Psychiatrists in Kittitas County, WA

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Photo of Laurel Gorham Jamie Walker - Valley Psychological Services-Psychiatry Division, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Valley Psychological Services-Psychiatry Division
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Dr. Laurel Gorham is a board certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. She has special interest in school-based mental health. She enjoys working with children with ADHD, behavioral issues, feeding issues, temper tantrums, autism, anxiety, school refusal, relational difficulties and depression. She sees individuals up to the age of 21.
Dr. Laurel Gorham is a board certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. She has special interest in school-based mental health. She enjoys working with children with ADHD, behavioral issues, feeding issues, temper tantrums, autism, anxiety, school refusal, relational difficulties and depression. She sees individuals up to the age of 21.
(509) 394-4246 View (509) 394-4246
Photo of Jennifer Wilson, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to help you find meaning and value in your unique experiences. My role as your mental health advocate is to help you find healing. I believe this can only be achieved through a trusting and a supportive relationship built on mutual respect.
My goal is to help you find meaning and value in your unique experiences. My role as your mental health advocate is to help you find healing. I believe this can only be achieved through a trusting and a supportive relationship built on mutual respect.
(509) 233-4217 View (509) 233-4217
Photo of Alexa Voss, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexa Voss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ellensburg, WA 98926  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new patients at Valley Psychological services! I offer a collaborative environment in which we work together to determine the best mental health treatment for you. As the patient, you know your brain better than anyone else. You know what emotions you feel, your experiences, your preferences and your triggers. I am here to offer support, guidance, and as required treatment. I firmly believe in helping you find a treatment that aligns with your values and works for you.
Currently accepting new patients at Valley Psychological services! I offer a collaborative environment in which we work together to determine the best mental health treatment for you. As the patient, you know your brain better than anyone else. You know what emotions you feel, your experiences, your preferences and your triggers. I am here to offer support, guidance, and as required treatment. I firmly believe in helping you find a treatment that aligns with your values and works for you.
(206) 761-1106 View (206) 761-1106
Photo of Lori Drews, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lori Drews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Ellensburg, WA 98926  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, experienced in evaluating and managing conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders and sleep issues. I am licensed to diagnose mental health disorders and to provide medication management. I offer problem focused, solution-based therapy sessions and work with local therapists to meet more extensive needs. I recognize that every individual has unique goals for their life. I will work with you to meet these goals and develop a treatment plan that is symptom focused and designed to meet your individual needs. I offer telepsych appointments.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, experienced in evaluating and managing conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders and sleep issues. I am licensed to diagnose mental health disorders and to provide medication management. I offer problem focused, solution-based therapy sessions and work with local therapists to meet more extensive needs. I recognize that every individual has unique goals for their life. I will work with you to meet these goals and develop a treatment plan that is symptom focused and designed to meet your individual needs. I offer telepsych appointments.
(509) 266-0263 View (509) 266-0263
Photo of Michelle Khoshkhou, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Khoshkhou
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ellensburg, WA 98926  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking a supportive space to heal and grow. They need a compassionate, thoughtful provider who understands their unique experiences and values their input in treatment. Their goal is to regain control over their mental health, achieve lasting change, and feel empowered in their care. They want to explore their feelings, find effective coping strategies, and work towards a fulfilling life, knowing they have a partner in their journey.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking a supportive space to heal and grow. They need a compassionate, thoughtful provider who understands their unique experiences and values their input in treatment. Their goal is to regain control over their mental health, achieve lasting change, and feel empowered in their care. They want to explore their feelings, find effective coping strategies, and work towards a fulfilling life, knowing they have a partner in their journey.
(509) 343-0263 View (509) 343-0263
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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Photo of Alexandra J Pales, PMHNP, RN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexandra J Pales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN, MSN
Verified Verified
28 Endorsed
Ellensburg, WA 98926  (Online Only)
My approach to healthcare is collaborative. We work together to create a treatment plan with your priorities in mind, and to provide you with as much information for you to in formed about your care, and make informed decisions. I practice intentional de-centered care, where healthcare is not dictated by the provider, but rather the client. I provide whole person care, looking at nutrition, complementary and alternative therapies, sleep, habits, while also offering psychiatric medications where could be beneficial and if preferred by the client.
My approach to healthcare is collaborative. We work together to create a treatment plan with your priorities in mind, and to provide you with as much information for you to in formed about your care, and make informed decisions. I practice intentional de-centered care, where healthcare is not dictated by the provider, but rather the client. I provide whole person care, looking at nutrition, complementary and alternative therapies, sleep, habits, while also offering psychiatric medications where could be beneficial and if preferred by the client.
(206) 743-9286 View (206) 743-9286

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Tirhas Zerahaimanot, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tirhas Zerahaimanot
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Dr. Tirhas Zerahaimanot is a doctoral-prepared, licensed, and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She earned her clinical Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from the University of Washington, Seattle. She has 14 plus years experience in healthcare and of those 13 years, she specialized in mental health.
Dr. Tirhas Zerahaimanot is a doctoral-prepared, licensed, and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She earned her clinical Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from the University of Washington, Seattle. She has 14 plus years experience in healthcare and of those 13 years, she specialized in mental health.
(206) 202-0742 View (206) 202-0742
Photo of Fatima Omar, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fatima Omar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Fatima Omar and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in anxiety, bipolar, depression, insomnia/sleep issues, seasonal affective disorder and stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Fatima Omar and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in anxiety, bipolar, depression, insomnia/sleep issues, seasonal affective disorder and stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(206) 678-0443 View (206) 678-0443
Photo of Anywhere Wellness ~Desirae Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ~Counseling-Meds, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anywhere Wellness ~Desirae Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ~Counseling-Meds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98204  (Online Only)
Are you looking to create a better life for yourself? I'm glad you took this courageous step, so you can experience healing and growth. Many have experienced setbacks, hardships, and traumas in life that make it harder to love well and fulfill personal goals. . Through a compassionate and empathetic approach, I have helped individuals overcome their struggles and achieve personal growth. I will partner with you to navigate stressful life changes, ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma and more. I can start teaching you how to feel better in your first session.My training allows me to treat physical, spiritual, and mental.
Are you looking to create a better life for yourself? I'm glad you took this courageous step, so you can experience healing and growth. Many have experienced setbacks, hardships, and traumas in life that make it harder to love well and fulfill personal goals. . Through a compassionate and empathetic approach, I have helped individuals overcome their struggles and achieve personal growth. I will partner with you to navigate stressful life changes, ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma and more. I can start teaching you how to feel better in your first session.My training allows me to treat physical, spiritual, and mental.
(360) 564-1614 View (360) 564-1614
Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(253) 242-2648 View (253) 242-2648
Photo of Bethell Assefa, RN, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bethell Assefa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
My practice centers around the concept of mind body connection. As a ARNP I have trained in both primary care and psychiatry and believe in an all-inclusive, as well as holistic approach to wellbeing. I treat most psychiatric disorders and provide both medication management and psychotherapy. I believe psychotherapy is an essential part of mental well-being. I have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology and Motivational interviewing.
My practice centers around the concept of mind body connection. As a ARNP I have trained in both primary care and psychiatry and believe in an all-inclusive, as well as holistic approach to wellbeing. I treat most psychiatric disorders and provide both medication management and psychotherapy. I believe psychotherapy is an essential part of mental well-being. I have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology and Motivational interviewing.
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Photo of Alaba Kenny Kehinde, NP,  PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alaba Kenny Kehinde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sammamish, WA 98074
Alaba Kenny Kehinde is a Nurse Practitioner in Sammamish, WA. He is a graduate of Walden University with a focus on Psychiatric/Mental health. Kenny is non-judgmental in his approach and provides individualized treatment. Kenny provides medication management for adults with a particular interest in Mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, psychosis/schizophrenia, and substance use disorders, to mention a few. Outside of work, Kenny enjoys playing table tennis, cycling, and playing and watching soccer. He is an ardent supporter of Arsenal FC in the EPL.
Alaba Kenny Kehinde is a Nurse Practitioner in Sammamish, WA. He is a graduate of Walden University with a focus on Psychiatric/Mental health. Kenny is non-judgmental in his approach and provides individualized treatment. Kenny provides medication management for adults with a particular interest in Mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, psychosis/schizophrenia, and substance use disorders, to mention a few. Outside of work, Kenny enjoys playing table tennis, cycling, and playing and watching soccer. He is an ardent supporter of Arsenal FC in the EPL.
(425) 475-2906 View (425) 475-2906
Photo of Thomas Yarber, ARNP, PMHNP, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thomas Yarber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or substance abuse. They may be a first responder, veteran, or anyone facing significant life stressors, seeking relief from overwhelming emotions or disruptive thoughts. Their needs include compassionate understanding, clear guidance, and effective treatment options like therapy and medication management. They want to regain control of their life, find emotional balance, and achieve long-term mental well-being through a collaborative, supportive approach.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or substance abuse. They may be a first responder, veteran, or anyone facing significant life stressors, seeking relief from overwhelming emotions or disruptive thoughts. Their needs include compassionate understanding, clear guidance, and effective treatment options like therapy and medication management. They want to regain control of their life, find emotional balance, and achieve long-term mental well-being through a collaborative, supportive approach.
(564) 241-1019 View (564) 241-1019
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201  (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(425) 600-1669 View (425) 600-1669
Photo of Brandy Dowdy, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandy Dowdy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I’m Brandy, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult and adolescent psychiatry. By integrating medication management with psychotherapeutic techniques, I empower my clients to achieve emotional well-being and enhance their quality of life. I’m dedicated to helping people overcome challenges related to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions.
I’m Brandy, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult and adolescent psychiatry. By integrating medication management with psychotherapeutic techniques, I empower my clients to achieve emotional well-being and enhance their quality of life. I’m dedicated to helping people overcome challenges related to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions.
(346) 603-5475 View (346) 603-5475
Photo of Osaretin Okoro, PMHNPBC, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Osaretin Okoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Accepting new patients..... I am a patient-focused, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-driven to help clients overcome personal obstacles and achieve mental wellness. I support and guide my clients through their journey to recovery. I always strive for the best result and apply personal integrity to every action. I treat my patients with love and compassion regardless of their socioeconomic status. I treat my patients with dignity and respect, how I want my family members to be treated by any healthcare provider.
Accepting new patients..... I am a patient-focused, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-driven to help clients overcome personal obstacles and achieve mental wellness. I support and guide my clients through their journey to recovery. I always strive for the best result and apply personal integrity to every action. I treat my patients with love and compassion regardless of their socioeconomic status. I treat my patients with dignity and respect, how I want my family members to be treated by any healthcare provider.
(682) 328-0556 View (682) 328-0556
Photo of Carrie Wu, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carrie Wu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 21 years. I work with my clients who suffer from a wide range of Mental Health Disorders, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, and Psychosis. I provide expertise in medication management and psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 21 years. I work with my clients who suffer from a wide range of Mental Health Disorders, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, and Psychosis. I provide expertise in medication management and psychotherapy.
(206) 539-0045 View (206) 539-0045
Photo of Mindcare Nurse Practitionr Jackline Auka Pmhnp, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mindcare Nurse Practitionr Jackline Auka Pmhnp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
Take charge of Your Mental Health with Same-Day Virtual Appointments. Are you struggling to manage daily stress or navigate life’s challenges? Reaching out for support isn’t a sign of weakness it’s a powerful act of self-care and courage. Why go through it alone when help is available? Taking the first step to seek support is an important investment in your happiness and future. You deserve a life filled with peace and strength. Imagine what a healthier, more fulfilling life would look like for you. Investing in your mental health opens the door to brighter days. You’re not alone; let’s take this journey together we work on a plan.
Take charge of Your Mental Health with Same-Day Virtual Appointments. Are you struggling to manage daily stress or navigate life’s challenges? Reaching out for support isn’t a sign of weakness it’s a powerful act of self-care and courage. Why go through it alone when help is available? Taking the first step to seek support is an important investment in your happiness and future. You deserve a life filled with peace and strength. Imagine what a healthier, more fulfilling life would look like for you. Investing in your mental health opens the door to brighter days. You’re not alone; let’s take this journey together we work on a plan.
(206) 596-7804 View (206) 596-7804
Photo of Lucy Waithaka - Enrich Community Psychiatry PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Enrich Community Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402
I am a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for individual ages 16 and older. I also provide evaluations for bariatric surgery eligible patients. My areas of specialization are mood disorders, depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactive disorders (ADHD/ADD), schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, PTSD, panic attacks, panic disorder and nightmares.
I am a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for individual ages 16 and older. I also provide evaluations for bariatric surgery eligible patients. My areas of specialization are mood disorders, depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactive disorders (ADHD/ADD), schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, PTSD, panic attacks, panic disorder and nightmares.
(253) 201-0305 View (253) 201-0305

See more therapy options for Kittitas County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Kittitas County, WA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Kittitas County, WA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Medication Management
100% Stress

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Kittitas County, WA see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Kittitas 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.