Psychiatrists in Bellevue, WA

Photo of Maryam Sajjad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Maryam Sajjad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am highly patient-centered. I enjoy treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as depressive disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorders, substance use disorders, and insomnia. I am enthusiastic about treating those struggling with substance use disorder and depression. Mutual respect and open communication are critical to the treatment journey; therefore, I respect my patients’ time and value their input regarding their treatment plans.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am highly patient-centered. I enjoy treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as depressive disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorders, substance use disorders, and insomnia. I am enthusiastic about treating those struggling with substance use disorder and depression. Mutual respect and open communication are critical to the treatment journey; therefore, I respect my patients’ time and value their input regarding their treatment plans.
(425) 842-1124 View (425) 842-1124
Photo of Jeanne Frances Nicholson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Jeanne Frances Nicholson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in the healthcare field. I began my career in 2007 as a registered nurse on the oncology floor and then moved on to working in the emergency room. My goal as a provider is to help my patients regain the functionality they once had in whatever environment they are struggling in. My education and training allows me to assess, diagnosis, and treat various mental health disorders. I try to foster a laid back stress free environment so my patients are comfortable discussing sensitive subjects while maintaining the utmost privacy.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in the healthcare field. I began my career in 2007 as a registered nurse on the oncology floor and then moved on to working in the emergency room. My goal as a provider is to help my patients regain the functionality they once had in whatever environment they are struggling in. My education and training allows me to assess, diagnosis, and treat various mental health disorders. I try to foster a laid back stress free environment so my patients are comfortable discussing sensitive subjects while maintaining the utmost privacy.
(425) 657-5131 View (425) 657-5131
Photo of Dr. Wade Reiner, Psychiatrist in Bellevue, WA
Dr. Wade Reiner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Wait time: about 2-3 weeks - Request visit using practice website - Work with a MD - Ages 18-60 - Use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement - No Medicare availability. - I work with clients to achieve a variety of goals, including managing depression or anxiety, navigating losses and role transitions, and improving functioning in relationships and work. Credentials: Psychology, Johns Hopkins University, MD, SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, NY, & Psychiatry residency, the Washington University in St. Louis, part-time Clinical Assistant Professor at UW, and full time at West Coast Psychiatry. I look forward to connecting with you.
Wait time: about 2-3 weeks - Request visit using practice website - Work with a MD - Ages 18-60 - Use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement - No Medicare availability. - I work with clients to achieve a variety of goals, including managing depression or anxiety, navigating losses and role transitions, and improving functioning in relationships and work. Credentials: Psychology, Johns Hopkins University, MD, SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, NY, & Psychiatry residency, the Washington University in St. Louis, part-time Clinical Assistant Professor at UW, and full time at West Coast Psychiatry. I look forward to connecting with you.
(206) 486-5225 View (206) 486-5225
Photo of Ionatan Cauneac @Prisma Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Ionatan Cauneac @Prisma Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is passionate about helping people live their best lives by coming alongside them to cultivate hope, healing, and a newfound purpose in life. I believe whole heartedly that without mental health, there is no true health.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is passionate about helping people live their best lives by coming alongside them to cultivate hope, healing, and a newfound purpose in life. I believe whole heartedly that without mental health, there is no true health.
(425) 541-1993 View (425) 541-1993
Photo of Arabelle Estrada, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Arabelle Estrada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Arabelle is a board-certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Samuel Merritt University in the San Francisco Bay area. She enjoyed seven fulfilling years as a registered nurse in various areas of practice and eventually became the Director of Nursing at an addiction treatment center in the Pacific Northwest. She then obtained a Master of Science in Nursing from Seattle Pacific University and a national certification with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Arabelle is a board-certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Samuel Merritt University in the San Francisco Bay area. She enjoyed seven fulfilling years as a registered nurse in various areas of practice and eventually became the Director of Nursing at an addiction treatment center in the Pacific Northwest. She then obtained a Master of Science in Nursing from Seattle Pacific University and a national certification with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
(253) 321-1319 View (253) 321-1319
Photo of Elia Wellness Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Elia Wellness Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
Your Mental health is essential at Elia Wellness Services, and we offer a safe space to seek help. At Elia Wellness Services we provide treatment for adolescents and adults, ages 13 to 65+. We treat most psychiatric disorders and provide medication management and brief psychotherapy. We offer evidence-based treatment for various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, ADHD (evaluation & Treatment), postpartum depression, and phase of life transitions tailored to our client's needs in a safe and confidential environment.
Your Mental health is essential at Elia Wellness Services, and we offer a safe space to seek help. At Elia Wellness Services we provide treatment for adolescents and adults, ages 13 to 65+. We treat most psychiatric disorders and provide medication management and brief psychotherapy. We offer evidence-based treatment for various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, ADHD (evaluation & Treatment), postpartum depression, and phase of life transitions tailored to our client's needs in a safe and confidential environment.
(206) 825-6290 View (206) 825-6290
Photo of Ioana Hall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Ioana Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Ioana Hall is a graduate of Seattle University, having earned a Doctorate Degree in Nursing Practice, specializing in Psychiatry. She was born and raised in Romania. Dr. Hall has worked for over a decade in different roles, providing direct inpatient care at a local psychiatric hospital, where she ultimately completed her preceptorship. Dr. Hall has been with Discovery MD since early April, 2023. She has a passion for holistic medicine combined with individualized pharmaceutical and alternative psychiatric treatment to effectively target symptoms associated with all psychiatric disorders, specifically treatment-resistant MDD.
Ioana Hall is a graduate of Seattle University, having earned a Doctorate Degree in Nursing Practice, specializing in Psychiatry. She was born and raised in Romania. Dr. Hall has worked for over a decade in different roles, providing direct inpatient care at a local psychiatric hospital, where she ultimately completed her preceptorship. Dr. Hall has been with Discovery MD since early April, 2023. She has a passion for holistic medicine combined with individualized pharmaceutical and alternative psychiatric treatment to effectively target symptoms associated with all psychiatric disorders, specifically treatment-resistant MDD.
(425) 541-7680 View (425) 541-7680
Photo of Frank Bashumika, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Frank Bashumika
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Thank you for choosing Teleemon Behavioral Health Services. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience working in the mental health field. I strongly believe that proper treatment can facilitate/enhance YOUR self-confidence and determination and in turn boost overall well-being.
Thank you for choosing Teleemon Behavioral Health Services. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience working in the mental health field. I strongly believe that proper treatment can facilitate/enhance YOUR self-confidence and determination and in turn boost overall well-being.
(206) 208-8609 View (206) 208-8609
Photo of Keenan Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Keenan Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
SAME-WEEK Telehealth appointments. I help individuals overcome a range of mental health challenges using a balanced perspective. My approach includes thoughtful medication management, holistic care, and brief psychotherapy. As part of a holistic view, we examine nutrition, exercise, and sleep in helping clients maximize mental wellness.
SAME-WEEK Telehealth appointments. I help individuals overcome a range of mental health challenges using a balanced perspective. My approach includes thoughtful medication management, holistic care, and brief psychotherapy. As part of a holistic view, we examine nutrition, exercise, and sleep in helping clients maximize mental wellness.
(509) 285-0748 View (509) 285-0748
Photo of Denmind Psychiatric Solutions PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Denmind Psychiatric Solutions PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. We understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. We want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact us.
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. We understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. We want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact us.
(425) 659-2850 View (425) 659-2850
Photo of Kit Ko, Psychiatric Nurse in Bellevue, WA
Kit Ko
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and ADHD can make life feel like an uphill climb. Combined with the uncertain times we are living in, things can quickly become overwhelming. Together we will develop a treatment plan the emphasizes your strengths and takes into consideration the many biopsychosocial factors that may be affecting you. Please note that I primarily provide medication management, with some therapy meant to supplement the work you are doing with your primary talk therapist.
Depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and ADHD can make life feel like an uphill climb. Combined with the uncertain times we are living in, things can quickly become overwhelming. Together we will develop a treatment plan the emphasizes your strengths and takes into consideration the many biopsychosocial factors that may be affecting you. Please note that I primarily provide medication management, with some therapy meant to supplement the work you are doing with your primary talk therapist.
(425) 968-5948 View (425) 968-5948
Photo of Stephen Brogdon, Psychiatrist in Bellevue, WA
Stephen Brogdon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006
Dr. Steve Brogdon is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing psychiatry since 2007. He completed residency at the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center and then worked in a number of community psychiatry settings. This offered an excellent opportunity to hone his craft and become an expert in psychopharmacology. After several years in a successful private practice, he joined one of the oldest interventional psychiatric practices on the West Coast. There he participated in research and treatment with rapid acting medications, transcranial magnetic stimulation, psychedelics, deep brain stimulation, etc.
Dr. Steve Brogdon is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing psychiatry since 2007. He completed residency at the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center and then worked in a number of community psychiatry settings. This offered an excellent opportunity to hone his craft and become an expert in psychopharmacology. After several years in a successful private practice, he joined one of the oldest interventional psychiatric practices on the West Coast. There he participated in research and treatment with rapid acting medications, transcranial magnetic stimulation, psychedelics, deep brain stimulation, etc.
(425) 243-1906 View (425) 243-1906
Photo of Keya Kumar@ Family Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Keya Kumar@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Keya Kumar is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats patients across the lifespan with a particular emphasis on adults and transitional aged youth. Keya completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at Case Western Reserve University. Keya believes in using a holistic approach with patients, combining pharmacotherapy with integrative treatment services in order to create the best possible outcomes for mental health.
Keya Kumar is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats patients across the lifespan with a particular emphasis on adults and transitional aged youth. Keya completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at Case Western Reserve University. Keya believes in using a holistic approach with patients, combining pharmacotherapy with integrative treatment services in order to create the best possible outcomes for mental health.
(206) 501-4342 View (206) 501-4342
Photo of Michael Seyffert, Psychiatrist in Bellevue, WA
Michael Seyffert
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008  (Online Only)
I worked as a child neurologist and sleep medicine physician before becoming a psychiatrist. Because of that, I provide varied and multiple treatment options, especially for patients with dual diagnoses. I have worked in multiple settings including inpatient and residential and believe in a team approach to care. I am a former lecturer at NYU Child Study Center and headed a treatment team for children and adolescents with Autism and other complex neurodevelopmental disorders. I enjoy working with adolescents, college age and older adults and will engage with family as well in an effort to provide the greatest support to clients.
I worked as a child neurologist and sleep medicine physician before becoming a psychiatrist. Because of that, I provide varied and multiple treatment options, especially for patients with dual diagnoses. I have worked in multiple settings including inpatient and residential and believe in a team approach to care. I am a former lecturer at NYU Child Study Center and headed a treatment team for children and adolescents with Autism and other complex neurodevelopmental disorders. I enjoy working with adolescents, college age and older adults and will engage with family as well in an effort to provide the greatest support to clients.
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Photo of Melissa Mason, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Melissa Mason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
**TAKING NEW CLIENTS EITHER IN PERSON OR TELEHEALTH** My name is Melissa and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) that is here to help with any mental health needs that you or your family might have. I want to help find you answers for any concerns that you are facing by discussing them with you, performing psychiatric evaluations and prescribing and managing medications you might need.. Partnering with my clients to come up with a treatment plan that is evidenced based is a process that I feel strongly about because it is your mental health and life that we are treating.
**TAKING NEW CLIENTS EITHER IN PERSON OR TELEHEALTH** My name is Melissa and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) that is here to help with any mental health needs that you or your family might have. I want to help find you answers for any concerns that you are facing by discussing them with you, performing psychiatric evaluations and prescribing and managing medications you might need.. Partnering with my clients to come up with a treatment plan that is evidenced based is a process that I feel strongly about because it is your mental health and life that we are treating.
(206) 278-3754 View (206) 278-3754
Photo of Jasmine Elia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Jasmine Elia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
Jasmine Elia is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She understands mental health and provides safe treatment approaches. Jasmine also delivers effective & personalized responses. She provides treatment for adolescents and adults, ages 13 to 65+. Jasmine treats most psychiatric disorders & provide medication management and brief psychotherapy. She offers evidence-based treatment for various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, ADHD (evaluation & Treatment), postpartum depression, and phase of life transitions tailored to our client's needs in a safe and confidential environment.
Jasmine Elia is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She understands mental health and provides safe treatment approaches. Jasmine also delivers effective & personalized responses. She provides treatment for adolescents and adults, ages 13 to 65+. Jasmine treats most psychiatric disorders & provide medication management and brief psychotherapy. She offers evidence-based treatment for various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, ADHD (evaluation & Treatment), postpartum depression, and phase of life transitions tailored to our client's needs in a safe and confidential environment.
(206) 429-4340 View (206) 429-4340
Photo of Family Psychiatry, Psychiatrist in Bellevue, WA
Family Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Accepting New Patients: Family Psychiatry is committed to meeting the needs of our community by providing the best Psychiatric care for individuals of all ages and families. Our providers are trained as a Child & Adolescent specialist and also see patients across the lifespan including adults. We believes in a developmental approach that includes understanding both neuro-biological processes and bio-psychosocial issues.
Accepting New Patients: Family Psychiatry is committed to meeting the needs of our community by providing the best Psychiatric care for individuals of all ages and families. Our providers are trained as a Child & Adolescent specialist and also see patients across the lifespan including adults. We believes in a developmental approach that includes understanding both neuro-biological processes and bio-psychosocial issues.
(206) 501-4342 View (206) 501-4342
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.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 Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
(206) 895-7857 View (206) 895-7857
Photo of Renew Psychiatric Group , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Renew Psychiatric Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients: Hello, I'm Dr. Meyers. I’ve been working in the medical field for over twenty years. I’m double-board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and as a family nurse practitioner, though for the last 10 years I have practiced exclusively in psychiatry. My educational background and prior clinical experience in family practice gives me a well-rounded perspective of both physical and mental well-being. I treat patients ages 5 and up. I enjoy working with patients with a variety of diagnoses across the spectrum of mental health disorders. I look forward to working with you.
Accepting New Patients: Hello, I'm Dr. Meyers. I’ve been working in the medical field for over twenty years. I’m double-board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and as a family nurse practitioner, though for the last 10 years I have practiced exclusively in psychiatry. My educational background and prior clinical experience in family practice gives me a well-rounded perspective of both physical and mental well-being. I treat patients ages 5 and up. I enjoy working with patients with a variety of diagnoses across the spectrum of mental health disorders. I look forward to working with you.
(407) 337-2578 View (407) 337-2578
Photo of NeuroStim TMS Bellevue, Psychiatrist in Bellevue, WA
NeuroStim TMS Bellevue
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
PROVEN NON-DRUG TREATMENT FOR DEPRESSION. We specialize in TMS Therapy, a revolutionary FDA-Approved treatment that is providing new HOPE and HEALING to thousands of patients who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and similar disorders. TMS is a safe and highly effective treatment that is covered by most insurances. It works by stimulating areas of the brain that are under-active in patients with severe depression, anxiety, and similar disorders. TMS provides substantial relief and even complete remission in those who have not obtained benefit from medications, or prefer not to take medications for any reason.
PROVEN NON-DRUG TREATMENT FOR DEPRESSION. We specialize in TMS Therapy, a revolutionary FDA-Approved treatment that is providing new HOPE and HEALING to thousands of patients who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and similar disorders. TMS is a safe and highly effective treatment that is covered by most insurances. It works by stimulating areas of the brain that are under-active in patients with severe depression, anxiety, and similar disorders. TMS provides substantial relief and even complete remission in those who have not obtained benefit from medications, or prefer not to take medications for any reason.
(425) 230-5809 View (425) 230-5809

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bellevue, WA

100+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Bellevue, WA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
92% Depression
85% Medication Management
79% ADHD
79% Bipolar Disorder
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Cigna and Evernorth
78% Premera
74% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Bellevue, WA see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

61% Female
38% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bellevue?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.