk to." They are stuck but reluctant to seek help. It seems shameful or overwhelming. The fact is, once we are able to connect many of my patients quickly start to feel better. I listen in a way that respects their own perspective, pace and autonomy. Together we strive to deepen our understanding of the problems, while expanding our appreciation of a unique inner life.
Despite being successful, many creative and talented people live with a negative inner world. Often thinking, "If I only had someone to talk to." They are stuck but reluctant to seek help. It seems shameful or overwhelming. The fact is, once we are able to connect many of my patients quickly start to feel better. I listen in a way that respects their own perspective, pace and autonomy. Together we strive to deepen our understanding of the problems, while expanding our appreciation of a unique inner life.
(503) 828-9929 View (503) 828-9929
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 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 Michelle Schilz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Michelle Schilz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217
Now taking new clients. To contact me, make an appointment for a phone call at calendly.com/rainfallwellness. (I am bad at voicemail and email.) I welcome TRANS and GNB folks. I welcome PLURALS and SYSTEMS. I work with people who have ADHD and I prescribe ADHD meds. I teach clients about how our brain causes our symptoms. I do my best to provide safe and respectful care to my Queer and Gender-nonconforming sibs. Together, we will find a treatment plan that suits best.
Now taking new clients. To contact me, make an appointment for a phone call at calendly.com/rainfallwellness. (I am bad at voicemail and email.) I welcome TRANS and GNB folks. I welcome PLURALS and SYSTEMS. I work with people who have ADHD and I prescribe ADHD meds. I teach clients about how our brain causes our symptoms. I do my best to provide safe and respectful care to my Queer and Gender-nonconforming sibs. Together, we will find a treatment plan that suits best.
(971) 253-7516 View (971) 253-7516
Photo of Heather Hemmeger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Heather Hemmeger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PharmD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I approach patient care from a unique lens, strategically blending elements of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and thorough—near the intersection of holistic meets scientific. I work from within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all who enter my door.
As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I approach patient care from a unique lens, strategically blending elements of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and thorough—near the intersection of holistic meets scientific. I work from within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all who enter my door.
Photo of Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
(971) 252-7298 View (971) 252-7298
Photo of Lillian Nagi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Lillian Nagi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
At your first visit we will discuss what you are looking to obtain from my service and next to try to create a plan. This way, I can accommodate both our expectations and come up with a realistic, achievable plan. There is not a one size fits all approach when it comes to mental health. The goal is to build a solid relationship with you and continue this journey until treatment is completed or ongoing desired stability is achieved. As the saying goes, some things cannot be fixed, they can only be carried- but they still can be managed! And we can work on that.
At your first visit we will discuss what you are looking to obtain from my service and next to try to create a plan. This way, I can accommodate both our expectations and come up with a realistic, achievable plan. There is not a one size fits all approach when it comes to mental health. The goal is to build a solid relationship with you and continue this journey until treatment is completed or ongoing desired stability is achieved. As the saying goes, some things cannot be fixed, they can only be carried- but they still can be managed! And we can work on that.
(503) 506-7946 View (503) 506-7946
Photo of John Benson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
John Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
(503) 221-8449 View (503) 221-8449
Photo of Marguerite Maguire, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Marguerite Maguire
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I am a general adult psychiatrist, treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses with particular interests in depression, anxiety, maternal mental health, and ADHD. I earned my medical degree from the University of Rochester and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Southern California/LAC+USC.
I am a general adult psychiatrist, treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses with particular interests in depression, anxiety, maternal mental health, and ADHD. I earned my medical degree from the University of Rochester and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Southern California/LAC+USC.
(424) 383-5047 View (424) 383-5047
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 Neupathway , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Neupathway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ....... Hello, I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in supporting individuals across all ages through mental health challenges. My specialized expertise encompasses treating depression, anxiety, anger, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid dependencies. I employ personalized medication-assisted treatments such as Suboxone for opioid disorders. My approach focuses on fostering healing, empowerment, and guiding each individual's unique journey toward holistic wellness.
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ....... Hello, I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in supporting individuals across all ages through mental health challenges. My specialized expertise encompasses treating depression, anxiety, anger, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid dependencies. I employ personalized medication-assisted treatments such as Suboxone for opioid disorders. My approach focuses on fostering healing, empowerment, and guiding each individual's unique journey toward holistic wellness.
(971) 286-5055 View (971) 286-5055
Photo of Kelly Yan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Kelly Yan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I support mental wellness through medication management and behavioral health counseling. I work in partnership with you, your therapist, and other members of your care team to manage concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, psychosis, inattention, and neurodivergence. My treatment philosophy is grounded in evidence-based practice and holistic, patient-centered care. I believe in using the gentlest interventions that will achieve your goals. I do not perform ADHD assessments, but I can provide ongoing ADHD treatment. I do not prescribe benzodiazepines long-term.
I support mental wellness through medication management and behavioral health counseling. I work in partnership with you, your therapist, and other members of your care team to manage concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, psychosis, inattention, and neurodivergence. My treatment philosophy is grounded in evidence-based practice and holistic, patient-centered care. I believe in using the gentlest interventions that will achieve your goals. I do not perform ADHD assessments, but I can provide ongoing ADHD treatment. I do not prescribe benzodiazepines long-term.
(503) 386-0237 View (503) 386-0237
Photo of Dallas L Upchurch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dallas L Upchurch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
Hello, and welcome to your best life! I believe in listening to my patients concerns and creating the best possible individualized treatment plan to help each one of my patient's live their best lives as they navigate the rough waters life sometimes brings our way. I started my nursing career as an ICU trauma nurse in neuro, surgical, medical, and trauma ICU in federal, veteran, and civilian hospitals all over this amazing country. I feel my unique background of medical, nursing, and psychological approaches help my clients feel comfortable with my holistic approach to their psychiatric care.
Hello, and welcome to your best life! I believe in listening to my patients concerns and creating the best possible individualized treatment plan to help each one of my patient's live their best lives as they navigate the rough waters life sometimes brings our way. I started my nursing career as an ICU trauma nurse in neuro, surgical, medical, and trauma ICU in federal, veteran, and civilian hospitals all over this amazing country. I feel my unique background of medical, nursing, and psychological approaches help my clients feel comfortable with my holistic approach to their psychiatric care.
(254) 329-8825 View (254) 329-8825
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 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 Steven Knott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Steven Knott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
23 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. I understand your challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. I understand your challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult
(971) 260-3423 View (971) 260-3423

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.