Psychiatrists in Kitsap County, WA

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Photo of Kim Young-Oak - Front Street Clinic | TMS Therapy Center, Psychiatrist
With over 13 years of experience, Front Street Clinic offers hope through NeuroStar Advanced TMS Therapy—an FDA-cleared, non-medication treatment for major depression and anxious depression. If medications haven’t helped, know that you or your loved one is in caring, experienced hands. Our team offers personalized, compassionate care. Allow us to support you on your journey toward relief. Together, we’ll work toward a brighter tomorrow.
With over 13 years of experience, Front Street Clinic offers hope through NeuroStar Advanced TMS Therapy—an FDA-cleared, non-medication treatment for major depression and anxious depression. If medications haven’t helped, know that you or your loved one is in caring, experienced hands. Our team offers personalized, compassionate care. Allow us to support you on your journey toward relief. Together, we’ll work toward a brighter tomorrow.
(360) 997-4532 View (360) 997-4532
Photo of Lola Ololade Omokpo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Lola Ololade Omokpo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle that’s hard to break? Maybe you’ve been carrying emotional weight for far too long, and you’re just looking for someone to really listen—someone who gets it. I work with individuals who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, sleep problems, PTSD, and many more. My clients often say they just want to feel like themselves again, to find peace, and to finally breathe without feeling weighed down. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle that’s hard to break? Maybe you’ve been carrying emotional weight for far too long, and you’re just looking for someone to really listen—someone who gets it. I work with individuals who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, sleep problems, PTSD, and many more. My clients often say they just want to feel like themselves again, to find peace, and to finally breathe without feeling weighed down. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place.
(206) 875-2429 View (206) 875-2429
Photo of Harvey William Hall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Harvey William Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Bremerton, WA 98312
As a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am equipped to provide comprehensive care for individuals and families facing mental health challenges. My training and experience have prepared me to work with a diverse range of patients, including those from under-served populations. I have a background in military medicine, working my way from being an army medic to supervising the army's busiest emergency department. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working closely with social workers and caregivers to advocate for the needs of foster children.
As a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am equipped to provide comprehensive care for individuals and families facing mental health challenges. My training and experience have prepared me to work with a diverse range of patients, including those from under-served populations. I have a background in military medicine, working my way from being an army medic to supervising the army's busiest emergency department. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working closely with social workers and caregivers to advocate for the needs of foster children.
(360) 228-3547 View (360) 228-3547
Photo of Dr. Bridget Carnahan, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Bridget Carnahan
Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Carnahan is an osteopathic physician with specialized training in integrative psychiatry. Her approach to care prioritizes the understanding of your unique life experience so that we can find solutions that best support you as an individual.
Dr. Carnahan is an osteopathic physician with specialized training in integrative psychiatry. Her approach to care prioritizes the understanding of your unique life experience so that we can find solutions that best support you as an individual.
(206) 737-3424 View (206) 737-3424
Photo of Kellye M Campbell - Kellye Campbell Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, ARNP, PMHNP-
Kellye Campbell Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, ARNP, PMHNP-
Silverdale, WA 98383
Welcome to my practice! I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults through the age of 60. My practice has expertise in diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, Autism, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder., and other disorders. I also perform Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), which is the gold standard of treatment for sleep disorders.
Welcome to my practice! I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults through the age of 60. My practice has expertise in diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, Autism, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder., and other disorders. I also perform Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), which is the gold standard of treatment for sleep disorders.
(206) 309-7652 View (206) 309-7652
Photo of Kelly Lawson Telehealth Available, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Kelly Lawson Telehealth Available
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
I’m a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental health focusing on the whole person using an empathic and non-judgmental style. I use evidence-based, complimentary, and integrative approaches to care that include lifestyle and behavioral change, in addition to medications when appropriate and safe. I practice from a client-centered approach in which we work together to make treatment and medication decisions that include your preferences and values.
I’m a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental health focusing on the whole person using an empathic and non-judgmental style. I use evidence-based, complimentary, and integrative approaches to care that include lifestyle and behavioral change, in addition to medications when appropriate and safe. I practice from a client-centered approach in which we work together to make treatment and medication decisions that include your preferences and values.
(253) 289-7408 View (253) 289-7408
Photo of Lorin Boynton, Psychiatrist, MD
Lorin Boynton
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Dr. Boynton, an accomplished Integrative Psychiatrist, is dedicated to empowering individuals grappling with mental health challenges. With a comprehensive approach, she blends conventional psychiatric treatments with holistic strategies, incorporating nutritional supplementation, somatic therapies, and lifestyle optimization. She explores the impact of metabolic health and nutritional interventions on mental health treatment. Her goal is to address and treat mental health conditions, enabling individuals to lead more fulfilling lives. Ages: 18+.
Dr. Boynton, an accomplished Integrative Psychiatrist, is dedicated to empowering individuals grappling with mental health challenges. With a comprehensive approach, she blends conventional psychiatric treatments with holistic strategies, incorporating nutritional supplementation, somatic therapies, and lifestyle optimization. She explores the impact of metabolic health and nutritional interventions on mental health treatment. Her goal is to address and treat mental health conditions, enabling individuals to lead more fulfilling lives. Ages: 18+.
(360) 525-1890 View (360) 525-1890
Photo of Anna Kielak, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Anna Kielak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Poulsbo, WA 98370
I believe that mental health conditions can be compared to physical injuries. For example when you sprain your ankle, you need to go to see a specialist. She/he will prescribe you some anti-inflammatory medications - maybe Ibuprofen and some Cortisone shots. Then you will need to attend physical therapy (PT). If you work hard during your PT appointments, your ankle will get better and you will need less medication. The same can be said about mental health disorders.
I believe that mental health conditions can be compared to physical injuries. For example when you sprain your ankle, you need to go to see a specialist. She/he will prescribe you some anti-inflammatory medications - maybe Ibuprofen and some Cortisone shots. Then you will need to attend physical therapy (PT). If you work hard during your PT appointments, your ankle will get better and you will need less medication. The same can be said about mental health disorders.
(360) 842-0002 View (360) 842-0002
Photo of Vivian Kisanga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vivian Kisanga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Port Orchard, WA 98367
As an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated in providing compassionate and holistic care, I bring a wealth of expertise in treating a spectrum of mental health conditions, ranging from anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, addiction and others. My journey has been driven by a profound commitment to empowering individuals to navigate their mental health challenges with dignity and resilience. I believe in fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and empathy, creating a safe space where patients feel empowered to share their struggles and aspirations openly.
As an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated in providing compassionate and holistic care, I bring a wealth of expertise in treating a spectrum of mental health conditions, ranging from anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, addiction and others. My journey has been driven by a profound commitment to empowering individuals to navigate their mental health challenges with dignity and resilience. I believe in fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and empathy, creating a safe space where patients feel empowered to share their struggles and aspirations openly.
(253) 527-6954 x901 View (253) 527-6954 x901
Photo of Jeneane Keller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Jeneane Keller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
“I never lose. Either I win or I learn." -Nelson Mandela. Jeneane Keller, DNP received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with honors from George Mason University, Fairfax Virginia in 2016. She has clinical expertise in the outpatient and inpatient settings. Jeneane Keller, DNP is located in Arizona and offers treatment via telepsychiatry in the state of Arizona and Washington (Front Street Clinic). She has been practicing Telehealth since 2020.
“I never lose. Either I win or I learn." -Nelson Mandela. Jeneane Keller, DNP received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with honors from George Mason University, Fairfax Virginia in 2016. She has clinical expertise in the outpatient and inpatient settings. Jeneane Keller, DNP is located in Arizona and offers treatment via telepsychiatry in the state of Arizona and Washington (Front Street Clinic). She has been practicing Telehealth since 2020.
(206) 260-0376 View (206) 260-0376
Photo of Kelly Lawson - Bainbridge Holistic Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , ARNP , PMHNP
Bainbridge Holistic Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , ARNP , PMHNP
1 Endorsed
I’m a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental health focusing on the whole person using an empathic and non-judgmental style. I use evidence-based, complimentary, and integrative approaches to care that include lifestyle and behavioral change, in addition to medications when appropriate and safe. I practice from a client-centered approach in which we work together to make treatment and medication decisions that include your preferences and values.
I’m a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental health focusing on the whole person using an empathic and non-judgmental style. I use evidence-based, complimentary, and integrative approaches to care that include lifestyle and behavioral change, in addition to medications when appropriate and safe. I practice from a client-centered approach in which we work together to make treatment and medication decisions that include your preferences and values.
(206) 558-8286 View (206) 558-8286
Photo of Youngoak Kim Pryor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Youngoak Kim Pryor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Poulsbo, WA 98370
I specialize in psychopharmacological ( Psychiatric Medication) evaluations and the treatment of Mood and Anxiety Disorders, OCD, and ADHD. I hold two Board Certifications; Child/Adolescent and Adult. I have 27 years of independent practice experience as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner in Kitsap county preceeded by 17 years of experience as an RN in the areas of Nursing Education, Medical, Surgical, Family Practice, and Community Health nursing. My passion is treating those patients considered "treatment resistant" with the most effective methods available.
I specialize in psychopharmacological ( Psychiatric Medication) evaluations and the treatment of Mood and Anxiety Disorders, OCD, and ADHD. I hold two Board Certifications; Child/Adolescent and Adult. I have 27 years of independent practice experience as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner in Kitsap county preceeded by 17 years of experience as an RN in the areas of Nursing Education, Medical, Surgical, Family Practice, and Community Health nursing. My passion is treating those patients considered "treatment resistant" with the most effective methods available.
(360) 464-1917 View (360) 464-1917
Photo of Jennifer Montjoy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PhD, PMHNP
Jennifer Montjoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PhD, PMHNP
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling stuck? If you answered yes, an integrative, more holistic approach to mental healthcare offers treatment options to address nutritional deficiencies and hormonal changes that are contributing factors to mood, anxiety, and resilience.
Are you feeling stuck? If you answered yes, an integrative, more holistic approach to mental healthcare offers treatment options to address nutritional deficiencies and hormonal changes that are contributing factors to mood, anxiety, and resilience.
(602) 857-7474 View (602) 857-7474
Photo of Kimberly Patterson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, FNP, PMHNP
Kimberly Patterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in evidence-based psychopharmacology. As a telehealth provider, I am able to connect with you via a user-friendly platform, from the comfort and privacy of your own home offering flexible hours that include weekends, early mornings, and evenings. I treat a wide variety of mental health concerns for all ages, including mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, ADHD, psychosis, eating disorders, and substance use disorders.
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in evidence-based psychopharmacology. As a telehealth provider, I am able to connect with you via a user-friendly platform, from the comfort and privacy of your own home offering flexible hours that include weekends, early mornings, and evenings. I treat a wide variety of mental health concerns for all ages, including mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, ADHD, psychosis, eating disorders, and substance use disorders.
(360) 996-1951 View (360) 996-1951
Photo of Catherine L Davies, Psychiatrist, MD
Catherine L Davies
Psychiatrist, MD
Mental health is as important as physical health, but many people don't understand that. Women are taught that they need to be there for everyone but are often not good at caring for themselves. My goal is to educate women about mental health and overall health and to support them on their journey as they strive to achieve their goals, whether that be healthy relationships, feeling like a confident parent, balancing work and home life. I will be an active partner in this journey with you.
Mental health is as important as physical health, but many people don't understand that. Women are taught that they need to be there for everyone but are often not good at caring for themselves. My goal is to educate women about mental health and overall health and to support them on their journey as they strive to achieve their goals, whether that be healthy relationships, feeling like a confident parent, balancing work and home life. I will be an active partner in this journey with you.
(360) 504-4071 View (360) 504-4071
Photo of Angela J Tefft, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Angela J Tefft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Online Only
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
(206) 495-4912 View (206) 495-4912
Photo of Dr. Courtney Yant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Courtney Yant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Port Orchard, WA 98366
Taking New Patients! As a DNP, PMHNP I have been trained to work with patients struggling with anxiety, depression, mood, and life transitions. I have searched for innovative ways to meet each patient where they are in their unique mental health journeys. I work to provide treatment that allows for new HOPE and HEALING to patients who are struggling. I offer medication management services, as well as TMS therapy services.
Taking New Patients! As a DNP, PMHNP I have been trained to work with patients struggling with anxiety, depression, mood, and life transitions. I have searched for innovative ways to meet each patient where they are in their unique mental health journeys. I work to provide treatment that allows for new HOPE and HEALING to patients who are struggling. I offer medication management services, as well as TMS therapy services.
(360) 776-7283 View (360) 776-7283
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Irwin - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Olalla, WA 98359
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(253) 544-5059 View (253) 544-5059
Photo of Nicole Diaz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nicole Diaz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
You don’t have to do this alone. If you're facing anxiety, depression, or carrying unresolved trauma, you may feel emotionally overwhelmed, disconnected, or just plain tired. My ideal client is someone seeking peace of mind, emotional stability, and meaningful growth. You want to be heard, supported, and finally start healing in a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space. That’s exactly what I offer. I provide virtual therapy across FL, NV, WA, & CO, making it easy to access care from the comfort of your home. Not sure where to start? I offer a free 10-minute consultation so we can connect, answer your questions, see if we fit.
You don’t have to do this alone. If you're facing anxiety, depression, or carrying unresolved trauma, you may feel emotionally overwhelmed, disconnected, or just plain tired. My ideal client is someone seeking peace of mind, emotional stability, and meaningful growth. You want to be heard, supported, and finally start healing in a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space. That’s exactly what I offer. I provide virtual therapy across FL, NV, WA, & CO, making it easy to access care from the comfort of your home. Not sure where to start? I offer a free 10-minute consultation so we can connect, answer your questions, see if we fit.
(904) 736-7528 View (904) 736-7528
Photo of Kate Donahue, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kate Donahue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Olalla, WA 98359
Kate is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Xavier University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University. Kate believes in individualized and evidenced based care. She provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management services for both children and adults and treats a wide spectrum of psychiatric diagnoses. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Kate is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Xavier University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University. Kate believes in individualized and evidenced based care. She provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management services for both children and adults and treats a wide spectrum of psychiatric diagnoses. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
(253) 400-3215 View (253) 400-3215

See more therapy options for Kitsap County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Kitsap County, WA

50+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Kitsap County, WA who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
92% Depression
86% Bipolar Disorder
84% Medication Management
78% ADHD
78% Trauma and PTSD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
78% Premera Blue Cross
78% Regence

How Psychiatrists in Kitsap County, WA see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Kitsap 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.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.