Psychiatrists in Medina, WA

Photo of Mayumi Okuda Benavides, MD, Psychiatrist
Mayumi Okuda Benavides
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
(347) 252-9942 View (347) 252-9942
Photo of Zachary Feldman, MD, Psychiatrist
Zachary Feldman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
I believe mental health results from a complex constellation of past and present interpersonal, intrapersonal, and bio-physiologic influence. My approach is toward narrative and understanding within a safe, dyadic relationship. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and judicious prescribing in a small, referral-based psychiatric private practice. I concurrently maintain a clinical faculty appointment at the University of Washington, am a clinical associate at the Seattle Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, and work as an attending psychiatrist at Overlake Medical Center.
I believe mental health results from a complex constellation of past and present interpersonal, intrapersonal, and bio-physiologic influence. My approach is toward narrative and understanding within a safe, dyadic relationship. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and judicious prescribing in a small, referral-based psychiatric private practice. I concurrently maintain a clinical faculty appointment at the University of Washington, am a clinical associate at the Seattle Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, and work as an attending psychiatrist at Overlake Medical Center.
(425) 276-1590 View (425) 276-1590
Photo of Massoud Stephane, MD, Psychiatrist
Massoud Stephane
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
Dr. Massoud Stephane is a Psychiatrist in Washington who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Stephane graduated from Damascus University Medical College and was trained in neurology at La Salpeteriere in Paris, France and in psychiatry at Tufts University and Yale University. He was also a research fellow in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Medical School where he was faculty for short time afterwards. Over his career span, he practiced psychiatry in the East Coast, Midwest, and West coast; and held professorial positions at the University of Minnesota, Indiana University and Oregon Health and Science University.
Dr. Massoud Stephane is a Psychiatrist in Washington who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Stephane graduated from Damascus University Medical College and was trained in neurology at La Salpeteriere in Paris, France and in psychiatry at Tufts University and Yale University. He was also a research fellow in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Medical School where he was faculty for short time afterwards. Over his career span, he practiced psychiatry in the East Coast, Midwest, and West coast; and held professorial positions at the University of Minnesota, Indiana University and Oregon Health and Science University.
(425) 510-0200 View (425) 510-0200
Photo of Sule Karakus, MD, Psychiatrist
Sule Karakus
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I obtained my medical degree from University of Istanbul Medical School. I completed my Psychiatry Specialization at Case Western Reserve University. I was the chief resident of the inpatient units at Harvard Medical School. I have held positions at Western State Hospital, Good Samaritan Behavioral Health and Navos Mental Health. I was a pediatric neurosurgeon previously and have vast experience working abroad in the international medical communities of Canada, Japan, Germany, France and Australia. I am fluent in English, German, French and Turkish. Services Offered: My focus will be on medication management.
I obtained my medical degree from University of Istanbul Medical School. I completed my Psychiatry Specialization at Case Western Reserve University. I was the chief resident of the inpatient units at Harvard Medical School. I have held positions at Western State Hospital, Good Samaritan Behavioral Health and Navos Mental Health. I was a pediatric neurosurgeon previously and have vast experience working abroad in the international medical communities of Canada, Japan, Germany, France and Australia. I am fluent in English, German, French and Turkish. Services Offered: My focus will be on medication management.
(425) 243-1078 View (425) 243-1078
Photo of Sam Mathew - Angels Psychiatry, MSN, PMHNP, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angels Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, MA
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
As a board certified mental health provider I guide clients in their mental health journeys with empathy and expertise. Through a patient-centric approach, I create a safe, non-judgmental environment where people feel comfortable expressing themselves. By combining evidence-based therapies like psychotherapy and medication management, I empower patients to overcome challenges and achieve well-being. I am dedicated to ongoing learning, keeping up with psychiatry advancements, and collaborating with fellow healthcare professionals for comprehensive care. Ultimately, I strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those I serve.
As a board certified mental health provider I guide clients in their mental health journeys with empathy and expertise. Through a patient-centric approach, I create a safe, non-judgmental environment where people feel comfortable expressing themselves. By combining evidence-based therapies like psychotherapy and medication management, I empower patients to overcome challenges and achieve well-being. I am dedicated to ongoing learning, keeping up with psychiatry advancements, and collaborating with fellow healthcare professionals for comprehensive care. Ultimately, I strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those I serve.
(425) 537-6287 View (425) 537-6287
Photo of R. Alexander Padilla - Radiant Path Psychiatry PLLC, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Radiant Path Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting New Patients: Controlled substances like Stimulants, Suboxone and Benzodiazepines are prescribed in this practice with DEA guidelines. I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years’ experience in healthcare. I treat Children ages from 8 years old up and Adults with a focus on Psychiatric Medication Management. I take a “start low and go slow” approach to prescribing, paying special attention to medication potency and potential interactions with other medications prescribed by other providers.
Accepting New Patients: Controlled substances like Stimulants, Suboxone and Benzodiazepines are prescribed in this practice with DEA guidelines. I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years’ experience in healthcare. I treat Children ages from 8 years old up and Adults with a focus on Psychiatric Medication Management. I take a “start low and go slow” approach to prescribing, paying special attention to medication potency and potential interactions with other medications prescribed by other providers.
(509) 204-8660 View (509) 204-8660
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
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.
(866) 610-4009 View (866) 610-4009
Photo of Dr. Abisola Onashile, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Abisola Onashile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
Imagine you're seeking effective treatment for issues impacting your well-being. You want support that goes beyond quick fixes—something that addresses your specific needs and goals. Whether it's managing stress, improving mood, or overcoming challenges, you're looking for a partner who can provide targeted care to help you achieve lasting results. My approach focuses on understanding your unique situation and delivering personalized treatment that empowers you to live a resilient and fulfilling life. Together, we'll navigate towards your desired outcomes, ensuring a supportive and transformative journey.
Imagine you're seeking effective treatment for issues impacting your well-being. You want support that goes beyond quick fixes—something that addresses your specific needs and goals. Whether it's managing stress, improving mood, or overcoming challenges, you're looking for a partner who can provide targeted care to help you achieve lasting results. My approach focuses on understanding your unique situation and delivering personalized treatment that empowers you to live a resilient and fulfilling life. Together, we'll navigate towards your desired outcomes, ensuring a supportive and transformative journey.
(360) 531-6483 View (360) 531-6483

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Tchido Yao - Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, WA 98198
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
(253) 243-0215 View (253) 243-0215
Photo of Sid Siahpush, MD, PhD, MPH, CGP, Psychiatrist
Sid Siahpush
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, MPH, CGP
Verified Verified
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, EVENING HOURS/WEEKENDS AVAILABLE. Do you seek a compassionate Psychiatrist who believes in a collaborative approach to improve your emotional and physical health? One who values your trust and forges a caring connection with you, to support your growth through the evidence-based conventional psychiatry and broader holistic approach? ** Hi, I am Dr. Sid. I work with my patients to find a well-rounded approach to emotional wellness that includes medication management, therapy, collaborating with your therapist, and strategies for engaging in balanced exercise, nutrition, and relationships.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, EVENING HOURS/WEEKENDS AVAILABLE. Do you seek a compassionate Psychiatrist who believes in a collaborative approach to improve your emotional and physical health? One who values your trust and forges a caring connection with you, to support your growth through the evidence-based conventional psychiatry and broader holistic approach? ** Hi, I am Dr. Sid. I work with my patients to find a well-rounded approach to emotional wellness that includes medication management, therapy, collaborating with your therapist, and strategies for engaging in balanced exercise, nutrition, and relationships.
(425) 620-2926 View (425) 620-2926
Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
(253) 553-3385 View (253) 553-3385
Photo of Natalie Dreyfoos, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natalie Dreyfoos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodinville, WA 98077
At Dockside Psychiatry Clinic, I offer compassionate care for ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, and the psychological impacts of cancer. I provide evidence-based, trauma-informed treatment, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and prescription adjustments, all tailored to your unique values and goals. I understand that reaching out can be challenging, and my aim is to create a supportive, welcoming space. Whether you’re managing complex mental health issues or seeking a trusted partner on your journey, I’m here to help you find greater resilience and well-being.
At Dockside Psychiatry Clinic, I offer compassionate care for ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, and the psychological impacts of cancer. I provide evidence-based, trauma-informed treatment, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and prescription adjustments, all tailored to your unique values and goals. I understand that reaching out can be challenging, and my aim is to create a supportive, welcoming space. Whether you’re managing complex mental health issues or seeking a trusted partner on your journey, I’m here to help you find greater resilience and well-being.
(425) 510-5571 View (425) 510-5571
Photo of Erin S McManus - McPsych, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
McPsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402
At McPsych, our journey together starts with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, where I take the time to understand you fully. This helps me make informed decisions about your diagnosis, and together, we'll explore medication management and therapy options that best suit your needs. With a background in pediatric nursing, I've dedicated many years to making a difference in the lives of children and young adults. Now, as a provider, I offer my services to individuals aged 10-55, addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, DMDD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and psychosis.
At McPsych, our journey together starts with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, where I take the time to understand you fully. This helps me make informed decisions about your diagnosis, and together, we'll explore medication management and therapy options that best suit your needs. With a background in pediatric nursing, I've dedicated many years to making a difference in the lives of children and young adults. Now, as a provider, I offer my services to individuals aged 10-55, addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, DMDD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and psychosis.
(206) 752-2556 View (206) 752-2556
Photo of Morna Agoki, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Morna Agoki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am accepting New Clients, Evening and Weekend appointments. I specialize in preteen, teen, and young adult education. Are You Struggling With: Difficulty sleeping? Issues with focus and concentration? Staying motivated or feeling sad? Feeling chronically tired with just enough energy for the essentials? To shower, eat, cook, or do your hair? Feeling overwhelmed and anxious? Easily upset without meaning to? Trouble interacting and engaging, feeling more isolated? Previous medication trials not working? Are any of these affecting you at school or work? I am here for you.
I am accepting New Clients, Evening and Weekend appointments. I specialize in preteen, teen, and young adult education. Are You Struggling With: Difficulty sleeping? Issues with focus and concentration? Staying motivated or feeling sad? Feeling chronically tired with just enough energy for the essentials? To shower, eat, cook, or do your hair? Feeling overwhelmed and anxious? Easily upset without meaning to? Trouble interacting and engaging, feeling more isolated? Previous medication trials not working? Are any of these affecting you at school or work? I am here for you.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Xue Geng, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Xue Geng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I have years of experience working with people suffering from mental health issues from various backgrounds. I specialize in treating adults over the age of 18 for mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD
I have years of experience working with people suffering from mental health issues from various backgrounds. I specialize in treating adults over the age of 18 for mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD
(206) 590-3653 x9198 View (206) 590-3653 x9198
Photo of Jessica H Gonzales, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica H Gonzales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. As an Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I see patients 18 yo and older, which means that in addition to other tools I've gained from my advanced training, I can prescribe medication when necessary. Medication management is an important component of what I do, and when it's needed, I work collaboratively to find a regimen that works best for you. When you come to me, you may have been working with another practitioner, tried a variety of other approaches, or may be taking a step toward treatment for the first time.
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. As an Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I see patients 18 yo and older, which means that in addition to other tools I've gained from my advanced training, I can prescribe medication when necessary. Medication management is an important component of what I do, and when it's needed, I work collaboratively to find a regimen that works best for you. When you come to me, you may have been working with another practitioner, tried a variety of other approaches, or may be taking a step toward treatment for the first time.
(425) 276-6294 View (425) 276-6294
Photo of Dr. Bunmi Aborisade, DNP, FNP-, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Bunmi Aborisade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Aborisade (AKA DR. B) is a doctoral-prepared, licensed, dual-board-certified family nurse and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Dr. Aborisade offers medication management and brief supportive therapy for clients facing ADHD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and more. Dr. Aborisade has worked in diverse areas such as primary care, outpatient psychiatric clinics, and retail.
Dr. Aborisade (AKA DR. B) is a doctoral-prepared, licensed, dual-board-certified family nurse and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Dr. Aborisade offers medication management and brief supportive therapy for clients facing ADHD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and more. Dr. Aborisade has worked in diverse areas such as primary care, outpatient psychiatric clinics, and retail.
(253) 470-2996 View (253) 470-2996
Photo of Shannon Troy Presler, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Troy Presler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I've worked in some facet of psychiatric care for over 16 years. Currently, I see patients in private practice, work weekend days at Harborview Medical Center in the psychiatric ER and teach a graduate course on psychopharmacology.
I've worked in some facet of psychiatric care for over 16 years. Currently, I see patients in private practice, work weekend days at Harborview Medical Center in the psychiatric ER and teach a graduate course on psychopharmacology.
(425) 276-7844 x1 View (425) 276-7844 x1
Francine Buckner
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, MS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98134
I offer counseling, psychotherapy, and medication management to adults of all ages and from all walks of life. My philosophy is that this kind of work is deeply collaborative and that the client and I work together as a team to help navigate whatever challenges they face with the clarity and resilience needed to flourish despite difficulty. I believe that the mind and body are deeply integrated and that both must be addressed in order to heal from difficulty and to face whatever challenges the future holds.
I offer counseling, psychotherapy, and medication management to adults of all ages and from all walks of life. My philosophy is that this kind of work is deeply collaborative and that the client and I work together as a team to help navigate whatever challenges they face with the clarity and resilience needed to flourish despite difficulty. I believe that the mind and body are deeply integrated and that both must be addressed in order to heal from difficulty and to face whatever challenges the future holds.
(206) 222-0340 View (206) 222-0340
Photo of Xin ' Carrie ' Wu, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Xin ' Carrie ' Wu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Tukwila, WA 98188
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 aim to help all my clients feel heard, supported, and inspired to better themselves. I work in collaboration with the patient to create a treatment plan. I am also happy to help with referrals—whatever it takes to help my clients achieve goals. I also offer flexible hours to all my clients.
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 aim to help all my clients feel heard, supported, and inspired to better themselves. I work in collaboration with the patient to create a treatment plan. I am also happy to help with referrals—whatever it takes to help my clients achieve goals. I also offer flexible hours to all my clients.
(206) 222-5035 View (206) 222-5035

See more therapy options for Medina

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Medina, WA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Medina, WA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
88% Depression
88% Psychosis

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% First Choice Health | FCH
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Medina, WA see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Male
34% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Medina?

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.