Psychiatrists in Friday Harbor, WA
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe that mental health is more than the absence of mental illness. Although my training and education is to diagnose, evaluate, and treat psychiatric disorders, my goal is to work in partnership with clients toward an integrated sense of mental clarity, balance, and resiliency. My approach to treatment involves understanding more than pharmacology- patients can expect that I will seek to understand their unique biopsychosocial context, coping skills, and patterns.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe that mental health is more than the absence of mental illness. Although my training and education is to diagnose, evaluate, and treat psychiatric disorders, my goal is to work in partnership with clients toward an integrated sense of mental clarity, balance, and resiliency. My approach to treatment involves understanding more than pharmacology- patients can expect that I will seek to understand their unique biopsychosocial context, coping skills, and patterns.
Online Psychiatrists
Cindy Bello-Utu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tukwila, WA 98188
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and am licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) in the state of Washington with prescriptive authority. My primary areas of focus are depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. While I am licensed to treat across the lifespan my primary focus will be individuals between the ages of 18-60 years old.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and am licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) in the state of Washington with prescriptive authority. My primary areas of focus are depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. While I am licensed to treat across the lifespan my primary focus will be individuals between the ages of 18-60 years old.
Neupathway ( Mirandine Fitchette )
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, BC, MSN/DNP
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ......... Mirandine is a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She provides psychiatric/mental health services to clients across the lifespan (adults, adolescents, children as young as six years old). Our utmost dedication lies in offering exceptional in-person and tele-psychiatry services that encompass comprehensive care and prioritize the delivery of high-quality healthcare. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, we kindly invite you to visit our website at neupathway.com/appointments.
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ......... Mirandine is a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She provides psychiatric/mental health services to clients across the lifespan (adults, adolescents, children as young as six years old). Our utmost dedication lies in offering exceptional in-person and tele-psychiatry services that encompass comprehensive care and prioritize the delivery of high-quality healthcare. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, we kindly invite you to visit our website at neupathway.com/appointments.
Joseph Reis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118 (Online Only)
Welcome to Ascend Psychiatric Services! We're thrilled to be a part of your journey towards better mental health. Our practice is built on the belief that everyone deserves a safe and supportive space to explore their mental well-being. We understand that reaching out for help can be a big step, and we're here to make the process as comfortable and inviting as possible. At Ascend, we're dedicated to providing personalized care that meets your individual needs. Whether you're navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or simply seeking guidance and support, our compassionate team is here to work with you. WA, MT, and ID.
Welcome to Ascend Psychiatric Services! We're thrilled to be a part of your journey towards better mental health. Our practice is built on the belief that everyone deserves a safe and supportive space to explore their mental well-being. We understand that reaching out for help can be a big step, and we're here to make the process as comfortable and inviting as possible. At Ascend, we're dedicated to providing personalized care that meets your individual needs. Whether you're navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or simply seeking guidance and support, our compassionate team is here to work with you. WA, MT, and ID.
Neupathway (Melissa Osada)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
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.
Dorcas Mwangi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Welcome to our site. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Washington state. I have over 11 years of experience working in the mental health filed. I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence-based medication management. My ultimate goal is to work with my clients to find an individualized treatment plan that helps them to achieve their best wellness. I believe in offering Patient-Centered Care, to enable my patients to acquire necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health wellness.
Welcome to our site. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Washington state. I have over 11 years of experience working in the mental health filed. I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence-based medication management. My ultimate goal is to work with my clients to find an individualized treatment plan that helps them to achieve their best wellness. I believe in offering Patient-Centered Care, to enable my patients to acquire necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health wellness.
During my 21 years of practicing psychiatry, I have seen how integrative the bio-psycho-social and spiritual approach is to diagnose and treat psychiatric conditions. Addressing the complexities of genetic predispositions, childhood experiences, social relations and spiritual aspects is at the core of this model and defines how I practice psychiatry. I have worked almost 20 years in a state psychiatric hospital helping those with the most severe and devastating psychiatric illnesses. I am expanding now the focus of my work to include those in an outpatient setting using the newest treatment modalities.
During my 21 years of practicing psychiatry, I have seen how integrative the bio-psycho-social and spiritual approach is to diagnose and treat psychiatric conditions. Addressing the complexities of genetic predispositions, childhood experiences, social relations and spiritual aspects is at the core of this model and defines how I practice psychiatry. I have worked almost 20 years in a state psychiatric hospital helping those with the most severe and devastating psychiatric illnesses. I am expanding now the focus of my work to include those in an outpatient setting using the newest treatment modalities.
Travis Damico | TMS Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
Our anxiety about the state of the world is a normal response to the abnormal stressors facing so many of us. The collective concerns that we all face coupled with our own individual worries can make life feel overwhelming. I have worked as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2007 and my private practice is focused on looking within. Working with individuals to focus and heal the one person we can control: ourselves. I am a strong proponent of meditation and medication. My approach is to align my work according to YOUR values.
Our anxiety about the state of the world is a normal response to the abnormal stressors facing so many of us. The collective concerns that we all face coupled with our own individual worries can make life feel overwhelming. I have worked as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2007 and my private practice is focused on looking within. Working with individuals to focus and heal the one person we can control: ourselves. I am a strong proponent of meditation and medication. My approach is to align my work according to YOUR values.
I specialize in treatment and services for children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 6-18). I am interested in assessing both the patient and family dynamics to create a holistic and behavioral approach to Psychiatry. Treatment modalities include medication management, partnering with therapists and schools, and building stronger families. In addition, I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults with Developmental Disorders, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Asperger’s, and LGBTQ+ related issues. I am an avid science fiction aficionado, Star Trek enthusiast, and friend to animals.
I specialize in treatment and services for children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 6-18). I am interested in assessing both the patient and family dynamics to create a holistic and behavioral approach to Psychiatry. Treatment modalities include medication management, partnering with therapists and schools, and building stronger families. In addition, I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults with Developmental Disorders, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Asperger’s, and LGBTQ+ related issues. I am an avid science fiction aficionado, Star Trek enthusiast, and friend to animals.
Unique Mental Health Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Accepting new patients 18-60 years in-person at the office and telehealth. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Other aspects of your life might be affected if your mental health care is not prioritized. Seek professional help to safe your relationships, work and maintain equilibrium in your functioning. Some symptoms of concern are; anxiety, prolonged sadness, mood swings, thoughts about suicide or harming self/others and, psychosis. I diagnose and treat mental health symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood/personality disorders, ADHD and many other mental health illnesses.
Accepting new patients 18-60 years in-person at the office and telehealth. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Other aspects of your life might be affected if your mental health care is not prioritized. Seek professional help to safe your relationships, work and maintain equilibrium in your functioning. Some symptoms of concern are; anxiety, prolonged sadness, mood swings, thoughts about suicide or harming self/others and, psychosis. I diagnose and treat mental health symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood/personality disorders, ADHD and many other mental health illnesses.
Always Better Together LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING CLIENTS. I believe the best client outcomes are achieved when the client and provider work collaboratively on a viable treatment plan with the client guiding outcome progress. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, DMDD, ODD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, and many other diagnoses.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING CLIENTS. I believe the best client outcomes are achieved when the client and provider work collaboratively on a viable treatment plan with the client guiding outcome progress. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, DMDD, ODD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, and many other diagnoses.
Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
Kevin Clinton Kerrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes a holistic approach to treating patients. I recognize that people are more than of their parts. Maximizing wellness is the goal when working with clients, and to this end, exploration into complex biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors is important to gain a full view of the client's needs. Clients often seek mental health treatment to alleviate distress. It is incumbent on the provider to work with clients to uncover sources of distress and develop actionable means to empower clients to improve their lives.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes a holistic approach to treating patients. I recognize that people are more than of their parts. Maximizing wellness is the goal when working with clients, and to this end, exploration into complex biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors is important to gain a full view of the client's needs. Clients often seek mental health treatment to alleviate distress. It is incumbent on the provider to work with clients to uncover sources of distress and develop actionable means to empower clients to improve their lives.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Balance Psychiatric Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelton, WA 98584
As a PMHNP-BC in a rural, underserved, small community, I'm passionate about providing medication management services and serving my community. I understand the importance of treating people in a holistic manner, to maintain a balanced state so wellness is achieved. I focus on a “whole patient” approach and “patient-centered care” for better outcomes. For one to live their best life there must be balance in sleep hygiene, diet, and exercise. I strive to help patients reach their best potential, psychiatrically after other options have been exhausted through medication management and education. I look forward to serving my community.
As a PMHNP-BC in a rural, underserved, small community, I'm passionate about providing medication management services and serving my community. I understand the importance of treating people in a holistic manner, to maintain a balanced state so wellness is achieved. I focus on a “whole patient” approach and “patient-centered care” for better outcomes. For one to live their best life there must be balance in sleep hygiene, diet, and exercise. I strive to help patients reach their best potential, psychiatrically after other options have been exhausted through medication management and education. I look forward to serving my community.
Deonne Brown Benedict
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026 (Online Only)
Immediate Openings Available! Maybe life feels a little broken right now and you are seeking better for yourself. Or perhaps you are overwhelmed or spending a lot of time worrying. I believe a caring and supportive relationship is the foundation for our work together. I will start with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Then, using the latest evidence basis, I will work with you collaboratively to help you achieve your best mental health through education, medications, and psychotherapy.
Immediate Openings Available! Maybe life feels a little broken right now and you are seeking better for yourself. Or perhaps you are overwhelmed or spending a lot of time worrying. I believe a caring and supportive relationship is the foundation for our work together. I will start with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Then, using the latest evidence basis, I will work with you collaboratively to help you achieve your best mental health through education, medications, and psychotherapy.
Amy Renee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
-Now accepting clients via telehealth- Is this your first time seeking mental health services or is your current provider not a great fit? Do you have a distrust around medicine? Do you not feel seen or heard? Do you feel alone, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? You are not alone. You’ve taken the first step. Together, with you in charge, I hope to help you aim to reframe, successfully with life’s challenges through a holistic and person-centered perspective.
-Now accepting clients via telehealth- Is this your first time seeking mental health services or is your current provider not a great fit? Do you have a distrust around medicine? Do you not feel seen or heard? Do you feel alone, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? You are not alone. You’ve taken the first step. Together, with you in charge, I hope to help you aim to reframe, successfully with life’s challenges through a holistic and person-centered perspective.
Elizabeth Macshadiya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Hi, I’m Liz! Are you suffering from challenges caused by depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and more? Do you often wonder if what you are feeling or experiencing is “normal?” Let’s talk! I am an experienced, board-certified psychiatric provider who believes in treating you with respect and compassion, and encourages you to actively participate in your journey to wellness. My overall goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and have a greater overall understanding about your mental health. I focus on you as a whole person, and not just a diagnosis. I see patients ages 6+ in TX, CO, IA, MI, and WA.
Hi, I’m Liz! Are you suffering from challenges caused by depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and more? Do you often wonder if what you are feeling or experiencing is “normal?” Let’s talk! I am an experienced, board-certified psychiatric provider who believes in treating you with respect and compassion, and encourages you to actively participate in your journey to wellness. My overall goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and have a greater overall understanding about your mental health. I focus on you as a whole person, and not just a diagnosis. I see patients ages 6+ in TX, CO, IA, MI, and WA.
Welcome! I am an adult psychiatric nurse practitioner in private practice. I provide evaluations, medication management, and individual therapy. I require ALL POTENTIAL NEW CLIENTS TO ASK THEIR CURRENT PROVIDER TO SEND A REFERRAL BY FAX to 1-425-449-4091. I am accepting FAXED REFERRALS ONLY. Emails through Psychology Today will NOT receive a response.
Welcome! I am an adult psychiatric nurse practitioner in private practice. I provide evaluations, medication management, and individual therapy. I require ALL POTENTIAL NEW CLIENTS TO ASK THEIR CURRENT PROVIDER TO SEND A REFERRAL BY FAX to 1-425-449-4091. I am accepting FAXED REFERRALS ONLY. Emails through Psychology Today will NOT receive a response.
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. I understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. I want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact me. I love to help.
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. I understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. I want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact me. I love to help.
See more therapy options for Friday Harbor
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Friday Harbor, WA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Friday Harbor, WA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Domestic Abuse |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Infertility |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Friday Harbor, WA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Friday Harbor?
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.