Psychiatrists in 32327

Photo of Lynn Ann Howard, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lynn Ann Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Lynn, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
I'm Lynn, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
(813) 981-1588 View (813) 981-1588
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
(850) 724-9490 View (850) 724-9490
Photo of Anne Ananga - Ability Plus Mental Health LLC, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ability Plus Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Visit us at https://www.abilityplusmentalhealthllc.com/**Dr. Anne Ananga is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health and family nurse practitioner working for Ability Plus Mental Health LLC in Tallahassee Florida. She completed her doctorate and master’s degree from The University of Alabama Birmingham. We provide individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, and emotional health. Get the help you need; we work collaboratively with you as a patient to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to meet your specific needs.
Visit us at https://www.abilityplusmentalhealthllc.com/**Dr. Anne Ananga is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health and family nurse practitioner working for Ability Plus Mental Health LLC in Tallahassee Florida. She completed her doctorate and master’s degree from The University of Alabama Birmingham. We provide individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, and emotional health. Get the help you need; we work collaboratively with you as a patient to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to meet your specific needs.
(850) 750-9441 View (850) 750-9441
Photo of Ruby Odamtten, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ruby Odamtten
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Ruby is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to across the lifespan. Ruby possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build a trusting relationship with patients and families. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Ruby’s role is multifaceted, providing mentorship integrated with supportive therapy to her clients.
Ruby is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to across the lifespan. Ruby possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build a trusting relationship with patients and families. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Ruby’s role is multifaceted, providing mentorship integrated with supportive therapy to her clients.
(407) 993-6917 View (407) 993-6917

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
(850) 812-4646 View (850) 812-4646
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care , Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32311
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
(850) 790-4646 View (850) 790-4646
Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(850) 813-4039 View (850) 813-4039
Photo of Heather R Warren, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather R Warren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am dedicated to working with people to overcome life's challenges. I value each person's perspective and focus on treating each person individually to meet their needs in a collaborative way.
I am dedicated to working with people to overcome life's challenges. I value each person's perspective and focus on treating each person individually to meet their needs in a collaborative way.
(850) 409-4355 View (850) 409-4355
Photo of Kristina Ann Rickman-Sykes - Professional Mental Health Wellness Services LLC, MSN, PMHN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Professional Mental Health Wellness Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHN, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am the founder of Professional Mental Health Weness Services, LLC. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My educational background includes a Master of Science in Nursing and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialization from Walden University.
I am the founder of Professional Mental Health Weness Services, LLC. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My educational background includes a Master of Science in Nursing and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialization from Walden University.
(850) 446-4711 View (850) 446-4711
Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(850) 981-4845 View (850) 981-4845
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(850) 695-8544 View (850) 695-8544
Photo of Abiodun Oluwole Ogunremi - Mindplus Mental Health Services, DNP , APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse
Mindplus Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP , APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Our mission is to reduce the gap in mental health services through evidence based mental health services leveraging on advance technology. Call us today to schedule your appointment or visit our website (www.mindplusmentalhealth.com) to schedule your appointment. Dr. Abiodun Ogunremi is a dual board-certified Nurse practitioner in Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family practice. He completed his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Post Masters Certificate from the Florida State University (FSU). He has been practicing since 2021.
Our mission is to reduce the gap in mental health services through evidence based mental health services leveraging on advance technology. Call us today to schedule your appointment or visit our website (www.mindplusmentalhealth.com) to schedule your appointment. Dr. Abiodun Ogunremi is a dual board-certified Nurse practitioner in Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family practice. He completed his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Post Masters Certificate from the Florida State University (FSU). He has been practicing since 2021.
(850) 600-6764 View (850) 600-6764
Photo of Bethany Martin, PA-C, MPAS, MS, Physician Assistant
Bethany Martin
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS, MS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Tampa location is now accepting new patients and has immediate availability! Bethany is a certified Physician Assistant specializing in child/adolescent and adult psychiatry. Bethany strives to help her patients reach their goals for their mental health by utilizing a collaborative approach. She is attentive to each of her patient’s concerns and aims to communicate clear treatment plans and objectives to ensure these needs are met. She has a background in Molecular Medicine and has a passion for staying informed on the latest developments in psychiatric research and treatments.
Tampa location is now accepting new patients and has immediate availability! Bethany is a certified Physician Assistant specializing in child/adolescent and adult psychiatry. Bethany strives to help her patients reach their goals for their mental health by utilizing a collaborative approach. She is attentive to each of her patient’s concerns and aims to communicate clear treatment plans and objectives to ensure these needs are met. She has a background in Molecular Medicine and has a passion for staying informed on the latest developments in psychiatric research and treatments.
(941) 900-3216 View (941) 900-3216
Photo of Julie Brownley, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Julie Brownley
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Psychiatryforwomen.org - Accepting Patients - Out Of Network With Insurance - Dr. Julie Brownley is a board certified women's psychiatrist. She attended medical school and Ph.D. training at University of Maryland and residency training in Adult Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She treats individuals seeking WOMEN-Specific care (LGBTQ individuals included) with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma and grief. She is a Reproductive Psychiatrist managing mood changes and anxiety due to hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. VISIT psychiatryforwomen.org for info
Psychiatryforwomen.org - Accepting Patients - Out Of Network With Insurance - Dr. Julie Brownley is a board certified women's psychiatrist. She attended medical school and Ph.D. training at University of Maryland and residency training in Adult Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She treats individuals seeking WOMEN-Specific care (LGBTQ individuals included) with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma and grief. She is a Reproductive Psychiatrist managing mood changes and anxiety due to hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. VISIT psychiatryforwomen.org for info
(667) 206-6841 View (667) 206-6841
Photo of Bernadette Ranieri, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bernadette Ranieri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Weekend Hours. Accepting new patients. Call me today. Are you having symptoms of anxiety, depression or ADHD? You need support, direction, the right medication and motivation to adopt healthy habits and effectively manage the feelings you are having. You would like to enhance your quality of life, gain a sense of control and be present for your loved ones. These are universal struggles that we encounter daily, and sometimes, we simply need some assistance. Don't wait another day, make an appointment today, let’s talk.
Weekend Hours. Accepting new patients. Call me today. Are you having symptoms of anxiety, depression or ADHD? You need support, direction, the right medication and motivation to adopt healthy habits and effectively manage the feelings you are having. You would like to enhance your quality of life, gain a sense of control and be present for your loved ones. These are universal struggles that we encounter daily, and sometimes, we simply need some assistance. Don't wait another day, make an appointment today, let’s talk.
(954) 569-1176 View (954) 569-1176
Photo of Shaquitia Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shaquitia Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Devoted to your mental well-being, I bring over two decades of clinical experience as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a particular focus on mental healthcare for the past six years.
Devoted to your mental well-being, I bring over two decades of clinical experience as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a particular focus on mental healthcare for the past six years.
(850) 754-4493 View (850) 754-4493
Photo of Marcus Robinson - Mind Revive Psychiatry LLC , MSN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind Revive Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Now Accepting New Patients and Appointments Available Within 7 days! Have you been struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, issues with body image, severe mood fluctuations or perceptual disturbances and find that life has been increasingly difficult to cope with? Have you tried to seek advice from family members, friends and spiritual counselors, to no avail? You can overcome these struggles, with the right tools and I am here to help, using an unbiased approach. I draw from a few traditional therapeutic techniques, in combination with medication management, to create a treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
Now Accepting New Patients and Appointments Available Within 7 days! Have you been struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, issues with body image, severe mood fluctuations or perceptual disturbances and find that life has been increasingly difficult to cope with? Have you tried to seek advice from family members, friends and spiritual counselors, to no avail? You can overcome these struggles, with the right tools and I am here to help, using an unbiased approach. I draw from a few traditional therapeutic techniques, in combination with medication management, to create a treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
(813) 547-6215 View (813) 547-6215
Photo of Stacy Wideman, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacy Wideman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Stacy has 25 years of experience, in both inpatient and outpatient mental health.
Stacy has 25 years of experience, in both inpatient and outpatient mental health.
(813) 798-3468 View (813) 798-3468
Photo of Kathryn Werner, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Kathryn Werner
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Anxiety, OCD, or depression overwhelm are impacting your life, and you’re ready to get some help. You feel like meds might be an important piece of the puzzle, but traditional psychiatry doesn’t quite feel right. You’re not sure exactly what you need, but it’s definitely not inconvenient appointments, phone tags, or a provider who focuses on meds more than on you. You’re looking for a partner in your mental wellness and a process that feels good.
Anxiety, OCD, or depression overwhelm are impacting your life, and you’re ready to get some help. You feel like meds might be an important piece of the puzzle, but traditional psychiatry doesn’t quite feel right. You’re not sure exactly what you need, but it’s definitely not inconvenient appointments, phone tags, or a provider who focuses on meds more than on you. You’re looking for a partner in your mental wellness and a process that feels good.
(850) 446-4795 View (850) 446-4795
Photo of Chloe Griffith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
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.
(561) 823-6473 View (561) 823-6473

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 32327

< 10

Psychiatrists in 32327 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Psychosis
100% Medication Management
75% Addiction

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 32327 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 32327?

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.