Psychiatrists in Mercer Island, WA

Rebekah Vigileos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040
Rebekah is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner from Mercer Island, Washington. She has a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Western Washington University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, Rebekah is an outspoken advocate for social justice and equality and has worked with several nonprofits including those that manage food and clothing donations, connect individuals to community resources, and serve migrant populations.
Rebekah is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner from Mercer Island, Washington. She has a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Western Washington University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, Rebekah is an outspoken advocate for social justice and equality and has worked with several nonprofits including those that manage food and clothing donations, connect individuals to community resources, and serve migrant populations.

Hello! I am a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2022. I provide inclusive, patient-centered care. Patient demographics-20s to 40s. I care for patients in alternative lifestyles polyamory and other underserved populations. Practice largely focuses on PTSD, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, Anxiety, and Trauma. I empower informed decisions & holistic treatment (meds, therapy, lifestyle changes). Telehealth M-F evenings & Sun GA & WA licensed. I do not prescribe controlled substances.
Hello! I am a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2022. I provide inclusive, patient-centered care. Patient demographics-20s to 40s. I care for patients in alternative lifestyles polyamory and other underserved populations. Practice largely focuses on PTSD, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, Anxiety, and Trauma. I empower informed decisions & holistic treatment (meds, therapy, lifestyle changes). Telehealth M-F evenings & Sun GA & WA licensed. I do not prescribe controlled substances.

**Currently accepting patients for telemedicine/teletherapy only** I'm experienced with a broad range of psychiatric conditions but, have particular focus in the areas of bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD and post-traumatic stress. I believe in a multi-faceted approach to care and often recommend elements of lifestyle modification, nutrition/supplementation, mindfulness and mind-body practices, in addition to psychotherapy and prescription medication. I try to emphasize a collaborative treatment approach, involving the patient and their entire healthcare team to optimize treatment efficacy and quality of care.
**Currently accepting patients for telemedicine/teletherapy only** I'm experienced with a broad range of psychiatric conditions but, have particular focus in the areas of bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD and post-traumatic stress. I believe in a multi-faceted approach to care and often recommend elements of lifestyle modification, nutrition/supplementation, mindfulness and mind-body practices, in addition to psychotherapy and prescription medication. I try to emphasize a collaborative treatment approach, involving the patient and their entire healthcare team to optimize treatment efficacy and quality of care.

Tranquility Center for Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a doctorally trained, dual-board certified, Nurse Practitioner in both psychiatry and family practice, I bring a comprehensive perspective to mental health care. I believe everyone deserves to feel happy, healthy, and fulfilled that is free from fear, stress, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts and behaviors. A combination of conventional and complementary approach to wellness, allows for whole mind-body health. I offer a supportive and confidential space for clients to explore their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, developing strategies to address your total wellness.
As a doctorally trained, dual-board certified, Nurse Practitioner in both psychiatry and family practice, I bring a comprehensive perspective to mental health care. I believe everyone deserves to feel happy, healthy, and fulfilled that is free from fear, stress, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts and behaviors. A combination of conventional and complementary approach to wellness, allows for whole mind-body health. I offer a supportive and confidential space for clients to explore their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, developing strategies to address your total wellness.

Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma | Mercie Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040
Have you ever wondered why your anxiety doesn't seem to be getting better? Everyone literally does not fit in the same box of medications. I take detailed history and come up with a treatment plan if needed to better meet your mental health needs. I just need you to trust the process. My comprehensive approach to patient care, which ! My name is Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I welcome all local and virtual patients to my wellness practice to address the real issue affecting your mental health and we can both address any challenges related to your mental.
Have you ever wondered why your anxiety doesn't seem to be getting better? Everyone literally does not fit in the same box of medications. I take detailed history and come up with a treatment plan if needed to better meet your mental health needs. I just need you to trust the process. My comprehensive approach to patient care, which ! My name is Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I welcome all local and virtual patients to my wellness practice to address the real issue affecting your mental health and we can both address any challenges related to your mental.

I am a Korean American Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experiences with PTSD, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ASD Autism Spectrum Disorder Evaluation, and other behavioral or mental health issues. I truly believe that the brain and body work together when outside forces such as trauma, stress, or injury occur. The mind will go into a survival mode, which can trigger mental and physical symptoms. Mental illness can come to anyone and at any time.
I am a Korean American Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experiences with PTSD, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ASD Autism Spectrum Disorder Evaluation, and other behavioral or mental health issues. I truly believe that the brain and body work together when outside forces such as trauma, stress, or injury occur. The mind will go into a survival mode, which can trigger mental and physical symptoms. Mental illness can come to anyone and at any time.

I attended undergraduate at the University of California, Berkeley where I double majored in Psychology and Integrative Biology. I went to the Mayo Clinic for medical school in 2006. I loved my time at Mayo, especially my classmates and studying medicine. My most cherished rotation was, of course, psychiatry, and I chose a psychiatry residency at the University of Washington in Seattle. At the UW, I was chief resident of the outpatient clinic and I founded the psychotherapy career track.
I attended undergraduate at the University of California, Berkeley where I double majored in Psychology and Integrative Biology. I went to the Mayo Clinic for medical school in 2006. I loved my time at Mayo, especially my classmates and studying medicine. My most cherished rotation was, of course, psychiatry, and I chose a psychiatry residency at the University of Washington in Seattle. At the UW, I was chief resident of the outpatient clinic and I founded the psychotherapy career track.

Nakyung (Lisa) Choe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040
I am a Korean American Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experiences with PTSD, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and other behavioral or mental health issues. As a US Army Veteran myself, I truly believe that the brain and body work together when outside forces such as trauma, stress, or injury occur. The mind will go into a survival mode, which can trigger mental and physical symptoms. Mental illness can come to anyone and at any time.
I am a Korean American Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experiences with PTSD, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and other behavioral or mental health issues. As a US Army Veteran myself, I truly believe that the brain and body work together when outside forces such as trauma, stress, or injury occur. The mind will go into a survival mode, which can trigger mental and physical symptoms. Mental illness can come to anyone and at any time.

Krista Meeks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I will work with you to diagnose and explore solutions and medication management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, disordered eating, OCD, ADHD, ASD, dissociative disorders, substance use disorders, and other mental health challenges. I believe that there is depth and dimension in someone’s unique story, and I aim to consider a broader picture, and a fuller understanding of a person and their struggles as we collaborate to create an individual treatment plan.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I will work with you to diagnose and explore solutions and medication management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, disordered eating, OCD, ADHD, ASD, dissociative disorders, substance use disorders, and other mental health challenges. I believe that there is depth and dimension in someone’s unique story, and I aim to consider a broader picture, and a fuller understanding of a person and their struggles as we collaborate to create an individual treatment plan.

February 12th, 2025: I am currently accepting new patients. Create your own new appointment to see me using our Patient Portal: (AspenPsychiatry.clientsecure.me) - Alternatively, to have us schedule you, call or email: 847-909-6575 available 8am - 8pm CST - Aspen Psychiatry
February 12th, 2025: I am currently accepting new patients. Create your own new appointment to see me using our Patient Portal: (AspenPsychiatry.clientsecure.me) - Alternatively, to have us schedule you, call or email: 847-909-6575 available 8am - 8pm CST - Aspen Psychiatry

I'm Annika Alvarez, a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate care for adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and schizophrenia. I believe in a holistic approach, integrating weight management and recognizing the strong connection between mental and physical health. I'm here to support your journey to a healthier, happier you.
I'm Annika Alvarez, a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate care for adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and schizophrenia. I believe in a holistic approach, integrating weight management and recognizing the strong connection between mental and physical health. I'm here to support your journey to a healthier, happier you.

Hello! I am accepting new clients, having recently moved to Seattle. As an adult, adolescent & child psychiatrist, I am privileged to work with individuals of all ages. If you or your child struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship conflicts, professional and academic concerns, existential distress or similar issues, then consider this a safe harbor. A place based on mutual respect, compassion, patience, and unconditional regard.
Hello! I am accepting new clients, having recently moved to Seattle. As an adult, adolescent & child psychiatrist, I am privileged to work with individuals of all ages. If you or your child struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship conflicts, professional and academic concerns, existential distress or similar issues, then consider this a safe harbor. A place based on mutual respect, compassion, patience, and unconditional regard.

If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? How do I even KNOW what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.
If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? How do I even KNOW what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.

Maricopa Christian Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Mrs. Tenishia Santiago is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management with psychotherapy to ages seven and older. She is passionate about mental health and specializes in attention difficulties, mood challenges, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders, sleep, and trauma. Afternoon/Evening Appointments are available. Our goal is to provide you and your family with non-judgmental high-quality evidence-based care. Christian values can be incorporated into your care if you wish. Call us today or leave your contact information on our website: www.mcpgpsychiatry.com.
Mrs. Tenishia Santiago is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management with psychotherapy to ages seven and older. She is passionate about mental health and specializes in attention difficulties, mood challenges, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders, sleep, and trauma. Afternoon/Evening Appointments are available. Our goal is to provide you and your family with non-judgmental high-quality evidence-based care. Christian values can be incorporated into your care if you wish. Call us today or leave your contact information on our website: www.mcpgpsychiatry.com.

Dr. Emma Nauman @Prisma Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I'm Emma! I'm a Doctorate level Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I focused my Doctoral research on behavioral interventions for substance use and I believe that success in mental healthcare comes from shared decision making, treating you as a whole individual and creating sustainable treatment plans for a lifelong change. I was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest and I am a long-time resident of Seattle. I have worked extensively in community mental health and homeless services and I have addressed a wide range of mental health concerns from my past work as a case manager and registered nurse.
Hello, I'm Emma! I'm a Doctorate level Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I focused my Doctoral research on behavioral interventions for substance use and I believe that success in mental healthcare comes from shared decision making, treating you as a whole individual and creating sustainable treatment plans for a lifelong change. I was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest and I am a long-time resident of Seattle. I have worked extensively in community mental health and homeless services and I have addressed a wide range of mental health concerns from my past work as a case manager and registered nurse.

I believe mental health results from a complex constellation of past and present interpersonal, intrapersonal, and biologic influence. While medication management alone is sometimes sufficient for targeted symptom alleviation, transformation of the self requires substantially more time. My approach is toward narrative and understanding within a safe, two-person relationship. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and judicious prescribing in a small, referral-based private practice.
I believe mental health results from a complex constellation of past and present interpersonal, intrapersonal, and biologic influence. While medication management alone is sometimes sufficient for targeted symptom alleviation, transformation of the self requires substantially more time. My approach is toward narrative and understanding within a safe, two-person relationship. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and judicious prescribing in a small, referral-based private practice.

Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child/Adolescent Fellowship. I can easily connect with teenagers and young adults, while also staying up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child/Adolescent Fellowship. I can easily connect with teenagers and young adults, while also staying up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.

I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes a holistic approach to treating patients. I recognize that people are more than of their parts. Maximizing wellness is the goal when working with clients, and to this end, exploration into complex biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors is important to gain a full view of the client's needs. Clients often seek mental health treatment to alleviate distress. It is incumbent on the provider to work with clients to uncover sources of distress and develop actionable means to empower clients to improve their lives.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes a holistic approach to treating patients. I recognize that people are more than of their parts. Maximizing wellness is the goal when working with clients, and to this end, exploration into complex biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors is important to gain a full view of the client's needs. Clients often seek mental health treatment to alleviate distress. It is incumbent on the provider to work with clients to uncover sources of distress and develop actionable means to empower clients to improve their lives.

I am seeing new and existing clients via telehealth. I believe in collaborating with parents, family, and other mental health professionals to bring a team of support and care to my patients. I offer psychiatric consultations, psychiatric evaluations, and medication management. I treat patients of most ages, ranging from young children (4 and up) to adolescents and adults. **Please note, I do not treat addiction or substance abuse. To learn more about my treatment philosophy and determine if I would be a good fit for your needs, please visit my personal webpage.
I am seeing new and existing clients via telehealth. I believe in collaborating with parents, family, and other mental health professionals to bring a team of support and care to my patients. I offer psychiatric consultations, psychiatric evaluations, and medication management. I treat patients of most ages, ranging from young children (4 and up) to adolescents and adults. **Please note, I do not treat addiction or substance abuse. To learn more about my treatment philosophy and determine if I would be a good fit for your needs, please visit my personal webpage.

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.
See more therapy options for Mercer Island
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mercer Island, WA
20+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Mercer Island, WA who prioritize treating:
91% | Depression |
91% | Anxiety |
78% | ADHD |
78% | Medication Management |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Bipolar Disorder |
61% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
69% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Mercer Island, WA see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
55% | Female | |
45% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mercer Island?
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.