Psychiatrists in 32609

Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(850) 290-0402 View (850) 290-0402

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Steven Pinkert - Psych Care, Psychiatrist, MD
Psych Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Gainesville, FL 32601
Reaching out for help can be the most important yet difficult step in the process of healing. From our initial contact our goal is to help you feel welcomed, understood, and supported. ​ Psych Care is a psychiatric and psychological practice serving North Central Florida. We offer research based and highly effective treatment and evaluation, with great attention to confidentiality and responsive scheduling. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes psychiatrists, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioners, and licensed therapists.
Reaching out for help can be the most important yet difficult step in the process of healing. From our initial contact our goal is to help you feel welcomed, understood, and supported. ​ Psych Care is a psychiatric and psychological practice serving North Central Florida. We offer research based and highly effective treatment and evaluation, with great attention to confidentiality and responsive scheduling. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes psychiatrists, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioners, and licensed therapists.
(352) 280-3495 View (352) 280-3495
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(352) 251-0837 View (352) 251-0837
Photo of Dinar Sajan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dinar Sajan
Psychiatrist, MD
Gainesville, FL 32601
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
(833) 377-2526 View (833) 377-2526
Photo of Zuzana Segev, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Zuzana Segev
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I provide individualized psychiatric care for clients of all ages. I strive for non judgmental and culturally sensitive care for any person suffering with emotional distress or behavioral problems. I am a graduate of Nursing School of University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, where I completed Masters Degree in psychiatric and mental health nursing. I hold a Masters Degree in clinical psychology from University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, and Ph.D. in public health from Walden University, Minneapolis, MN.
I provide individualized psychiatric care for clients of all ages. I strive for non judgmental and culturally sensitive care for any person suffering with emotional distress or behavioral problems. I am a graduate of Nursing School of University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, where I completed Masters Degree in psychiatric and mental health nursing. I hold a Masters Degree in clinical psychology from University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, and Ph.D. in public health from Walden University, Minneapolis, MN.
(386) 433-9977 View (386) 433-9977
Photo of Mary Kathryn Parham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, APRN
Mary Kathryn Parham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, APRN
Gainesville, FL 32603
I am a dual-board certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner operating a private practice seeing clients via video visits as a modern era house call. Trained in pediatric, adolescent and adult primary care at the University of South Carolina and in pediatric, adolescent and adult psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University. My approach is to observe and listen with curiosity and optimism to the individual seeking better health, so that we may then have a conversation and learn how to best collaborate to secure all the good that is possible.
I am a dual-board certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner operating a private practice seeing clients via video visits as a modern era house call. Trained in pediatric, adolescent and adult primary care at the University of South Carolina and in pediatric, adolescent and adult psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University. My approach is to observe and listen with curiosity and optimism to the individual seeking better health, so that we may then have a conversation and learn how to best collaborate to secure all the good that is possible.
(727) 266-8895 View (727) 266-8895
Photo of Aj Richards - Evolution Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Evolution Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32605
Call or text us at 352-575-3600 or go to our website at www.evolutionmentalhealth.com to complete the intake paperwork and schedule an appointment.
Call or text us at 352-575-3600 or go to our website at www.evolutionmentalhealth.com to complete the intake paperwork and schedule an appointment.
(352) 646-8386 View (352) 646-8386
Photo of Julie Frisbie-Knudsen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP, AGNP
Julie Frisbie-Knudsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP, AGNP
Gainesville, FL 32653
Let me share with you why I do what I do. Some of us have had a provider who doesn't listen to you, talked down to you, or was dismissive of what you were going through. That is NOT who I want to be. I strive to provide a safe space where you feel listened to, respected and hopefully encouraged. That is why my initial visits are 90 minutes, so I can get a full picture of who you are and what you are hoping to accomplish. My follow up visits are 30 minutes. Through compassionate listening and helpful medications, we will seek to address your needs and find your help.
Let me share with you why I do what I do. Some of us have had a provider who doesn't listen to you, talked down to you, or was dismissive of what you were going through. That is NOT who I want to be. I strive to provide a safe space where you feel listened to, respected and hopefully encouraged. That is why my initial visits are 90 minutes, so I can get a full picture of who you are and what you are hoping to accomplish. My follow up visits are 30 minutes. Through compassionate listening and helpful medications, we will seek to address your needs and find your help.
(352) 585-8804 View (352) 585-8804
Photo of Edlyne Joseph - Heart 623 Heart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN-BC
Heart 623 Heart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN-BC
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32601
Mental health symptoms can feel heavy, exhausting, and overwhelming, impacting relationships, work, and overall well-being. Our goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you are truly seen and understood. With time and care, the process of healing and growth can begin. Now accepting new telehealth clients across Florida. Edlyne is a double board-certified Nurse Practitioner in psychiatry and primary care, integrating her broad medical knowledge with expertise in mental health. She provides evaluations, prescribing, and medication management.
Mental health symptoms can feel heavy, exhausting, and overwhelming, impacting relationships, work, and overall well-being. Our goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you are truly seen and understood. With time and care, the process of healing and growth can begin. Now accepting new telehealth clients across Florida. Edlyne is a double board-certified Nurse Practitioner in psychiatry and primary care, integrating her broad medical knowledge with expertise in mental health. She provides evaluations, prescribing, and medication management.
(954) 287-0621 View (954) 287-0621
Photo of David Rosenthal, Psychiatrist, MD
David Rosenthal
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Monumental Health Partners is welcoming new clients for psychiatric care! Same-day appointments online are often available for individuals aged 18 & up for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, unable to concentrate or sleep, or stressed about relationship friction with friends, family, or loved ones, We are here to help you! We promise to listen to you without judgment and work with you to devise a personalized plan for your mental health care. We will work with you to arm you with the coping skills to help you achieve mental balance. Our providers also speak Spanish.
Monumental Health Partners is welcoming new clients for psychiatric care! Same-day appointments online are often available for individuals aged 18 & up for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, unable to concentrate or sleep, or stressed about relationship friction with friends, family, or loved ones, We are here to help you! We promise to listen to you without judgment and work with you to devise a personalized plan for your mental health care. We will work with you to arm you with the coping skills to help you achieve mental balance. Our providers also speak Spanish.
(954) 280-8061 View (954) 280-8061
Photo of Sarah Grace Purdy - Today Telemedicine, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Today Telemedicine
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Serves Area
I specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD neuropsych testing and non-stimulant care (NO Adderall, NO concerta, yes-strattera, yes- wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management (phentermine, semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (Ambien ,birth control, blood work, Mammography orders, FMLA, Emotional Support Pet Letter ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing (QB Test- neuropsych FDA cleared testing) and much more! NO Benzodiazepines
I specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD neuropsych testing and non-stimulant care (NO Adderall, NO concerta, yes-strattera, yes- wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management (phentermine, semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (Ambien ,birth control, blood work, Mammography orders, FMLA, Emotional Support Pet Letter ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing (QB Test- neuropsych FDA cleared testing) and much more! NO Benzodiazepines
(786) 745-7592 View (786) 745-7592
Photo of Dr. Ingrid Allison Bozeman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Dr. Ingrid Allison Bozeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Alachua, FL 32615
I'm so glad you're here! My name is Dr. Ingrid A Bozeman DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC. I am a doctor of nursing practice, dual certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family practice. Currently, I am enrolled in a third certification in critical care. I specialize in addiction medicine, anxiety, depression, eating disorders.
I'm so glad you're here! My name is Dr. Ingrid A Bozeman DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC. I am a doctor of nursing practice, dual certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family practice. Currently, I am enrolled in a third certification in critical care. I specialize in addiction medicine, anxiety, depression, eating disorders.
(386) 433-3759 View (386) 433-3759
Photo of Elias H Sarkis - Sarkis Family Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Sarkis Family Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Gainesville, FL 32607
Innovative holistic team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and therapists collaborating on the cutting edge of evidence based therapeutics, including esketamine and neurofeedback. Sarkis Family Psychiatry has over ten years of experience with neurofeedback (biofeedback that focuses on brain activity), and we are a certified esketamine clinic.
Innovative holistic team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and therapists collaborating on the cutting edge of evidence based therapeutics, including esketamine and neurofeedback. Sarkis Family Psychiatry has over ten years of experience with neurofeedback (biofeedback that focuses on brain activity), and we are a certified esketamine clinic.
(352) 292-1951 View (352) 292-1951
Photo of Missy Scippio - Sacred Mind Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sacred Mind Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed and not like yourself lately? Having mood shifts, changes in appetite and/or sleep, and low motivation? Feeling tired, lonely, worried, or on edge? Trust me, you are not alone. 1 in 5 Americans experience a mental health condition each year. I'm Missy and I bring over 18 years of nursing experience, with a strong focus on supporting the mental health needs of adults and geriatrics with depression, anxiety, mood swings, sleep cycle changes, or dementia related mood changes. My mission is to create a safe, supportive, and nurturing space where individuals can find peace, healing, and renewal.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and not like yourself lately? Having mood shifts, changes in appetite and/or sleep, and low motivation? Feeling tired, lonely, worried, or on edge? Trust me, you are not alone. 1 in 5 Americans experience a mental health condition each year. I'm Missy and I bring over 18 years of nursing experience, with a strong focus on supporting the mental health needs of adults and geriatrics with depression, anxiety, mood swings, sleep cycle changes, or dementia related mood changes. My mission is to create a safe, supportive, and nurturing space where individuals can find peace, healing, and renewal.
(386) 343-8007 View (386) 343-8007
Photo of Patricia Gilliano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Patricia Gilliano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Hi! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in Florida. I have been in healthcare for over 25 years as a clinical nurse and executive leader. I have found tremendous results in listening to patients needs, and formulating a plan to help them optimize wellness with a solid roadmap to feeling the best they can be in a positive environment. Empathetic and strong, I have worked with many clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, Post COVID issues, grief, suffering, or self-image issues. I also do relationship counseling and couples therapy.
Hi! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in Florida. I have been in healthcare for over 25 years as a clinical nurse and executive leader. I have found tremendous results in listening to patients needs, and formulating a plan to help them optimize wellness with a solid roadmap to feeling the best they can be in a positive environment. Empathetic and strong, I have worked with many clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, Post COVID issues, grief, suffering, or self-image issues. I also do relationship counseling and couples therapy.
(904) 906-8633 View (904) 906-8633
Photo of Dr. Jordan Meyers, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jordan Meyers
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Amanda Atchison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Atchison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner passionate about helping people find balance and healing. I specialize in treating adolescents through older adults, by creating a safe and supportive space where you can be heard and understood. I take a compassionate, down-to-earth approach and believe that mental health care should feel empowering-not intimidating.
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner passionate about helping people find balance and healing. I specialize in treating adolescents through older adults, by creating a safe and supportive space where you can be heard and understood. I take a compassionate, down-to-earth approach and believe that mental health care should feel empowering-not intimidating.
(352) 897-8482 View (352) 897-8482
Photo of Margaret Gorelick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Margaret Gorelick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, or life transitions. You may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to navigate your emotions. Your goal is to find balance, clarity, and effective coping strategies. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space to help you feel heard and empowered to achieve your mental health goals.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, or life transitions. You may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to navigate your emotions. Your goal is to find balance, clarity, and effective coping strategies. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space to help you feel heard and empowered to achieve your mental health goals.
(561) 567-0383 View (561) 567-0383
Photo of Dr. Gerald Richardson, Psychiatrist, MD, EdM
Dr. Gerald Richardson
Psychiatrist, MD, EdM
Gainesville, FL 32601
Stuck in a cycle of stress, anxiety, or frustration? If you’re ready to take back control of your mental health, understand what’s really going on, and start feeling like yourself again — I will help.
Stuck in a cycle of stress, anxiety, or frustration? If you’re ready to take back control of your mental health, understand what’s really going on, and start feeling like yourself again — I will help.
(352) 839-4206 View (352) 839-4206
Photo of Rachelle Lee Sansing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Rachelle Lee Sansing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Gainesville, FL 32605
Often our physical, emotional, and relational health are neglected until they demand our attention. Whether engaging with mental health care for the first time or with prior experiences, it is essential that my clients feel their needs and priorities are understood. They should be empowered to develop a deeper understanding of difficult experiences in life as well as to explore solutions. It is my belief that people are most able to thrive when working with someone who can help them create a personalized plan and sees the whole person, in their context, rather than a symptom checklist or problem.
Often our physical, emotional, and relational health are neglected until they demand our attention. Whether engaging with mental health care for the first time or with prior experiences, it is essential that my clients feel their needs and priorities are understood. They should be empowered to develop a deeper understanding of difficult experiences in life as well as to explore solutions. It is my belief that people are most able to thrive when working with someone who can help them create a personalized plan and sees the whole person, in their context, rather than a symptom checklist or problem.
(352) 254-3553 View (352) 254-3553

See more therapy options for 32609

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 32609

< 10

Psychiatrists in 32609 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Chronic Pain

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Wellpoint | Amerigroup
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 32609 see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 32609?

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.