Psychiatrists in Washington

View cities and counties in Washington
Photo of Amber Pfeiffer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, ARNP, PMHNP
Amber Pfeiffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, ARNP, PMHNP
Spokane, WA 99201
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 Dr. Sean Ziegler, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sean Ziegler
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99202
Not currently taking new medication management patients. I am still taking patients for TMS services (Spokane only). Hello, I am Dr. Sean Ziegler. I am a board certified psychiatrist, seeing adults in Washington. I strive to provide professional, compassionate, high quality individualized care. Disruptions to your well being often involve a combination of social, biologic, and psychological factors. We will identify and address what can be changed. It might be difficult to fit an appointment in your busy day; I offer early morning, evening, and weekend hours. I do have an office available if an in person visit is needed.
Not currently taking new medication management patients. I am still taking patients for TMS services (Spokane only). Hello, I am Dr. Sean Ziegler. I am a board certified psychiatrist, seeing adults in Washington. I strive to provide professional, compassionate, high quality individualized care. Disruptions to your well being often involve a combination of social, biologic, and psychological factors. We will identify and address what can be changed. It might be difficult to fit an appointment in your busy day; I offer early morning, evening, and weekend hours. I do have an office available if an in person visit is needed.
(509) 816-4000 View (509) 816-4000
Photo of Dr. Bridget Carnahan, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Bridget Carnahan
Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Carnahan is an osteopathic physician with specialized training in integrative psychiatry. Her approach to care prioritizes the understanding of your unique life experience so that we can find solutions that best support you as an individual.
Dr. Carnahan is an osteopathic physician with specialized training in integrative psychiatry. Her approach to care prioritizes the understanding of your unique life experience so that we can find solutions that best support you as an individual.
(206) 737-3424 View (206) 737-3424
Photo of Sarah Stein, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, NP-C
Sarah Stein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, NP-C
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
As a nurse practitioner, it is my job to ensure you or your child have the best treatment for mental health. I specialize in prescribing medications for ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I also prescribe medications for insomnia, bipolar disorder, and dementia. I have experience working with a wide range of ages including children, teens, and adults.
As a nurse practitioner, it is my job to ensure you or your child have the best treatment for mental health. I specialize in prescribing medications for ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I also prescribe medications for insomnia, bipolar disorder, and dementia. I have experience working with a wide range of ages including children, teens, and adults.
(253) 364-5410 View (253) 364-5410
Photo of Ryan Arnold - Zenergy Psychiatric Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Zenergy Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
Welcome—I'm Ryan, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I help people move from feeling overwhelmed or stuck to feeling supported, empowered, and in control of their mental health. I specialize in treating trauma, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and addiction, with a special focus on the needs of neurodivergent adolescents and adults. Whether you're seeking a fresh perspective, relief from symptoms, or long-term growth, I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions to fit your schedule. I’m here to provide expert, compassionate care tailored to your unique story.
Welcome—I'm Ryan, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I help people move from feeling overwhelmed or stuck to feeling supported, empowered, and in control of their mental health. I specialize in treating trauma, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and addiction, with a special focus on the needs of neurodivergent adolescents and adults. Whether you're seeking a fresh perspective, relief from symptoms, or long-term growth, I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions to fit your schedule. I’m here to provide expert, compassionate care tailored to your unique story.
(360) 926-9562 View (360) 926-9562
Photo of Nuela Umeh - Elle Cliniques HTC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHN, MSN, BSN
Elle Cliniques HTC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHN, MSN, BSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified, patient-centred, quality-driven psychiatric provider with more than 15 years of experience in the medical profession. I strive to provide care to people of different demographic backgrounds and mental health conditions such as Depression, Bipolar disorders, Anxiety disorders, Insomnia, and more by helping them become active members of society. I understand the essentialness of my patients' ethical and social values and strive to provide care tailored to your beliefs and cultural systems.
I am a board-certified, patient-centred, quality-driven psychiatric provider with more than 15 years of experience in the medical profession. I strive to provide care to people of different demographic backgrounds and mental health conditions such as Depression, Bipolar disorders, Anxiety disorders, Insomnia, and more by helping them become active members of society. I understand the essentialness of my patients' ethical and social values and strive to provide care tailored to your beliefs and cultural systems.
(509) 745-5737 View (509) 745-5737
Photo of Abebe Belete, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Abebe Belete
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Abebe Belete, a doctoral nurse practitioner (DNP) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board-certified (PMHNP-BC) with a holistic approach to therapy, integrating evidence-based practices with empathetic listening to address the unique needs of each client. With a focus on individual therapy and medication management, Dr. Belete specializes in treating mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders, as well as providing support for individuals navigating life transitions and managing stress.
I am Abebe Belete, a doctoral nurse practitioner (DNP) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board-certified (PMHNP-BC) with a holistic approach to therapy, integrating evidence-based practices with empathetic listening to address the unique needs of each client. With a focus on individual therapy and medication management, Dr. Belete specializes in treating mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders, as well as providing support for individuals navigating life transitions and managing stress.
(425) 474-7408 View (425) 474-7408
Photo of Tchido Yao - Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Spokane Valley, WA 99216
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) 642-4221 View (509) 642-4221
Photo of Susan J Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Susan J Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
I enjoy working in partnership with individuals to improve quality of life by addressing overall mental, emotional, relational and physical health. I specialize in combining focused psychotherapy with life style changes and medication if indicated. I have experience and special interest in helping clients building resilence, self awareness and self advocacy after trauma and loss, using those experiences to inform the present and improve the future. For those that want it, incorporating mindfulness, prayer and spiritual direction is available.
I enjoy working in partnership with individuals to improve quality of life by addressing overall mental, emotional, relational and physical health. I specialize in combining focused psychotherapy with life style changes and medication if indicated. I have experience and special interest in helping clients building resilence, self awareness and self advocacy after trauma and loss, using those experiences to inform the present and improve the future. For those that want it, incorporating mindfulness, prayer and spiritual direction is available.
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Photo of Shola Adewunmi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shola Adewunmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I'm Shola, I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with five years of experience in mental health care. I've worked with patients of all ages, from children to seniors, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My expertise includes anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and more, and I'm passionate about providing personalized, evidence-based care tailored to each individual. In my practice, I prioritize building trusting relationships with my patients. I believe in collaborative decision-making and integrating various treatment modalities for comprehensive mental health care.
Hello, I'm Shola, I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with five years of experience in mental health care. I've worked with patients of all ages, from children to seniors, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My expertise includes anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and more, and I'm passionate about providing personalized, evidence-based care tailored to each individual. In my practice, I prioritize building trusting relationships with my patients. I believe in collaborative decision-making and integrating various treatment modalities for comprehensive mental health care.
(425) 600-2706 View (425) 600-2706
Photo of Candice Barnett, Psychiatrist, MD
Candice Barnett
Psychiatrist, MD
Spokane, WA 99201
My diverse training background provides a perspective and treatment that goes beyond the individual psyche. Not only is each individual created with unique talents, abilities, and purpose, but each individual also needs to be connected to something bigger. My mission is to assist the individual, child or adult to thrive, which can sometimes require therapy, medications, or both. I have been trained in family structural therapy that can provide surprising results through family involvement even without medications. Let's collaborate and cultivate your new life together.
My diverse training background provides a perspective and treatment that goes beyond the individual psyche. Not only is each individual created with unique talents, abilities, and purpose, but each individual also needs to be connected to something bigger. My mission is to assist the individual, child or adult to thrive, which can sometimes require therapy, medications, or both. I have been trained in family structural therapy that can provide surprising results through family involvement even without medications. Let's collaborate and cultivate your new life together.
(509) 400-5770 View (509) 400-5770
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
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.
(509) 794-0878 View (509) 794-0878
Photo of Alexandra J Pales, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN, MSN
Alexandra J Pales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN, MSN
27 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach to healthcare is working together. To 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 working together. To 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.
(206) 743-9286 View (206) 743-9286
Photo of Hem Acharya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PHMNP, BC, MSc
Hem Acharya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PHMNP, BC, MSc
Online Only
I am an Advanced Registered board-certified psychiatric nurse Practitioner (ARNP). I also hold a master's degree in biology. I've worked with a wide range of patient population of different countries, tradition, and cultures. I offer culturally appropriate services with respect, and compassionate care.
I am an Advanced Registered board-certified psychiatric nurse Practitioner (ARNP). I also hold a master's degree in biology. I've worked with a wide range of patient population of different countries, tradition, and cultures. I offer culturally appropriate services with respect, and compassionate care.
(253) 400-3093 View (253) 400-3093
Photo of Sydney Berkman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, DNP, PMHNP
Sydney Berkman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people of all ages to understand and work toward their goals for a more fulfilling life. I meet all clients with an individualized and trauma informed approach, recognizing that no one can truly understand another's unique experience. I work with clients living with symptoms related to trauma, depression, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns. I specialize in adolescents and young adults, and am passionate about partnering with young people to develop the skills and language necessary to advocate for their mental wellbeing.
I work with people of all ages to understand and work toward their goals for a more fulfilling life. I meet all clients with an individualized and trauma informed approach, recognizing that no one can truly understand another's unique experience. I work with clients living with symptoms related to trauma, depression, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns. I specialize in adolescents and young adults, and am passionate about partnering with young people to develop the skills and language necessary to advocate for their mental wellbeing.
(206) 761-1043 x315 View (206) 761-1043 x315
Photo of Ashok Shimoji-Krishnan, Psychiatrist, MD
Ashok Shimoji-Krishnan
Psychiatrist, MD
Kirkland, WA 98033
Dr. Ashok Shimoji-Krishnan, a psychiatrist with LifeStance Health, provides empathetic and client-centered care to children, adolescents, and young adults throughout Washington. As a highly experienced child and adolescent psychiatrist, Dr. Shimoji-Krishnan is passionate about offering mental health support through both in-person sessions and telehealth, ensuring accessible and personalized care for patients across the state. His work is characterized by a collaborative and transparent approach, using clear and approachable language to make complex mental health concepts understandable for patients and families alike. Dr.
Dr. Ashok Shimoji-Krishnan, a psychiatrist with LifeStance Health, provides empathetic and client-centered care to children, adolescents, and young adults throughout Washington. As a highly experienced child and adolescent psychiatrist, Dr. Shimoji-Krishnan is passionate about offering mental health support through both in-person sessions and telehealth, ensuring accessible and personalized care for patients across the state. His work is characterized by a collaborative and transparent approach, using clear and approachable language to make complex mental health concepts understandable for patients and families alike. Dr.
(425) 534-7046 View (425) 534-7046
Photo of Sarah Kuramoto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN
Sarah Kuramoto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My approach is to work alongside clients to support each unique individual holistically, examining mental health from multiple angles. I aim to work collaboratively with clients to support their unique needs through medication management that considers cultural values, social support, interpersonal relationships, and lifestyle factors such as sleep, nutrition, and exercise.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My approach is to work alongside clients to support each unique individual holistically, examining mental health from multiple angles. I aim to work collaboratively with clients to support their unique needs through medication management that considers cultural values, social support, interpersonal relationships, and lifestyle factors such as sleep, nutrition, and exercise.
(425) 569-4331 View (425) 569-4331
Photo of Cassandra Castro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Cassandra Castro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you have questions about medication use in pregnancy, processing trauma, or ready to take the first step in changing your life, I’m here to help you discover your unique path forward. I offer integrative mental health care grounded in trauma-informed, evidence-based practices and collaborative decision-making. I believe in a personalized approach—there is no one-size-fits-all in mental health care—and I’m committed to working alongside you to find what supports your well-being. I work with individuals of all ages and demographics. In network, no wait-list, and services available in Spanish!
Whether you have questions about medication use in pregnancy, processing trauma, or ready to take the first step in changing your life, I’m here to help you discover your unique path forward. I offer integrative mental health care grounded in trauma-informed, evidence-based practices and collaborative decision-making. I believe in a personalized approach—there is no one-size-fits-all in mental health care—and I’m committed to working alongside you to find what supports your well-being. I work with individuals of all ages and demographics. In network, no wait-list, and services available in Spanish!
(206) 678-0595 View (206) 678-0595
Photo of Tchido Yao - Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Pasco, WA 99301
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
Robert E Sands
Psychiatrist, MD
Tacoma, WA 98409
I am a 70 year old developmental Psychiatrist who practices evaluation, psychotherapy and medication management in a private pay outpatient office. I see child, adolescent and adult patients with AD/HD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and complex psychiatric cases.I do not bill insurance but instead, I provide you a "super bill" that shows payment and enables you to recoup your costs out of network. Nothing is better than an individualized interactive assessment (with all due respect for checklists). I am trained in a wide variety of psychotherapy approaches and try and find the ones that apply to each patient.
I am a 70 year old developmental Psychiatrist who practices evaluation, psychotherapy and medication management in a private pay outpatient office. I see child, adolescent and adult patients with AD/HD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and complex psychiatric cases.I do not bill insurance but instead, I provide you a "super bill" that shows payment and enables you to recoup your costs out of network. Nothing is better than an individualized interactive assessment (with all due respect for checklists). I am trained in a wide variety of psychotherapy approaches and try and find the ones that apply to each patient.
(253) 248-7288 View (253) 248-7288

See more therapy options for Washington

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Washington who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
92% Depression
80% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
76% Medication Management
75% Trauma and PTSD
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth
73% Regence

How Psychiatrists in Washington see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
29% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Washington?

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.