Psychiatrists in Walla, WA

Photo of Tabita Lewis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Tabita Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Walla Walla, WA 99362
Tabita is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has an extensive experience in diagnosis and management of broad spectrum mental health issues including MTHFR Deficiency, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar and Substance use. Tabita uses a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. Her focus is to prescribe medications in a conservative and effective manner.
Tabita is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has an extensive experience in diagnosis and management of broad spectrum mental health issues including MTHFR Deficiency, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar and Substance use. Tabita uses a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. Her focus is to prescribe medications in a conservative and effective manner.
(509) 204-5689 View (509) 204-5689
Photo of Marco Rudas-Garcia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, PMHNP
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Hola! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
Hola! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
(425) 364-6061 x2 View (425) 364-6061 x2
Photo of Nancy Masters, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nancy Masters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and sleep disorders, as well as patients in the LGBTQIA+ community with care needs related to gender dysphoria/transgender-related mental health care. She also offers online opioid addiction treatment with medication. She treats patients ages 18+.
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and sleep disorders, as well as patients in the LGBTQIA+ community with care needs related to gender dysphoria/transgender-related mental health care. She also offers online opioid addiction treatment with medication. She treats patients ages 18+.
(509) 384-3439 View (509) 384-3439
Photo of Steven K Elrod, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Steven K Elrod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
16 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, Anger? A psychiatric evaluation and research backed treatment could put you back on the right path.
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, Anger? A psychiatric evaluation and research backed treatment could put you back on the right path.
(509) 560-5798 View (509) 560-5798
Photo of Fresh Start Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Fresh Start Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Psychiatric medication management in person and via telepsychiatry or telehealth that sees Adults and adolescents in Washington. We are accepting new patients with no waiting list or less than a week. I even see patients on the weekend.
Psychiatric medication management in person and via telepsychiatry or telehealth that sees Adults and adolescents in Washington. We are accepting new patients with no waiting list or less than a week. I even see patients on the weekend.
(509) 652-2898 View (509) 652-2898
Photo of D'Ondra Bobbitt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
D'Ondra Bobbitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here today. I know that reaching out for support can sometimes feel like a big step, and I want you to know that you're not alone in this. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable and understood as we work together to navigate any challenges you or your child may be facing. Whether you're here to talk about ADHD, managing emotions, dealing with substance use, or exploring any other mental health concerns, this evaluation is all about getting a clear picture of what’s going on, so we can move forward with the right tools and support.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here today. I know that reaching out for support can sometimes feel like a big step, and I want you to know that you're not alone in this. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable and understood as we work together to navigate any challenges you or your child may be facing. Whether you're here to talk about ADHD, managing emotions, dealing with substance use, or exploring any other mental health concerns, this evaluation is all about getting a clear picture of what’s going on, so we can move forward with the right tools and support.
(206) 312-4011 View (206) 312-4011
Photo of Tchido Yao - Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
(509) 402-2698 View (509) 402-2698

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Susan Kibe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN
Susan Kibe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide holistic, patient-focused care that combines medication management with personalized therapeutic interventions. Specializing in anxiety, PTSD, sleep disorders, Schizophrenia, depression, trauma-related disorders, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and mood disorders, I utilize compassion-driven therapies tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to empower you every step of the way. I ensure that my patients feel that "we are in this together". With years of clinical experience, I believe you're the expert in your own life. Together, we can set up achievable goals to drive your success.
I provide holistic, patient-focused care that combines medication management with personalized therapeutic interventions. Specializing in anxiety, PTSD, sleep disorders, Schizophrenia, depression, trauma-related disorders, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and mood disorders, I utilize compassion-driven therapies tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to empower you every step of the way. I ensure that my patients feel that "we are in this together". With years of clinical experience, I believe you're the expert in your own life. Together, we can set up achievable goals to drive your success.
(580) 409-3223 View (580) 409-3223
Photo of Margaret Quartey-Papafio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Margaret Quartey-Papafio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a passion for providing top-notch mental health care. I strive to offer compassionate and effective treatment to individuals at any stage of life. My extensive experience in diagnosing and managing mental health and substance abuse disorders enables me to develop personalized care plans and offer medication management when needed.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a passion for providing top-notch mental health care. I strive to offer compassionate and effective treatment to individuals at any stage of life. My extensive experience in diagnosing and managing mental health and substance abuse disorders enables me to develop personalized care plans and offer medication management when needed.
(509) 632-4124 View (509) 632-4124
Photo of Jacqueline Gregory, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNP
Jacqueline Gregory
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNP
Online Only
Please Note: This telehealth practice does not prescribe controlled substances. As a Psychiatric Mental Health NP with a Ph.D I am dedicated to providing high-quality care to individuals. My passion for expanding access to care has led me to embrace telehealth, making it easier for clients from diverse backgrounds to receive the support they need. Whether you're navigating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or complex trauma, I’m committed to delivering effective treatment that fits your unique needs. I work with a variety of populations, including adults, adolescents, and Native American populations.
Please Note: This telehealth practice does not prescribe controlled substances. As a Psychiatric Mental Health NP with a Ph.D I am dedicated to providing high-quality care to individuals. My passion for expanding access to care has led me to embrace telehealth, making it easier for clients from diverse backgrounds to receive the support they need. Whether you're navigating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or complex trauma, I’m committed to delivering effective treatment that fits your unique needs. I work with a variety of populations, including adults, adolescents, and Native American populations.
(509) 278-2611 View (509) 278-2611
Photo of Drew Jordan Sonderland - Tri Cities Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tri Cities Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Kennewick, WA 99336
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose primary services include psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing, medication management, and psychoeducation. I offer both in-person and online visits in the state of Washington.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose primary services include psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing, medication management, and psychoeducation. I offer both in-person and online visits in the state of Washington.
(509) 265-7038 View (509) 265-7038
Photo of Caroline Nduati, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Caroline Nduati
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
My name is Caroline N. Nduati, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in the state of Washington. My philosophy of care centers on the patient, valuing their perspectives, preferences, and values. Throughout our collaborative journey, I am committed to ensuring that you feel not only heard but also understood and empowered. Recognizing the distinctive nature of each person's mental health journey, we will work together to craft a personalized treatment plan, aimed at promoting your well-being and achieving positive clinical outcomes.
My name is Caroline N. Nduati, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in the state of Washington. My philosophy of care centers on the patient, valuing their perspectives, preferences, and values. Throughout our collaborative journey, I am committed to ensuring that you feel not only heard but also understood and empowered. Recognizing the distinctive nature of each person's mental health journey, we will work together to craft a personalized treatment plan, aimed at promoting your well-being and achieving positive clinical outcomes.
(509) 215-2973 View (509) 215-2973
Photo of Amber Pfeiffer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, ARNP, PMHNP
Amber Pfeiffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, ARNP, PMHNP
Pullman, WA 99164
Can be seen within 2-3 WEEKS for 1st TIME appointments! Book now at mentalhealthtodaywa.com. I believe true healing happens when we integrate the best of both worlds – the latest medical science and ancient healing wisdom and that this approach can help you achieve optimal health, vitality, and well-being. I aspire to support those who struggle with anxiety, depression or are in the midst of many of life’s transitions with compassion, curiosity, and holistic psychiatry that combines comprehensive methods including medication management, the use of botanicals, and psychotherapy.
Can be seen within 2-3 WEEKS for 1st TIME appointments! Book now at mentalhealthtodaywa.com. I believe true healing happens when we integrate the best of both worlds – the latest medical science and ancient healing wisdom and that this approach can help you achieve optimal health, vitality, and well-being. I aspire to support those who struggle with anxiety, depression or are in the midst of many of life’s transitions with compassion, curiosity, and holistic psychiatry that combines comprehensive methods including medication management, the use of botanicals, and psychotherapy.
(509) 348-4261 View (509) 348-4261
Photo of Farrukh Hashmi, Psychiatrist, MD
Farrukh Hashmi
Psychiatrist, MD
Richland, WA 99352
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I have worked with a diverse group of psychiatric patients for the past twenty years within the Tri-Cities.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I have worked with a diverse group of psychiatric patients for the past twenty years within the Tri-Cities.
(425) 292-8446 View (425) 292-8446
Photo of Carlos Larrauri, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carlos Larrauri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Carlos A. Larrauri, and I bring both clinical expertise and lived experience to mental health care. I focus on treating mood disorders, anxiety, and psychosis-spectrum conditions with evidence-based and recovery-oriented approaches to help patients achieve meaningful recovery. I am licensed in Florida and Washington state. I use a collaborative, person-centered approach grounded in evidence-based methods and recovery principles. I aim to support your strengths, address challenges, and help you build resilience so you can take an active role in your mental health journey.
My name is Carlos A. Larrauri, and I bring both clinical expertise and lived experience to mental health care. I focus on treating mood disorders, anxiety, and psychosis-spectrum conditions with evidence-based and recovery-oriented approaches to help patients achieve meaningful recovery. I am licensed in Florida and Washington state. I use a collaborative, person-centered approach grounded in evidence-based methods and recovery principles. I aim to support your strengths, address challenges, and help you build resilience so you can take an active role in your mental health journey.
(509) 436-0115 View (509) 436-0115
Photo of Ray Fenley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ray Fenley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Washington. I have been practicing for 5 years. I take a client-centered approach to mental healthcare, prioritizing individualized treatment that empowers clients in their healing journey. I strive to create a supportive and collaborative environment where clients feel heard, valued, and equipped with the tools they need for long-term well-being.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Washington. I have been practicing for 5 years. I take a client-centered approach to mental healthcare, prioritizing individualized treatment that empowers clients in their healing journey. I strive to create a supportive and collaborative environment where clients feel heard, valued, and equipped with the tools they need for long-term well-being.
(509) 283-8211 View (509) 283-8211
Photo of Audrey Grimm, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Audrey Grimm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health. I believe in creating a collaborative partnership where your concerns are heard and addressed, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being. My approach to mental healthcare centers on creating a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic alliance where we can explore your concerns collaboratively. I primarily draw from evidence-based frameworks, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic therapy, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing techniques to support behavioral change when appropriate.
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health. I believe in creating a collaborative partnership where your concerns are heard and addressed, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being. My approach to mental healthcare centers on creating a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic alliance where we can explore your concerns collaboratively. I primarily draw from evidence-based frameworks, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic therapy, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing techniques to support behavioral change when appropriate.
(509) 215-2537 View (509) 215-2537
Photo of Bahattin Ergin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Bahattin Ergin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Hello. My name is Bahattin Ergin (Bobby). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a wide range of medication management experience across lifespan, including ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In my role as a medication management provider within mental healthcare, I prioritize a patient-centered methodology, ensuring that pharmacological treatments are precisely tailored to meet individual needs. My approach encompasses a comprehensive evaluation, collaborative medication planning, and ongoing assessment to adjust treatment in response to the patient's changing health status.
Hello. My name is Bahattin Ergin (Bobby). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a wide range of medication management experience across lifespan, including ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In my role as a medication management provider within mental healthcare, I prioritize a patient-centered methodology, ensuring that pharmacological treatments are precisely tailored to meet individual needs. My approach encompasses a comprehensive evaluation, collaborative medication planning, and ongoing assessment to adjust treatment in response to the patient's changing health status.
(509) 210-7386 View (509) 210-7386
Photo of Dr. Jay Rivas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Dr. Jay Rivas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Pasco, WA 99301
I'm a compassionate and dedicated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I completed my doctoral studies and training at The University of Texas, where I was a distinguished honors graduate. With a deep commitment to my patients’ well-being, I have gained extensive experience through my clinical work at world-renowned institutions such as Dunn Behavioral Science Institute, where I trained in providing mental health care for child and adolescent patients and young adults.
I'm a compassionate and dedicated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I completed my doctoral studies and training at The University of Texas, where I was a distinguished honors graduate. With a deep commitment to my patients’ well-being, I have gained extensive experience through my clinical work at world-renowned institutions such as Dunn Behavioral Science Institute, where I trained in providing mental health care for child and adolescent patients and young adults.
(509) 584-5429 View (509) 584-5429
Photo of Fatima I Omar - Lifespan Psychiatry and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Lifespan Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, thanks for stopping by I'm Fatima, I'm a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, in past 15 years I have served patients in medical and mental health facilities both inpatient and outpatient. I have in the past and currently am comfortable with treating patients that are struggling with complex medical and mental health conditions. I enjoy working with patients utilizing a collaborative approach in finding solutions for various mental health challenges/conditions. I am currently accepting new patients.
Hi, thanks for stopping by I'm Fatima, I'm a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, in past 15 years I have served patients in medical and mental health facilities both inpatient and outpatient. I have in the past and currently am comfortable with treating patients that are struggling with complex medical and mental health conditions. I enjoy working with patients utilizing a collaborative approach in finding solutions for various mental health challenges/conditions. I am currently accepting new patients.
(253) 342-4034 View (253) 342-4034

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Nearby Searches for Walla

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Walla, WA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Walla, WA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Medication Management
86% Depression
86% Bipolar Disorder
71% Trauma and PTSD
57% Addiction

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
71% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Walla, WA see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Male
33% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Walla?

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.