Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Kristen Fernandez-Kong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Kristen Fernandez-Kong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I believe that patients are essential members of their healthcare team and should be involved in making decisions that affect their wellbeing. Patients are often experts of their own body and experiences; if not, we will work through blockages disconnecting oneself from one's body to gain insights. It can be overwhelming to seek help for mental health and be vulnerable with a new provider, so I want patients to know that I am here for you with an open heart and nonjudgmental mind. Since I have worked with patients who felt misunderstood or mistreated by healthcare professionals, I intentionally endeavor to break that pattern.
I believe that patients are essential members of their healthcare team and should be involved in making decisions that affect their wellbeing. Patients are often experts of their own body and experiences; if not, we will work through blockages disconnecting oneself from one's body to gain insights. It can be overwhelming to seek help for mental health and be vulnerable with a new provider, so I want patients to know that I am here for you with an open heart and nonjudgmental mind. Since I have worked with patients who felt misunderstood or mistreated by healthcare professionals, I intentionally endeavor to break that pattern.
(503) 744-6625 x9605 View (503) 744-6625 x9605
Photo of Dario LaPoma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dario LaPoma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Welcome to my profile! I am a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in Portland, OR. I offer psychotherapy and medication management to adults of all ages and backgrounds. My practice is relationally focused and inspired by various evidence-based frameworks, including Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have a careful approach to prescribing medications, and I feel strongly that a holistic treatment plan leads to deeper recovery. I strive to meet you where you are, and I honor the life experience that has brought you here.
Welcome to my profile! I am a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in Portland, OR. I offer psychotherapy and medication management to adults of all ages and backgrounds. My practice is relationally focused and inspired by various evidence-based frameworks, including Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have a careful approach to prescribing medications, and I feel strongly that a holistic treatment plan leads to deeper recovery. I strive to meet you where you are, and I honor the life experience that has brought you here.
(503) 298-9165 View (503) 298-9165
Photo of Bridgetown Recovery & Mental Health Services, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Bridgetown Recovery & Mental Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD, SAP, MRO
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Bridgetown Recovery & Mental Health Services treats a wide variety of chemical dependency, co-occurring disorders and mental health symptoms. Call for your intake appointment today. We are conveniently located close in SE Portland at 12th & Salmon. Services offered: Psychiatric Services and Medication Management.
Bridgetown Recovery & Mental Health Services treats a wide variety of chemical dependency, co-occurring disorders and mental health symptoms. Call for your intake appointment today. We are conveniently located close in SE Portland at 12th & Salmon. Services offered: Psychiatric Services and Medication Management.
(503) 573-8388 View (503) 573-8388
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 High Desert Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
High Desert Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.
My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.
(541) 625-1617 View (541) 625-1617
Photo of 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 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 Martina Gallagher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Martina Gallagher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
24 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Are you going through a difficult life transition, such as a divorce or a new job? You are feeling disenchanted and sad. Day-to-day change is resulting in anxiety, frustration, and self-doubt. You wonder if taking medication will help? If this sounds like you, you are not alone! Let me support you and collaborate with you as you navigate these life transitions. My areas of expertise are depression and anxiety. When meeting for the first time I will listen to your story, your concerns, and your goals. Seeing how my clients achieve their goals on their path to improving their mental health gives me great satisfaction.
Are you going through a difficult life transition, such as a divorce or a new job? You are feeling disenchanted and sad. Day-to-day change is resulting in anxiety, frustration, and self-doubt. You wonder if taking medication will help? If this sounds like you, you are not alone! Let me support you and collaborate with you as you navigate these life transitions. My areas of expertise are depression and anxiety. When meeting for the first time I will listen to your story, your concerns, and your goals. Seeing how my clients achieve their goals on their path to improving their mental health gives me great satisfaction.
(971) 290-1824 View (971) 290-1824
Photo of Tara O'Connor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Tara O'Connor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you.
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you.
(503) 221-5778 View (503) 221-5778
Photo of Tyler Clark Chipman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Tyler Clark Chipman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
I work in collaborative partnership with individuals who are seeking to regain or retain industry and autonomy in their lives, to identify and achieve their goals, and to improve their relationships with themselves and others. I have experience in treating difficult symptoms related to personality, mood, thoughts, trauma, anxiety, OCD, neurocognition, and autism, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults of all ages and diverse backgrounds. I fundamentally believe that healing happens in relationship and that authenticity, curiosity, empathy, and compassion are the cornerstones of helpful clinical relationships.
I work in collaborative partnership with individuals who are seeking to regain or retain industry and autonomy in their lives, to identify and achieve their goals, and to improve their relationships with themselves and others. I have experience in treating difficult symptoms related to personality, mood, thoughts, trauma, anxiety, OCD, neurocognition, and autism, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults of all ages and diverse backgrounds. I fundamentally believe that healing happens in relationship and that authenticity, curiosity, empathy, and compassion are the cornerstones of helpful clinical relationships.
(971) 351-4294 x1 View (971) 351-4294 x1
Photo of Maggie Yorio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Maggie Yorio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
(503) 486-3438 View (503) 486-3438
Photo of Njideka Domrufus Dnp Pmhnp-Bc Fnp-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Njideka Domrufus Dnp Pmhnp-Bc Fnp-C
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
(971) 252-5319 View (971) 252-5319
Photo of Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Weekend and Week Nights available. Life is Busy!I am thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With immediate openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations with a focus on caring for a broad range of mental health conditions. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
Weekend and Week Nights available. Life is Busy!I am thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With immediate openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations with a focus on caring for a broad range of mental health conditions. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
(503) 850-2341 View (503) 850-2341
Photo of Walker B. Dixon MD, Summit Wellness center, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Walker B. Dixon MD, Summit Wellness center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Bryan Dixon has over 20 years experience treating patients in the field of psychiatry in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Dixon provides a complete treatment experience with psychiatric diagnostic assessment, medication evaluation and management, and collaboration with or referral to new or established providers and therapists for continuation of care when indicated. With over a decade of experience treating opioid dependence with Suboxone and Subutex , this treatment is available for maintenance including the application of unique and effective ways to lower doses and discontinue this medication.
Dr. Bryan Dixon has over 20 years experience treating patients in the field of psychiatry in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Dixon provides a complete treatment experience with psychiatric diagnostic assessment, medication evaluation and management, and collaboration with or referral to new or established providers and therapists for continuation of care when indicated. With over a decade of experience treating opioid dependence with Suboxone and Subutex , this treatment is available for maintenance including the application of unique and effective ways to lower doses and discontinue this medication.
(503) 483-0871 View (503) 483-0871
Photo of Mary E. Theodore, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Mary E. Theodore, MD, MPH
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty years experience taking care of patients. Practicing for all these years in a field that I love, I have developed deep and lasting bonds with many of them. I am both a psycho-pharmacologist and a psycho-therapist. I treat numerous psychiatric & personality disorders but specialize in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, adult ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, Women's Mental Health, and HIV psychiatry. My goal is to help you create solutions and restore balance and well being in your life.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty years experience taking care of patients. Practicing for all these years in a field that I love, I have developed deep and lasting bonds with many of them. I am both a psycho-pharmacologist and a psycho-therapist. I treat numerous psychiatric & personality disorders but specialize in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, adult ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, Women's Mental Health, and HIV psychiatry. My goal is to help you create solutions and restore balance and well being in your life.
(646) 593-2134 View (646) 593-2134
Photo of Ellen Barker-Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Ellen Barker-Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel stuck? Seeking support for your well-being is a big step. My name is Ellen, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. My background has gifted me with unique insights and skills that allow me to connect with deeper understanding. . I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I am also passionate about providing care to first responders and those who work in the medical profession.
Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel stuck? Seeking support for your well-being is a big step. My name is Ellen, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. My background has gifted me with unique insights and skills that allow me to connect with deeper understanding. . I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I am also passionate about providing care to first responders and those who work in the medical profession.
(503) 564-7438 View (503) 564-7438
Photo of Kara Powers, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Kara Powers
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified psychiatrist offering psychiatric consultation, psychotherapy and medication management. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or problems in school or work. Depending on the individual's needs and preferences, I also incorporate components of cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. I join with my patients to understand their suffering and together we find solutions for change.
I am a board certified psychiatrist offering psychiatric consultation, psychotherapy and medication management. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or problems in school or work. Depending on the individual's needs and preferences, I also incorporate components of cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. I join with my patients to understand their suffering and together we find solutions for change.
(503) 438-4503 View (503) 438-4503
Photo of Kristi Muncie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Kristi Muncie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
(503) 386-9715 View (503) 386-9715
Photo of Elena Logvinenko, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Elena Logvinenko
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a board certified psychiatrist in Portland. I provide both psychotherapy and medication management; I also offer psychiatric evaluation and med management to folks who already have an individual therapist who they see regularly (at least every other week, preferably one or more times a week). While my vibe is casual, my clinical approach (both meds and therapy) is thoughtful, evidence based, and individualized. Medication can turn people's lives around, but it's not the best choice (or likely to work) for everyone. I value having a very thorough picture of the entire situation before proposing any course of treatment.
I’m a board certified psychiatrist in Portland. I provide both psychotherapy and medication management; I also offer psychiatric evaluation and med management to folks who already have an individual therapist who they see regularly (at least every other week, preferably one or more times a week). While my vibe is casual, my clinical approach (both meds and therapy) is thoughtful, evidence based, and individualized. Medication can turn people's lives around, but it's not the best choice (or likely to work) for everyone. I value having a very thorough picture of the entire situation before proposing any course of treatment.
View
Photo of Dr. Katharine Frissora, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dr. Katharine Frissora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97218  (Online Only)
MARCH 2024 - Appointments available in 1 week! To begin services, please complete the new patient request form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact - we will get back to you in 1 business day! I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years of healthcare experience providing psychiatric care. I aim to promote holistic mental health by partnering with you to create healing and wellness.
MARCH 2024 - Appointments available in 1 week! To begin services, please complete the new patient request form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact - we will get back to you in 1 business day! I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years of healthcare experience providing psychiatric care. I aim to promote holistic mental health by partnering with you to create healing and wellness.
(503) 855-6597 View (503) 855-6597

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.