Psychiatrists in Olympia, WA
![Photo of Rachael Daniel - Anywhere Wellness Depression Medications -Rachael , APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8292e366-c84c-4df4-be2a-3ecf1288cb5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anywhere Wellness Depression Medications -Rachael
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98504 (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed? Facing challenges at work, home, or in relationships? I provide safe, trusting, warm, non-judgmental counseling. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I value mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity, and compassion. Together, we can address your concerns in a private, supportive space. I offer medication management with counseling.
Feeling overwhelmed? Facing challenges at work, home, or in relationships? I provide safe, trusting, warm, non-judgmental counseling. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I value mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity, and compassion. Together, we can address your concerns in a private, supportive space. I offer medication management with counseling.
![Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db6dee23-a1c3-461a-ba21-8b376c0d83eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501 (Online Only)
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
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53c6d4bd-e4f9-4940-8ad0-f9baea0687aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: 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 holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
![Photo of Temitope Abiola Dawodu - Pathway Virtu-Health, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63ca21c3-9cf5-4745-b67f-5c6e80139d75/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pathway Virtu-Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98504
Our ideal client is any one seeking answers about their mental or emotional health. We can help create a treatment plan together to help you achieve your personal goals.
Our ideal client is any one seeking answers about their mental or emotional health. We can help create a treatment plan together to help you achieve your personal goals.
![Photo of Edward Rosanski, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55681ecc-9e50-47ee-a370-089ff263b07f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edward Rosanski is a Nurse Practitioner in Arizona who has been practicing since 1996. Edward believes in a collaborative approach for medication management. Outside of work, Edward enjoys stained glass, glass fusing, woodworking, golf, and blues music.
Edward Rosanski is a Nurse Practitioner in Arizona who has been practicing since 1996. Edward believes in a collaborative approach for medication management. Outside of work, Edward enjoys stained glass, glass fusing, woodworking, golf, and blues music.
![Photo of Linda Kellams-Keith, ARNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71c4cab2-6a80-4026-b3c7-50059f859ad2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Kellams-Keith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in this specialty for over 20 years. My office is a warm and welcoming place and my goal is to ensure that my clients feel safe and heard. However, I am not accepting new clients at this time.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in this specialty for over 20 years. My office is a warm and welcoming place and my goal is to ensure that my clients feel safe and heard. However, I am not accepting new clients at this time.
![Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry , DNP , PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/495443f6-7546-459b-be8d-cf7b3c12eadb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502 (Online Only)
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
![Photo of Christle Stanton, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdbac110-4aee-4e8c-bead-249b4781a278/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christle Stanton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Christle and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Christle is a board-certified Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her healthcare career over 15 years ago as a registered nurse. She then obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in family medicine in 2012. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Christle and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Christle is a board-certified Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her healthcare career over 15 years ago as a registered nurse. She then obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in family medicine in 2012. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
![Photo of James McLemore, ARNP, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1956289c-0e38-4738-89ec-1334326f51c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to provide quality mental health medication management services to the residents of Washington State in an accessible manner. I work primarily with adults and have experience in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of mental health concerns, if you have specific questions or concerns please reach out and we can discuss this. I am an Army Veteran and so can relate to the experience of former and current service members. It is my goal to provide comprehensive care to those with whom i work and ensure that all of their concerns are heard and addressed.
My goal is to provide quality mental health medication management services to the residents of Washington State in an accessible manner. I work primarily with adults and have experience in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of mental health concerns, if you have specific questions or concerns please reach out and we can discuss this. I am an Army Veteran and so can relate to the experience of former and current service members. It is my goal to provide comprehensive care to those with whom i work and ensure that all of their concerns are heard and addressed.
![Photo of Donna Elam, MPA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53c4a236-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking services for mental health support is an important decision. My purpose in doing this work of psychiatry is to provide clarity and understanding of symptoms that interrupt function and compromise quality of life. It is with this purpose that we, together, devise strategies for raising stress tolerance, setting attainable goals and reaching them. Since 1990 I have been working in health care, from holistic beginnings in massage therapy and nutrition, to addiction medicine, family medicine and migrant health, and now psychiatry and behavioral medicine. I am a Psychiatric Physician Associate.
Seeking services for mental health support is an important decision. My purpose in doing this work of psychiatry is to provide clarity and understanding of symptoms that interrupt function and compromise quality of life. It is with this purpose that we, together, devise strategies for raising stress tolerance, setting attainable goals and reaching them. Since 1990 I have been working in health care, from holistic beginnings in massage therapy and nutrition, to addiction medicine, family medicine and migrant health, and now psychiatry and behavioral medicine. I am a Psychiatric Physician Associate.
![Photo of Mary Fredericks, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbd20e06-2798-4552-b5a1-6aae6d67df60/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Fredericks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502 (Online Only)
Mary Fredericks is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing. Mary has several years of experience in the healthcare field and has an extensive background in Emergency Medicine. She has spent the last 10 years in psychiatry working with both inpatient and outpatient clients. Her experience includes but is not limited to: the assessment and treatment of depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
Mary Fredericks is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing. Mary has several years of experience in the healthcare field and has an extensive background in Emergency Medicine. She has spent the last 10 years in psychiatry working with both inpatient and outpatient clients. Her experience includes but is not limited to: the assessment and treatment of depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
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Ann Song
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502
Not accepting new clients
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I aim to work collaboratively with clients on their journey to wellness. We work together through evaluation and assessment to clarify depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I aim to work collaboratively with clients on their journey to wellness. We work together through evaluation and assessment to clarify depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders.
![Photo of Diana Wilcox - ClearTMS+, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10d9ba3e-9488-4d4e-9907-e76e86632948/2/320x400.png)
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression or other mental health challenges? We understand how difficult it can be to find a treatment that works for you. But there's no need to lose hope. TMS Therapy is an FDA-approved, revolutionary, and non-invasive solution that can help you unlock a brighter tomorrow. At ClearTMS+, we believe in transforming minds and elevating lives. That's why we offer a personalized, safe, and effective approach that can help you revitalize your well-being. We understand that every journey to mental health is unique, which is why we tailor our therapy to meet your specific needs. With TMS Therapy, you can elevate your mood, restore balance, and rediscover the joy of living. Experience the transformative power of non-invasive technology and embrace a brighter, healthier tomorrow. Schedule a TMS therapy consultation with us today and join the journey to mental well-being.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression or other mental health challenges? We understand how difficult it can be to find a treatment that works for you. But there's no need to lose hope. TMS Therapy is an FDA-approved, revolutionary, and non-invasive solution that can help you unlock a brighter tomorrow. At ClearTMS+, we believe in transforming minds and elevating lives. That's why we offer a personalized, safe, and effective approach that can help you revitalize your well-being. We understand that every journey to mental health is unique, which is why we tailor our therapy to meet your specific needs. With TMS Therapy, you can elevate your mood, restore balance, and rediscover the joy of living. Experience the transformative power of non-invasive technology and embrace a brighter, healthier tomorrow. Schedule a TMS therapy consultation with us today and join the journey to mental well-being.
![Photo of Jasmine Zaman - Traverse Therapy Services, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c20f522-dd81-4f7f-b7f3-adf1c1a099d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! We are accepting new clients with immediate availability. Jasmine Zaman is a board-certified Physician Assistant providing care to patients in Washington State via telehealth. Jasmine is passionate about mental health and working with underserved communities. She believes that access to high quality, affordable care is an essential foundation for improving our physical, mental, and emotional health. Her goal is to build a trusting, honest, and judgement free environment for her patients.
Welcome! We are accepting new clients with immediate availability. Jasmine Zaman is a board-certified Physician Assistant providing care to patients in Washington State via telehealth. Jasmine is passionate about mental health and working with underserved communities. She believes that access to high quality, affordable care is an essential foundation for improving our physical, mental, and emotional health. Her goal is to build a trusting, honest, and judgement free environment for her patients.
![Photo of Harvey Hall, PMHNP, FNP-C, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00a49ee2-4086-4a88-a7b6-365f315d78fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients, even on Saturday and can see patients through Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine, and we do have some evening appts available as well. Trained as a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. Master’s trained from the University of Cincinnati and Touro University; also have degrees from Pacific Lutheran University in Nursing and the University of Oklahoma. I have a background in military medicine, and have served populations that have been diverse and underserved. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working with social workers and caregivers for and in behalf of foster children.
Accepting New Patients, even on Saturday and can see patients through Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine, and we do have some evening appts available as well. Trained as a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. Master’s trained from the University of Cincinnati and Touro University; also have degrees from Pacific Lutheran University in Nursing and the University of Oklahoma. I have a background in military medicine, and have served populations that have been diverse and underserved. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working with social workers and caregivers for and in behalf of foster children.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bf6c510-1d9e-4b5f-be28-0034454182dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Claire A Tilley, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9b90a9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Claire A Tilley
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and earned my Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from The University of Washington. The services I provide include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, evidence-based medication management, and supportive therapy. I am experienced in helping people with anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, panic disorders, OCD, PTSD & bipolar disorders. I appreciate the unique strengths and insights that all people develop through their life experiences.
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and earned my Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from The University of Washington. The services I provide include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, evidence-based medication management, and supportive therapy. I am experienced in helping people with anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, panic disorders, OCD, PTSD & bipolar disorders. I appreciate the unique strengths and insights that all people develop through their life experiences.
![Photo of Andrea Wright - Wright Mind Family Psychiatry, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90d9c09c-4986-46e1-9e00-8868fbe90d9a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Wright Mind Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98516
Andrea Wright is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who has a gift when it comes to connecting with almost everyone she meets; children and teens actually WANT to talk to "dree". Her energy, compassionate heart, and contagious sense of humor make everyone feel exceptionally comfortable and accepted. Do you wonder if your child has ADHD? Is your teen depressed or anxious? Are you wondering if unresolved trauma is causing you to fear getting close to people? Maybe you have been told you get "too" close. Dree is a licensed and skilled prescriber of psychotropic medications. 712-209-4958. www.wrightmindtherapy.com
Andrea Wright is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who has a gift when it comes to connecting with almost everyone she meets; children and teens actually WANT to talk to "dree". Her energy, compassionate heart, and contagious sense of humor make everyone feel exceptionally comfortable and accepted. Do you wonder if your child has ADHD? Is your teen depressed or anxious? Are you wondering if unresolved trauma is causing you to fear getting close to people? Maybe you have been told you get "too" close. Dree is a licensed and skilled prescriber of psychotropic medications. 712-209-4958. www.wrightmindtherapy.com
![Photo of Kristen Pace, MSN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9433e0ec-9f02-4eab-9d49-620f67a24743/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing from Seattle University. I have experience working with diverse client populations in both inpatient and outpatient settings and strive to create an environment of collaboration and acceptance. I focus on a holistic, client-centered approach and have training in both trauma-informed care and motivational interviewing. I use an individualized approach focused on evidence-based practice to assist clients in their recovery and wellness journeys.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing from Seattle University. I have experience working with diverse client populations in both inpatient and outpatient settings and strive to create an environment of collaboration and acceptance. I focus on a holistic, client-centered approach and have training in both trauma-informed care and motivational interviewing. I use an individualized approach focused on evidence-based practice to assist clients in their recovery and wellness journeys.
![Photo of Harvey William Hall - Genuine Healthcare, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12fb8141-c7af-4d58-b554-761b8f24a497/2/320x400.png)
Now accepting new patients! Genuine Healthcare is proud to serve a diverse population of mental health clients. We see patients from all walks of life and in all age groups, providing support for children as young as six years old. By offering our appointments both in person or via telemedicine, we are able to serve a wider community across the state of Washington. We value the importance of building a strong patient-provider relationship, which is why we have four providers from various backgrounds so that you may find one who fits your specific needs. To explore our providers' bios, visit the About Us section of our website.
Now accepting new patients! Genuine Healthcare is proud to serve a diverse population of mental health clients. We see patients from all walks of life and in all age groups, providing support for children as young as six years old. By offering our appointments both in person or via telemedicine, we are able to serve a wider community across the state of Washington. We value the importance of building a strong patient-provider relationship, which is why we have four providers from various backgrounds so that you may find one who fits your specific needs. To explore our providers' bios, visit the About Us section of our website.
See more therapy options for Olympia
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Olympia, WA
60+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Olympia, WA who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
87% | Medication Management |
81% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | ADHD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
78% | Aetna |
78% | Regence |
76% | First Choice Health | FCH |
How Psychiatrists in Olympia, WA see their clients
51% | In Person and Online | |
49% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Olympia?
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.