Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 14 years of experience in providing mental health services. I am truly committed to providing adolescents and adults with high-quality, comprehensive, compassionate mental health care. My journey in the field of psychiatry started in the inpatient setting and has extended to the outpatient environment where I continue to apply evidence-based practice to clients presenting with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 14 years of experience in providing mental health services. I am truly committed to providing adolescents and adults with high-quality, comprehensive, compassionate mental health care. My journey in the field of psychiatry started in the inpatient setting and has extended to the outpatient environment where I continue to apply evidence-based practice to clients presenting with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and substance use disorder.

I am board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner receiving my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Seattle University, with over 20-years in the medical field. Starting as an Air Force Medic, OEF/OIF veteran, I have robust experiences in emergency medicine, intensive care, mental health, and flight medicine, and an undeniable drive to help those in need. My drive, determination, and grit, combined with life experiences, make me a strong ally for those that need a provider to dig deep to reach life goals. My current specialties are Military/ Veteran, LGBTQ+, PTSD/Trauma, Mood Disorders, ADHD, depression, & anxiety.
I am board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner receiving my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Seattle University, with over 20-years in the medical field. Starting as an Air Force Medic, OEF/OIF veteran, I have robust experiences in emergency medicine, intensive care, mental health, and flight medicine, and an undeniable drive to help those in need. My drive, determination, and grit, combined with life experiences, make me a strong ally for those that need a provider to dig deep to reach life goals. My current specialties are Military/ Veteran, LGBTQ+, PTSD/Trauma, Mood Disorders, ADHD, depression, & anxiety.

Currently accepting new telemedicine and in-person clients! I’m a Psychiatric Clinician who gives you the keys to unlock your most vibrant life. I help adults with ADHD, anxiety/depression, and burnout by combining prescription medication with holistic treatment modalities. Schedule your complimentary 15 minute consultation through my website: www.artofmindhealth.com
Currently accepting new telemedicine and in-person clients! I’m a Psychiatric Clinician who gives you the keys to unlock your most vibrant life. I help adults with ADHD, anxiety/depression, and burnout by combining prescription medication with holistic treatment modalities. Schedule your complimentary 15 minute consultation through my website: www.artofmindhealth.com

Welcome! I am looking forward to meeting you.I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. You may be considering therapy or medications because you are experiencing distress or dissatisfaction with some part of your life. I believe that I can help you to move through a challenging time by creating a safe place to talk about difficult situations. Therapy will be mutually designed to assst you to examing the cognitive, psychological and behavioral patterns that may interefere with your experiences of fulfillment in life. Sessions will be supportive and challenge you to examine your current life situation.
Welcome! I am looking forward to meeting you.I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. You may be considering therapy or medications because you are experiencing distress or dissatisfaction with some part of your life. I believe that I can help you to move through a challenging time by creating a safe place to talk about difficult situations. Therapy will be mutually designed to assst you to examing the cognitive, psychological and behavioral patterns that may interefere with your experiences of fulfillment in life. Sessions will be supportive and challenge you to examine your current life situation.

Dr. Nwokochah is a doctoral-prepared, licensed, dual-board-certified family nurse and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Dr. Nwokochah offers medication management and brief supportive therapy for clients facing challenges like ADHD, Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, PTDS, Insomnia, and anxiety. I'm here to help guide you through these obstacles .
Dr. Nwokochah is a doctoral-prepared, licensed, dual-board-certified family nurse and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Dr. Nwokochah offers medication management and brief supportive therapy for clients facing challenges like ADHD, Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, PTDS, Insomnia, and anxiety. I'm here to help guide you through these obstacles .

My ideal client is navigating the challenges of adulthood, dealing with anxiety, depression, changes in mood, inattention or focus, and transitions in life. They seek support in balancing responsibilities, managing stress, or gaining confidence in their decisions. I offer a unique blend of medication management and psychotherapeutic expertise, creating a non-judgmental space to explore their needs. Through a collaborative approach, I provide practical strategies, medication management and therapy to foster self-awareness, resilience, and lasting personal growth.
My ideal client is navigating the challenges of adulthood, dealing with anxiety, depression, changes in mood, inattention or focus, and transitions in life. They seek support in balancing responsibilities, managing stress, or gaining confidence in their decisions. I offer a unique blend of medication management and psychotherapeutic expertise, creating a non-judgmental space to explore their needs. Through a collaborative approach, I provide practical strategies, medication management and therapy to foster self-awareness, resilience, and lasting personal growth.

Mabel Rodriguez, PMHNP-BC, integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) alongside mindfulness and other wellness strategies to provide comprehensive mental healthcare tailored to individual needs. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, mood disorders and stress management, aiming to empower patients through education and collaborative goal setting. In providing mental healthcare, I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with other wellness approaches, such as mindfulness and stress management techniques, to offer a holistic treatment plan tailored to each individual's needs.
Mabel Rodriguez, PMHNP-BC, integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) alongside mindfulness and other wellness strategies to provide comprehensive mental healthcare tailored to individual needs. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, mood disorders and stress management, aiming to empower patients through education and collaborative goal setting. In providing mental healthcare, I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with other wellness approaches, such as mindfulness and stress management techniques, to offer a holistic treatment plan tailored to each individual's needs.

Congratulations on your steps to mental health! It requires courage to talk to someone about mental health; it also shows how serious you are about making your life better and making the lives of those who love you better. Your mental health doesn’t just affect you - it affects everyone around you – your family, your partner, your co-workers and your friends. My goal is to make sure that each of my patients is heard; I want to work with you to identify what your mental health goals are, and partner with you to achieve your goals.
Congratulations on your steps to mental health! It requires courage to talk to someone about mental health; it also shows how serious you are about making your life better and making the lives of those who love you better. Your mental health doesn’t just affect you - it affects everyone around you – your family, your partner, your co-workers and your friends. My goal is to make sure that each of my patients is heard; I want to work with you to identify what your mental health goals are, and partner with you to achieve your goals.

Welcome to Ascend Psychiatry! I believe in a holistic and client-centered approach, blending functional and integrative methods to support your mental health. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare right here in Washington, I’m dedicated to ensuring you feel heard, validated, and empowered in your treatment. My wonderful children are my teachers, constantly enriching my understanding of life. Just like any part of our well-being, mental health requires attention and care. Whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both, I’m here to support and guide you on your journey. Remember, you’re never alone.
Welcome to Ascend Psychiatry! I believe in a holistic and client-centered approach, blending functional and integrative methods to support your mental health. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare right here in Washington, I’m dedicated to ensuring you feel heard, validated, and empowered in your treatment. My wonderful children are my teachers, constantly enriching my understanding of life. Just like any part of our well-being, mental health requires attention and care. Whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both, I’m here to support and guide you on your journey. Remember, you’re never alone.

I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have over 10 years of nursing experience. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Georgia Southwestern State University in 2011. In 2017 I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing (APRN) degree from Clayton State University and my Post Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Degree in July 2021 from Valdosta State University.
I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have over 10 years of nursing experience. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Georgia Southwestern State University in 2011. In 2017 I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing (APRN) degree from Clayton State University and my Post Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Degree in July 2021 from Valdosta State University.

Dr. Jenny Gao is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that treats patients across the lifespan. She has a particular interest in ADHD and mood disorder and enjoys working with individuals across the lifespan. Dr. Gao is skilled multiple therapy modalities and incorporates therapeutic interventions into her patient care. She believes in using pharmaceuticals as part of a larger toolbox to support individuals as they work towards maximizing their whole health.
Dr. Jenny Gao is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that treats patients across the lifespan. She has a particular interest in ADHD and mood disorder and enjoys working with individuals across the lifespan. Dr. Gao is skilled multiple therapy modalities and incorporates therapeutic interventions into her patient care. She believes in using pharmaceuticals as part of a larger toolbox to support individuals as they work towards maximizing their whole health.

Howard Ilivicky, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist with more than 30 years of experience treating a wide range of conditions in patients from 8 years old to 90. Dr. Ilivicky provides compassionate and collaborative care to those struggling with the effects of mood and anxiety disorders, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and OCD.
Dr. Ilivicky truly values patients’ input into their treatment plans. He recognizes the courage it takes for mental health patients to pursue change, especially when it’s challenging. He provides treatment options, giving counsel while also encouraging patients to do their own research.
Howard Ilivicky, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist with more than 30 years of experience treating a wide range of conditions in patients from 8 years old to 90. Dr. Ilivicky provides compassionate and collaborative care to those struggling with the effects of mood and anxiety disorders, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and OCD.
Dr. Ilivicky truly values patients’ input into their treatment plans. He recognizes the courage it takes for mental health patients to pursue change, especially when it’s challenging. He provides treatment options, giving counsel while also encouraging patients to do their own research.

I'm so glad you're here! I have been providing lasting solutions to clients dealing with ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, depression, and more. With several years of experience as a mental health provider, I work with individuals across the lifespan, offering support that goes beyond the limits of conventional approaches. My innovative methods open new channels for quicker and more effective recovery. I take a holistic and trauma-informed perspective in every treatment, with one clear goal in mind: to help restore your mental health and put a genuine smile back on your face.
I'm so glad you're here! I have been providing lasting solutions to clients dealing with ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, depression, and more. With several years of experience as a mental health provider, I work with individuals across the lifespan, offering support that goes beyond the limits of conventional approaches. My innovative methods open new channels for quicker and more effective recovery. I take a holistic and trauma-informed perspective in every treatment, with one clear goal in mind: to help restore your mental health and put a genuine smile back on your face.

Psychiatry is a field that demands not only medical knowledge but also Psychiatry is a field that requires not only medical knowledge but also emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to lifelong learning. My education has provided me with experiences that have deepened my understanding of mental health. I am inspired by the diversity within the field and the opportunity to help those in need while advocating for vulnerable populations. I am drawn to the privilege of assisting patients in making sense of their experiences and empowering them to find meaning and recovery through thoughtful interventions.
Psychiatry is a field that demands not only medical knowledge but also Psychiatry is a field that requires not only medical knowledge but also emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to lifelong learning. My education has provided me with experiences that have deepened my understanding of mental health. I am inspired by the diversity within the field and the opportunity to help those in need while advocating for vulnerable populations. I am drawn to the privilege of assisting patients in making sense of their experiences and empowering them to find meaning and recovery through thoughtful interventions.

Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders.
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders.

I specialize in ADHD and Autism assessments for adults, and offer affirming psychiatric care across the reproductive lifespan—including PMDD, pregnancy, postpartum, infertility, perimenopause, and menopause. As a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), I support individuals navigating hormonal shifts, mood changes, trauma, and burnout. My care is inclusive of all genders, neurotypes, and identities—with a focus on creating safe, personalized plans that reflect who you are.
I specialize in ADHD and Autism assessments for adults, and offer affirming psychiatric care across the reproductive lifespan—including PMDD, pregnancy, postpartum, infertility, perimenopause, and menopause. As a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), I support individuals navigating hormonal shifts, mood changes, trauma, and burnout. My care is inclusive of all genders, neurotypes, and identities—with a focus on creating safe, personalized plans that reflect who you are.

I am a dual Board -Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and degrees from Walden University and University of Texas RGV.
I have over 30 years’ experience in nursing, and optimizes mental health using a holistic approach. I serve young adults and geriatrics, providing compassionate prescriptive support.
I am a dual Board -Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and degrees from Walden University and University of Texas RGV.
I have over 30 years’ experience in nursing, and optimizes mental health using a holistic approach. I serve young adults and geriatrics, providing compassionate prescriptive support.

Youwen Hu is dedicated to delivering high-quality, individualized care. Clients can expect a focus on personalized treatment, where their unique needs are at the forefront. Youwen strives to provide the highest standard of care, ensuring that each client feels supported and understood.
Youwen Hu is dedicated to delivering high-quality, individualized care. Clients can expect a focus on personalized treatment, where their unique needs are at the forefront. Youwen strives to provide the highest standard of care, ensuring that each client feels supported and understood.

I am primarily seeing folks for medication management and therapy. I am aware of the challenges that people are dealing with following the recent election and am willing to work with you on your anxiety and worry. I am familiar with the challenges experienced by communities of Color, academics, women at transitions in life, tech professionals, and individuals experiencing parenting and relationship challenges. I am preferred with Premera, Regence, First Choice, and Kaiser. I also have self-pay rates. Let's connect!
I am primarily seeing folks for medication management and therapy. I am aware of the challenges that people are dealing with following the recent election and am willing to work with you on your anxiety and worry. I am familiar with the challenges experienced by communities of Color, academics, women at transitions in life, tech professionals, and individuals experiencing parenting and relationship challenges. I am preferred with Premera, Regence, First Choice, and Kaiser. I also have self-pay rates. Let's connect!

I'm so glad you're here. It takes courage to seek help, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. I'm Kristina, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to helping women like you navigate ADHD from diagnosis to ongoing management. My journey with mental health drives my passion to enhance your life quality. In our sessions, we'll create a safe, open environment to develop a personalized care strategy that’s effective and tailored to your unique needs. I work remotely and am licensed in Washington, Minnesota, and Arizona. I am here to listen, understand, and move forward toward your well-being together.
I'm so glad you're here. It takes courage to seek help, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. I'm Kristina, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to helping women like you navigate ADHD from diagnosis to ongoing management. My journey with mental health drives my passion to enhance your life quality. In our sessions, we'll create a safe, open environment to develop a personalized care strategy that’s effective and tailored to your unique needs. I work remotely and am licensed in Washington, Minnesota, and Arizona. I am here to listen, understand, and move forward toward your well-being together.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
700+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | ADHD |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Medication Management |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
85% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
70% | Regence |
How Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA see their clients
53% | Online Only | |
47% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
28% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Seattle?
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.