Psychiatrists in 32216

Photo of Chelsie Toler B. - One Way Caring and Consulting, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, ARNP
One Way Caring and Consulting, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, ARNP
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Blessed to be a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to provide comprehensive compassionate holistic care to all those facing mental health challenges. I work with individuals throughout the life span. With an extensive background in emergency and behavioral nursing, advanced training in psychiatry, and a heavy reliance on evidence-based care, I bring a unique blend of clinical expertise and empathy to the patient experiences. An understanding therapeutic environment while promoting active listening and other skills is one way to empower and foster a growing and trusting journey together.
Blessed to be a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to provide comprehensive compassionate holistic care to all those facing mental health challenges. I work with individuals throughout the life span. With an extensive background in emergency and behavioral nursing, advanced training in psychiatry, and a heavy reliance on evidence-based care, I bring a unique blend of clinical expertise and empathy to the patient experiences. An understanding therapeutic environment while promoting active listening and other skills is one way to empower and foster a growing and trusting journey together.
(904) 486-6060 View (904) 486-6060
Photo of Paul Okoronkwo - Freedom Psychiatry Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Freedom Psychiatry Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Are you feeling depressed, worthless, and hopeless about your future? Do you have anxiety or panic attacks? Do you have trouble concentrating better on your tasks? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance at your job, and at school, and at home. We treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic attack, bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently accepting new patients. Please, check out what others are saying about us at: provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Are you feeling depressed, worthless, and hopeless about your future? Do you have anxiety or panic attacks? Do you have trouble concentrating better on your tasks? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance at your job, and at school, and at home. We treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic attack, bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently accepting new patients. Please, check out what others are saying about us at: provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
(407) 565-9981 View (407) 565-9981
Alvaro Lacayo
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
I'm a psychiatrist with many year of experiences. I have worked in hospitals, community mental health centers and private practice. I have treated many clients throughout the years. I've worked with clients who were diagnosed with: Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar I and II, Schizoaffective, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant, Conduct Disorder, and Adjustment Disorders. I've worked with individuals who were diagnosed with personality disorders.
I'm a psychiatrist with many year of experiences. I have worked in hospitals, community mental health centers and private practice. I have treated many clients throughout the years. I've worked with clients who were diagnosed with: Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar I and II, Schizoaffective, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant, Conduct Disorder, and Adjustment Disorders. I've worked with individuals who were diagnosed with personality disorders.
(904) 497-4671 View (904) 497-4671
Photo of Dr. Sonal Goswami, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Dr. Sonal Goswami
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with children, teenagers, young adults, men & women upto age 50 to evaluate-treat for anxiety, depression, ADHD (nontstimulant) ,autism, sleep issues, gender dysphoria, college transition struggle & premenstrual and mood issues related to reproductive years in female. Work with children and parents regarding addressing school issues, parenting style, addressing adjustment issues related to life. Personal interest in working with chronic medical illness like type 1 diabetes, cystic fibrosis, genetic dx and affecting their mood. Provide comprehensive psychiatric consultation and if appropriate provide treatment follow up.
I work with children, teenagers, young adults, men & women upto age 50 to evaluate-treat for anxiety, depression, ADHD (nontstimulant) ,autism, sleep issues, gender dysphoria, college transition struggle & premenstrual and mood issues related to reproductive years in female. Work with children and parents regarding addressing school issues, parenting style, addressing adjustment issues related to life. Personal interest in working with chronic medical illness like type 1 diabetes, cystic fibrosis, genetic dx and affecting their mood. Provide comprehensive psychiatric consultation and if appropriate provide treatment follow up.
(904) 822-3629 View (904) 822-3629
Photo of Dr. Monica Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, AGPCNP-, PMHNP-B
Dr. Monica Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, AGPCNP-, PMHNP-B
Jacksonville, FL 32216
We offer a unique approach in providing Comprehensive Integrated Healthcare with a Collaborative Care Model that allows the client medication and psychotherapy to be completed inclusively if needed. This allows for continuity of care and prevents the client from needing to see multiple specialists with the goal of: Providing wellness services to promote a healthier community while being "A Doc that Cares 4 U”!
We offer a unique approach in providing Comprehensive Integrated Healthcare with a Collaborative Care Model that allows the client medication and psychotherapy to be completed inclusively if needed. This allows for continuity of care and prevents the client from needing to see multiple specialists with the goal of: Providing wellness services to promote a healthier community while being "A Doc that Cares 4 U”!
(904) 692-7749 View (904) 692-7749
Photo of Maryann Tasong Esapa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANNP, PMHNP, B-C
Maryann Tasong Esapa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANNP, PMHNP, B-C
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner resident in Florida, the “City of Jacksonville”. I have an extensive and diverse clinical background with over 10 years of experience, spending the bulk of my career in Psychiatric nursing caring for individuals with psychiatric and medical emergencies. While working in the community, Psychiatric stabilization units and correctional settings I was inspired to further my career and earned my Masters of Science in Nursing, where I graduated With A Masters of Science PMHNP -BC In 2019.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner resident in Florida, the “City of Jacksonville”. I have an extensive and diverse clinical background with over 10 years of experience, spending the bulk of my career in Psychiatric nursing caring for individuals with psychiatric and medical emergencies. While working in the community, Psychiatric stabilization units and correctional settings I was inspired to further my career and earned my Masters of Science in Nursing, where I graduated With A Masters of Science PMHNP -BC In 2019.
(904) 530-3164 View (904) 530-3164
Photo of Noleidy Barreto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Noleidy Barreto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Doctorate Nurse Practitioner and Board-Certified Psychiatry Mental Health in Florida. I provide a comprehensive holistic care approach and develop and implement effective treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. I have experience in treating a wide range of mental disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with adolescents and adults, specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and more.
I am a Doctorate Nurse Practitioner and Board-Certified Psychiatry Mental Health in Florida. I provide a comprehensive holistic care approach and develop and implement effective treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. I have experience in treating a wide range of mental disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with adolescents and adults, specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and more.
(904) 440-1421 View (904) 440-1421
Photo of Melissa Titus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Melissa Titus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Welcome to Comprehensive Psych Services, where we provide comprehensive help for lasting change. Through a combination of psychological and psychiatric services, we aim to provide holistic treatment to help you on your journey to wellness. From psychological assessments to medication management, Comprehensive Psych is here to support and assist you. Dr. Ybarra and Mrs. Titus have extensive experience in the healthcare field. Their experience combining psychological and psychiatric perspectives will provide you with care and treatment that is less time intensive and more centered on you.
Welcome to Comprehensive Psych Services, where we provide comprehensive help for lasting change. Through a combination of psychological and psychiatric services, we aim to provide holistic treatment to help you on your journey to wellness. From psychological assessments to medication management, Comprehensive Psych is here to support and assist you. Dr. Ybarra and Mrs. Titus have extensive experience in the healthcare field. Their experience combining psychological and psychiatric perspectives will provide you with care and treatment that is less time intensive and more centered on you.
(904) 650-6770 View (904) 650-6770
Photo of Yadira Nogueras Rosado, Psychiatrist, MD
Yadira Nogueras Rosado
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am Dr. Yadira Nogueras-Rosado, and it is a pleasure to connect with you. I received my medical degree and psychiatry residency at Puerto Rico.
I am Dr. Yadira Nogueras-Rosado, and it is a pleasure to connect with you. I received my medical degree and psychiatry residency at Puerto Rico.
(904) 977-2771 View (904) 977-2771
Photo of Alina M Galliano-Pardo, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
Alina M Galliano-Pardo
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Originally from San Juan, PR, Alina M. Galliano-Pardo, M.D. completed her medical school and residency training at University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine where she served as Chief Resident. Dr. Galliano-Pardo has been practicing psychiatry for over fifteen years and has diagnosed and treated thousands of patients. She is a Fellow in both the American Psychiatric Association and the American Society of Addiction Medicine. She is one of few private practice psychiatrists on Florida’s First Coast who is board certified in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine and is the only female.
Originally from San Juan, PR, Alina M. Galliano-Pardo, M.D. completed her medical school and residency training at University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine where she served as Chief Resident. Dr. Galliano-Pardo has been practicing psychiatry for over fifteen years and has diagnosed and treated thousands of patients. She is a Fellow in both the American Psychiatric Association and the American Society of Addiction Medicine. She is one of few private practice psychiatrists on Florida’s First Coast who is board certified in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine and is the only female.
(904) 685-9385 View (904) 685-9385
Photo of Chloe Griffith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
(786) 692-8041 View (786) 692-8041
Photo of Saira Saqib, Psychiatrist, MD
Saira Saqib
Psychiatrist, MD
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Currently Tele-Medicine appointments with prompt appointments. Treatment for PTSD, Unipolar and Bipolar Depression, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Eating Disorders, OCD, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bariatric Surgery Pre- Surgical Evaluations, Spinal Cord Stimulation Evaluation, Couples Therapy, Substance Abuse and much more. Online groups to come soon. Call 904-296-3113. How much is the deductible for a patient even if they see me five times a year on cash, it might be still cheaper than their deductible. The convenience of having quality psychiatric care is priceless.
Currently Tele-Medicine appointments with prompt appointments. Treatment for PTSD, Unipolar and Bipolar Depression, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Eating Disorders, OCD, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bariatric Surgery Pre- Surgical Evaluations, Spinal Cord Stimulation Evaluation, Couples Therapy, Substance Abuse and much more. Online groups to come soon. Call 904-296-3113. How much is the deductible for a patient even if they see me five times a year on cash, it might be still cheaper than their deductible. The convenience of having quality psychiatric care is priceless.
(904) 490-6860 View (904) 490-6860
Photo of Lindsey Burd, Psychiatric Nurse, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN
Lindsey Burd
Psychiatric Nurse, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Offering compassionate care for teens and adults who struggle with mentall illness. With additional training in integrative health- I work with you to offer holistic treatment, meaning you are treated as more than a diagnosis, you are treated as a client. Your lifestyle, unique challenges, and strengths, and feelings about medication are always considered. I see my patients as a "team member"- with your needs and goals as part of the treatment plan. I offer both therapy and medication management options. I offer personalized psychiatric care from the comfort of your own home via telepsychiatry.
Offering compassionate care for teens and adults who struggle with mentall illness. With additional training in integrative health- I work with you to offer holistic treatment, meaning you are treated as more than a diagnosis, you are treated as a client. Your lifestyle, unique challenges, and strengths, and feelings about medication are always considered. I see my patients as a "team member"- with your needs and goals as part of the treatment plan. I offer both therapy and medication management options. I offer personalized psychiatric care from the comfort of your own home via telepsychiatry.
(904) 454-8458 View (904) 454-8458
Photo of Angela Davenport, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Angela Davenport
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Serves Area
NOW serving the Southeastern U.S.! Better Beginnings provides counseling and medication prescribing both in person and via telehealth/online. We understand there is no "one size fits all" approach in life; we value that you are a unique person. The Better Beginnings' model of care honors each parents' unique needs and values. While we specialize in perinatal mental health; we serve both minors and adults outside of that season of life. We also specialize in evaluating and treating ADHD.
NOW serving the Southeastern U.S.! Better Beginnings provides counseling and medication prescribing both in person and via telehealth/online. We understand there is no "one size fits all" approach in life; we value that you are a unique person. The Better Beginnings' model of care honors each parents' unique needs and values. While we specialize in perinatal mental health; we serve both minors and adults outside of that season of life. We also specialize in evaluating and treating ADHD.
(904) 204-2495 View (904) 204-2495
Photo of Megan Blevins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Megan Blevins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a compassionate, energetic, and knowledgeable psychiatric nurse practitioner who offers medication management with supportive therapy. I listen, asks questions, and listen again to understand my clients and their struggles. I want you as my client to feel comfortable, heard, and understood.
I am a compassionate, energetic, and knowledgeable psychiatric nurse practitioner who offers medication management with supportive therapy. I listen, asks questions, and listen again to understand my clients and their struggles. I want you as my client to feel comfortable, heard, and understood.
(904) 822-8454 View (904) 822-8454
Photo of Yuliet Sanchez-Rivero, Psychiatrist, MD
Yuliet Sanchez-Rivero
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Driven by a commitment to compassionate care, I strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families by addressing their unique needs and improving their quality of life. Dr. Sanchez-Rivero is Board Certified in Psychiatry and Neurology and a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico and completed her adult psychiatry residency and child psychiatry fellowship at the University of Florida in Gainesville. Dr. Sanchez-Rivero has been providing her expertise at Marsh Landing Behavioral Group since 2017.
Driven by a commitment to compassionate care, I strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families by addressing their unique needs and improving their quality of life. Dr. Sanchez-Rivero is Board Certified in Psychiatry and Neurology and a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico and completed her adult psychiatry residency and child psychiatry fellowship at the University of Florida in Gainesville. Dr. Sanchez-Rivero has been providing her expertise at Marsh Landing Behavioral Group since 2017.
(904) 543-0161 View (904) 543-0161

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Caroly Maharajh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Caroly Maharajh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction. They seek understanding, personalized care, and a safe space to explore their emotions. Their goal is to gain control over their symptoms, improve coping skills, and enhance their overall quality of life. They want clarity, support, and empowerment to navigate their mental health journey, desiring a collaborative, compassionate approach that fosters growth and long-term wellness.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction. They seek understanding, personalized care, and a safe space to explore their emotions. Their goal is to gain control over their symptoms, improve coping skills, and enhance their overall quality of life. They want clarity, support, and empowerment to navigate their mental health journey, desiring a collaborative, compassionate approach that fosters growth and long-term wellness.
(954) 451-1683 View (954) 451-1683
Photo of Luis A Marchany, Psychiatrist, MD
Luis A Marchany
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hablo Espanol - I will provide care and expert guidance every step of the way during your recovery process. I provide Individualized Treatment for Most Mental Health illnesses. It all starts with a Diagnostic Evaluation / Interview, after this I complete specific treatment plan and follow up closely with 24/7 Doctor Access Via Phone / TXT / email / Tele-Medicine .
Hablo Espanol - I will provide care and expert guidance every step of the way during your recovery process. I provide Individualized Treatment for Most Mental Health illnesses. It all starts with a Diagnostic Evaluation / Interview, after this I complete specific treatment plan and follow up closely with 24/7 Doctor Access Via Phone / TXT / email / Tele-Medicine .
(954) 751-4269 View (954) 751-4269
Photo of Angela White - BeNu Integrative Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PhD
BeNu Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PhD
Orange Park, FL 32073
At BeNu Integrative Psychiatry we aim to help you find the root issue of whatever problem you are facing. We also love to support you in preventing problems! It’s a holistic approach -emotional, physical & spiritual. We can do comprehensive lab work, neuro-cognitive testing, prescribe medications or supplements, provide wellness coaching, psychotherapy and an array of integrative services (breathwork, soundbath, prayer, etc.). We have a unique approach we design specifically for you. We guarantee you will not find another practice like ours. We care deeply about what we do and seek to provide excellent service that gets results.
At BeNu Integrative Psychiatry we aim to help you find the root issue of whatever problem you are facing. We also love to support you in preventing problems! It’s a holistic approach -emotional, physical & spiritual. We can do comprehensive lab work, neuro-cognitive testing, prescribe medications or supplements, provide wellness coaching, psychotherapy and an array of integrative services (breathwork, soundbath, prayer, etc.). We have a unique approach we design specifically for you. We guarantee you will not find another practice like ours. We care deeply about what we do and seek to provide excellent service that gets results.
(904) 474-5877 View (904) 474-5877
Photo of Dr. Marcia Morris, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Marcia Morris
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Marcia Morris is a psychiatrist with over thirty years of experience providing medication management as well as supportive psychotherapy to adult patients. She takes a positive psychiatry approach to treatment, prescribing medication while supporting patient strengths, social connections, and healthy habits. She has worked with a university students as well as employees in an employee assistance program. She provides care for patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
Dr. Marcia Morris is a psychiatrist with over thirty years of experience providing medication management as well as supportive psychotherapy to adult patients. She takes a positive psychiatry approach to treatment, prescribing medication while supporting patient strengths, social connections, and healthy habits. She has worked with a university students as well as employees in an employee assistance program. She provides care for patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
(904) 658-4771 View (904) 658-4771

See more therapy options for 32216

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 32216

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 32216 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
94% ADHD
94% Bipolar Disorder
81% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
81% Medication Management
75% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 32216 see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

91% Female
9% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 32216?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

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

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.