Psychiatrists in 32801

Photo of Marie Rachel Christian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Marie Rachel Christian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 20 years of nursing experience and specialized education in psychiatry and medication management. I provide care for adults with a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), ADHD, substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), insomnia, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder. My practice emphasizes a collaborative, non-judgmental approach to care grounded in respect, trust, and compassion.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 20 years of nursing experience and specialized education in psychiatry and medication management. I provide care for adults with a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), ADHD, substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), insomnia, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder. My practice emphasizes a collaborative, non-judgmental approach to care grounded in respect, trust, and compassion.
(954) 852-0990 View (954) 852-0990
Photo of Felicia Turner - Gifted Behavioral Health | Felicia Turner, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Gifted Behavioral Health | Felicia Turner, APRN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801
At Gifted Behavioral Health, we believe in the power of compassionate, individualized mental health care. My name is Felicia Turner, and as an accomplished and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am honored to provide care that fosters healing and resilience. A native of Orlando, I bring a deep connection to our community and a commitment to empowering children, adolescents, and adults to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity. Specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more, I tailor treatment plans to meet each individual’s unique needs.
At Gifted Behavioral Health, we believe in the power of compassionate, individualized mental health care. My name is Felicia Turner, and as an accomplished and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am honored to provide care that fosters healing and resilience. A native of Orlando, I bring a deep connection to our community and a commitment to empowering children, adolescents, and adults to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity. Specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more, I tailor treatment plans to meet each individual’s unique needs.
(407) 504-1933 View (407) 504-1933
Photo of Dr. Enrique Murillo - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(321) 366-8544 View (321) 366-8544
Photo of Margarette Leandre, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Margarette Leandre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who completed a graduate degree in advanced practice nursing and a certification in psychiatric care. I am a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to treat my clients holistically, integrating the physical and mental aspects of the self and providing compassionate care that optimizes patients' wellness. I believe positive mental health outcomes are possible and achievable with impeccable listening skills, support, and treatment modalities.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who completed a graduate degree in advanced practice nursing and a certification in psychiatric care. I am a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to treat my clients holistically, integrating the physical and mental aspects of the self and providing compassionate care that optimizes patients' wellness. I believe positive mental health outcomes are possible and achievable with impeccable listening skills, support, and treatment modalities.
(786) 756-9747 View (786) 756-9747
Photo of Kerry-Ann Chambers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kerry-Ann Chambers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Kerry-Ann Chambers, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I focus on the individual as a whole, spiritual, physical emotional, and social being and not just the disease, with the goal of integration to provide overall wellness. I utilize a holistic approach to Mental Health that is inclusive of a focus on the unique characteristics of each client, a focus on stress management and emotional well-being (using evidence-based practice), a Spiritual approach to self-care, lifestyle changes, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Patient-centered therapy, Pharmacological management, and Motivational Therapy.
My name is Kerry-Ann Chambers, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I focus on the individual as a whole, spiritual, physical emotional, and social being and not just the disease, with the goal of integration to provide overall wellness. I utilize a holistic approach to Mental Health that is inclusive of a focus on the unique characteristics of each client, a focus on stress management and emotional well-being (using evidence-based practice), a Spiritual approach to self-care, lifestyle changes, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Patient-centered therapy, Pharmacological management, and Motivational Therapy.
(954) 754-4211 View (954) 754-4211
Photo of Francesca Derius, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Francesca Derius
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Francesca. Do you feel like you are being pulled in a million directions, and unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships with families, friends, your love life, work, and health? Do you often struggle to put yourself first, or find it hard to be kind to yourself? We can help. We are located in Florida and have been in the healthcare field for over 10 years. With access to dual-certified practitioners, specializing in mental health and family medicine you will be heard and cared for.
Hi there, I'm Francesca. Do you feel like you are being pulled in a million directions, and unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships with families, friends, your love life, work, and health? Do you often struggle to put yourself first, or find it hard to be kind to yourself? We can help. We are located in Florida and have been in the healthcare field for over 10 years. With access to dual-certified practitioners, specializing in mental health and family medicine you will be heard and cared for.
(954) 388-9172 View (954) 388-9172
Photo of Lizaida Enamorado, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Lizaida Enamorado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, my name is Lizaida Enamorado, and I am a Bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, mood disorders, and more. I also like using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I like to bring a complete and holistic therapeutic approach to improve the functioning of my patients by providing psychotherapeutic interventions, prescribing medications, and often collaborating with other healthcare providers as needed to improve my patients' care.
Hi, my name is Lizaida Enamorado, and I am a Bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, mood disorders, and more. I also like using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I like to bring a complete and holistic therapeutic approach to improve the functioning of my patients by providing psychotherapeutic interventions, prescribing medications, and often collaborating with other healthcare providers as needed to improve my patients' care.
(904) 780-9477 View (904) 780-9477
Photo of Jacqueline Ustache, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacqueline Ustache
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Jackie Ustache is a highly skilled and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Outside of her medical practice, she enjoys Jet Skiing, Kayaking, CrossFit, Painting, and spending time with her family. In addition to her clinical practice, she actively participates in medical research and stays updated with the latest advancements in her field. Her treatment approach is to identify the factors contributing to the problems you are seeking help for and to work with you in solving them.
Dr. Jackie Ustache is a highly skilled and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Outside of her medical practice, she enjoys Jet Skiing, Kayaking, CrossFit, Painting, and spending time with her family. In addition to her clinical practice, she actively participates in medical research and stays updated with the latest advancements in her field. Her treatment approach is to identify the factors contributing to the problems you are seeking help for and to work with you in solving them.
(786) 733-6079 View (786) 733-6079
Photo of Cynthia Baxter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cynthia Baxter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I see patients for mental wellness. I have been a nurse for many years and pursued my passion to help more patients overcome the stigma of mental disorders. I listen to patients' problems and work with patients to develop the best treatment, backed by research and proven outcomes. I provide patient-centered care by listening to what is most important to each patient. I treat patients, not their diagnosis. I incorporate mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, and whole-body wellness for optimum improvement.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I see patients for mental wellness. I have been a nurse for many years and pursued my passion to help more patients overcome the stigma of mental disorders. I listen to patients' problems and work with patients to develop the best treatment, backed by research and proven outcomes. I provide patient-centered care by listening to what is most important to each patient. I treat patients, not their diagnosis. I incorporate mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, and whole-body wellness for optimum improvement.
(954) 507-9307 View (954) 507-9307
Photo of Jacquelyn Hill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacquelyn Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Jacquelyn "Jackie" Hill, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC. Originally from Savannah, Georgia, Jacquelyn "Jackie" Hill is a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In 2013, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing with Magna Cum Laude honors from Coastal College of Georgia. Jackie further enhanced her qualifications by completing dual graduate programs at Frontier Nursing University in Lexington, Kentucky. In 2020 and 2023, she achieved a master's degree in nursing and gained certifications in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health, graduating Summa Cum Laude.
Jacquelyn "Jackie" Hill, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC. Originally from Savannah, Georgia, Jacquelyn "Jackie" Hill is a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In 2013, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing with Magna Cum Laude honors from Coastal College of Georgia. Jackie further enhanced her qualifications by completing dual graduate programs at Frontier Nursing University in Lexington, Kentucky. In 2020 and 2023, she achieved a master's degree in nursing and gained certifications in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health, graduating Summa Cum Laude.
(954) 766-0844 View (954) 766-0844
Photo of Traci J Hammel - Traci Hammel, NP @ Health e-Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Traci Hammel, NP @ Health e-Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Many of my patients have anxiety or depression and my goal is to help them (and you!) reach your highest quality of life and become the best version of yourself by supporting both your mind and body. Most are engaged with a therapist and need additional medication support which is my speciality! I am also especially interested in helping women (and their partners!) in the perinatal and postpartum periods as well. If you are open to this possibility and are located in FL or DMV then we may be a great team.
Many of my patients have anxiety or depression and my goal is to help them (and you!) reach your highest quality of life and become the best version of yourself by supporting both your mind and body. Most are engaged with a therapist and need additional medication support which is my speciality! I am also especially interested in helping women (and their partners!) in the perinatal and postpartum periods as well. If you are open to this possibility and are located in FL or DMV then we may be a great team.
(321) 321-7220 View (321) 321-7220
Photo of Joan Brise, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Joan Brise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801
Joan S. Brise is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2015. She has a BSN from Florida International University, an MSN, Adult-Gerontology Primary care Nurse Practitioner from Florida A&M University, and a Post Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from Wilkes University. Joan provides high quality, evidence based and compassionate care to improve the mental health and overall wellbeing of the adolescent, adult, and elderly client.
Joan S. Brise is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2015. She has a BSN from Florida International University, an MSN, Adult-Gerontology Primary care Nurse Practitioner from Florida A&M University, and a Post Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from Wilkes University. Joan provides high quality, evidence based and compassionate care to improve the mental health and overall wellbeing of the adolescent, adult, and elderly client.
(407) 502-5334 View (407) 502-5334
Photo of Theresa Galindo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Theresa Galindo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Theresa Galindo. I am a Master’s prepared, Filipino-American, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP—BC) with a wide range of experience within the mental health and LGBTQIA+ community. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive therapeutic environment, where patients can feel heard, understood, and empowered to take control of their mental health.
My name is Theresa Galindo. I am a Master’s prepared, Filipino-American, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP—BC) with a wide range of experience within the mental health and LGBTQIA+ community. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive therapeutic environment, where patients can feel heard, understood, and empowered to take control of their mental health.
(321) 758-4043 View (321) 758-4043
Photo of Biju Antony, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Biju Antony
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a PMHNP and FNP. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions through evidence-based care, including medication management and therapy. I emphasize patient education and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive support. With a commitment to empathy and advocacy, I work to reduce stigma and improve mental health access.
I am a PMHNP and FNP. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions through evidence-based care, including medication management and therapy. I emphasize patient education and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive support. With a commitment to empathy and advocacy, I work to reduce stigma and improve mental health access.
(954) 355-7846 View (954) 355-7846
Photo of Joel David Ortega - Uplift Family Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Uplift Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801
Are you stressed and overwhelmed, or are you suffering from concentration issues? As a nationally board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide personalized care that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I offer specialized treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and mood disorders. My approach combines traditional psychiatric treatments with holistic therapies to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness.
Are you stressed and overwhelmed, or are you suffering from concentration issues? As a nationally board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide personalized care that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I offer specialized treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and mood disorders. My approach combines traditional psychiatric treatments with holistic therapies to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness.
(321) 342-1240 View (321) 342-1240
Photo of Renaud Jean-Louis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Renaud Jean-Louis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
A well-known provider for his caring, friendly, and courteous, has been in the healthcare profession for over 10 years. Dr. Renaud Jean Louis is a Family, Adult Gerontology, and Mental Nurse Practitioner who always placed his patients as his priority. He is currently practicing at Jackson Memorial Hospital. In addition, he is a clinical instructor for the JMH/UM Hospice/Palliative and Geriatrics Program Fellowship. Dr. Jean Louis believes in quality care that can provide the best patient outcomes based. Dr. Jean Louis speaks Creole, French, English, and conversational Spanish.
A well-known provider for his caring, friendly, and courteous, has been in the healthcare profession for over 10 years. Dr. Renaud Jean Louis is a Family, Adult Gerontology, and Mental Nurse Practitioner who always placed his patients as his priority. He is currently practicing at Jackson Memorial Hospital. In addition, he is a clinical instructor for the JMH/UM Hospice/Palliative and Geriatrics Program Fellowship. Dr. Jean Louis believes in quality care that can provide the best patient outcomes based. Dr. Jean Louis speaks Creole, French, English, and conversational Spanish.
(954) 737-5982 View (954) 737-5982
Photo of Esther Camilus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Esther Camilus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach to mental healthcare emphasizes a holistic, patient-centered model that integrates evidence-based practices with empathy and understanding. In terms of focus areas, I work with a diverse range of mental health issues, including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma-related conditions, and stress management. My goal is to provide compassionate and effective care that fosters healing, growth, and a better quality of life for patients.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach to mental healthcare emphasizes a holistic, patient-centered model that integrates evidence-based practices with empathy and understanding. In terms of focus areas, I work with a diverse range of mental health issues, including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma-related conditions, and stress management. My goal is to provide compassionate and effective care that fosters healing, growth, and a better quality of life for patients.
(954) 546-7744 View (954) 546-7744
Photo of Mia McNeil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, NP
Mia McNeil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
If you are seeking compassionate care delivered with a client-centered and evidence-based treatment approach, then I invite you to take the next step to work with me. I treat children 10 +, teens and adults seeking psychiatric evaluations and ongoing medication management services. I specialize in the treatment of depressive disorders and anxiety disorders. I use a whole-person approach and aim to deliver inclusive and culturally competent care.
If you are seeking compassionate care delivered with a client-centered and evidence-based treatment approach, then I invite you to take the next step to work with me. I treat children 10 +, teens and adults seeking psychiatric evaluations and ongoing medication management services. I specialize in the treatment of depressive disorders and anxiety disorders. I use a whole-person approach and aim to deliver inclusive and culturally competent care.
(321) 392-6908 View (321) 392-6908
Photo of Susannah Beier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Susannah Beier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am Susannah Beier, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management and supportive therapy for adults (18+). I understand that finding the right mental health provider can feel overwhelming, but my goal is to create a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported. I treat adults (18+) with anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep disorders, adjustment disorders, prolonged grief, and more. My approach focuses on collaborative, evidence-based treatment, ensuring that each client feels heard, understood, and empowered in their mental health journey.
I am Susannah Beier, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management and supportive therapy for adults (18+). I understand that finding the right mental health provider can feel overwhelming, but my goal is to create a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported. I treat adults (18+) with anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep disorders, adjustment disorders, prolonged grief, and more. My approach focuses on collaborative, evidence-based treatment, ensuring that each client feels heard, understood, and empowered in their mental health journey.
(321) 325-4479 View (321) 325-4479
Photo of Dr. Eli Nader, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Eli Nader
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801
Dr. Nader is a highly accomplished Triple Board Certified Psychiatrist, possessing specialized expertise in both General Adult Psychiatry from Harvard University and Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) from Boston University. He has earned Board Certification in both specialties from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Additionally, Dr. Nader is recognized as a Board Certified Addiction Medicine Specialist by the American Board of Preventive Medicine. Over the course of his extensive career, Dr. Nader has garnered a wealth of experience which he dedicated for the wellbeing of his patients.
Dr. Nader is a highly accomplished Triple Board Certified Psychiatrist, possessing specialized expertise in both General Adult Psychiatry from Harvard University and Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) from Boston University. He has earned Board Certification in both specialties from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Additionally, Dr. Nader is recognized as a Board Certified Addiction Medicine Specialist by the American Board of Preventive Medicine. Over the course of his extensive career, Dr. Nader has garnered a wealth of experience which he dedicated for the wellbeing of his patients.
(321) 421-5242 View (321) 421-5242
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See more therapy options for 32801

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 32801

100+

Average cost per session

$180

Psychiatrists in 32801 who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
97% Anxiety
87% Bipolar Disorder
78% Trauma and PTSD
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
97% Cigna and Evernorth
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 32801 see their clients

71% Online Only
29% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

66% Female
34% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 32801?

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.