Psychiatrists in Bremerton, WA

Photo of Harvey William Hall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Harvey William Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Bremerton, WA 98312
As a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am equipped to provide comprehensive care for individuals and families facing mental health challenges. My training and experience have prepared me to work with a diverse range of patients, including those from under-served populations. I have a background in military medicine, working my way from being an army medic to supervising the army's busiest emergency department. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working closely with social workers and caregivers to advocate for the needs of foster children.
As a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am equipped to provide comprehensive care for individuals and families facing mental health challenges. My training and experience have prepared me to work with a diverse range of patients, including those from under-served populations. I have a background in military medicine, working my way from being an army medic to supervising the army's busiest emergency department. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working closely with social workers and caregivers to advocate for the needs of foster children.
(360) 228-3547 View (360) 228-3547
Photo of Doreen Phillips, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Doreen Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
ADHD, depression, and anxiety can make daily life feel overwhelming, affecting focus, motivation, and emotional well-being. Whether you're struggling with persistent worry, low energy, or difficulty staying on track, finding the right support can help you regain balance and confidence.
ADHD, depression, and anxiety can make daily life feel overwhelming, affecting focus, motivation, and emotional well-being. Whether you're struggling with persistent worry, low energy, or difficulty staying on track, finding the right support can help you regain balance and confidence.
(360) 364-2732 View (360) 364-2732
Photo of Michael Dawson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michael Dawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Untreated or under-treated mental health challenges like ADHD, anxiety, and depression can deeply affect every aspect of life—straining relationships, disrupting routines, and limiting your potential. These struggles don’t have to define you. With the right support, you can regain control, find balance, and rediscover your best self. Together, we can work toward achieving your goals and building a brighter future.
Untreated or under-treated mental health challenges like ADHD, anxiety, and depression can deeply affect every aspect of life—straining relationships, disrupting routines, and limiting your potential. These struggles don’t have to define you. With the right support, you can regain control, find balance, and rediscover your best self. Together, we can work toward achieving your goals and building a brighter future.
(360) 375-7848 View (360) 375-7848
Photo of Chris Kos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Chris Kos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Bremerton, WA 98312
Navigating depression, whether postpartum or ongoing, generalized anxiety disorder, or bipolar disorder, can feel overwhelming and isolating. You may find yourself struggling with low energy, persistent worry, or difficulty managing emotional highs and lows. Together, we’ll create a path forward that feels balanced and authentic to you.
Navigating depression, whether postpartum or ongoing, generalized anxiety disorder, or bipolar disorder, can feel overwhelming and isolating. You may find yourself struggling with low energy, persistent worry, or difficulty managing emotional highs and lows. Together, we’ll create a path forward that feels balanced and authentic to you.
(360) 505-0773 View (360) 505-0773
Photo of Rachel Scott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rachel Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Anxiety and depression can be overwhelming, casting a shadow over every aspect of life. Recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, my focus is on individuals ready to take active steps towards betterment. Leveraging my expertise in psychiatry, I aim to create a supportive environment where we collaboratively address these challenges. Through a careful and compassionate approach to medication management, we can find a path to a brighter, more balanced life, empowering you to reclaim control over your mental health and wellbeing.
Anxiety and depression can be overwhelming, casting a shadow over every aspect of life. Recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, my focus is on individuals ready to take active steps towards betterment. Leveraging my expertise in psychiatry, I aim to create a supportive environment where we collaboratively address these challenges. Through a careful and compassionate approach to medication management, we can find a path to a brighter, more balanced life, empowering you to reclaim control over your mental health and wellbeing.
(360) 727-0808 View (360) 727-0808
Photo of Kumbirai Madiye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kumbirai Madiye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
You might be feeling out of sync lately—more irritable than usual, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns that don’t feel like you. Maybe your child or teen is going through something similar, and you’re not sure how to help. Whether it’s a mood disorder, a life transition, or just a sense that something’s off, it can be hard to know where to start. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer holistic medication management that looks beyond the surface to understand what’s really going on.
You might be feeling out of sync lately—more irritable than usual, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns that don’t feel like you. Maybe your child or teen is going through something similar, and you’re not sure how to help. Whether it’s a mood disorder, a life transition, or just a sense that something’s off, it can be hard to know where to start. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer holistic medication management that looks beyond the surface to understand what’s really going on.
(360) 505-7203 View (360) 505-7203
Photo of Beaux-Baggesen Jensen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Beaux-Baggesen Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am passionate about providing empathetic and holistic mental healthcare, centered on each person’s specific needs. Through medication management, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and engaged listening, I am happy to offer an array of solutions in a team-based approach. My goal is to empower individuals to embrace their unique gifts and help them become the best version of themselves.
I am passionate about providing empathetic and holistic mental healthcare, centered on each person’s specific needs. Through medication management, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and engaged listening, I am happy to offer an array of solutions in a team-based approach. My goal is to empower individuals to embrace their unique gifts and help them become the best version of themselves.
(360) 495-8837 View (360) 495-8837
Photo of Melissa Osada - Neupathway (Melissa Osada), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Neupathway (Melissa Osada)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
(360) 327-8232 View (360) 327-8232
Photo of Dina E. McNeil - Tranquility Center for Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Tranquility Center for Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a doctorally trained, dual-board certified, Nurse Practitioner in both psychiatry and family practice, I bring a comprehensive perspective to mental health care. I believe everyone deserves to feel happy, healthy, and fulfilled that is free from fear, stress, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts and behaviors. A combination of conventional and complementary approach to wellness, allows for whole mind-body health. I offer a supportive and confidential space for clients to explore their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, developing strategies to address your total wellness.
As a doctorally trained, dual-board certified, Nurse Practitioner in both psychiatry and family practice, I bring a comprehensive perspective to mental health care. I believe everyone deserves to feel happy, healthy, and fulfilled that is free from fear, stress, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts and behaviors. A combination of conventional and complementary approach to wellness, allows for whole mind-body health. I offer a supportive and confidential space for clients to explore their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, developing strategies to address your total wellness.
(425) 552-1187 View (425) 552-1187
Photo of Tanja Quarles - Neupathway (Tanja Quarles), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN
Neupathway (Tanja Quarles)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN
Serves Area
Imagine your ideal clinic: a welcoming space where patients feel safe, understood, and valued. Their challenges include fragmented care, long wait times, and limited access to tailored treatment. They need a provider who listens deeply, integrates evidence-based therapies, and designs personalized plans. Their goal is to improve mental wellness, foster resilience, and achieve lasting balance. They want compassionate expertise that guides them toward meaningful, sustainable change.
Imagine your ideal clinic: a welcoming space where patients feel safe, understood, and valued. Their challenges include fragmented care, long wait times, and limited access to tailored treatment. They need a provider who listens deeply, integrates evidence-based therapies, and designs personalized plans. Their goal is to improve mental wellness, foster resilience, and achieve lasting balance. They want compassionate expertise that guides them toward meaningful, sustainable change.
(360) 284-7664 View (360) 284-7664
Photo of Youngoak Kim Pryor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Youngoak Kim Pryor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
I specialize in psychopharmacological ( Psychiatric Medication) evaluations and the treatment of Mood and Anxiety Disorders, OCD, and ADHD. I hold two Board Certifications; Child/Adolescent and Adult. I have 27 years of independent practice experience as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner in Kitsap county preceeded by 17 years of experience as an RN in the areas of Nursing Education, Medical, Surgical, Family Practice, and Community Health nursing. My passion is treating those patients considered "treatment resistant" with the most effective methods available.
I specialize in psychopharmacological ( Psychiatric Medication) evaluations and the treatment of Mood and Anxiety Disorders, OCD, and ADHD. I hold two Board Certifications; Child/Adolescent and Adult. I have 27 years of independent practice experience as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner in Kitsap county preceeded by 17 years of experience as an RN in the areas of Nursing Education, Medical, Surgical, Family Practice, and Community Health nursing. My passion is treating those patients considered "treatment resistant" with the most effective methods available.
(360) 464-1917 View (360) 464-1917
Photo of Anna Kielak, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Anna Kielak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Serves Area
I believe that mental health conditions can be compared to physical injuries. For example when you sprain your ankle, you need to go to see a specialist. She/he will prescribe you some anti-inflammatory medications - maybe Ibuprofen and some Cortisone shots. Then you will need to attend physical therapy (PT). If you work hard during your PT appointments, your ankle will get better and you will need less medication. The same can be said about mental health disorders.
I believe that mental health conditions can be compared to physical injuries. For example when you sprain your ankle, you need to go to see a specialist. She/he will prescribe you some anti-inflammatory medications - maybe Ibuprofen and some Cortisone shots. Then you will need to attend physical therapy (PT). If you work hard during your PT appointments, your ankle will get better and you will need less medication. The same can be said about mental health disorders.
(360) 842-0002 View (360) 842-0002
Photo of Kim Young-Oak - Front Street Clinic | TMS Therapy Center, Psychiatrist
With over 13 years of experience, Front Street Clinic offers hope through NeuroStar Advanced TMS Therapy—an FDA-cleared, non-medication treatment for major depression and anxious depression. If medications haven’t helped, know that you or your loved one is in caring, experienced hands. Our team offers personalized, compassionate care. Allow us to support you on your journey toward relief. Together, we’ll work toward a brighter tomorrow.
With over 13 years of experience, Front Street Clinic offers hope through NeuroStar Advanced TMS Therapy—an FDA-cleared, non-medication treatment for major depression and anxious depression. If medications haven’t helped, know that you or your loved one is in caring, experienced hands. Our team offers personalized, compassionate care. Allow us to support you on your journey toward relief. Together, we’ll work toward a brighter tomorrow.
(360) 997-4532 View (360) 997-4532
Photo of Gabriel Taylor-Parsons - Neupathway (Gabriel Taylor-Parsons), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Neupathway (Gabriel Taylor-Parsons)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! SAME WEEK AVAILABILITY! ..................UPDATED WEEKLY! SELF-SCHEDULING .................... My name is Gabriel Parsons, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who focuses on the combination of medication management and psychotherapy in treating patients who are suffering from ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Attacks, and other mental health disorders.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! SAME WEEK AVAILABILITY! ..................UPDATED WEEKLY! SELF-SCHEDULING .................... My name is Gabriel Parsons, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who focuses on the combination of medication management and psychotherapy in treating patients who are suffering from ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Attacks, and other mental health disorders.
(360) 569-1736 View (360) 569-1736
Photo of Emily David, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Emily David
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a licensed and certified psychiatric Nurse practitioner treating patients who are at least 15 years (15 years to 75 years). I provide comprehensive online psychiatry services (telehealth), you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same mental services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. Currently accepting new clients for psychiatric evaluation, medication management and individual therapy, You can book a video appointment right now.
I am a licensed and certified psychiatric Nurse practitioner treating patients who are at least 15 years (15 years to 75 years). I provide comprehensive online psychiatry services (telehealth), you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same mental services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. Currently accepting new clients for psychiatric evaluation, medication management and individual therapy, You can book a video appointment right now.
(253) 316-8596 View (253) 316-8596

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Montjoy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PhD, PMHNP
Jennifer Montjoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PhD, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck? If you answered yes, an integrative, more holistic approach to mental healthcare offers treatment options to address nutritional deficiencies and hormonal changes that are contributing factors to mood, anxiety, and resilience.
Are you feeling stuck? If you answered yes, an integrative, more holistic approach to mental healthcare offers treatment options to address nutritional deficiencies and hormonal changes that are contributing factors to mood, anxiety, and resilience.
(602) 857-7474 View (602) 857-7474
Photo of Catherine L Davies, Psychiatrist, MD
Catherine L Davies
Psychiatrist, MD
Mental health is as important as physical health, but many people don't understand that. Women are taught that they need to be there for everyone but are often not good at caring for themselves. My goal is to educate women about mental health and overall health and to support them on their journey as they strive to achieve their goals, whether that be healthy relationships, feeling like a confident parent, balancing work and home life. I will be an active partner in this journey with you.
Mental health is as important as physical health, but many people don't understand that. Women are taught that they need to be there for everyone but are often not good at caring for themselves. My goal is to educate women about mental health and overall health and to support them on their journey as they strive to achieve their goals, whether that be healthy relationships, feeling like a confident parent, balancing work and home life. I will be an active partner in this journey with you.
(360) 504-4071 View (360) 504-4071
Photo of Dr. Lisa Nawei Chen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Lisa Nawei Chen
Psychiatrist, MD
Seattle, WA 98109
Waitlist for new clients
I believe change is always possible, but is often difficult, and my role is helping you figure out what is illness, what is behavior, and what are the things most important to you. I offer both medication management and therapy appointments—depending on your diagnosis and needs. Please visit my website at www.lisanaweichen.com where I discuss my treatment philosophy and services in more detail. You can schedule an appointment or a 15 minute video screening with me directly through the website.
I believe change is always possible, but is often difficult, and my role is helping you figure out what is illness, what is behavior, and what are the things most important to you. I offer both medication management and therapy appointments—depending on your diagnosis and needs. Please visit my website at www.lisanaweichen.com where I discuss my treatment philosophy and services in more detail. You can schedule an appointment or a 15 minute video screening with me directly through the website.
(206) 759-2869 View (206) 759-2869
Photo of Kellye M Campbell - Kellye Campbell Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, ARNP, PMHNP-
Kellye Campbell Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, ARNP, PMHNP-
Silverdale, WA 98383
Welcome to my practice! I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults through the age of 60. My practice has expertise in diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, Autism, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder., and other disorders. I also perform Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), which is the gold standard of treatment for sleep disorders.
Welcome to my practice! I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults through the age of 60. My practice has expertise in diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, Autism, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder., and other disorders. I also perform Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), which is the gold standard of treatment for sleep disorders.
(206) 309-7652 View (206) 309-7652
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Irwin - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(253) 544-5059 View (253) 544-5059

See more therapy options for Bremerton

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bremerton, WA

10+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Bremerton, WA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
93% Bipolar Disorder
87% Depression
87% ADHD
87% Trauma and PTSD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Bremerton, WA see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bremerton?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.