Psychiatrists in Kirkland, WA
Bernard Mwangi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
Greetings, I am Bernard Mwangi, a seasoned nurse practitioner driven by a profound commitment to guiding individuals along their mental health journeys. With a wealth of experience, I specialize in conducting comprehensive evaluations, adeptly identifying mental health hurdles, and tailoring personalized treatment plans for each unique client. My approach is founded on empathy, understanding, and a dedication to fostering a safe, judgment-free space where clients feel heard and supported. I believe in the power of compassionate listening, recognizing that every individual's story is unique and deserving of respect.
Greetings, I am Bernard Mwangi, a seasoned nurse practitioner driven by a profound commitment to guiding individuals along their mental health journeys. With a wealth of experience, I specialize in conducting comprehensive evaluations, adeptly identifying mental health hurdles, and tailoring personalized treatment plans for each unique client. My approach is founded on empathy, understanding, and a dedication to fostering a safe, judgment-free space where clients feel heard and supported. I believe in the power of compassionate listening, recognizing that every individual's story is unique and deserving of respect.
Currently not accepting new clients. Using a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I am committed to hearing your story and exploring options to support you, which can include medication management, therapy, and/or deprescribing. I believe every person has the right to thrive and not simply survive, and will work with you or your children to address current issues or to simply maximize wellness. I enjoy working with people of all ages. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and medication management of ADHD, depression, anxiety, and many other issues that do not fit neatly into diagnostic categories.
Currently not accepting new clients. Using a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I am committed to hearing your story and exploring options to support you, which can include medication management, therapy, and/or deprescribing. I believe every person has the right to thrive and not simply survive, and will work with you or your children to address current issues or to simply maximize wellness. I enjoy working with people of all ages. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and medication management of ADHD, depression, anxiety, and many other issues that do not fit neatly into diagnostic categories.
I am a board-certified Psychiatrist in Kirkland, Washington with broad experience in treating adults with mental and emotional problems, and difficulty coping with life stressors. I provide evidence-based treatments using medication management and psychotherapy tailored to my patient's needs in a safe environment with sensitivity and confidentiality. My goal is not to just treat the symptoms, but also to accurately diagnose and treat the underlying problem in order to improve functioning and quality of life.
I am a board-certified Psychiatrist in Kirkland, Washington with broad experience in treating adults with mental and emotional problems, and difficulty coping with life stressors. I provide evidence-based treatments using medication management and psychotherapy tailored to my patient's needs in a safe environment with sensitivity and confidentiality. My goal is not to just treat the symptoms, but also to accurately diagnose and treat the underlying problem in order to improve functioning and quality of life.
Leilani De Jong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
I believe in patient-centered, integrated mental health care. The goal for each patient is to optimize individual health and wellness. I view each patient as a distinct individual with their own unique life experiences, strengths and challenges. Therefore, a specialized treatment plan is created in a collaborative and respectful manner, providing compassionate and evidence-based psychotherapy and/or pharmacologic management in a warm, supportive environment. Therapy is typically brief and solution focused. Prescribing medications is done conscientiously, when suitable, and at the safest dosage.
I believe in patient-centered, integrated mental health care. The goal for each patient is to optimize individual health and wellness. I view each patient as a distinct individual with their own unique life experiences, strengths and challenges. Therefore, a specialized treatment plan is created in a collaborative and respectful manner, providing compassionate and evidence-based psychotherapy and/or pharmacologic management in a warm, supportive environment. Therapy is typically brief and solution focused. Prescribing medications is done conscientiously, when suitable, and at the safest dosage.
Ugonna Rose Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
Copestone Psychiatric - Warren Shadko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients (Nevada & Washington): You are searching for a psychiatric provider that will help you follow through with needed care to complete and maintain your recovery. Copestone Psychiatric works to provide quality mental health care across the lifespan through medication management, therapy, coaching, and more. All psychiatric complaints are treated, including: ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Depressive/Mood disorders, Panic, PTSD, OCD, and Sleep/Wake Disorders. Click our "Website" link to schedule your free, 15-minute consult so we may chat!
Accepting New Clients (Nevada & Washington): You are searching for a psychiatric provider that will help you follow through with needed care to complete and maintain your recovery. Copestone Psychiatric works to provide quality mental health care across the lifespan through medication management, therapy, coaching, and more. All psychiatric complaints are treated, including: ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Depressive/Mood disorders, Panic, PTSD, OCD, and Sleep/Wake Disorders. Click our "Website" link to schedule your free, 15-minute consult so we may chat!
Dr. Brandi Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, FPMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS***Our goal is to meet all of your medication needs. Through a web-based platform (telepsychiatry), we hope to maintain a relaxing environment for you as we allow for care to be given to you in your home, from the comfort of your couch to a quiet space in your providers' office. We provide exceptional, personalized, and timely access to psychiatric care with little to no wait time.
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS***Our goal is to meet all of your medication needs. Through a web-based platform (telepsychiatry), we hope to maintain a relaxing environment for you as we allow for care to be given to you in your home, from the comfort of your couch to a quiet space in your providers' office. We provide exceptional, personalized, and timely access to psychiatric care with little to no wait time.
Heather Siegel
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP, CNM
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98034
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.
DenaCollins Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
At DenaCollins we have experience working with clients experiencing mental health crises using a trauma-informed approach, striving to meet clients where they are. We employ the sanctuary model, an evidence-based approach to care that focuses on providing a healing environment in which patients overcome the root causes of their issues. We believe each person to be unique and it is our responsibility to meet you where you are. Through a collaborative, empathetic, and non-judgmental partnership, we will guide you to become the person you want to be and live the life you want to live.
At DenaCollins we have experience working with clients experiencing mental health crises using a trauma-informed approach, striving to meet clients where they are. We employ the sanctuary model, an evidence-based approach to care that focuses on providing a healing environment in which patients overcome the root causes of their issues. We believe each person to be unique and it is our responsibility to meet you where you are. Through a collaborative, empathetic, and non-judgmental partnership, we will guide you to become the person you want to be and live the life you want to live.
Active Path Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Ionatan Cauneac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in psychiatric assessments, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, bipolar spectrum disorders, insomnia, and ADHD. Rather than mask or cover your symptoms with medication, my goal is to take a wholistic approach to your care and address the root cause of your mental health challenges so that you can begin the process of healing. I'm a firm believe that without mental health we can never experience true health and wellness.
I specialize in psychiatric assessments, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, bipolar spectrum disorders, insomnia, and ADHD. Rather than mask or cover your symptoms with medication, my goal is to take a wholistic approach to your care and address the root cause of your mental health challenges so that you can begin the process of healing. I'm a firm believe that without mental health we can never experience true health and wellness.
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Dr. Massoud Stephane is a Psychiatrist in Washington who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Stephane graduated from Damascus University Medical College and was trained in neurology at La Salpeteriere in Paris, France and in psychiatry at Tufts University and Yale University. He was also a research fellow in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Medical School where he was faculty for short time afterwards. Over his career span, he practiced psychiatry in the East Coast, Midwest, and West coast; and held professorial positions at the University of Minnesota, Indiana University and Oregon Health and Science University.
Dr. Massoud Stephane is a Psychiatrist in Washington who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Stephane graduated from Damascus University Medical College and was trained in neurology at La Salpeteriere in Paris, France and in psychiatry at Tufts University and Yale University. He was also a research fellow in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Medical School where he was faculty for short time afterwards. Over his career span, he practiced psychiatry in the East Coast, Midwest, and West coast; and held professorial positions at the University of Minnesota, Indiana University and Oregon Health and Science University.
Kimberly H. Clayton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
I'm Kimberly Clayton, and I've dedicated over two decades to the medical field, accumulating experience in subacute care, long-term care, case management, clinical nursing direction, and wound care management. Recognizing the need for specialized training in mental health, I returned to school to become a PMHNP. My commitment is to offer high-quality care and improve the quality of life for my patients by taking a comprehensive approach to healthcare. I'm eager to meet you and help you overcome the challenges associated with mental health.
I'm Kimberly Clayton, and I've dedicated over two decades to the medical field, accumulating experience in subacute care, long-term care, case management, clinical nursing direction, and wound care management. Recognizing the need for specialized training in mental health, I returned to school to become a PMHNP. My commitment is to offer high-quality care and improve the quality of life for my patients by taking a comprehensive approach to healthcare. I'm eager to meet you and help you overcome the challenges associated with mental health.
Dr. Ravyn Burnett Ramos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND, ARNP, FP-C, PMHNP, (c)
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
I am a primary care provider with unique expertise in functional psychiatry and have advanced certifications in integrative mental health. I am well versed in addressing common psychiatric concerns such as chronic stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and insomnia both with conventional medications and alternative supplements. I have assisted many patients in decreasing their dependence on common psychiatric medications by addressing commonly overlooked imbalances. In addition, I also have advanced training in research-based psychedelic therapies for the treatment of refractory mental health conditions.
I am a primary care provider with unique expertise in functional psychiatry and have advanced certifications in integrative mental health. I am well versed in addressing common psychiatric concerns such as chronic stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and insomnia both with conventional medications and alternative supplements. I have assisted many patients in decreasing their dependence on common psychiatric medications by addressing commonly overlooked imbalances. In addition, I also have advanced training in research-based psychedelic therapies for the treatment of refractory mental health conditions.
Evergreen Telepsychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
NO Medicaid or Medicare including Apple Health. Accepting new clients with Premera, Aetna, CIGNA, UHC/OPTUM. Text or Call to schedule. Appointments as soon as next week! Offering individualized, person-centered approach to treatment. Combined medication management with individual psychotherapy for the best outcome and evidence for recovery based care. Have worked in all modalities and treatment settings within the mental health system. Experience is across the lifespan and with all different mental health concerns.
NO Medicaid or Medicare including Apple Health. Accepting new clients with Premera, Aetna, CIGNA, UHC/OPTUM. Text or Call to schedule. Appointments as soon as next week! Offering individualized, person-centered approach to treatment. Combined medication management with individual psychotherapy for the best outcome and evidence for recovery based care. Have worked in all modalities and treatment settings within the mental health system. Experience is across the lifespan and with all different mental health concerns.
Maria Cecilia Dulay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! I am a nurse practitioner who has dedicated my practice to caring for clients with psychiatric mental health needs. I have extensive training in various psychiatric settings and ensures that each patient I see, leaves feeling heard, understood and respected. I believe that providing care isn’t just about treating symptoms, but also showing kindness along the way, and treating each client as an individual. I am a passionate healthcare provider committed to cultivating an atmosphere of comfort and education for my patients.
Now accepting new clients! I am a nurse practitioner who has dedicated my practice to caring for clients with psychiatric mental health needs. I have extensive training in various psychiatric settings and ensures that each patient I see, leaves feeling heard, understood and respected. I believe that providing care isn’t just about treating symptoms, but also showing kindness along the way, and treating each client as an individual. I am a passionate healthcare provider committed to cultivating an atmosphere of comfort and education for my patients.
I obtained my medical degree from University of Istanbul Medical School. I completed my Psychiatry Specialization at Case Western Reserve University. I was the chief resident of the inpatient units at Harvard Medical School. I have held positions at Western State Hospital, Good Samaritan Behavioral Health and Navos Mental Health. I was a pediatric neurosurgeon previously and have vast experience working abroad in the international medical communities of Canada, Japan, Germany, France and Australia. I am fluent in English, German, French and Turkish. Services Offered: My focus will be on medication management.
I obtained my medical degree from University of Istanbul Medical School. I completed my Psychiatry Specialization at Case Western Reserve University. I was the chief resident of the inpatient units at Harvard Medical School. I have held positions at Western State Hospital, Good Samaritan Behavioral Health and Navos Mental Health. I was a pediatric neurosurgeon previously and have vast experience working abroad in the international medical communities of Canada, Japan, Germany, France and Australia. I am fluent in English, German, French and Turkish. Services Offered: My focus will be on medication management.
Active Path Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Hi! I am a LGBTQ and alternative lifestyle friendly, board certified addiction and general psychiatrist. In addition to medication management, patients may receive psychotherapy. I draw from multiple techniques including cognitive behavioral, supportive, mindfulness, and motivational enhancement, in a warm and non-judgmental manner.
Hi! I am a LGBTQ and alternative lifestyle friendly, board certified addiction and general psychiatrist. In addition to medication management, patients may receive psychotherapy. I draw from multiple techniques including cognitive behavioral, supportive, mindfulness, and motivational enhancement, in a warm and non-judgmental manner.
Traverse Therapy Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
We are accepting new clients! Hello my name is Micah Stansfield-Duvall Recognizing the impact of addiction and mental illness on individuals, I have been actively involved in mental health an addiction treatment programs aimed at recovery and reducing stigma. I employ evidence-based practices to help patients overcome substance use disorders and achieve long-term sobriety. I work closely with patients to stabilize and maintain their mental health related issues.
We are accepting new clients! Hello my name is Micah Stansfield-Duvall Recognizing the impact of addiction and mental illness on individuals, I have been actively involved in mental health an addiction treatment programs aimed at recovery and reducing stigma. I employ evidence-based practices to help patients overcome substance use disorders and achieve long-term sobriety. I work closely with patients to stabilize and maintain their mental health related issues.
See more therapy options for Kirkland
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Kirkland, WA
70+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Kirkland, WA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
90% | Medication Management |
87% | Depression |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | ADHD |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | Aetna |
77% | Cigna and Evernorth |
77% | Premera Blue Cross |
How Psychiatrists in Kirkland, WA see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
58% | Female | |
42% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kirkland?
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.