Psychiatrists in Bonney Lake, WA

Now enrolling new clients, flexible scheduling, provide telepsychiatry/ telehealth. Dr. Millicent Mbua holds dual board certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. Graduated from University of Washington with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in family later completed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program from the University of New Hampshire. I specialize in providing psychiatric healthcare, medication management and psychoeducation as well as connecting clients to resources available in their communities to support their journey towards healing and optimal wellness.
Now enrolling new clients, flexible scheduling, provide telepsychiatry/ telehealth. Dr. Millicent Mbua holds dual board certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. Graduated from University of Washington with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in family later completed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program from the University of New Hampshire. I specialize in providing psychiatric healthcare, medication management and psychoeducation as well as connecting clients to resources available in their communities to support their journey towards healing and optimal wellness.

Flexible appointments are available. I am Maua Swai, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring forth a blend of clinical expertise, deep empathy, and an unwavering commitment to guide you towards a brighter and more balanced mental health journey. I am an accomplished PMHNP with a profound passion for empowering individuals to regain control over their mental health. With an extensive background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatry, I have honed a comprehensive skill set to address an array of mental health conditions through medication management and supportive therapy - CBT.
Flexible appointments are available. I am Maua Swai, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring forth a blend of clinical expertise, deep empathy, and an unwavering commitment to guide you towards a brighter and more balanced mental health journey. I am an accomplished PMHNP with a profound passion for empowering individuals to regain control over their mental health. With an extensive background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatry, I have honed a comprehensive skill set to address an array of mental health conditions through medication management and supportive therapy - CBT.

I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.

Immediate openings! Click on my website to schedule a brief consult call today!
I have many years of experience treating ADHD - Anxiety - Depression - PTSD - Insomnia - OCD.
Virtual visits for your busy life!
I’m Trav, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to listening and helping you with your needs and goals. Get the support you need now! With flexible virtual visits, I make mental health care accessible for students, parents and professionals on the go. Take the first step today. Call for a brief phone consultation and explore a better way to receive care—wherever you are.
Immediate openings! Click on my website to schedule a brief consult call today!
I have many years of experience treating ADHD - Anxiety - Depression - PTSD - Insomnia - OCD.
Virtual visits for your busy life!
I’m Trav, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to listening and helping you with your needs and goals. Get the support you need now! With flexible virtual visits, I make mental health care accessible for students, parents and professionals on the go. Take the first step today. Call for a brief phone consultation and explore a better way to receive care—wherever you are.

Are you looking for symptom relief, improved relationships, better coping skills, increased productivity, and emotional peace? I am here!
I support individuals 18+ in finding the right medication and treatment regimen. Are you struggling with persistent symptoms, challenges in managing your symptoms, or high stress? I am here to help!
My goal is a holistic, client-centered and evidence-based approach. The treatment plan also involves psychoeducation, lifestyle modifications, and collaborative care.
As a licensed clinician, I am bound by the laws of Washington State that outline and define my responsibilities and scope of practice
Are you looking for symptom relief, improved relationships, better coping skills, increased productivity, and emotional peace? I am here!
I support individuals 18+ in finding the right medication and treatment regimen. Are you struggling with persistent symptoms, challenges in managing your symptoms, or high stress? I am here to help!
My goal is a holistic, client-centered and evidence-based approach. The treatment plan also involves psychoeducation, lifestyle modifications, and collaborative care.
As a licensed clinician, I am bound by the laws of Washington State that outline and define my responsibilities and scope of practice

Every mental health patient and their family are different in their unique ways. My goal is to create a special individualized treatment plan to help every one of my patients achieve the best possible outcome. As a patient, you can rest assured that you will get my undivided attention, you will be cared for with a professional attitude. You will be given adequate time to talk about your symptoms without any rush. While you will enjoy a non-judgmental environment and encounter during each visit, I must trust that you will honestly share with me your symptoms, to enable me to create the best possible treatment plan.
Every mental health patient and their family are different in their unique ways. My goal is to create a special individualized treatment plan to help every one of my patients achieve the best possible outcome. As a patient, you can rest assured that you will get my undivided attention, you will be cared for with a professional attitude. You will be given adequate time to talk about your symptoms without any rush. While you will enjoy a non-judgmental environment and encounter during each visit, I must trust that you will honestly share with me your symptoms, to enable me to create the best possible treatment plan.

Weekend, early morning and evening appointments available! Welcome to the practice! We are a diverse group of Nurse Practitioners here to support you along your mental health wellness journey. Our practice is free from judgement and a safe space to discuss the ways we can provide an empathetic and caring experience. We are LGBTQ Friendly!
Weekend, early morning and evening appointments available! Welcome to the practice! We are a diverse group of Nurse Practitioners here to support you along your mental health wellness journey. Our practice is free from judgement and a safe space to discuss the ways we can provide an empathetic and caring experience. We are LGBTQ Friendly!

Mental Health For All Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, and I completed my graduate program at Walden University. The services I provide include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, psychoeducation, as well as an evidence-based practice of medication prescribing and management. As a mental health provider, I value providing psychiatric care that supports holistic wellness of mind, body, and spirit, and greatly appreciate collaboration with other health care providers to ensure an integrated care approach.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, and I completed my graduate program at Walden University. The services I provide include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, psychoeducation, as well as an evidence-based practice of medication prescribing and management. As a mental health provider, I value providing psychiatric care that supports holistic wellness of mind, body, and spirit, and greatly appreciate collaboration with other health care providers to ensure an integrated care approach.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

My ideal client seeks medication management and psychiatric services to address a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, and stress-related issues. they value a straightforward approach to managing symptoms through medication, and non-medication treamtents aiming for emotional stability, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. While regular therapy isn’t offered, they seek a provider who can help them navigate their mental health journey with the right medications and ongoing support for their specific needs.
My ideal client seeks medication management and psychiatric services to address a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, and stress-related issues. they value a straightforward approach to managing symptoms through medication, and non-medication treamtents aiming for emotional stability, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. While regular therapy isn’t offered, they seek a provider who can help them navigate their mental health journey with the right medications and ongoing support for their specific needs.

Life can feel overwhelming when you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges. You may feel stuck in cycles of worry, exhaustion, or self-doubt, searching for relief but unsure where to turn. Your goal is simple: to feel better, regain control, and find a sense of balance in your life. You want a compassionate provider who listens, understands, and offers real solutions.
Life can feel overwhelming when you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges. You may feel stuck in cycles of worry, exhaustion, or self-doubt, searching for relief but unsure where to turn. Your goal is simple: to feel better, regain control, and find a sense of balance in your life. You want a compassionate provider who listens, understands, and offers real solutions.

Sublime behavioral and wellness clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC , PMHNP-B
Tacoma, WA 98402
Dr. Jubril Adediran, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC has more than 20 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings including MED/Surg, LTAC, Behavioral health, and home health care.
Dr. Jubril Adediran, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC has more than 20 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings including MED/Surg, LTAC, Behavioral health, and home health care.

My specialty is providing psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence based medication management. I believe in an integrative care model encouraging mental, physical, and social wellness. In addition to medication management, I focus on therapeutic interventions that are rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), brief supportive therapy and solution focused therapy. I opened my private practice in order to provide caring, individually focused care that I believe each patient deserves. I believe that a strong and mutually respectful therapeutic relationship is key to providing the best care possible.
My specialty is providing psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence based medication management. I believe in an integrative care model encouraging mental, physical, and social wellness. In addition to medication management, I focus on therapeutic interventions that are rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), brief supportive therapy and solution focused therapy. I opened my private practice in order to provide caring, individually focused care that I believe each patient deserves. I believe that a strong and mutually respectful therapeutic relationship is key to providing the best care possible.

Zenergy Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome—I'm Ryan, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I help people move from feeling overwhelmed or stuck to feeling supported, empowered, and in control of their mental health. I specialize in treating trauma, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and addiction, with a special focus on the needs of neurodivergent adolescents and adults. Whether you're seeking a fresh perspective, relief from symptoms, or long-term growth, I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions to fit your schedule. I’m here to provide expert, compassionate care tailored to your unique story.
Welcome—I'm Ryan, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I help people move from feeling overwhelmed or stuck to feeling supported, empowered, and in control of their mental health. I specialize in treating trauma, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and addiction, with a special focus on the needs of neurodivergent adolescents and adults. Whether you're seeking a fresh perspective, relief from symptoms, or long-term growth, I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions to fit your schedule. I’m here to provide expert, compassionate care tailored to your unique story.

Amanda Cox MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC offers compassionate psychiatric treatment to adults living in Bellevue, Washington and across all of Washington State. Amanda works together with her patients to create a personalized treatment plan. This is accomplished by taking the time to listen, ask questions, and learn more about the challenges each patient has been facing.
Amanda Cox MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC offers compassionate psychiatric treatment to adults living in Bellevue, Washington and across all of Washington State. Amanda works together with her patients to create a personalized treatment plan. This is accomplished by taking the time to listen, ask questions, and learn more about the challenges each patient has been facing.

Kate is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Xavier University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University. Kate believes in individualized and evidenced based care. She provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management services for both children and adults and treats a wide spectrum of psychiatric diagnoses. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Kate is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Xavier University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University. Kate believes in individualized and evidenced based care. She provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management services for both children and adults and treats a wide spectrum of psychiatric diagnoses. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and ADHD.

Congratulations on your steps to mental health! It requires courage to talk to someone about mental health; it also shows how serious you are about making your life better and making the lives of those who love you better. Your mental health doesn’t just affect you - it affects everyone around you – your family, your partner, your co-workers and your friends. My goal is to make sure that each of my patients is heard; I want to work with you to identify what your mental health goals are, and partner with you to achieve your goals.
Congratulations on your steps to mental health! It requires courage to talk to someone about mental health; it also shows how serious you are about making your life better and making the lives of those who love you better. Your mental health doesn’t just affect you - it affects everyone around you – your family, your partner, your co-workers and your friends. My goal is to make sure that each of my patients is heard; I want to work with you to identify what your mental health goals are, and partner with you to achieve your goals.

Patricia Alvarez, ARNP, RN, supports adolescents and adults across Washington in achieving greater mental wellness through personalized psychiatric care. Practicing at LifeStance Health, she specializes in medication management and brings a thoughtful, compassionate approach to every interaction. Patricia collaborates closely with teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, working to ensure that treatment is not only clinically effective but also deeply attuned to each person’s unique story and needs.
Patricia Alvarez, ARNP, RN, supports adolescents and adults across Washington in achieving greater mental wellness through personalized psychiatric care. Practicing at LifeStance Health, she specializes in medication management and brings a thoughtful, compassionate approach to every interaction. Patricia collaborates closely with teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, working to ensure that treatment is not only clinically effective but also deeply attuned to each person’s unique story and needs.

Accepting new patients. Dr. Garrard is passionate about helping patients and their families living with mental illness. He takes a flexible, thoughtful, and pragmatic approach to patient care and recovery. Dr. Garrard strives to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment. He provides patients with medical and therapeutic treatment options so they can make informed decisions about their own care.
Accepting new patients. Dr. Garrard is passionate about helping patients and their families living with mental illness. He takes a flexible, thoughtful, and pragmatic approach to patient care and recovery. Dr. Garrard strives to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment. He provides patients with medical and therapeutic treatment options so they can make informed decisions about their own care.

Margaret Love
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98408
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to support a healing and recovery that continues into your future. I have 24 years experience prescribing psychiatric medications and advocating for patients. Areas of expertise includes Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Mood Disorders including Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Developmental Disorders, and Traumatic Brain Injury.
My goal is to support a healing and recovery that continues into your future. I have 24 years experience prescribing psychiatric medications and advocating for patients. Areas of expertise includes Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Mood Disorders including Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Developmental Disorders, and Traumatic Brain Injury.

Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Victoria and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Burnout, Depression, Family Issue, Life Coaching, Maternal Mental Health/Pre/Postpartum and Stress Management. 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 Victoria and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Burnout, Depression, Family Issue, Life Coaching, Maternal Mental Health/Pre/Postpartum and Stress Management. 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.
See more therapy options for Bonney Lake
Nearby Searches for Bonney Lake
- Auburn
- Covington
- Des Moines
- Federal Way
- Kent
- Lakewood
- Maple Valley
- Puyallup
- Seatac
- Sumner
- Tacoma
- University Place
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bonney Lake, WA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Bonney Lake, WA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
88% | ADHD |
88% | Trauma and PTSD |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Aetna |
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Bonney Lake, WA see their clients
75% | Online Only | |
25% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bonney Lake?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs 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 psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
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 psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, 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 and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.