Psychiatrists in 32762

Photo of Melissa Morgan - Echo Meadows Psychiatric and Psychological Care, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Echo Meadows Psychiatric and Psychological Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Your recovery is our commitment at Echo Meadows. We are dedicated to providing patient-centered care, which means we believe in seeing patients as individuals, and not just what they are going through currently. We firmly believe in holistic care, and that when mind, body, and soul are in alignment, true wellness can happen.
Your recovery is our commitment at Echo Meadows. We are dedicated to providing patient-centered care, which means we believe in seeing patients as individuals, and not just what they are going through currently. We firmly believe in holistic care, and that when mind, body, and soul are in alignment, true wellness can happen.
(954) 287-0495 View (954) 287-0495
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
(772) 212-8364 View (772) 212-8364

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Alicia Garcete, MD, Psychiatrist
Alicia Garcete
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Alicia Garcete is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in practice for over 12 years. Her practice focuses on medication management, recognizing family involvement is extremely important and is an integral part of treatment. Dr. Garcete has treated a wide variety of patients. Her primary focus is treating depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD and OCD. Additionally, she can provide supportive therapy and elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy but on occasions more therapy support may be needed, and the recommendation to bring a psychotherapist on the care team may occur to provide an optimal outcome.
Dr. Alicia Garcete is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in practice for over 12 years. Her practice focuses on medication management, recognizing family involvement is extremely important and is an integral part of treatment. Dr. Garcete has treated a wide variety of patients. Her primary focus is treating depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD and OCD. Additionally, she can provide supportive therapy and elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy but on occasions more therapy support may be needed, and the recommendation to bring a psychotherapist on the care team may occur to provide an optimal outcome.
(904) 875-8073 View (904) 875-8073
Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist
Dinar Sajan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Windermere, FL 34786
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 Sylvia Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist
Sylvia Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32832
Dr. Johnson is dual Board Certified in Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and has extensive experience treating mental health conditions. She served as a Psychiatrist in the Army for 9 years and is the former Chief of Behavioral Health at Fort Hood where she supervised over 300 Psychiatrists, Psychologists & Therapists. Currently, Dr. Johnson is an Affiliate Professor of Psychiatry at UCF College of Medicine training the next generation of doctors and the former Associate Program Director of the UCF/HCA Psychiatry Residency Program.
Dr. Johnson is dual Board Certified in Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and has extensive experience treating mental health conditions. She served as a Psychiatrist in the Army for 9 years and is the former Chief of Behavioral Health at Fort Hood where she supervised over 300 Psychiatrists, Psychologists & Therapists. Currently, Dr. Johnson is an Affiliate Professor of Psychiatry at UCF College of Medicine training the next generation of doctors and the former Associate Program Director of the UCF/HCA Psychiatry Residency Program.
(407) 378-2583 View (407) 378-2583
Photo of Benjamin Howell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Benjamin Howell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
26 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Benjamin Howell, the Heart and Soul behind Affordable Psychiatry Services. We have EVENING and WEEKEND appointments available for you so your busy schedule never has to stand in the way of you achieving mental health wellness. Regardless of how long you have been struggling, I believe that recovery is achievable through our work together. I see psychiatry as a delicate blend of science and compassion—this is the approach that defines my practice.
Hi, I'm Benjamin Howell, the Heart and Soul behind Affordable Psychiatry Services. We have EVENING and WEEKEND appointments available for you so your busy schedule never has to stand in the way of you achieving mental health wellness. Regardless of how long you have been struggling, I believe that recovery is achievable through our work together. I see psychiatry as a delicate blend of science and compassion—this is the approach that defines my practice.
(321) 415-9647 View (321) 415-9647
Photo of Donna Wrobel, APRN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Donna Wrobel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am passionate about providing an empathetic and supportive environment for all patients. I work collaboratively with each patient to develop an evidence-based, patient-centered, holistic plan to promote mental wellness. Mental health affects all aspects of our lives including our relationships with ourselves and others and our ability to function at our best level. Let's work together to devise a treatment plan that will help you live your best life.
I am passionate about providing an empathetic and supportive environment for all patients. I work collaboratively with each patient to develop an evidence-based, patient-centered, holistic plan to promote mental wellness. Mental health affects all aspects of our lives including our relationships with ourselves and others and our ability to function at our best level. Let's work together to devise a treatment plan that will help you live your best life.
(321) 449-8287 View (321) 449-8287
Photo of Hysintine Palle, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hysintine Palle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Dr. Hysintine Palle, is a double board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, from Kissimmee AND Florida, treating both physical and mental distress. Dr. Hysintine Palle's main goal is to empower her patients because sometimes, their symptoms leave them feeling helpless. One of her most important obligations as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to provide hope for her patients. Dr. Hysintine Palle believes that in their practice, patients can discover that their progress and goals are achievable by applying the methods and techniques that she uses in session.
Dr. Hysintine Palle, is a double board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, from Kissimmee AND Florida, treating both physical and mental distress. Dr. Hysintine Palle's main goal is to empower her patients because sometimes, their symptoms leave them feeling helpless. One of her most important obligations as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to provide hope for her patients. Dr. Hysintine Palle believes that in their practice, patients can discover that their progress and goals are achievable by applying the methods and techniques that she uses in session.
(407) 537-6554 View (407) 537-6554
Photo of Katrina Kesterson - Inlight Psychiatry & Therapy, MD, Psychiatrist
Inlight Psychiatry & Therapy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32839
Accepting New Patients. We understand the courage it takes to ask for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more, we are here to support you. At Inlight Psychiatry & Therapy, we provide holistic, individualized psychiatric care to help you feel better so you can thrive in both your personal and professional life. We also provide easy telemedicine appointments so you can receive care from the comfort of your home, along with a knowledgeable admin support team that ensures your experience as a patient with us is as smooth as possible.
Accepting New Patients. We understand the courage it takes to ask for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more, we are here to support you. At Inlight Psychiatry & Therapy, we provide holistic, individualized psychiatric care to help you feel better so you can thrive in both your personal and professional life. We also provide easy telemedicine appointments so you can receive care from the comfort of your home, along with a knowledgeable admin support team that ensures your experience as a patient with us is as smooth as possible.
(407) 477-4060 View (407) 477-4060
Photo of Carlesa Desir - Central Florida Psychiatry, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Central Florida Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Struggling emotionally or suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, or other mental illnesses and ADOS 2 evaluations? We can help. At Central Florida Psychiatry, our practitioner is board certified in family medicine and psychiatry. She has over 13 years of experience as a healthcare provider. We are offering a variety of psychiatric care to children (starting at age 6), adolescents, and adults. Please visit our website at Central Fla Psychiatry.
Struggling emotionally or suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, or other mental illnesses and ADOS 2 evaluations? We can help. At Central Florida Psychiatry, our practitioner is board certified in family medicine and psychiatry. She has over 13 years of experience as a healthcare provider. We are offering a variety of psychiatric care to children (starting at age 6), adolescents, and adults. Please visit our website at Central Fla Psychiatry.
(321) 342-2319 View (321) 342-2319
Photo of Rahonie Evans, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rahonie Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice licensed to practice in Florida. As a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with over thirteen years of experience, I am empowered to take a holistic and individualized approach to every client, knowing that mental health can affect multiple areas of one's life. So, if you are feeling overwhelmed and seeking to live a well-balanced life, you have come to the right place.
I am a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice licensed to practice in Florida. As a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with over thirteen years of experience, I am empowered to take a holistic and individualized approach to every client, knowing that mental health can affect multiple areas of one's life. So, if you are feeling overwhelmed and seeking to live a well-balanced life, you have come to the right place.
(904) 298-7382 View (904) 298-7382
Photo of Josette Hylton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Josette Hylton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life has been really tough recently for most. I recently chatted with numerous people who are feeling anxious or down. Most people I speak with wait a long time before starting treatment. Why continue to wait? Would you like to have a better relationship with anxiety? Are your nervous or self-critical thoughts bringing you down? Are you prepared to try something new? I use a compassionate and empathetic approach to evidence-based interventions such as CBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Life has been really tough recently for most. I recently chatted with numerous people who are feeling anxious or down. Most people I speak with wait a long time before starting treatment. Why continue to wait? Would you like to have a better relationship with anxiety? Are your nervous or self-critical thoughts bringing you down? Are you prepared to try something new? I use a compassionate and empathetic approach to evidence-based interventions such as CBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(904) 621-2429 View (904) 621-2429
Photo of Kimberly Murphy, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My name is Kimberly Murphy and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe there is no true benefit to the traditional fast-paced outpatient psychiatric environment and feel a patient care model should give more input to the treatment care plan where it belongs...the patient. If you choose to join me at Essential Grace Mental Health Services, LLC, you will find that I provide a compassionate and evidence-based treatment approach to help patients manage their mental health. You will also find I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and live a fulfilling life.
My name is Kimberly Murphy and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe there is no true benefit to the traditional fast-paced outpatient psychiatric environment and feel a patient care model should give more input to the treatment care plan where it belongs...the patient. If you choose to join me at Essential Grace Mental Health Services, LLC, you will find that I provide a compassionate and evidence-based treatment approach to help patients manage their mental health. You will also find I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and live a fulfilling life.
(850) 988-0060 View (850) 988-0060
Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34741
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.
(904) 395-4509 View (904) 395-4509
Photo of Patricia Rodriguez, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Patricia Rodriguez, PMHNP, is a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a profound passion for helping individuals achieve mental well-being and emotional balance. She is deeply committed to providing the highest level of care and support to her patients. Patricia offers online psychiatry consults for both new and existing patients, providing comprehensive medication management, personalized treatment plans. She firmly believes in a holistic approach to mental health, acknowledging that each individual is unique and requires personalized care.
Patricia Rodriguez, PMHNP, is a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a profound passion for helping individuals achieve mental well-being and emotional balance. She is deeply committed to providing the highest level of care and support to her patients. Patricia offers online psychiatry consults for both new and existing patients, providing comprehensive medication management, personalized treatment plans. She firmly believes in a holistic approach to mental health, acknowledging that each individual is unique and requires personalized care.
(786) 550-7234 View (786) 550-7234
Photo of Nelson Antonio Pichardo, MD, Psychiatrist
Nelson Antonio Pichardo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sanford, FL 32771
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist and addiction medicine physician with added qualification in child and adolescent psychiatry. With over 17 years of experience as a clinician and educator, with specialties in Addiction Medicine, Mental Health, Detox, Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) , Pain Management, Military Mental Health, and Harm Reduction. My overall mission is to help clients regain control of their life, and in that way, they can live to the fullest with their loved ones.
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist and addiction medicine physician with added qualification in child and adolescent psychiatry. With over 17 years of experience as a clinician and educator, with specialties in Addiction Medicine, Mental Health, Detox, Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) , Pain Management, Military Mental Health, and Harm Reduction. My overall mission is to help clients regain control of their life, and in that way, they can live to the fullest with their loved ones.
(321) 221-5183 View (321) 221-5183
Photo of Lari J Quintero, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lari J Quintero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lake Mary, FL 32746
I am Dual-certified as a Psychiatric and Adult Advanced Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of advanced practice and over 20 years of patient care expertise. My diverse background enables me to approach mental health treatment from a broad perspective, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and environmental factors. My expertise disorders include depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, and mood disorders. I recognize that each person's experience is unique.
I am Dual-certified as a Psychiatric and Adult Advanced Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of advanced practice and over 20 years of patient care expertise. My diverse background enables me to approach mental health treatment from a broad perspective, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and environmental factors. My expertise disorders include depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, and mood disorders. I recognize that each person's experience is unique.
(407) 215-2507 View (407) 215-2507
Photo of Dr. Denise Daly-Stennis - For Gods' Glory LLC, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
For Gods' Glory LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Denise Daly-Stennis, DNP, PMHNP-BC has been an adult psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past 17 years. Her experience includes telehealth, in and outpatient care, community mental health, corrections, Veteran Administration, and MAT substance abuse treatment: Suboxone and Vivitrol therapy.
Dr. Denise Daly-Stennis, DNP, PMHNP-BC has been an adult psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past 17 years. Her experience includes telehealth, in and outpatient care, community mental health, corrections, Veteran Administration, and MAT substance abuse treatment: Suboxone and Vivitrol therapy.
(689) 302-4364 View (689) 302-4364
Photo of Sandy Nguyen, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandy Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32825
Sandy Nguyen is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from the University of South Alabama, in Mobile, AL with a Master's of Science in Nursing. Sandy believes in providing quality, and patient-centered care. She has a strong passion for helping others struggling with mental health issues. She is a good listener, and is compassionate. She has over 13 years of mental health clinical nursing experience. She specializes in adult treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar disorders, and Schizophrenia.
Sandy Nguyen is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from the University of South Alabama, in Mobile, AL with a Master's of Science in Nursing. Sandy believes in providing quality, and patient-centered care. She has a strong passion for helping others struggling with mental health issues. She is a good listener, and is compassionate. She has over 13 years of mental health clinical nursing experience. She specializes in adult treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar disorders, and Schizophrenia.
(321) 414-9143 View (321) 414-9143
Photo of Tulsie Patel, MD, Psychiatrist
Tulsie Patel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dr. Tulsie Patel. I am a board certified psychiatrist. I graduated Cum Laude from Drexel University and attended the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. I completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Texas Southwestern and served as Chief Resident. After graduation, I worked at clinics in California and Florida. I have experience in medication management, individual/group therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. I am dedicated to providing personalized, patient-centered, and continuously evolving treatment.
Hello, my name is Dr. Tulsie Patel. I am a board certified psychiatrist. I graduated Cum Laude from Drexel University and attended the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. I completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Texas Southwestern and served as Chief Resident. After graduation, I worked at clinics in California and Florida. I have experience in medication management, individual/group therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. I am dedicated to providing personalized, patient-centered, and continuously evolving treatment.
(929) 447-2803 View (929) 447-2803

See more therapy options for 32762

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 32762

< 10

Psychiatrists in 32762 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Florida Blue

How Psychiatrists in 32762 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 32762?

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.