Psychiatrists in Kitsap County, WA

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Kelly Lawson Telehealth Available
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
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.

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+.

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.

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.

“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.

Bainbridge Holistic Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , ARNP , PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
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.

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.

Jennifer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PhD, PMHNP
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
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.
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.