Psychiatrists in Puyallup, WA

I am board-certified to evaluate and diagnose all ages and stages from ages 6-99 years old. I specialize in diagnosing and managing psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, sleep disorders, PTSd, OCD, and more. I wholeheartedly believe that mental health is cohesive with all other aspects of life and thus examines the patient's environmental, social, emotional, and situational health to appropriately guide them in sustaining and obtaining holistic well-being
I am board-certified to evaluate and diagnose all ages and stages from ages 6-99 years old. I specialize in diagnosing and managing psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, sleep disorders, PTSd, OCD, and more. I wholeheartedly believe that mental health is cohesive with all other aspects of life and thus examines the patient's environmental, social, emotional, and situational health to appropriately guide them in sustaining and obtaining holistic well-being

Samuel Mugo, ARNP, PMHNP-BC, is a well experienced board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over 15 years of psychiatric nursing experience, Samuel has obtained skills from various areas, including Forensic units, Gero psych units, inpatient psychiatric units, drug and alcohol treatment center, critical care, Nursing home, assisted living facilities, group homes and adult family home facilities. Samuel Specializes in the treatment of both Chronic and Acute mental illness in both children and adults from diverse cultures, He utilizes skills such as medication management and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Samuel Mugo, ARNP, PMHNP-BC, is a well experienced board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over 15 years of psychiatric nursing experience, Samuel has obtained skills from various areas, including Forensic units, Gero psych units, inpatient psychiatric units, drug and alcohol treatment center, critical care, Nursing home, assisted living facilities, group homes and adult family home facilities. Samuel Specializes in the treatment of both Chronic and Acute mental illness in both children and adults from diverse cultures, He utilizes skills such as medication management and cognitive behavioral therapy.

I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.

Fortitude Psychiatric Supportive Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Puyallup, WA 98375
Clients experiencing anxiety, general anxiety, social anxiety, depression, sleep problems, mood swings, anger, agitation, body image problems, concentration and focus difficulties, panic attacks, sexual dysfunction, decreased libido, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) may benefit from board certified psychiatric medication management. Clients choose FORTITUDE Psychiatric Supportive Services, LLC for it's location, access to appointments, and attentiveness of our providers.
Clients experiencing anxiety, general anxiety, social anxiety, depression, sleep problems, mood swings, anger, agitation, body image problems, concentration and focus difficulties, panic attacks, sexual dysfunction, decreased libido, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) may benefit from board certified psychiatric medication management. Clients choose FORTITUDE Psychiatric Supportive Services, LLC for it's location, access to appointments, and attentiveness of our providers.

My passion for psychiatry stems from a deep desire to undesrtand the complexities of the human mind and provide compassionate care to individuals navigating mental health challenges. desire to help those who have become incapacitated is rooted in lending a helping hand through dedicated active listening, providing evidenced- based treatment and empowering patients to achieve meaningful recovery. I am particularly drawn to the collaborative nature of psychiatric practice, where building strong therapeutic relationships is crucial for fostering resilience and promoting overall wellbeing.
My passion for psychiatry stems from a deep desire to undesrtand the complexities of the human mind and provide compassionate care to individuals navigating mental health challenges. desire to help those who have become incapacitated is rooted in lending a helping hand through dedicated active listening, providing evidenced- based treatment and empowering patients to achieve meaningful recovery. I am particularly drawn to the collaborative nature of psychiatric practice, where building strong therapeutic relationships is crucial for fostering resilience and promoting overall wellbeing.

I am Dr. Veronica Forchu. I earned my Doctorate of Nursing Practice from UMass Global California with specialty in Psychiatry and Mental Health Across the Lifespan. I also earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Chamberlain College of Nursing Ohio. I have experience in case management, serving patients of different age groups in home health, palliative care and hospice, managing anxiety, depression, dementia, psychotic episodes and pain at end-of-life. I bring with me over 10 years of experience working with patients and providing emotional support to their families and loved ones dealing with loss & grief.
I am Dr. Veronica Forchu. I earned my Doctorate of Nursing Practice from UMass Global California with specialty in Psychiatry and Mental Health Across the Lifespan. I also earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Chamberlain College of Nursing Ohio. I have experience in case management, serving patients of different age groups in home health, palliative care and hospice, managing anxiety, depression, dementia, psychotic episodes and pain at end-of-life. I bring with me over 10 years of experience working with patients and providing emotional support to their families and loved ones dealing with loss & grief.

There is no one who does not struggle with different mental health issues that are driven by different pressures, problems, or expectations, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, grief, or a combination of different mental health issues. Please schedule your visit today, copy and paste this to your browser www.live-well-psychiatry.com and you will be directed to my website or simply click the website tab below my photo. I have partnered with Mindful Therapy Group for scheduling and billing. To schedule an appointment, please call WA: (425) 640-7009 x1
There is no one who does not struggle with different mental health issues that are driven by different pressures, problems, or expectations, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, grief, or a combination of different mental health issues. Please schedule your visit today, copy and paste this to your browser www.live-well-psychiatry.com and you will be directed to my website or simply click the website tab below my photo. I have partnered with Mindful Therapy Group for scheduling and billing. To schedule an appointment, please call WA: (425) 640-7009 x1

I am dedicated and compassionate about providing comprehensive care. I am board-certified and focused on providing holistic, patient-centered, and culturally responsive mental health care. I can help educate patients on medication treatment options and offer them a treatment plan that will best suit their needs to manage their most distressing symptoms while minimizing unwanted side effects. I am proficient in medication management across the lifespan. I am comfortable treating a wide range of disorders, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorde, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions.
I am dedicated and compassionate about providing comprehensive care. I am board-certified and focused on providing holistic, patient-centered, and culturally responsive mental health care. I can help educate patients on medication treatment options and offer them a treatment plan that will best suit their needs to manage their most distressing symptoms while minimizing unwanted side effects. I am proficient in medication management across the lifespan. I am comfortable treating a wide range of disorders, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorde, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions.

Some areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and general life stressors. During our in-person initial intake - We will meet, go over intake questions, discuss your thoughts/needs/goals and work together to discover how to proceed forward. Time is precious and I value your time.
Some areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and general life stressors. During our in-person initial intake - We will meet, go over intake questions, discuss your thoughts/needs/goals and work together to discover how to proceed forward. Time is precious and I value your time.

Seeking mental health support is a courageous step toward a more balanced and fulfilling life, and I am committed to guiding you through that process. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep understanding of neurodiversity, informed by my own experiences as a neurodivergent individual. This perspective enables me to provide compassionate, tailored care that empowers adults to navigate their unique challenges and strengths.
Seeking mental health support is a courageous step toward a more balanced and fulfilling life, and I am committed to guiding you through that process. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep understanding of neurodiversity, informed by my own experiences as a neurodivergent individual. This perspective enables me to provide compassionate, tailored care that empowers adults to navigate their unique challenges and strengths.

I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with prescriptive authority in Washington State. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psycho-education, and supportive counseling. My past clients have experienced treatment that is client-centered, evidence-based and has a humanistic approach that recognizes the uniqueness of all individuals. I am a compassionate provider and believe in working with clients to find a plan that will respect the client’s individual goals, beliefs, and lifestyle. Additionally, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults for 24 years.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with prescriptive authority in Washington State. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psycho-education, and supportive counseling. My past clients have experienced treatment that is client-centered, evidence-based and has a humanistic approach that recognizes the uniqueness of all individuals. I am a compassionate provider and believe in working with clients to find a plan that will respect the client’s individual goals, beliefs, and lifestyle. Additionally, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults for 24 years.

Adrianne Papoff-Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
I am a Telehealth provider in the state of Washington and am also licensed in the state of Alaska. I offer psychiatric medication management and weight loss coaching services. I believe in treating the whole person, not the disease process. I take into account your whole life and how we can use medication and/or therapy to help you achieve your goals. I look forward to meeting you and seeing how I can be of help. I am currently accepting new patients for medication management and weight loss coaching/therapy. I am currently not accepting new Apple Health Clients.
I am a Telehealth provider in the state of Washington and am also licensed in the state of Alaska. I offer psychiatric medication management and weight loss coaching services. I believe in treating the whole person, not the disease process. I take into account your whole life and how we can use medication and/or therapy to help you achieve your goals. I look forward to meeting you and seeing how I can be of help. I am currently accepting new patients for medication management and weight loss coaching/therapy. I am currently not accepting new Apple Health Clients.

As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing psychiatric illnesses with an integrative, personalized approach. While I can prescribe medications, my care goes beyond traditional psychiatry to include a holistic view of your overall health.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing psychiatric illnesses with an integrative, personalized approach. While I can prescribe medications, my care goes beyond traditional psychiatry to include a holistic view of your overall health.

My mission as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to deliver compassionate and comprehensive care, promoting holistic wellness and empowering patients to achieve their highest level of functioning. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment, ultimately making a meaningful impact on the lives of those I serve." I provide consultations that can take more than 15 minutes if needed
My mission as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to deliver compassionate and comprehensive care, promoting holistic wellness and empowering patients to achieve their highest level of functioning. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment, ultimately making a meaningful impact on the lives of those I serve." I provide consultations that can take more than 15 minutes if needed

I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 10 years of diverse experience in mental health. I am here for you or your loved one with comprehensive and compassionate care. Every client is unique. Therefore, my approach is one that creates individualized treatment plans to meet every individual's needs by providing client-centered care using an evidence-based approach.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 10 years of diverse experience in mental health. I am here for you or your loved one with comprehensive and compassionate care. Every client is unique. Therefore, my approach is one that creates individualized treatment plans to meet every individual's needs by providing client-centered care using an evidence-based approach.

Our mission is to provide a path to remission for patients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD, among other things. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to overcome depression and we strive to provide the most relevant and effective care under the leadership of Dr. Kris Peterson (our Psychiatrist & Medical Director), a Retired Army Colonel who served for 25 years. Before returning to civilian work, Dr. Peterson was the chief of Psychiatry at Madigan Army Medical Center and has been an ally to both civilian and military patients for nearly 3 decades.
Our mission is to provide a path to remission for patients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD, among other things. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to overcome depression and we strive to provide the most relevant and effective care under the leadership of Dr. Kris Peterson (our Psychiatrist & Medical Director), a Retired Army Colonel who served for 25 years. Before returning to civilian work, Dr. Peterson was the chief of Psychiatry at Madigan Army Medical Center and has been an ally to both civilian and military patients for nearly 3 decades.

I am a licensed and certified psychiatric Nurse practitioner treating patients who are at least 15 years (15 years to 75 years). I provide comprehensive online psychiatry services (telehealth), 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 mental services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. Currently accepting new clients for psychiatric evaluation, medication management and individual therapy, You can book a video appointment right now.
I am a licensed and certified psychiatric Nurse practitioner treating patients who are at least 15 years (15 years to 75 years). I provide comprehensive online psychiatry services (telehealth), 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 mental services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. Currently accepting new clients for psychiatric evaluation, medication management and individual therapy, You can book a video appointment right now.

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.

Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.

Now enrolling new clients, flexible scheduling, provide telepsychiatry/ telehealth. Dr. Millicent Mbua holds dual board certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. Graduated from University of Washington with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in family later completed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program from the University of New Hampshire. I specialize in providing psychiatric healthcare, medication management and psychoeducation as well as connecting clients to resources available in their communities to support their journey towards healing and optimal wellness.
Now enrolling new clients, flexible scheduling, provide telepsychiatry/ telehealth. Dr. Millicent Mbua holds dual board certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. Graduated from University of Washington with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in family later completed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program from the University of New Hampshire. I specialize in providing psychiatric healthcare, medication management and psychoeducation as well as connecting clients to resources available in their communities to support their journey towards healing and optimal wellness.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Puyallup, WA
30+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Puyallup, WA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
97% | Depression |
87% | ADHD |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Medication Management |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
81% | Regence |
78% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Puyallup, WA see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
59% | Female | |
41% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Puyallup?
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.