Psychiatrists in Dupont, WA
Harvey Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, CCM-R, ARNP
Verified Verified
Dupont, WA 98327
Accepting New Patients, even on Saturday and can see patients through Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine, and we do have some evening appts available as well. Trained as a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. Master’s trained from the University of Cincinnati and Touro University; also have degrees from Pacific Lutheran University in Nursing and the University of Oklahoma. I have a background in military medicine, and have served populations that have been diverse and underserved. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working with social workers and caregivers for and in behalf of foster children.
Accepting New Patients, even on Saturday and can see patients through Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine, and we do have some evening appts available as well. Trained as a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. Master’s trained from the University of Cincinnati and Touro University; also have degrees from Pacific Lutheran University in Nursing and the University of Oklahoma. I have a background in military medicine, and have served populations that have been diverse and underserved. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working with social workers and caregivers for and in behalf of foster children.
Victoria A Wright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, FP
Verified Verified
Dupont, WA 98327
I offer Medication management of emotional disorders and psychiatric disorders. I have worked in medicine for nearly 35 years! Family practice, psychiatric medicines, and urgent care. My work history includes critical care at Harborview Medical Center, elsewhere oncology, Native American Tribes, and urgent care on a mobile unit in Central Florida while working with Healthcare for the Homeless. Board-certified in family practice and psychiatric medicines. Also a Doctorate in Nursing Practice.
I offer Medication management of emotional disorders and psychiatric disorders. I have worked in medicine for nearly 35 years! Family practice, psychiatric medicines, and urgent care. My work history includes critical care at Harborview Medical Center, elsewhere oncology, Native American Tribes, and urgent care on a mobile unit in Central Florida while working with Healthcare for the Homeless. Board-certified in family practice and psychiatric medicines. Also a Doctorate in Nursing Practice.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Accepting New Patients, even on Saturday and can see patients through Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine, and we do have some evening appts available as well. Trained as a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. Master’s trained from the University of Cincinnati and Touro University; also have degrees from Pacific Lutheran University in Nursing and the University of Oklahoma. I have a background in military medicine, and have served populations that have been diverse and underserved. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working with social workers and caregivers for and in behalf of foster children.
Accepting New Patients, even on Saturday and can see patients through Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine, and we do have some evening appts available as well. Trained as a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. Master’s trained from the University of Cincinnati and Touro University; also have degrees from Pacific Lutheran University in Nursing and the University of Oklahoma. I have a background in military medicine, and have served populations that have been diverse and underserved. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working with social workers and caregivers for and in behalf of foster children.
Susan King is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Washington who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Pacific Lutheran University and a Master's in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Susan provides appropriate medication and education to help manage the symptoms of mental health issues and therapeutic support. Outside of work, Susan enjoys working with animals and loves gardening.
Susan King is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Washington who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Pacific Lutheran University and a Master's in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Susan provides appropriate medication and education to help manage the symptoms of mental health issues and therapeutic support. Outside of work, Susan enjoys working with animals and loves gardening.
Ann Song
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Lacey, WA 98506
Not accepting new clients
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I aim to work collaboratively with clients on their journey to wellness. We work together through evaluation and assessment to clarify depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I aim to work collaboratively with clients on their journey to wellness. We work together through evaluation and assessment to clarify depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders.
Dr. Irwin is a general psychiatrist interested in an integrative care approach to healing, incorporating medication, psychotherapy and exercise. After graduating Hartwick College, in upstate New York, summa cum laude with departmental honors in Biology, Dr. Irwin attended Michigan State Medical School. She went on to complete four years of residency training in Psychiatry at the Henry Ford Health System in Detroit and moved to Washington in 1999. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, hiking, skiing, and practicing yoga and meditation.
Dr. Irwin is a general psychiatrist interested in an integrative care approach to healing, incorporating medication, psychotherapy and exercise. After graduating Hartwick College, in upstate New York, summa cum laude with departmental honors in Biology, Dr. Irwin attended Michigan State Medical School. She went on to complete four years of residency training in Psychiatry at the Henry Ford Health System in Detroit and moved to Washington in 1999. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, hiking, skiing, and practicing yoga and meditation.
Dr. Shah partners with her patients in formulating multi-faceted, patient-centered treatment plans. She employs a creative problem-solving approach in her treatments. Her philosophical take on life and infectious pursuit of humor lend a positive energy to her patient care. She treats patients of age 18 and older.
Dr. Shah partners with her patients in formulating multi-faceted, patient-centered treatment plans. She employs a creative problem-solving approach in her treatments. Her philosophical take on life and infectious pursuit of humor lend a positive energy to her patient care. She treats patients of age 18 and older.
Frank Bashumika
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98503
Thank you for choosing Teleemon Behavioral Health Services. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience working in the mental health field. I strongly believe that proper treatment can facilitate/enhance YOUR self-confidence and determination and in turn boost overall well-being.
Thank you for choosing Teleemon Behavioral Health Services. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience working in the mental health field. I strongly believe that proper treatment can facilitate/enhance YOUR self-confidence and determination and in turn boost overall well-being.
Tracie Ross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98499 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in medication management and TMS. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN-PMHNP) at Vanderbilt University. I stay updated on current technologies and treatments to ensure precise and personalized treatment. I am invested in helping clients achieve their best life and full functioning. Please note that I am not accepting Medicaid Insurance for medication management.
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in medication management and TMS. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN-PMHNP) at Vanderbilt University. I stay updated on current technologies and treatments to ensure precise and personalized treatment. I am invested in helping clients achieve their best life and full functioning. Please note that I am not accepting Medicaid Insurance for medication management.
Ohtae Kwon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98498 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I received a Master of Science in Nursing-PMHNP at University of Texas at Arlington where I trained in both outpatient and inpatient settings. I am an U.S. Army veteran nurse who is dedicated, compassionate, energetic, and trained to work in high stress environment, providing high quality service in healthcare settings. I decided to be a PMHNP after I witnessed many veterans with mental disorders and realized mental illness can be just as impairing in someone's life as physical illness.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I received a Master of Science in Nursing-PMHNP at University of Texas at Arlington where I trained in both outpatient and inpatient settings. I am an U.S. Army veteran nurse who is dedicated, compassionate, energetic, and trained to work in high stress environment, providing high quality service in healthcare settings. I decided to be a PMHNP after I witnessed many veterans with mental disorders and realized mental illness can be just as impairing in someone's life as physical illness.
Angela Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98499 (Online Only)
I can help you move beyond your trauma, anxiety, or depression. I believe you have the capacity to get better. I’d love to be your guide in getting there! My style is candid, thoughtful and compassionate. With the right information, I know my clients can make the best care decisions for themselves. Though medications are a piece of my toolkit, I also incorporate solutions-focused therapy, nutrition considerations, and overall wellness support. My hope is to get you feeling well.
I can help you move beyond your trauma, anxiety, or depression. I believe you have the capacity to get better. I’d love to be your guide in getting there! My style is candid, thoughtful and compassionate. With the right information, I know my clients can make the best care decisions for themselves. Though medications are a piece of my toolkit, I also incorporate solutions-focused therapy, nutrition considerations, and overall wellness support. My hope is to get you feeling well.
Victoria Abolarin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98433 (Online Only)
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.
Dr. Robert Kopec A.R.N.P
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98499
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My practice consists of medication management and psychotherapy. I provide integrative mental health and psychiatric care by utilizing a collaborative and holistic approach. In my practice I incorporate natural remedies (nutrition, supplements, etc.) to compliment traditional treatments. I have great respect for the individual’s innate healing power through mind and body connections. I work in a scientific and holistic way to alleviate the intertwined connection between mind and body like chronic fatigue, pain or other mystery illness affecting one’s mental health.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My practice consists of medication management and psychotherapy. I provide integrative mental health and psychiatric care by utilizing a collaborative and holistic approach. In my practice I incorporate natural remedies (nutrition, supplements, etc.) to compliment traditional treatments. I have great respect for the individual’s innate healing power through mind and body connections. I work in a scientific and holistic way to alleviate the intertwined connection between mind and body like chronic fatigue, pain or other mystery illness affecting one’s mental health.
Dr. Sammy Gathiru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP -, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98499
Accepting New Clients! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment by incorporating psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and alternative treatment modalities to best address the concern at hand. I provide a client-centered method of treatment, which includes educating clients about their diagnosis, treatment options and working with the client to develop a unique treatment plan tailored to fit each individual.
Accepting New Clients! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment by incorporating psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and alternative treatment modalities to best address the concern at hand. I provide a client-centered method of treatment, which includes educating clients about their diagnosis, treatment options and working with the client to develop a unique treatment plan tailored to fit each individual.
Al Jerome Cruz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lacey, WA 98503
Al Jerome (AJ) is a dual board-certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult psychiatric medication management. He also offers Medical Weight loss and Nutritional Psychiatry services. He received his Doctoral degree and post-graduate psychiatric mental health certificate at Duke University. He utilizes a holistic, collaborative, and integrative approach to provide personalized, evidence-based, and non-judgmental psychiatric care. AJ highly values a therapeutic provider-client relationship built in trust, respect, and empathy.
Al Jerome (AJ) is a dual board-certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult psychiatric medication management. He also offers Medical Weight loss and Nutritional Psychiatry services. He received his Doctoral degree and post-graduate psychiatric mental health certificate at Duke University. He utilizes a holistic, collaborative, and integrative approach to provide personalized, evidence-based, and non-judgmental psychiatric care. AJ highly values a therapeutic provider-client relationship built in trust, respect, and empathy.
Caroline N Nduati
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98516
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in the state of Washington. My philosophy of care centers on the patient, valuing their perspectives, preferences, and values. Throughout our collaborative journey, I am committed to ensuring that you feel not only heard, but also understood and empowered. Recognizing the distinctive nature of each person's mental health journey, we will work together to craft a personalized treatment plan, aimed at promoting your well-being and achieving positive clinical outcomes.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in the state of Washington. My philosophy of care centers on the patient, valuing their perspectives, preferences, and values. Throughout our collaborative journey, I am committed to ensuring that you feel not only heard, but also understood and empowered. Recognizing the distinctive nature of each person's mental health journey, we will work together to craft a personalized treatment plan, aimed at promoting your well-being and achieving positive clinical outcomes.
This behavior health outpatient practice treats teenagers, adults and seniors. My skills include assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals and families with psychiatric disorders using therapeutic skills, including the prescription of medication when needed, medication follow up and brief focused therapy. Book a session on my website. See website address at the right of this page or leave message on my site to call you. I try and answer all messages quickly.
This behavior health outpatient practice treats teenagers, adults and seniors. My skills include assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals and families with psychiatric disorders using therapeutic skills, including the prescription of medication when needed, medication follow up and brief focused therapy. Book a session on my website. See website address at the right of this page or leave message on my site to call you. I try and answer all messages quickly.
Barbara Rix
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98467 (Online Only)
The ideal mental health client I envision is open, reflective, and ready for change, even if they don’t fully know how to navigate the process. They might face challenges such as anxiety or feelings of overwhelm, self-criticism, navigating life transitions, or experiencing disconnection. Their goals often include cultivating peace and balance, developing self-acceptance, building resilience and strength, fostering authenticity and connection, and gaining clarity and purpose.
The ideal mental health client I envision is open, reflective, and ready for change, even if they don’t fully know how to navigate the process. They might face challenges such as anxiety or feelings of overwhelm, self-criticism, navigating life transitions, or experiencing disconnection. Their goals often include cultivating peace and balance, developing self-acceptance, building resilience and strength, fostering authenticity and connection, and gaining clarity and purpose.
Hello, I'm Dr. Shannon Corbin. I went to medical school at the University of Washington (UW), where I also completed my residency in Psychiatry. I am a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (the "˜official' way of saying that I am a board-certified specialist). As a psychiatrist I see only adults, with special interests in older adults, women, veterans and people managing long-term health conditions. I've a strong interest in integrated care and in reaching people who've potentially been underserved by our health care systems.
Hello, I'm Dr. Shannon Corbin. I went to medical school at the University of Washington (UW), where I also completed my residency in Psychiatry. I am a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (the "˜official' way of saying that I am a board-certified specialist). As a psychiatrist I see only adults, with special interests in older adults, women, veterans and people managing long-term health conditions. I've a strong interest in integrated care and in reaching people who've potentially been underserved by our health care systems.
Michele Romero, ARNP, Green Isle Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Anderson Island, WA 98303
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am here to help with the effects of depression, anxiety, mood imbalance, trauma, insomnia, inattention, memory loss, and other concerns. Fear, sadness, low self-esteem, confusion, overwhelm, and hopelessness can impair our resilience and ability to enjoy life. I provide diagnosis, counsel, education, and if needed, prescribed medication to ease your symptoms and support your healing. If you need psychotherapy in addition to medical mental health treatment, I can refer you.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am here to help with the effects of depression, anxiety, mood imbalance, trauma, insomnia, inattention, memory loss, and other concerns. Fear, sadness, low self-esteem, confusion, overwhelm, and hopelessness can impair our resilience and ability to enjoy life. I provide diagnosis, counsel, education, and if needed, prescribed medication to ease your symptoms and support your healing. If you need psychotherapy in addition to medical mental health treatment, I can refer you.
See more therapy options for Dupont
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dupont, WA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Dupont, WA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
20 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | TRICARE |
How Psychiatrists in Dupont, WA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dupont?
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.