Psychiatrists in Snohomish, WA

Photo of Anu Marrott-Ware, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-L, RN
Anu Marrott-Ware
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-L, RN
Online Only
Anu specializes in telepsychiatry, offering a convenient and comfortable way to receive care from your own home. Her ideal client is someone facing anxiety, depression, stress, or other mental health challenges and prefers the flexibility and privacy of online appointments. Life can be busy, so Anu offers flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Whether you're balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, telepsychiatry allows you to access care without the added stress of travel or time constraints.
Anu specializes in telepsychiatry, offering a convenient and comfortable way to receive care from your own home. Her ideal client is someone facing anxiety, depression, stress, or other mental health challenges and prefers the flexibility and privacy of online appointments. Life can be busy, so Anu offers flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Whether you're balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, telepsychiatry allows you to access care without the added stress of travel or time constraints.
(206) 202-2823 View (206) 202-2823
Photo of Okechukwu Aneke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Okechukwu Aneke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who is struggling with mental health concerns and seeking support and guidance to improve their overall well-being. They may be dealing with conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. My client values compassion, empathy, and evidence-based care, and they want a provider who can offer them a safe and supportive environment to share their concerns and challenges. They want to feel heard, validated, and empowered to take charge of their mental health. My goal is to work collaboratively with my clients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs.
My ideal client is someone who is struggling with mental health concerns and seeking support and guidance to improve their overall well-being. They may be dealing with conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. My client values compassion, empathy, and evidence-based care, and they want a provider who can offer them a safe and supportive environment to share their concerns and challenges. They want to feel heard, validated, and empowered to take charge of their mental health. My goal is to work collaboratively with my clients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs.
(360) 685-7137 View (360) 685-7137
Photo of Susan J Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Susan J Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy working in partnership with individuals to improve quality of life by addressing overall mental, emotional, relational and physical health. I specialize in combining focused psychotherapy with life style changes and medication if indicated. I have experience and special interest in helping clients building resilence, self awareness and self advocacy after trauma and loss, using those experiences to inform the present and improve the future. For those that want it, incorporating mindfulness, prayer and spiritual direction is available.
I enjoy working in partnership with individuals to improve quality of life by addressing overall mental, emotional, relational and physical health. I specialize in combining focused psychotherapy with life style changes and medication if indicated. I have experience and special interest in helping clients building resilence, self awareness and self advocacy after trauma and loss, using those experiences to inform the present and improve the future. For those that want it, incorporating mindfulness, prayer and spiritual direction is available.
View
Photo of Mishele M Rutherford, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Mishele M Rutherford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Psychiatric care including medication management, treatment of Substance Use Disorders and therapy. In person and telehealth available. My approach is collaborative, trauma aware and person centered. I believe that individuals know themselves best and have found that creating a therapeutic partnership is the most effective path towards healing and wellness. In my experience, all people have phases in their lives where they would benefit from a partnership with a psychiatric provider.
Psychiatric care including medication management, treatment of Substance Use Disorders and therapy. In person and telehealth available. My approach is collaborative, trauma aware and person centered. I believe that individuals know themselves best and have found that creating a therapeutic partnership is the most effective path towards healing and wellness. In my experience, all people have phases in their lives where they would benefit from a partnership with a psychiatric provider.
(425) 403-2578 View (425) 403-2578
Photo of May Dee Gemilo - Therapeutic Alliances PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Therapeutic Alliances PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Hi, my name is May Gemilo, I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in the field. My approach combines evidence-based medication management with motivational interviewing and brief, supportive therapy.
Hi, my name is May Gemilo, I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in the field. My approach combines evidence-based medication management with motivational interviewing and brief, supportive therapy.
(425) 426-2353 View (425) 426-2353
Photo of Dr. Bridgette Jeffries, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Bridgette Jeffries
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
I am doctorally prepared from the University of Washington and board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Additionally, as a nurse of 30 years, my experience covers a broad spectrum of providing a multitude of services to individuals and families from all walks of life and economic backgrounds. As a board certified PMHNP, my practice will focus on providing services from the adolescent years throughout the life span. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey and enhance you with tools that will be life changing. We will collaborate together to identify the best holistic approach.
I am doctorally prepared from the University of Washington and board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Additionally, as a nurse of 30 years, my experience covers a broad spectrum of providing a multitude of services to individuals and families from all walks of life and economic backgrounds. As a board certified PMHNP, my practice will focus on providing services from the adolescent years throughout the life span. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey and enhance you with tools that will be life changing. We will collaborate together to identify the best holistic approach.
(425) 670-0280 x1 View (425) 670-0280 x1
Photo of Andrea Ancer Leal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LMSW
Andrea Ancer Leal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(206) 558-8045 View (206) 558-8045
Photo of Jacob Grillo - Conquer, Physician Assistant, MBA, PA-C, CCHP
Conquer
Physician Assistant, MBA, PA-C, CCHP
Serves Area
Im here to assist anyone with a desire to change their life. This could be someone in the throes of addiction, someone being inadequately treated for their depression, or someone ashamed of a lingering severe mental illness. Many clients come to me when they have no where else to turn. Maybe they have been given up on by others or maybe they feel their current treatment provider isn't hearing or understanding their concerns. I am here to help those who feel hopeless. I treat the full spectrum of psychiatric illness to include, addiction, ADHD, Schizophrenia, bipolar, depression, anxiety, etc.
Im here to assist anyone with a desire to change their life. This could be someone in the throes of addiction, someone being inadequately treated for their depression, or someone ashamed of a lingering severe mental illness. Many clients come to me when they have no where else to turn. Maybe they have been given up on by others or maybe they feel their current treatment provider isn't hearing or understanding their concerns. I am here to help those who feel hopeless. I treat the full spectrum of psychiatric illness to include, addiction, ADHD, Schizophrenia, bipolar, depression, anxiety, etc.
(360) 614-2950 View (360) 614-2950
Photo of Martha Motari, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Martha Motari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! I specialize in treating depression, ADHD , Anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, insomnia. Your needs are my priority . Are you seeking for a caring, understanding, empathetic provider? I'm here to help you overcome your fears. I will work with you as a team so you can heal, grow, and find happiness. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practice, ensuring that each patient receives the most effective treatments available.
I am Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! I specialize in treating depression, ADHD , Anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, insomnia. Your needs are my priority . Are you seeking for a caring, understanding, empathetic provider? I'm here to help you overcome your fears. I will work with you as a team so you can heal, grow, and find happiness. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practice, ensuring that each patient receives the most effective treatments available.
(817) 646-5350 View (817) 646-5350
Photo of LaToyia Neal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
LaToyia Neal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
​ 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.
(425) 264-8699 View (425) 264-8699
Photo of Laura Perez, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Laura Perez
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My 11 years of experience caring for patients as a Nurse at the UW Medical Center has given me a unique understanding of the importance of the patient provider relationship. Trust, honesty & caring in addition to sound, evidenced based psychiatric and mental health care is essential in creating a treatment plan that works for you. You need to trust that your plan is in your best interest. Only you can decide to participate. As your provider, I will be honest with you. And you can be certain that I do really care about how you are doing.
My 11 years of experience caring for patients as a Nurse at the UW Medical Center has given me a unique understanding of the importance of the patient provider relationship. Trust, honesty & caring in addition to sound, evidenced based psychiatric and mental health care is essential in creating a treatment plan that works for you. You need to trust that your plan is in your best interest. Only you can decide to participate. As your provider, I will be honest with you. And you can be certain that I do really care about how you are doing.
(425) 615-6835 View (425) 615-6835

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Leah Haddad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
3 Endorsed
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
(425) 532-5954 View (425) 532-5954
Photo of Jessica England - Jessica England ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Jessica England ARNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I can help you understand how your brain works and provide support and guidance on how to use your strengths to navigate your life as a neurodivergent person. I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluation, medication management, health education and brief counseling/coaching to adults. I specialize in ADHD and OCD as well as Women’s Health across the lifespan and Transgender Health. I have a holistic approach, psychiatric medications combined with counseling, education and lifestyle changes can lead to positive outcomes in overall health .
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I can help you understand how your brain works and provide support and guidance on how to use your strengths to navigate your life as a neurodivergent person. I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluation, medication management, health education and brief counseling/coaching to adults. I specialize in ADHD and OCD as well as Women’s Health across the lifespan and Transgender Health. I have a holistic approach, psychiatric medications combined with counseling, education and lifestyle changes can lead to positive outcomes in overall health .
(425) 640-7009 View (425) 640-7009
Photo of Isabel C Zapata, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNP
Isabel C Zapata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward mental wellness. I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment for a variety of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward mental wellness. I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment for a variety of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
(425) 357-2680 View (425) 357-2680
Photo of Jana Robison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Jana Robison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Everett, WA 98201
Currently accepting new clients for medication management (updated 4/11/2025). I am passionate about working with children, teens, and adults from all backgrounds—regardless of race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. My goal is to empower my clients and their families to live authentically and reach their fullest potential. I believe in a partnership approach to mental health, where we work together to navigate challenges, and I am committed to creating a space free from blame, shame, or stigma.
Currently accepting new clients for medication management (updated 4/11/2025). I am passionate about working with children, teens, and adults from all backgrounds—regardless of race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. My goal is to empower my clients and their families to live authentically and reach their fullest potential. I believe in a partnership approach to mental health, where we work together to navigate challenges, and I am committed to creating a space free from blame, shame, or stigma.
(425) 437-3043 View (425) 437-3043
Photo of Bernice Fomunung, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Bernice Fomunung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I am a neurodivergent provider who understands the intricacies of being neurodivergent in a world not meant for you to fit in. A lot of struggles come from this and unfortunately these are often internalized as character flaws and often manifests as depression, anxiety and painful feelings of inadequacy. I am here to change the narrative and help give you the skills to navigate this world successfully. I have over 7 years experience working in clinics, hospitals and prison facilities. I focus primarily on medication management with supportive therapy.
Hello, I am a neurodivergent provider who understands the intricacies of being neurodivergent in a world not meant for you to fit in. A lot of struggles come from this and unfortunately these are often internalized as character flaws and often manifests as depression, anxiety and painful feelings of inadequacy. I am here to change the narrative and help give you the skills to navigate this world successfully. I have over 7 years experience working in clinics, hospitals and prison facilities. I focus primarily on medication management with supportive therapy.
View
Photo of Jeovana Oshan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Jeovana Oshan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 10 years of experience, providing psychiatric assessments and medication evaluation and management. I provide care throughout the lifespan, and have specifically provided care for children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other related behavior and emotion regulation concerns.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 10 years of experience, providing psychiatric assessments and medication evaluation and management. I provide care throughout the lifespan, and have specifically provided care for children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other related behavior and emotion regulation concerns.
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Photo of Latosha Katrice Walker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Latosha Katrice Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Seattle, WA 98119
It is essential for me to establish rapport and trust to provide quality care to patients as well as address the patient's issues and needs. As a parent of a child with special needs, I understand the need to be heard, to be seen, and to be acknowledged. Also, being authentic, genuine, and true are important aspects that I will bring to the table. I want clients to know there is no judgment here only an open door policy where people can freely express themselves in a safe environment. My goal is to help you be the best person you can be.
It is essential for me to establish rapport and trust to provide quality care to patients as well as address the patient's issues and needs. As a parent of a child with special needs, I understand the need to be heard, to be seen, and to be acknowledged. Also, being authentic, genuine, and true are important aspects that I will bring to the table. I want clients to know there is no judgment here only an open door policy where people can freely express themselves in a safe environment. My goal is to help you be the best person you can be.
(206) 312-6313 View (206) 312-6313
Photo of Mick Chitchawal Sahatevasukont, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Mick Chitchawal Sahatevasukont
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Bothell, WA 98012
Accepting new patients. We all have our own unique experiences and perspectives in life. At Perspective Psychiatric Service, I believe in creating individualized treatment plans based on your needs.
Accepting new patients. We all have our own unique experiences and perspectives in life. At Perspective Psychiatric Service, I believe in creating individualized treatment plans based on your needs.
(206) 309-6744 View (206) 309-6744
Photo of Travis Albers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Travis Albers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
23 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediate openings! Click on my website to schedule a brief consult call today! I have many years of experience treating ADHD - Anxiety - Depression - PTSD - Insomnia - OCD. Virtual visits for your busy life! I’m Trav, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to listening and helping you with your needs and goals. Get the support you need now! With flexible virtual visits, I make mental health care accessible for students, parents and professionals on the go. Take the first step today. Call for a brief phone consultation and explore a better way to receive care—wherever you are.
Immediate openings! Click on my website to schedule a brief consult call today! I have many years of experience treating ADHD - Anxiety - Depression - PTSD - Insomnia - OCD. Virtual visits for your busy life! I’m Trav, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to listening and helping you with your needs and goals. Get the support you need now! With flexible virtual visits, I make mental health care accessible for students, parents and professionals on the go. Take the first step today. Call for a brief phone consultation and explore a better way to receive care—wherever you are.
(206) 736-4381 View (206) 736-4381

See more therapy options for Snohomish

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Snohomish, WA

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Snohomish, WA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
91% Trauma and PTSD
82% Bipolar Disorder
73% ADHD
73% Medication Management
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Cigna and Evernorth
82% Aetna
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Snohomish, WA see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Snohomish?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.