Psychiatrists in Whitman County, WA
Felicia Turner, APRN | Psychiatry On Demand
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pullman, WA 99163 (Online Only)
Welcome to Psychiatry On Demand, where we strive to create a warm and understanding environment that helps you begin your journey toward mental wellness. We are happy to welcome individuals like you who are navigating the complexities of mental health. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or any other challenges, we are here to offer personalized strategies for growth and resilience that are precisely tailored to your needs.
Welcome to Psychiatry On Demand, where we strive to create a warm and understanding environment that helps you begin your journey toward mental wellness. We are happy to welcome individuals like you who are navigating the complexities of mental health. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or any other challenges, we are here to offer personalized strategies for growth and resilience that are precisely tailored to your needs.
Julie Funke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pullman, WA 99163
We are a small, intimate office! I am passionate to treating you as an individual and make a treatment plan WITH you! I take a holistic approach to your physical and mental health treatment utilizing medications, supplements and natural approaches to improve your overall health! There is so much more to wellness than medications alone! We will work closely together to develop a plan that focuses on total health for your body and mind to improve mental wellbeing. I see individuals ages 18 and up. I look forward to brining total wellness to you!
We are a small, intimate office! I am passionate to treating you as an individual and make a treatment plan WITH you! I take a holistic approach to your physical and mental health treatment utilizing medications, supplements and natural approaches to improve your overall health! There is so much more to wellness than medications alone! We will work closely together to develop a plan that focuses on total health for your body and mind to improve mental wellbeing. I see individuals ages 18 and up. I look forward to brining total wellness to you!
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Dianna Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP-c
Verified Verified
Pullman, WA 99163 (Online Only)
Dianna Smith, MSN, PMHNP-C, DNP-c is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 10 years of professional nursing experience caring for psychiatric, mental health/behavioral, developmental/intellectual disability, and substance abuse clients in the community and acute settings. She loves providing direct care and values her expanded capacity to serve as a Provider. Diana states she is honored and reverent that her practice role allows the responsibility of managing and facilitating care;
Dianna Smith, MSN, PMHNP-C, DNP-c is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 10 years of professional nursing experience caring for psychiatric, mental health/behavioral, developmental/intellectual disability, and substance abuse clients in the community and acute settings. She loves providing direct care and values her expanded capacity to serve as a Provider. Diana states she is honored and reverent that her practice role allows the responsibility of managing and facilitating care;
Dr. Rosen's strengths are from a broad training and practice experiences. He has maintained interest in many psychiatric conditions. Practice experiences have included multiple inpatient psychiatric facilities, a psychiatric emergency department, medical hospital settings, office based settings, and neurostimulation with Electroconvulsive Therapy. Dr. Rosen has had therapy training in CBT, psychodynamic, and hypnosis modalities. He values the strength of his training to assist patients in having informed discussions of possible treatment options; whether it is pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, or neurostimulation.
Dr. Rosen's strengths are from a broad training and practice experiences. He has maintained interest in many psychiatric conditions. Practice experiences have included multiple inpatient psychiatric facilities, a psychiatric emergency department, medical hospital settings, office based settings, and neurostimulation with Electroconvulsive Therapy. Dr. Rosen has had therapy training in CBT, psychodynamic, and hypnosis modalities. He values the strength of his training to assist patients in having informed discussions of possible treatment options; whether it is pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, or neurostimulation.
My passion lies in working with teens and young adults navigating the challenges of anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma. I also help those going through life transitions, feeling overwhelmed by performance-related or everyday stressors, struggling with their emotional experience, or seeking a better understanding of themselves and/or their relationships. My integrative approach to treatment may combine a variety of techniques and modalities including psychotherapy, medication management, neutraceutical supplementation, mind-body techniques, and lifestyle coaching (nutrition, sleep, exercise).
My passion lies in working with teens and young adults navigating the challenges of anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma. I also help those going through life transitions, feeling overwhelmed by performance-related or everyday stressors, struggling with their emotional experience, or seeking a better understanding of themselves and/or their relationships. My integrative approach to treatment may combine a variety of techniques and modalities including psychotherapy, medication management, neutraceutical supplementation, mind-body techniques, and lifestyle coaching (nutrition, sleep, exercise).
Alexandra J Pales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN, MSN
Verified Verified
29 Endorsed
Pullman, WA 99163 (Online Only)
My approach to healthcare is collaborative. We work together to create a treatment plan with your priorities in mind, and to provide you with as much information for you to in formed about your care, and make informed decisions. I practice intentional de-centered care, where healthcare is not dictated by the provider, but rather the client. I provide whole person care, looking at nutrition, complementary and alternative therapies, sleep, habits, while also offering psychiatric medications where could be beneficial and if preferred by the client.
My approach to healthcare is collaborative. We work together to create a treatment plan with your priorities in mind, and to provide you with as much information for you to in formed about your care, and make informed decisions. I practice intentional de-centered care, where healthcare is not dictated by the provider, but rather the client. I provide whole person care, looking at nutrition, complementary and alternative therapies, sleep, habits, while also offering psychiatric medications where could be beneficial and if preferred by the client.
Online Psychiatrists
Dr. Udo Chukwuocha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients! Have you been feeling down, stressed, or worried lately? Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? You're doing your best, but you have a hard time keeping up with your daily tasks. You have intense emotions, trouble focusing, forgetful, or get easily distracted? Do you find it hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack motivation or have no interest in things you normally enjoy doing, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Or is your sleep pattern consistently disrupted which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? You ARE NOT alone! I would like to help.
Accepting New Patients! Have you been feeling down, stressed, or worried lately? Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? You're doing your best, but you have a hard time keeping up with your daily tasks. You have intense emotions, trouble focusing, forgetful, or get easily distracted? Do you find it hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack motivation or have no interest in things you normally enjoy doing, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Or is your sleep pattern consistently disrupted which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? You ARE NOT alone! I would like to help.
Jamie White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99037 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am Jamie White, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I bring over two decades of healthcare experience to my practice. My journey began in medical billing in 1998, but my passion for patient care led me to become a volunteer firefighter/EMT-B. This foundational experience sparked my desire to help others, ultimately guiding me to Washington State University, where I earned my BSN in 2014. I then furthered my expertise by obtaining my MSN from Gonzaga University.
Welcome! I am Jamie White, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I bring over two decades of healthcare experience to my practice. My journey began in medical billing in 1998, but my passion for patient care led me to become a volunteer firefighter/EMT-B. This foundational experience sparked my desire to help others, ultimately guiding me to Washington State University, where I earned my BSN in 2014. I then furthered my expertise by obtaining my MSN from Gonzaga University.
Aspiring Health Pathway Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, APRN
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99338 (Online Only)
Judith Ngante is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed to practice in the state of Washington. She comes with many years of patient care experience. Her goal is to build strong relationships with her patients and to provide comprehensive, individualized, evidence-based care. She believes that taking care of the body requires taking care of the physical and the mind to foster a positive outcome and productive lifestyle. Be it depression, anxiety, bipolar, mood disorder, remember this is what you’re going through, not who you are.
Judith Ngante is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed to practice in the state of Washington. She comes with many years of patient care experience. Her goal is to build strong relationships with her patients and to provide comprehensive, individualized, evidence-based care. She believes that taking care of the body requires taking care of the physical and the mind to foster a positive outcome and productive lifestyle. Be it depression, anxiety, bipolar, mood disorder, remember this is what you’re going through, not who you are.
Hi, I’m Jabari Dobson. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental nurse practitioner for all ages. I provide medication management, psychotherapy, and other great care. My specialties include ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and more. My therapeutic approach is to use a combination of medication management, therapy, and holistic methods to achieve healing and understanding within all of my patients. My patient focus is not limited to any specific group as I wish to serve anyone within need of care.
Hi, I’m Jabari Dobson. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental nurse practitioner for all ages. I provide medication management, psychotherapy, and other great care. My specialties include ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and more. My therapeutic approach is to use a combination of medication management, therapy, and holistic methods to achieve healing and understanding within all of my patients. My patient focus is not limited to any specific group as I wish to serve anyone within need of care.
Jason E Vestal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99016
Our patient's want freedom. They want to reclaim their dignity and restore life balance. I am proficient in a variety of different approaches and my areas of practice include substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, major depressive disorder, trauma, anxiety and panic disorders, bipolar type 1 and 2, couples, PTSD, children, teens, and many LGBTQ related needs. I proudly offer medication management for our community members and strive for a positive outcome with all of our patients. Simply put, I want to help you make a triumphant return. Join us in going Beyond! at Beyond Behavioral Health
Our patient's want freedom. They want to reclaim their dignity and restore life balance. I am proficient in a variety of different approaches and my areas of practice include substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, major depressive disorder, trauma, anxiety and panic disorders, bipolar type 1 and 2, couples, PTSD, children, teens, and many LGBTQ related needs. I proudly offer medication management for our community members and strive for a positive outcome with all of our patients. Simply put, I want to help you make a triumphant return. Join us in going Beyond! at Beyond Behavioral Health
Neupathway (Melissa Osada)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Careplus Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasco, WA 99301 (Online Only)
Dr. Aborisade (AKA DR. B) is a doctoral-prepared, licensed, dual-board-certified family nurse and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Dr. Aborisade offers medication management and brief supportive therapy for clients facing ADHD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and more. Dr. Aborisade has worked in diverse areas such as primary care, outpatient psychiatric clinics, and retail.
Dr. Aborisade (AKA DR. B) is a doctoral-prepared, licensed, dual-board-certified family nurse and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Dr. Aborisade offers medication management and brief supportive therapy for clients facing ADHD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and more. Dr. Aborisade has worked in diverse areas such as primary care, outpatient psychiatric clinics, and retail.
Karey Kananda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Liberty Lake, WA 99019
*Now accepting new patients.* Hello, my name is Karey Kananda. I am a board-certified, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My approach will include a comprehensive intake, prescribing psychiatric medications if indicated, and brief psychotherapy. I have 20 years experience in nursing and enjoy establishing rapport with patients through empathy and humor.
*Now accepting new patients.* Hello, my name is Karey Kananda. I am a board-certified, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My approach will include a comprehensive intake, prescribing psychiatric medications if indicated, and brief psychotherapy. I have 20 years experience in nursing and enjoy establishing rapport with patients through empathy and humor.
Emerald Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
We are accepting new patients, give us a call today for immediate appointment. We are a board certified mental health private practice. We evaluate, diagnose and treat various mental health conditions such as ADHD, personality disorders, mood disorders and anxiety in both children and adults. Our goal is to bridge the gap in mental health and increase access to treatment. We are dedicated to the wellbeing of our generation, to both young and old with needs for mental health treatment. You don't have to suffer alone, come let us get you the best care you deserve.
We are accepting new patients, give us a call today for immediate appointment. We are a board certified mental health private practice. We evaluate, diagnose and treat various mental health conditions such as ADHD, personality disorders, mood disorders and anxiety in both children and adults. Our goal is to bridge the gap in mental health and increase access to treatment. We are dedicated to the wellbeing of our generation, to both young and old with needs for mental health treatment. You don't have to suffer alone, come let us get you the best care you deserve.
Emily Ketchel @ Acorn Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99203 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Emily, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in mental health for adults and hormone replacement for women. I have been in healthcare for over fifteen years and love what I do. I stay current with research to give you the latest and most appropriate advise. My approach is collaborative and we will work around your schedule to get you the care you need. Please reach out if you have any questions. Looking forward to meeting you!
Hi! I'm Emily, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in mental health for adults and hormone replacement for women. I have been in healthcare for over fifteen years and love what I do. I stay current with research to give you the latest and most appropriate advise. My approach is collaborative and we will work around your schedule to get you the care you need. Please reach out if you have any questions. Looking forward to meeting you!
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Moses Lake, WA 98837 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Brenda Shanley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99216 (Online Only)
Brenda Shanley, MN, ARNP, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Adult Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years experience in mental health, specializing in medication management for mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADD/ADHD and more. Telehealth appointments are available in Washington and Idaho. For more information or to schedule an appointment please visit my website at: www.shanleypsychiatry.com
Brenda Shanley, MN, ARNP, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Adult Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years experience in mental health, specializing in medication management for mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADD/ADHD and more. Telehealth appointments are available in Washington and Idaho. For more information or to schedule an appointment please visit my website at: www.shanleypsychiatry.com
Keyna Omenukor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasco, WA 99301 (Online Only)
Hello there! I am Keyna Omenukor DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, a dual-qualified family nurse practitioner and PMHNP working in a clinic setting. I am passionate about providing quality care to promote health and improve patient outcomes. I love to provide selfless care to underserved communities and reach out to the patients of impoverished nations to improve global health. My approach to mental healthcare is informed by a combination of evidence-based practices and a person-centered attitude. I can offer information and support grounded in several key theoretical approaches.
Hello there! I am Keyna Omenukor DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, a dual-qualified family nurse practitioner and PMHNP working in a clinic setting. I am passionate about providing quality care to promote health and improve patient outcomes. I love to provide selfless care to underserved communities and reach out to the patients of impoverished nations to improve global health. My approach to mental healthcare is informed by a combination of evidence-based practices and a person-centered attitude. I can offer information and support grounded in several key theoretical approaches.
See more therapy options for Whitman County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Whitman County, WA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Whitman County, WA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
86% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
86% | Sleep or Insomnia |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Premera Blue Cross |
How Psychiatrists in Whitman County, WA see their clients
71% | Online Only | |
29% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Whitman County?
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.