Psychiatrists in 32804

Photo of Michelle D. Carr, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle D. Carr
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Online Only
I provide Meaning Centered Therapy which is based on the belief that all problems hold potential for learning and growth. I see every person with physical, spiritual, emotional and intellectual needs. I also see each as an overcomer rather than a victim, no matter what the trauma. EMDR, Poetry Therapy and Dream Work may be used, if appropriate. My approach is interpersonal and I see the therapist and client as two people working together toward a goal set by the client. I also offer life-coaching. I offer medication management and integrate natural supplements added to prescription medications whenever possible.
I provide Meaning Centered Therapy which is based on the belief that all problems hold potential for learning and growth. I see every person with physical, spiritual, emotional and intellectual needs. I also see each as an overcomer rather than a victim, no matter what the trauma. EMDR, Poetry Therapy and Dream Work may be used, if appropriate. My approach is interpersonal and I see the therapist and client as two people working together toward a goal set by the client. I also offer life-coaching. I offer medication management and integrate natural supplements added to prescription medications whenever possible.
(689) 220-2622 View (689) 220-2622
Photo of Schevon M Pierre - Curatif Behavioral Health, Inc, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Curatif Behavioral Health, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Curatif Behavioral Health, where your journey to emotional wealth begins. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who is licensed to treat individuals across the lifespan. Our practice treats adults who suffer with many disorders, including mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. Other disorders we treat include pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and ADHD. At Curatif, we work with you so you gain a better understanding of your disorder, along with understanding options for treatment either through medication or psychotherapy.
Welcome to Curatif Behavioral Health, where your journey to emotional wealth begins. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who is licensed to treat individuals across the lifespan. Our practice treats adults who suffer with many disorders, including mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. Other disorders we treat include pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and ADHD. At Curatif, we work with you so you gain a better understanding of your disorder, along with understanding options for treatment either through medication or psychotherapy.
(321) 455-8127 View (321) 455-8127
Photo of Lisa Babb, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Babb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32804
Are you searching for a path to a more enriching life? Is the weight of anxiety a daily struggle for you? Whether it's challenges at home, work, or in your relationships, feeling overwhelmed can take a toll. If stability feels like a distant dream, consider this your personal invitation to Breakthrough HQ. Your emotions, concerns, and feelings matter, and you deserve a life filled with joy and contentment. At Breakthrough HQ, I am committed to a collaborative journey with you, providing a compassionate, understanding, and tailored approach. Let's work together to navigate the obstacles you're facing and rediscover a profound sense!
Are you searching for a path to a more enriching life? Is the weight of anxiety a daily struggle for you? Whether it's challenges at home, work, or in your relationships, feeling overwhelmed can take a toll. If stability feels like a distant dream, consider this your personal invitation to Breakthrough HQ. Your emotions, concerns, and feelings matter, and you deserve a life filled with joy and contentment. At Breakthrough HQ, I am committed to a collaborative journey with you, providing a compassionate, understanding, and tailored approach. Let's work together to navigate the obstacles you're facing and rediscover a profound sense!
(407) 602-6231 View (407) 602-6231
Photo of Amanda McCormack, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda McCormack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32804
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive, and individualized mental health care. My mission is to support your journey toward wellness by addressing your mental health needs with evidence-based treatments, empathy, and a deep commitment to your overall well-being.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive, and individualized mental health care. My mission is to support your journey toward wellness by addressing your mental health needs with evidence-based treatments, empathy, and a deep commitment to your overall well-being.
(321) 359-8270 View (321) 359-8270
Photo of Schevon Pierre, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Schevon Pierre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients! In Psychiatry, I learned that giving of myself, listening, caring, without judgement, was necessary to facilitate a therapeutic relationship and to help my clients heal. I have a family member who suffers with schizophrenia, so I have personal experience with the struggles of the person who suffers with mental illness. I can also empathize with the heart aches of the family who try to be supportive and often lose hope. I am grateful to be able to do what I love and make a difference in the lives of others.
Accepting New Clients! In Psychiatry, I learned that giving of myself, listening, caring, without judgement, was necessary to facilitate a therapeutic relationship and to help my clients heal. I have a family member who suffers with schizophrenia, so I have personal experience with the struggles of the person who suffers with mental illness. I can also empathize with the heart aches of the family who try to be supportive and often lose hope. I am grateful to be able to do what I love and make a difference in the lives of others.
(321) 401-6139 View (321) 401-6139
Photo of Dr. Rose Ampadu - Zoelife Psychiatric Services - Dr. Rose Ampadu , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zoelife Psychiatric Services - Dr. Rose Ampadu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, FPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32804
** REGISTERED OUT-OF-STATE HEALTH PROVIDER FOR THE STATE OF FLORIDA ** Untreated mental illness can unravel one’s life causing stress, loss of hope, loss of relationships, loss of employment, and sadly the loss of one's life. As a Family Psychiatrist Nurse Practitioner, I pride myself in partnership with my patients to provide high-quality individualized medication and symptomatology management. http://www.flhealthsource.gov/telehealth
** REGISTERED OUT-OF-STATE HEALTH PROVIDER FOR THE STATE OF FLORIDA ** Untreated mental illness can unravel one’s life causing stress, loss of hope, loss of relationships, loss of employment, and sadly the loss of one's life. As a Family Psychiatrist Nurse Practitioner, I pride myself in partnership with my patients to provide high-quality individualized medication and symptomatology management. http://www.flhealthsource.gov/telehealth
(407) 214-4581 View (407) 214-4581
Photo of Cindy M Jean-Pierre - Solace Virtual Psychiatric Care, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Solace Virtual Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32804
Not accepting new clients
The purpose and intent of my practice, Solace Virtual Psychiatric Care, is to use my knowledge and skill set to inspire you to begin building your most optimal life. At Solace, we strive to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for learning and practicing the tools to respond to life’s challenges.
The purpose and intent of my practice, Solace Virtual Psychiatric Care, is to use my knowledge and skill set to inspire you to begin building your most optimal life. At Solace, we strive to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for learning and practicing the tools to respond to life’s challenges.
(321) 336-5860 View (321) 336-5860
Photo of Linda Octavien, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linda Octavien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Meet Linda Octavien, FNP, a seasoned healthcare professional with nearly two decades of experience.
Meet Linda Octavien, FNP, a seasoned healthcare professional with nearly two decades of experience.
(470) 315-9161 View (470) 315-9161
Photo of Carolyn A. McClinton, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carolyn A. McClinton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32804
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with patients across the lifespan. My goal is to help each patient achieve their personal health care goal through evidence based guidance while providing accessible, and quality mental health care to promote the well being of individuals and families. Treating patients with compassion and mutual respect not only provides the foundation for collaboration, but builds trust. Individualized care is based on their needs as a whole, while keeping in mind that mental health and well-being are just as important as our physical health in order to reach patient's full potential.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with patients across the lifespan. My goal is to help each patient achieve their personal health care goal through evidence based guidance while providing accessible, and quality mental health care to promote the well being of individuals and families. Treating patients with compassion and mutual respect not only provides the foundation for collaboration, but builds trust. Individualized care is based on their needs as a whole, while keeping in mind that mental health and well-being are just as important as our physical health in order to reach patient's full potential.
(904) 320-0712 View (904) 320-0712
Photo of Carolyn McClinton - Embracing Behavioral Health, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatrist
Embracing Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32804
We Individualized care that is based on patients needs, most importantly we keep in mind that mental health and your well-being are just as important as physical health in order for patients to reach their full potential in life. We works with families and Individuals across the lifespan by helping them to achieve their behavior and mental health goals.
We Individualized care that is based on patients needs, most importantly we keep in mind that mental health and your well-being are just as important as physical health in order for patients to reach their full potential in life. We works with families and Individuals across the lifespan by helping them to achieve their behavior and mental health goals.
(904) 439-7830 View (904) 439-7830
Photo of 4Cs Health (Statewide) Shanisha Calloway-Kirk, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
4Cs Health (Statewide) Shanisha Calloway-Kirk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32804
"Everybody has problems. Everybody has bad times. Do we sacrifice all the good times because of them?" Sometimes we don't choose the circumstances life hands us, but you can decide not to go through them alone. Please visit us at our website at www.4cshealth.com or contact us for an appointment here: https://4cshealth.clientsecure.me/
"Everybody has problems. Everybody has bad times. Do we sacrifice all the good times because of them?" Sometimes we don't choose the circumstances life hands us, but you can decide not to go through them alone. Please visit us at our website at www.4cshealth.com or contact us for an appointment here: https://4cshealth.clientsecure.me/
(786) 460-6781 View (786) 460-6781
Photo of Mary Kathryn Parham, FNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Kathryn Parham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’m a dual-board certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner operating a private practice seeing patients via secure online video visits as a modern era house call. Trained in primary care at the University of South Carolina and in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University, my board certifications are in family medicine and in general child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. My approach is to observe and listen with curiosity and optimism to the individual seeking mental health care, so that we may then have a conversation and learn how to best collaborate to secure all the good that is possible.
I’m a dual-board certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner operating a private practice seeing patients via secure online video visits as a modern era house call. Trained in primary care at the University of South Carolina and in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University, my board certifications are in family medicine and in general child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. My approach is to observe and listen with curiosity and optimism to the individual seeking mental health care, so that we may then have a conversation and learn how to best collaborate to secure all the good that is possible.
(689) 407-7440 View (689) 407-7440
Photo of Mehdi Bubba Thomas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mehdi Bubba Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(813) 560-8554 View (813) 560-8554
Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
(321) 341-6797 View (321) 341-6797
Photo of Elizabeth Dawn Winkler-Rogers, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Dawn Winkler-Rogers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am interested in treating adults (18-70 years old) who are experiencing distress over transitional life events such as the loss of a loved one, work/school stressors, traumas, and marital conflicts. I enjoy working with adults experiencing mood, anxiety, and focus issues. People have a basic need to talk, to voice their concerns, and to be heard. I am here to listen to you to determine the best way to work together and achieve your greater mental wellness.
I am interested in treating adults (18-70 years old) who are experiencing distress over transitional life events such as the loss of a loved one, work/school stressors, traumas, and marital conflicts. I enjoy working with adults experiencing mood, anxiety, and focus issues. People have a basic need to talk, to voice their concerns, and to be heard. I am here to listen to you to determine the best way to work together and achieve your greater mental wellness.
(321) 342-3975 View (321) 342-3975
Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(321) 467-7382 View (321) 467-7382
Photo of Shar D Webb, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shar D Webb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am here to support you or your children with compassionate, informative, and quality psychiatric care. I believe in the importance of taking time to get to know you, understand who you are and what would best support you. If you are looking for a place to feel heard, not rushed, and someone committed to understanding your concerns, then I am here to help.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am here to support you or your children with compassionate, informative, and quality psychiatric care. I believe in the importance of taking time to get to know you, understand who you are and what would best support you. If you are looking for a place to feel heard, not rushed, and someone committed to understanding your concerns, then I am here to help.
(321) 386-1092 View (321) 386-1092
Photo of Ramiro Rangel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ramiro Rangel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ramiro Rangel is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2022. Ramiro incorporates a treatment plan that is patient centered. He is a good listener, empathetic, and encourages and motivates patients to take the first step in improving themselves by being thorough. Ramiro explains how medication works, being open minded and focusing on the person as a whole. Outside of work, Ramiro enjoys reading, the gym, hiking, nature, animals, helping others, volunteering, trips, and spending quality time with loved ones.
Ramiro Rangel is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2022. Ramiro incorporates a treatment plan that is patient centered. He is a good listener, empathetic, and encourages and motivates patients to take the first step in improving themselves by being thorough. Ramiro explains how medication works, being open minded and focusing on the person as a whole. Outside of work, Ramiro enjoys reading, the gym, hiking, nature, animals, helping others, volunteering, trips, and spending quality time with loved ones.
(407) 337-2625 View (407) 337-2625
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(321) 341-8992 View (321) 341-8992
Photo of Sarah Gardner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Gardner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Most of my clients have come to me as adults wondering whether they could possibly have undiagnosed ADHD or needing treatment. Many of them had been misdiagnosed in the past with depression, anxiety, or even bipolar disorder, but these never seemed quite right or the treatments never helped. Many have noticed that the strategies that previously worked for them at one time are no longer doing enough to manage all their overflowing responsibilities effectively and they are overwhelmed and burnt out. Some of my other clients come to me with concerns about managing mental health in the setting of pregnancy, postpartum, and lactation.
Most of my clients have come to me as adults wondering whether they could possibly have undiagnosed ADHD or needing treatment. Many of them had been misdiagnosed in the past with depression, anxiety, or even bipolar disorder, but these never seemed quite right or the treatments never helped. Many have noticed that the strategies that previously worked for them at one time are no longer doing enough to manage all their overflowing responsibilities effectively and they are overwhelmed and burnt out. Some of my other clients come to me with concerns about managing mental health in the setting of pregnancy, postpartum, and lactation.
(813) 797-4875 View (813) 797-4875
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 32804

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 32804 who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
93% Anxiety
78% Bipolar Disorder
76% ADHD
76% Trauma and PTSD
73% Medication Management
61% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
97% Aetna
84% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 32804 see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 32804?

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.