Psychiatrists in King County, WA

I specialize in diagnosing and managing the medications of adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, insomnia, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
I specialize in diagnosing and managing the medications of adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, insomnia, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My approach is to work alongside clients to support each unique individual holistically, examining mental health from multiple angles. I aim to work collaboratively with clients to support their unique needs through medication management that considers cultural values, social support, interpersonal relationships, and lifestyle factors such as sleep, nutrition, and exercise.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My approach is to work alongside clients to support each unique individual holistically, examining mental health from multiple angles. I aim to work collaboratively with clients to support their unique needs through medication management that considers cultural values, social support, interpersonal relationships, and lifestyle factors such as sleep, nutrition, and exercise.

Same Week Visits - Request visit via practice website - Work with a UW trained MD - Ages 18-60 - Use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement - No Medicare availability - - I can partner with you to help you achieve and enhance your psychological well-being. This can be achieved through talk therapy, (e.g., supportive psychotherapy, CBT for insomnia, etc.). When appropriate, I can prescribe medications and I strive to use the lowest dose that actually works well. While I have expertise in psychiatry, you have expertise on your own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Together, we can make a great team.
Same Week Visits - Request visit via practice website - Work with a UW trained MD - Ages 18-60 - Use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement - No Medicare availability - - I can partner with you to help you achieve and enhance your psychological well-being. This can be achieved through talk therapy, (e.g., supportive psychotherapy, CBT for insomnia, etc.). When appropriate, I can prescribe medications and I strive to use the lowest dose that actually works well. While I have expertise in psychiatry, you have expertise on your own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Together, we can make a great team.

Diagnosed with ADHD himself, Dr. Patel is deeply passionate about helping both children and adults with ADHD as well as many other mental health illnesses. Dr. Patel received his doctorate of nursing practice in 2023 from Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Florida. He has also received his Masters in Nursing from the same university in 2021. His interest in psychiatry peaked while doing rotations as a nursing student in St. Louis, Missouri when he found out the struggles many individuals go through to get access to care and how difficult it was to get a psychiatric consult all across the United States.
Diagnosed with ADHD himself, Dr. Patel is deeply passionate about helping both children and adults with ADHD as well as many other mental health illnesses. Dr. Patel received his doctorate of nursing practice in 2023 from Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Florida. He has also received his Masters in Nursing from the same university in 2021. His interest in psychiatry peaked while doing rotations as a nursing student in St. Louis, Missouri when he found out the struggles many individuals go through to get access to care and how difficult it was to get a psychiatric consult all across the United States.

Welcome! Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel self-doubt, guilt, or stuck in the past? Do you lack the focus and motivation required to meet your goals in school or work? Dr. Renia Smith provides online and in-person evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), mood disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder, and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Smith is an expert mental health provider who works with children, adolescents, and adults.
Welcome! Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel self-doubt, guilt, or stuck in the past? Do you lack the focus and motivation required to meet your goals in school or work? Dr. Renia Smith provides online and in-person evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), mood disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder, and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Smith is an expert mental health provider who works with children, adolescents, and adults.

Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. If interested in group therapy for insomnia sign up now! While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. If interested in group therapy for insomnia sign up now! While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.

I am an Advanced Registered board-certified psychiatric nurse Practitioner (ARNP). I also hold a master's degree in biology. I've worked with a wide range of patient population of different countries, tradition, and cultures. I offer culturally appropriate services with respect, and compassionate care.
I am an Advanced Registered board-certified psychiatric nurse Practitioner (ARNP). I also hold a master's degree in biology. I've worked with a wide range of patient population of different countries, tradition, and cultures. I offer culturally appropriate services with respect, and compassionate care.

Holly Bard, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Seattle, WA 98125
Holly Bard, PMHNP, is a Board-Certified, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping patients navigate their mental health challenges with compassion and expertise. She specializes in treating trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and co-occurring substance use disorders. She provides personalized care using evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, medication management, and interventional treatments such as TMS and Esketamine to support recovery and resilience.
Holly takes a collaborative, patient-centered approach to care.
Holly Bard, PMHNP, is a Board-Certified, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping patients navigate their mental health challenges with compassion and expertise. She specializes in treating trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and co-occurring substance use disorders. She provides personalized care using evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, medication management, and interventional treatments such as TMS and Esketamine to support recovery and resilience.
Holly takes a collaborative, patient-centered approach to care.

My clients come to me with a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and more. They seek a compassionate, understanding professional who can help them navigate these challenges and improve their overall mental well-being. Their goals often include achieving better emotional regulation, reducing symptoms of mental health disorders, improving their quality of life, and finding sustainable strategies to maintain long-term mental health.
My clients come to me with a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and more. They seek a compassionate, understanding professional who can help them navigate these challenges and improve their overall mental well-being. Their goals often include achieving better emotional regulation, reducing symptoms of mental health disorders, improving their quality of life, and finding sustainable strategies to maintain long-term mental health.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over a decade of experience providing comprehensive mental health care in hospital, crisis, and outpatient settings. My expertise includes conducting psychiatric evaluations and treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. I am proficient in telehealth and experienced in delivering high-quality virtual care using various platforms. Committed to patient-centered treatment, I integrate evidence-based approaches with a compassionate, individualized focus to support each patient’s mental health and well-being.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over a decade of experience providing comprehensive mental health care in hospital, crisis, and outpatient settings. My expertise includes conducting psychiatric evaluations and treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. I am proficient in telehealth and experienced in delivering high-quality virtual care using various platforms. Committed to patient-centered treatment, I integrate evidence-based approaches with a compassionate, individualized focus to support each patient’s mental health and well-being.

Sarah Applegate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MDiv, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. I provide holistic, integrative psychiatric care to children, adolescents and adults with ADHD, mood, and trauma disorders, partnering with clients and their families to help them to achieve their health goals. Services I provide include comprehensive psychiatric assessments, medication management, and brief psychotherapy. While I prescribe medications when needed, I address other factors that may be impacting your mental health such as exercise, sleep, nutrition, lifestyle, relationships and coping skills.
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. I provide holistic, integrative psychiatric care to children, adolescents and adults with ADHD, mood, and trauma disorders, partnering with clients and their families to help them to achieve their health goals. Services I provide include comprehensive psychiatric assessments, medication management, and brief psychotherapy. While I prescribe medications when needed, I address other factors that may be impacting your mental health such as exercise, sleep, nutrition, lifestyle, relationships and coping skills.

Immediate Availability! In network with most commercial insurance plans! Pursuit Mental Health & Recovery is here for you! Our ideal client is looking for a provider to team with and create a unique plan of care just for them. If you are suffering from Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Addiction to Drugs or Alcohol, or Sleep Disorders please reach out and let us see how we can help. We support and offer Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT Suboxone). We take the following Insurances in Washington State: Aetna, Cigna, Oxford, and Optum/ United Healthcare. We also now take Medicare, Medicaid, and Kaiser!
Immediate Availability! In network with most commercial insurance plans! Pursuit Mental Health & Recovery is here for you! Our ideal client is looking for a provider to team with and create a unique plan of care just for them. If you are suffering from Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Addiction to Drugs or Alcohol, or Sleep Disorders please reach out and let us see how we can help. We support and offer Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT Suboxone). We take the following Insurances in Washington State: Aetna, Cigna, Oxford, and Optum/ United Healthcare. We also now take Medicare, Medicaid, and Kaiser!

Rebekah is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner from Mercer Island, Washington. She has a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Western Washington University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, Rebekah is an outspoken advocate for social justice and equality and has worked with several nonprofits including those that manage food and clothing donations, connect individuals to community resources, and serve migrant populations.
Rebekah is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner from Mercer Island, Washington. She has a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Western Washington University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, Rebekah is an outspoken advocate for social justice and equality and has worked with several nonprofits including those that manage food and clothing donations, connect individuals to community resources, and serve migrant populations.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. My experience in rural outpatient settings and inpatient mental health units has deepened my commitment to mental health. I recognize every individual has their own unique path towards their wellness. I believe in creating personalized treatment plans and strategies that take into consideration patients’ health history, present circumstances, and their individual goals.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. My experience in rural outpatient settings and inpatient mental health units has deepened my commitment to mental health. I recognize every individual has their own unique path towards their wellness. I believe in creating personalized treatment plans and strategies that take into consideration patients’ health history, present circumstances, and their individual goals.

Accepting New Patients. I am a Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that treats individuals throughout the lifespan, from early childhood into adulthood. She specializes in treating ADHD, Anxiety and Mood disorders and Autism spectrum disorders. She utilizes both pharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy techniques. In addition, she works with patients on interpersonal growth and professional developmental.
Accepting New Patients. I am a Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that treats individuals throughout the lifespan, from early childhood into adulthood. She specializes in treating ADHD, Anxiety and Mood disorders and Autism spectrum disorders. She utilizes both pharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy techniques. In addition, she works with patients on interpersonal growth and professional developmental.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally exhausted — like you’re trying to hold everything together but it’s getting harder to cope? You're not alone, and you don’t have to manage it all by yourself. I provide thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care to adults navigating life’s challenges, whether it's stress, sadness, burnout, or uncertainty about the future. My goal is to help you feel better and move forward with clarity and confidence.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally exhausted — like you’re trying to hold everything together but it’s getting harder to cope? You're not alone, and you don’t have to manage it all by yourself. I provide thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care to adults navigating life’s challenges, whether it's stress, sadness, burnout, or uncertainty about the future. My goal is to help you feel better and move forward with clarity and confidence.

Melissa J Spencer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98058
Not accepting new clients
I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about ending the stigma against mental illness that prevents people from getting the support they need. I am a fierce advocate of LGBTQ+ persons and of anyone else who needs my support. I have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric conditions: mood disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and many more. I work with adults and teens to determine an appropriate combination of both medications and psychotherapy.
I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about ending the stigma against mental illness that prevents people from getting the support they need. I am a fierce advocate of LGBTQ+ persons and of anyone else who needs my support. I have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric conditions: mood disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and many more. I work with adults and teens to determine an appropriate combination of both medications and psychotherapy.

Accepting New Clients! Achie Eneh is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan. She obtained her FNP degree at South University Savannah, GA and her Post-master's PMHNP degree at Liberty University, Va. She has over 9 years experience in the nursing field providing holistic care to individuals across the lifespan. She is licensed in WA, OR, CO, NV, AZ, GA, MT, FL, MD, VA, KS, IA, ID, UT, NM and TX.
Accepting New Clients! Achie Eneh is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan. She obtained her FNP degree at South University Savannah, GA and her Post-master's PMHNP degree at Liberty University, Va. She has over 9 years experience in the nursing field providing holistic care to individuals across the lifespan. She is licensed in WA, OR, CO, NV, AZ, GA, MT, FL, MD, VA, KS, IA, ID, UT, NM and TX.

***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS***Our goal is to meet all of your medication needs. Through a web-based platform (telepsychiatry), we hope to maintain a relaxing environment for you as we allow for care to be given to you in your home, from the comfort of your couch to a quiet space in your providers' office. We provide exceptional, personalized, and timely access to psychiatric care with little to no wait time.
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS***Our goal is to meet all of your medication needs. Through a web-based platform (telepsychiatry), we hope to maintain a relaxing environment for you as we allow for care to be given to you in your home, from the comfort of your couch to a quiet space in your providers' office. We provide exceptional, personalized, and timely access to psychiatric care with little to no wait time.

I specialize in Reproductive Mental Health which includes mental health challenges during the particularly high risk times across a woman's lifespan; pms, perinatal (antenatal, pregnancy and postpartum), perimenopause/menopause. In addition to working with pregnant and new moms, I work with women experiencing the challenges of parenting, couple transition to parenting and midlife challenges. These highly vulnerable times require compassion and support which I provide through counseling/therapy and if warranted, medication. Social support is a very effective means for getting better. Resources will be provided.
I specialize in Reproductive Mental Health which includes mental health challenges during the particularly high risk times across a woman's lifespan; pms, perinatal (antenatal, pregnancy and postpartum), perimenopause/menopause. In addition to working with pregnant and new moms, I work with women experiencing the challenges of parenting, couple transition to parenting and midlife challenges. These highly vulnerable times require compassion and support which I provide through counseling/therapy and if warranted, medication. Social support is a very effective means for getting better. Resources will be provided.
See more therapy options for King County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in King County, WA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in King County, WA who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | ADHD |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Medication Management |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
87% | Aetna |
82% | Cigna and Evernorth |
71% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in King County, WA see their clients
50% | Online Only | |
50% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
28% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in King County?
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.