Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Dr. Christopher Galbick, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Dr. Christopher Galbick
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Dr. Galbick accepts OHP patients with Health Share of Oregon and offers new patient appointments within 2 weeks. He specializes in providing medication management, active listening, and empathy.
Dr. Galbick accepts OHP patients with Health Share of Oregon and offers new patient appointments within 2 weeks. He specializes in providing medication management, active listening, and empathy.
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Photo of Scott A Friedman, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Scott A Friedman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Not accepting new clients
Therapy can lead to the relief of many forms of suffering, and to a fuller experience of love, work, creativity and play -- to a life more fully lived. My practice is centered on psychotherapy, sometimes coupled with judicious use of medications. While I work with adults of all ages, I specialize in working with young adults who find themselves standing apart, perhaps for the first time, from family environments and relationships that were difficult, traumatic, or invalidating.
Therapy can lead to the relief of many forms of suffering, and to a fuller experience of love, work, creativity and play -- to a life more fully lived. My practice is centered on psychotherapy, sometimes coupled with judicious use of medications. While I work with adults of all ages, I specialize in working with young adults who find themselves standing apart, perhaps for the first time, from family environments and relationships that were difficult, traumatic, or invalidating.
(503) 926-6093 View (503) 926-6093
Photo of Carmen Kosicek - Visionary Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Carmen Kosicek - Visionary Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
(458) 225-5152 View (458) 225-5152
Maggie Gareau
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you experiencing distress due to trauma, relationships, fears, internal conflicts, self esteem, or feeling stuck. Some things are just too difficult to go through or examine alone and having compassionate, open and knowlegeable accompaniment can be the key to understanding and growth. I provide psychodynamic therapy to adults.
Are you experiencing distress due to trauma, relationships, fears, internal conflicts, self esteem, or feeling stuck. Some things are just too difficult to go through or examine alone and having compassionate, open and knowlegeable accompaniment can be the key to understanding and growth. I provide psychodynamic therapy to adults.
(503) 766-4889 View (503) 766-4889
Photo of Helen Caldwell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Helen Caldwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in Portland, Oregon. I completed my Master’s and Doctorate degrees at Oregon Health & Science University. I have experience working with clients who suffer from a variety of mental health issues including difficulty with focus and attention, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. A majority of my experience has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in Portland, Oregon. I completed my Master’s and Doctorate degrees at Oregon Health & Science University. I have experience working with clients who suffer from a variety of mental health issues including difficulty with focus and attention, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. A majority of my experience has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
(971) 231-2646 View (971) 231-2646
Photo of Stacey Gramann, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Stacey Gramann
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Not accepting new clients
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
(971) 308-4610 View (971) 308-4610
Photo of Kristi Muncie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Kristi Muncie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
(503) 386-9715 View (503) 386-9715
Photo of Dr. Katharine Frissora, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dr. Katharine Frissora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
MARCH 2024 - Appointments available in 1 week! To begin services, please complete the new patient request form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact - we will get back to you in 1 business day! I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years of healthcare experience providing psychiatric care. I aim to promote holistic mental health by partnering with you to create healing and wellness.
MARCH 2024 - Appointments available in 1 week! To begin services, please complete the new patient request form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact - we will get back to you in 1 business day! I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years of healthcare experience providing psychiatric care. I aim to promote holistic mental health by partnering with you to create healing and wellness.
(971) 202-1122 View (971) 202-1122
Photo of Holistic Well, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Holistic Well
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
(971) 265-9944 View (971) 265-9944
Photo of Opus Mental Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Opus Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
Our ideal client may face anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health disorders. They need understanding, personalized care, and effective strategies. Their goals include achieving mental harmony, personal growth, resilience, and enriched relationships. They seek a better quality of life, tools to manage emotions, and the ability to thrive through life's challenges. Our client understands that mental health is integral to overall well-being and desires to take proactive steps in crafting a life that resonates with fulfillment and purpose.
Our ideal client may face anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health disorders. They need understanding, personalized care, and effective strategies. Their goals include achieving mental harmony, personal growth, resilience, and enriched relationships. They seek a better quality of life, tools to manage emotions, and the ability to thrive through life's challenges. Our client understands that mental health is integral to overall well-being and desires to take proactive steps in crafting a life that resonates with fulfillment and purpose.
(503) 470-2602 View (503) 470-2602
Photo of Michael Boas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Michael Boas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
I believe in a working partnership with every patient, and their families, in order to produce the best results together. I have chosen to focus on ADHD/ADD, anxiety, & depression, which are issues personal to me. The only thing I ask of my clients is that they are invested in themselves and our treatment plan. I promise to give my all to you and just want the same commitment back.
I believe in a working partnership with every patient, and their families, in order to produce the best results together. I have chosen to focus on ADHD/ADD, anxiety, & depression, which are issues personal to me. The only thing I ask of my clients is that they are invested in themselves and our treatment plan. I promise to give my all to you and just want the same commitment back.
(503) 404-4557 View (503) 404-4557
Photo of Sara Weber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Sara Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201
Sara is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Oregon. She specializes in treating adults with mood disorders and ADHD. She blends her expertise with a patient's mental health goals, using a combination of medication & limited psychotherapy. Building a trusting collaborative relationship is paramount to her. Sara has a particular interest in providing trauma informed care, believing it is essential to consider the impact our past experiences have on emotional and behavioral health. She strives to be neuro-inclusive.
Sara is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Oregon. She specializes in treating adults with mood disorders and ADHD. She blends her expertise with a patient's mental health goals, using a combination of medication & limited psychotherapy. Building a trusting collaborative relationship is paramount to her. Sara has a particular interest in providing trauma informed care, believing it is essential to consider the impact our past experiences have on emotional and behavioral health. She strives to be neuro-inclusive.
(971) 265-6035 View (971) 265-6035
Photo of Megan Langworthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Megan Langworthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
You have worked through a crisis, maybe even a few, and continue to not feel like you are able to function at the level you had hoped. Medication may be helping, but your goal was never a partial remission from symptoms and you are burnt out on not performing at your peak. You may not even believe anymore that full recovery is possible, struggle with motivation, and your moods may be compounded by insomnia, weight gain, gut issues or chronic pain. Perhaps just when you figure out how to manage one symptom, you tip out of balance again.
You have worked through a crisis, maybe even a few, and continue to not feel like you are able to function at the level you had hoped. Medication may be helping, but your goal was never a partial remission from symptoms and you are burnt out on not performing at your peak. You may not even believe anymore that full recovery is possible, struggle with motivation, and your moods may be compounded by insomnia, weight gain, gut issues or chronic pain. Perhaps just when you figure out how to manage one symptom, you tip out of balance again.
(503) 563-8979 View (503) 563-8979
Photo of Dani Maier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dani Maier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy for patients living in Oregon and New Mexico. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy for patients living in Oregon and New Mexico. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
(503) 461-9509 View (503) 461-9509
Photo of Marguerite Maguire, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Marguerite Maguire
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I am a general adult psychiatrist, treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses with particular interests in depression, anxiety, maternal mental health, and ADHD. I earned my medical degree from the University of Rochester and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Southern California/LAC+USC.
I am a general adult psychiatrist, treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses with particular interests in depression, anxiety, maternal mental health, and ADHD. I earned my medical degree from the University of Rochester and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Southern California/LAC+USC.
(424) 383-5047 View (424) 383-5047
Photo of Liz Farrell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Liz Farrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients. If you are seeking a psychiatric provider to help with issues of anxiety, panic, depression, mood dysregulation, rumination, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, or sleep problems, I provide psychiatric medication management with solution-based counseling. If you are seeking to change your circumstances, I’d like to help. I enjoy collaborating with clients to identify personalized goals of treatment. I provide an empathic, humorous and pragmatic approach to the therapeutic process.
Currently accepting new clients. If you are seeking a psychiatric provider to help with issues of anxiety, panic, depression, mood dysregulation, rumination, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, or sleep problems, I provide psychiatric medication management with solution-based counseling. If you are seeking to change your circumstances, I’d like to help. I enjoy collaborating with clients to identify personalized goals of treatment. I provide an empathic, humorous and pragmatic approach to the therapeutic process.
(503) 832-6998 View (503) 832-6998
Photo of Lillian Nagi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Lillian Nagi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
At your first visit we will discuss what you are looking to obtain from my service and next to try to create a plan. This way, I can accommodate both our expectations and come up with a realistic, achievable plan. There is not a one size fits all approach when it comes to mental health. The goal is to build a solid relationship with you and continue this journey until treatment is completed or ongoing desired stability is achieved. As the saying goes, some things cannot be fixed, they can only be carried- but they still can be managed! And we can work on that.
At your first visit we will discuss what you are looking to obtain from my service and next to try to create a plan. This way, I can accommodate both our expectations and come up with a realistic, achievable plan. There is not a one size fits all approach when it comes to mental health. The goal is to build a solid relationship with you and continue this journey until treatment is completed or ongoing desired stability is achieved. As the saying goes, some things cannot be fixed, they can only be carried- but they still can be managed! And we can work on that.
(503) 506-7946 View (503) 506-7946
Photo of Teryl Clendenin PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Teryl Clendenin PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Practice accepting new patients. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am able to provide a wide array of treatment opportunities for adults. I prescribe psychiatric medications, as well as provide counseling and therapy in a holistic, accepting atmosphere. I firmly believe we can all benefit from expanding our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. My practice centers on working collaboratively with you; assisting, guiding and joining you on a pathway to greater overall health and wellness.
Practice accepting new patients. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am able to provide a wide array of treatment opportunities for adults. I prescribe psychiatric medications, as well as provide counseling and therapy in a holistic, accepting atmosphere. I firmly believe we can all benefit from expanding our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. My practice centers on working collaboratively with you; assisting, guiding and joining you on a pathway to greater overall health and wellness.
(503) 743-6874 View (503) 743-6874
Photo of Marisa Bell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Marisa Bell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
(541) 920-1081 View (541) 920-1081
Photo of Tamara Owen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Tamara Owen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
As a Holistic Health Practitioner and Life Coach, with both a medical and mental health background, I specialize in assessing and treating anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. I provide both medication and supplement evaluation and management with a special focus on genetic testing and balancing neurotransmitters. Once our brains are healthier and better balanced, mental and physical health follow naturally. That’s when therapy and skill building can really start to take effect.
As a Holistic Health Practitioner and Life Coach, with both a medical and mental health background, I specialize in assessing and treating anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. I provide both medication and supplement evaluation and management with a special focus on genetic testing and balancing neurotransmitters. Once our brains are healthier and better balanced, mental and physical health follow naturally. That’s when therapy and skill building can really start to take effect.
(503) 788-7726 View (503) 788-7726

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

400+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
95% Depression
81% Medication Management
75% Trauma and PTSD
73% Bipolar Disorder
72% ADHD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Aetna
72% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% PacificSource

How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
27% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Portland?

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.