Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

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
Photo of Black Men & Women In Training LLC MH and Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Black Men & Women In Training LLC MH and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211
We have over 20 years of experience offering face-to-face and telehealth services to change health disparities and improve overall wellness in the lives of our clients. Patients can access mental health counseling and medication management from clinicians who look like them. We offer various therapeutic modalities and extended services through mentorship and advocacy support. (BMWIT) was established in 2022 to support closing the health disparities gap for people of color by offering mental health awareness and wellness services allowing patients/clients to grow into thriving human beings. We have also added a FNP for primary care.
We have over 20 years of experience offering face-to-face and telehealth services to change health disparities and improve overall wellness in the lives of our clients. Patients can access mental health counseling and medication management from clinicians who look like them. We offer various therapeutic modalities and extended services through mentorship and advocacy support. (BMWIT) was established in 2022 to support closing the health disparities gap for people of color by offering mental health awareness and wellness services allowing patients/clients to grow into thriving human beings. We have also added a FNP for primary care.
(971) 606-4912 x1 View (971) 606-4912 x1
Photo of 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 Timothy Lafolette, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Timothy Lafolette
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97290  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping clients to identify and head toward their goals. I've been in practice for 11 years, and worked with a diverse set of clients in a federally qualified health clinic. I believe in the power of individual work, alongside being involved in relationships to bring about the greatest healing and fulfillment in life. I believe in focusing on client values to collaborate on the plan. I value viewing and addressing issues from multiple angles to find what's going to be the best approach for a particular client. For instance, I will focus on physical health, thoughts, emotions, as well as spirituality, and chosen community.
I enjoy helping clients to identify and head toward their goals. I've been in practice for 11 years, and worked with a diverse set of clients in a federally qualified health clinic. I believe in the power of individual work, alongside being involved in relationships to bring about the greatest healing and fulfillment in life. I believe in focusing on client values to collaborate on the plan. I value viewing and addressing issues from multiple angles to find what's going to be the best approach for a particular client. For instance, I will focus on physical health, thoughts, emotions, as well as spirituality, and chosen community.
(971) 278-9801 View (971) 278-9801
Photo of Mohamed Bah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Mohamed Bah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Psychiatric medication management in person and via telepsychiatry or telehealth that sees Adults and adolescents in Oregon. I am accepting new patients with no waiting list, or less than a week. I even see patients on the weekend. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care. Life is not often filled with puppies, rainbows, and unicorns, but it can result in trauma, stress, and the unexpected. I know you are not looking for a provider because things are going well in your life, and that is my purpose for being here. I became a mental health nurse practitioner because I wanted to help others.
Psychiatric medication management in person and via telepsychiatry or telehealth that sees Adults and adolescents in Oregon. I am accepting new patients with no waiting list, or less than a week. I even see patients on the weekend. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care. Life is not often filled with puppies, rainbows, and unicorns, but it can result in trauma, stress, and the unexpected. I know you are not looking for a provider because things are going well in your life, and that is my purpose for being here. I became a mental health nurse practitioner because I wanted to help others.
(503) 386-0402 View (503) 386-0402
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 Hope Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Hope Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227
Accepting NEW patients virtually. Hope is a doctorate-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout an adult's lifespan. Hope understands that clients are the experts in themselves. She collaborates with her patients to create an individual treatment plan that values the patient's preferences while she provides clinical expertise. Her style is easygoing and practical, as she tries to engage clients in a unified discussion.
Accepting NEW patients virtually. Hope is a doctorate-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout an adult's lifespan. Hope understands that clients are the experts in themselves. She collaborates with her patients to create an individual treatment plan that values the patient's preferences while she provides clinical expertise. Her style is easygoing and practical, as she tries to engage clients in a unified discussion.
(503) 966-2248 View (503) 966-2248
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 Jonathan Murphy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jonathan Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I am here to work with patients looking for real, genuine support. My goal is to understand and get to know every person that starts treatment. Patients that are open to having a dialogue about all aspects of life, in order to build the best understanding regarding the nature of depression, anxiety, and issues with a lack of focus.
I am here to work with patients looking for real, genuine support. My goal is to understand and get to know every person that starts treatment. Patients that are open to having a dialogue about all aspects of life, in order to build the best understanding regarding the nature of depression, anxiety, and issues with a lack of focus.
(503) 713-6554 View (503) 713-6554
Photo of Adam Ellis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Adam Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
(503) 487-5481 x2 View (503) 487-5481 x2
Photo of Michael Boas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Michael Boas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
I believe in a working partnership with every patient, and their families, in order to produce the best results together. I have chosen to focus on ADHD/ADD, anxiety, & depression, which are issues personal to me. The only thing I ask of my clients is that they are invested in themselves and our treatment plan. I promise to give my all to you and just want the same commitment back.
I believe in a working partnership with every patient, and their families, in order to produce the best results together. I have chosen to focus on ADHD/ADD, anxiety, & depression, which are issues personal to me. The only thing I ask of my clients is that they are invested in themselves and our treatment plan. I promise to give my all to you and just want the same commitment back.
(503) 404-4557 View (503) 404-4557
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 Gateway Mental Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Gateway Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I'm interested in treating clients that are motivated to engage in self-care related to their mental health and the realization that medication is simply a tool to support their efforts to engage in healthy life styles, which would enhance their physical and mental health.
I'm interested in treating clients that are motivated to engage in self-care related to their mental health and the realization that medication is simply a tool to support their efforts to engage in healthy life styles, which would enhance their physical and mental health.
(503) 386-0987 View (503) 386-0987
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 Jake Creviston, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jake Creviston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217
My primary focus is relational psychotherapy. My approach resonates with clients who are curious about themselves and others, who want to cultivate deeper and more intimate relationships and who are open to exploring frameworks of mental health beyond the medical model and psychiatry. When I do guide clients through the confusing landscape of medications I rely on the philosophy that medications are tools to ease suffering not cure it. I believe the human baseline state is confident, compassionate and creative. Though sometimes we lose touch with these for life's inevitable hardships, we all have the capacity to return.
My primary focus is relational psychotherapy. My approach resonates with clients who are curious about themselves and others, who want to cultivate deeper and more intimate relationships and who are open to exploring frameworks of mental health beyond the medical model and psychiatry. When I do guide clients through the confusing landscape of medications I rely on the philosophy that medications are tools to ease suffering not cure it. I believe the human baseline state is confident, compassionate and creative. Though sometimes we lose touch with these for life's inevitable hardships, we all have the capacity to return.
(971) 803-6167 View (971) 803-6167
Photo of Megan M Lewis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Megan M Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
Now accepting new patients. Updated 2/7/24. I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner offering psychiatry assessment, medication management, and psychotherapy. I see people across the lifespan.
Now accepting new patients. Updated 2/7/24. I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner offering psychiatry assessment, medication management, and psychotherapy. I see people across the lifespan.
(458) 216-5974 View (458) 216-5974
Photo of Dr. Christopher Galbick, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Dr. Christopher Galbick
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Dr. Galbick accepts OHP patients with Health Share of Oregon and offers new patient appointments within 2 weeks. He specializes in providing medication management, active listening, and empathy.
Dr. Galbick accepts OHP patients with Health Share of Oregon and offers new patient appointments within 2 weeks. He specializes in providing medication management, active listening, and empathy.
View
Photo of Ryan Arnold, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Ryan Arnold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97220
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to addressing a wide range of mental health challenges. My areas of specialization include trauma, substance abuse, addiction, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), depression, anxiety, and the unique needs of teenagers and adolescents. My commitment to providing compassionate care remains unwavering.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to addressing a wide range of mental health challenges. My areas of specialization include trauma, substance abuse, addiction, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), depression, anxiety, and the unique needs of teenagers and adolescents. My commitment to providing compassionate care remains unwavering.
(971) 366-2585 View (971) 366-2585
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 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

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.