Psychiatrists in Woodinville, WA

Photo of Natalie Dreyfoos, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natalie Dreyfoos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodinville, WA 98077
At Dockside Psychiatry Clinic, I offer compassionate care for ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, and the psychological impacts of cancer. I provide evidence-based, trauma-informed treatment, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and prescription adjustments, all tailored to your unique values and goals. I understand that reaching out can be challenging, and my aim is to create a supportive, welcoming space. Whether you’re managing complex mental health issues or seeking a trusted partner on your journey, I’m here to help you find greater resilience and well-being.
At Dockside Psychiatry Clinic, I offer compassionate care for ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, and the psychological impacts of cancer. I provide evidence-based, trauma-informed treatment, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and prescription adjustments, all tailored to your unique values and goals. I understand that reaching out can be challenging, and my aim is to create a supportive, welcoming space. Whether you’re managing complex mental health issues or seeking a trusted partner on your journey, I’m here to help you find greater resilience and well-being.
(425) 510-5571 View (425) 510-5571
Photo of Sam Mathew - Angels Psychiatry, MSN, PMHNP, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angels Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, MA
Verified Verified
Woodinville, WA 98072
As a board certified mental health provider I guide clients in their mental health journeys with empathy and expertise. Through a patient-centric approach, I create a safe, non-judgmental environment where people feel comfortable expressing themselves. By combining evidence-based therapies like psychotherapy and medication management, I empower patients to overcome challenges and achieve well-being. I am dedicated to ongoing learning, keeping up with psychiatry advancements, and collaborating with fellow healthcare professionals for comprehensive care. Ultimately, I strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those I serve.
As a board certified mental health provider I guide clients in their mental health journeys with empathy and expertise. Through a patient-centric approach, I create a safe, non-judgmental environment where people feel comfortable expressing themselves. By combining evidence-based therapies like psychotherapy and medication management, I empower patients to overcome challenges and achieve well-being. I am dedicated to ongoing learning, keeping up with psychiatry advancements, and collaborating with fellow healthcare professionals for comprehensive care. Ultimately, I strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those I serve.
(425) 537-6287 View (425) 537-6287
Photo of Jacob Grillo - Conquer, MBA, PA-C, CCHP, Physician Assistant
Conquer
Physician Assistant, MBA, PA-C, CCHP
Verified Verified
Woodinville, WA 98072
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
Neupathway LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting new clients same week availability................................... Neupathway is deeply passionate about delivering exceptional mental health care that makes a significant positive impact on her patients' well-being. Her unwavering commitment to the field is reflected in her dedication to addressing the complexities of mental health, with a particular emphasis on anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.In an ever-evolving field, Eirin stays current with the latest research and therapeutic techniques to ensure that her patients receive the highest standard of care.
Accepting new clients same week availability................................... Neupathway is deeply passionate about delivering exceptional mental health care that makes a significant positive impact on her patients' well-being. Her unwavering commitment to the field is reflected in her dedication to addressing the complexities of mental health, with a particular emphasis on anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.In an ever-evolving field, Eirin stays current with the latest research and therapeutic techniques to ensure that her patients receive the highest standard of care.
(425) 584-6202 View (425) 584-6202
Photo of Nobu Buckley, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nobu Buckley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with Prescriptive Authority. I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments, medication management, and brief therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My areas of special interest include ADHD, Autism spectrum disorder, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety disorders, and Depression. Before nursing, Nobu was a high school chemistry and physics teacher in the Lake Washington School District. She brings knowledge and experience with school accommodations to her work as a provider.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with Prescriptive Authority. I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments, medication management, and brief therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My areas of special interest include ADHD, Autism spectrum disorder, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety disorders, and Depression. Before nursing, Nobu was a high school chemistry and physics teacher in the Lake Washington School District. She brings knowledge and experience with school accommodations to her work as a provider.
(425) 949-0204 View (425) 949-0204
Photo of Megan T Brown, PhD, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan T Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I prescribe psychiatric medication, perform psychiatric evaluations, and provide solution-oriented counseling to patients. Currently, I am seeing adult patients only. I treat a wide range of mental health issues and provide support and psychiatric care to people navigating lifespan, family, and career transitions, as well as patients facing health challenges like diabetes, cancer, addiction, and declining memory. My approach to prescribing is conservative and transparent; emphasizes safety, efficacy, comfort, and patient understanding; and is supported by research.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I prescribe psychiatric medication, perform psychiatric evaluations, and provide solution-oriented counseling to patients. Currently, I am seeing adult patients only. I treat a wide range of mental health issues and provide support and psychiatric care to people navigating lifespan, family, and career transitions, as well as patients facing health challenges like diabetes, cancer, addiction, and declining memory. My approach to prescribing is conservative and transparent; emphasizes safety, efficacy, comfort, and patient understanding; and is supported by research.
(206) 557-6711 View (206) 557-6711
Photo of Robert Devney, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert Devney
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have a general psychiatry and child/adolescent psychiatry practice and will see individuals up to the age of 65 years. Interests include autism spectrum disorder in patients with co-occurring physiologic illness. My practice often focuses on anxiety, mood, thought disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These diagnoses frequently present as home, school, and work concerns. For assistance with substance use disorders, I rely on other community providers.
I have a general psychiatry and child/adolescent psychiatry practice and will see individuals up to the age of 65 years. Interests include autism spectrum disorder in patients with co-occurring physiologic illness. My practice often focuses on anxiety, mood, thought disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These diagnoses frequently present as home, school, and work concerns. For assistance with substance use disorders, I rely on other community providers.
(425) 949-0204 View (425) 949-0204
Photo of Heather Siegel, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse
Heather Siegel
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP, CNM
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a psychiatric medication prescriber, I work with children, teens, and adults. I see all psychiatric complaints, including depression, anxiety, panic, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and psychosis. I focus on listening to the patient, thorough care, and helping the patient to live the best life they can live. As a certified nurse midwife, I remain committed to providing high quality mental health care to pregnant, post-partum and breastfeeding moms. I do not prescribe ongoing benzodiazepines for anxiety or sleep.
As a psychiatric medication prescriber, I work with children, teens, and adults. I see all psychiatric complaints, including depression, anxiety, panic, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and psychosis. I focus on listening to the patient, thorough care, and helping the patient to live the best life they can live. As a certified nurse midwife, I remain committed to providing high quality mental health care to pregnant, post-partum and breastfeeding moms. I do not prescribe ongoing benzodiazepines for anxiety or sleep.
(206) 535-1674 View (206) 535-1674

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ginny Weston, MS, MSN, LPCC, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ginny Weston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MSN, LPCC, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients as of 1/7/2025. Please contact the office directly by calling the number listed. Ms. Weston is a board-certified lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in all ages, including children and adolescents, the LGBTQ+ population, as well as prenatal/postnatal mental healthcare. She also specializes in telehealth having been online since 2018. She currently offers medication management in Oregon (self pay and insurance) and Washington (self pay only at this time). Will be expanding to Alaska.
Accepting new patients as of 1/7/2025. Please contact the office directly by calling the number listed. Ms. Weston is a board-certified lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in all ages, including children and adolescents, the LGBTQ+ population, as well as prenatal/postnatal mental healthcare. She also specializes in telehealth having been online since 2018. She currently offers medication management in Oregon (self pay and insurance) and Washington (self pay only at this time). Will be expanding to Alaska.
(971) 444-7296 View (971) 444-7296
Photo of Sulaimon Shonibare, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sulaimon Shonibare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer holistic, personalized care for clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My approach integrates mental health expertise with a focus on the mind, body, and spirit, ensuring that treatment aligns with each client’s unique needs and goals. Through comprehensive evaluations, customized therapy, and thoughtful medication management, I empower clients to regain control of their mental health, fostering resilience, emotional balance, and a fulfilling life.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer holistic, personalized care for clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My approach integrates mental health expertise with a focus on the mind, body, and spirit, ensuring that treatment aligns with each client’s unique needs and goals. Through comprehensive evaluations, customized therapy, and thoughtful medication management, I empower clients to regain control of their mental health, fostering resilience, emotional balance, and a fulfilling life.
(832) 979-6266 View (832) 979-6266
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: 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 holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
(253) 338-8657 View (253) 338-8657
Photo of Amanda J Cox, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda J Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
Not accepting new clients
Amanda Cox MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC offers compassionate psychiatric treatment to adults living in Bellevue, Washington and across all of Washington State. Amanda works together with her patients to create a personalized treatment plan. This is accomplished by taking the time to listen, ask questions, and learn more about the challenges each individual patient has been facing.
Amanda Cox MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC offers compassionate psychiatric treatment to adults living in Bellevue, Washington and across all of Washington State. Amanda works together with her patients to create a personalized treatment plan. This is accomplished by taking the time to listen, ask questions, and learn more about the challenges each individual patient has been facing.
(425) 225-3691 View (425) 225-3691
Photo of Chasity Spring Langman, MSc, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chasity Spring Langman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSc, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Looking for a provider who offers both therapy and psychiatry in one appointment? Life can be overwhelming, and having the right support makes all the difference. Whether you’re managing depression, anxiety, ADHD, or recovering from trauma, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to process feelings and address your needs. As a trained counselor and PMHNP, I simplify care by offering therapy and medication management together. My goal is to help you heal and thrive. Reach out today to see if we’re the right fit—your best life is within reach!
Looking for a provider who offers both therapy and psychiatry in one appointment? Life can be overwhelming, and having the right support makes all the difference. Whether you’re managing depression, anxiety, ADHD, or recovering from trauma, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to process feelings and address your needs. As a trained counselor and PMHNP, I simplify care by offering therapy and medication management together. My goal is to help you heal and thrive. Reach out today to see if we’re the right fit—your best life is within reach!
(206) 823-0383 View (206) 823-0383
Photo of Aaron Padron, Aaron Padron, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aaron Padron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Aaron Padron, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, we are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments are available.
Hello, we are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments are available.
(425) 598-0174 View (425) 598-0174
Photo of Tamara Thompson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tamara Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Patient who is looking for warm, empathetic caring clinician. Patient who is looking to move forward in their life and heal past traumas and excel in any facet of their life.
Patient who is looking for warm, empathetic caring clinician. Patient who is looking to move forward in their life and heal past traumas and excel in any facet of their life.
(509) 517-7015 View (509) 517-7015
Photo of Brian D Jaeger, MD, Psychiatrist
Brian D Jaeger
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
Dr. Jaeger graduated from the University of Washington, and the University of Washington School of Medicine. He completed a four year residency at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has over 20 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist. He believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. He takes a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
Dr. Jaeger graduated from the University of Washington, and the University of Washington School of Medicine. He completed a four year residency at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has over 20 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist. He believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. He takes a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
(425) 276-6346 x1 View (425) 276-6346 x1
Photo of Dr. Michael Sun, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Michael Sun
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Dr. Michael Sun. I graduated from Harvard University and Dartmouth Medical School before completing my adult psychiatry residency training at Duke University and my child and adolescent fellowship training at Massachusetts General Hospital and McLean Hospital, affiliated with Harvard Medical School. Before moving to Seattle, I was the Site Director for Education at the Child and Adolescent Inpatient Psychiatry Unit for the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City.
My name is Dr. Michael Sun. I graduated from Harvard University and Dartmouth Medical School before completing my adult psychiatry residency training at Duke University and my child and adolescent fellowship training at Massachusetts General Hospital and McLean Hospital, affiliated with Harvard Medical School. Before moving to Seattle, I was the Site Director for Education at the Child and Adolescent Inpatient Psychiatry Unit for the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City.
(206) 495-6117 View (206) 495-6117
Photo of Jashunta Carson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jashunta Carson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
JaShunta “Jai” Carson Is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In addition to her clinical experience, Ms. Carson’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude, a Master’s of Science in Environmental Science and Rural Occupational Health from the University of Alabama, as well as second Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and finally a second Master’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
JaShunta “Jai” Carson Is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In addition to her clinical experience, Ms. Carson’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude, a Master’s of Science in Environmental Science and Rural Occupational Health from the University of Alabama, as well as second Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and finally a second Master’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
(509) 210-4449 View (509) 210-4449
Photo of Judith Nyairo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Judith Nyairo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! Judith Nyairo is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has experience working with diverse patient populations and values the provider-patient relationship as the most important factor in helping patients reach their treatment goals.
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! Judith Nyairo is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has experience working with diverse patient populations and values the provider-patient relationship as the most important factor in helping patients reach their treatment goals.
(206) 984-9767 View (206) 984-9767
Photo of Tamara Rasmussen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tamara Rasmussen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Tami is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. She has experience working with patients ages 13-64 years old. She specializes in treating disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and mental health conditions related to chronic illness and chronic pain for OR & WA patients. Prior to psychiatry, Tami worked in cardiovascular nursing. When she is not working, Tami can be found outdoors spending time with her family and her pitbull Coco.
Tami is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. She has experience working with patients ages 13-64 years old. She specializes in treating disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and mental health conditions related to chronic illness and chronic pain for OR & WA patients. Prior to psychiatry, Tami worked in cardiovascular nursing. When she is not working, Tami can be found outdoors spending time with her family and her pitbull Coco.
(360) 800-1872 View (360) 800-1872

See more therapy options for Woodinville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Woodinville, WA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Woodinville, WA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
88% Bipolar Disorder
75% ADHD
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Psychosis
50% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Premera Blue Cross
100% Regence
88% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Woodinville, WA see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Woodinville?

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.