Psychiatrists in 32825

Photo of Kike Aurelus, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kike Aurelus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32825
I am excited that you are taking the time to know me. I was born and raised in Jamaica by a Jamaican mother and Nigerian father. I started my nursing career as a surgical transplant nurse and have also worked in cardiac nursing. I have always been passionate about nursing and the mental health of my patients. As a psychiatric nurse I cared for acute psychiatric patients in crisis. My desire has always been to improve the mental health of my patients. My ideal patient is anyone between the ages of 6 to 60 who desires to be heard, understood and cared for with compassion and in a holistic way.
I am excited that you are taking the time to know me. I was born and raised in Jamaica by a Jamaican mother and Nigerian father. I started my nursing career as a surgical transplant nurse and have also worked in cardiac nursing. I have always been passionate about nursing and the mental health of my patients. As a psychiatric nurse I cared for acute psychiatric patients in crisis. My desire has always been to improve the mental health of my patients. My ideal patient is anyone between the ages of 6 to 60 who desires to be heard, understood and cared for with compassion and in a holistic way.
(321) 966-4005 View (321) 966-4005
Photo of Xiaoyin (Anne) Ream, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Xiaoyin (Anne) Ream
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32825
Anne (Xiaoyin) Ream is a Family Nurse Practitioner and soon to be Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2015. She has been with Lifestance Health, formerly known as Orlando Behavioral Health since 2017. She graduated from the University of South Florida (USF) with a master's degree in family practice. She is also a graduate of the University of Tampa (Tampa, FL) and Rowan University (Glassboro, NJ) with bachelor's degrees in nursing and biological sciences respectively. Anne believes in empowering her clients to achieve maximal emotional strength.
Anne (Xiaoyin) Ream is a Family Nurse Practitioner and soon to be Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2015. She has been with Lifestance Health, formerly known as Orlando Behavioral Health since 2017. She graduated from the University of South Florida (USF) with a master's degree in family practice. She is also a graduate of the University of Tampa (Tampa, FL) and Rowan University (Glassboro, NJ) with bachelor's degrees in nursing and biological sciences respectively. Anne believes in empowering her clients to achieve maximal emotional strength.
(689) 219-8068 View (689) 219-8068
Patricia U Chukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32825
Maybe you are like my family members who have been suffering in silence because they do not want anyone to know, reach out to me, you are not alone. You are in good hands. I focus on actively involving clients in their healthcare decisions to help them think, feel, and be at their best so they may continue to thrive in life. I have seen my family members and friends suffer from mental illness and would not seek help due to the sigma society places on the disease. My goal is to talk to each person one on one and collaboratively develops tailored treatment plans for clients' specific needs.
Maybe you are like my family members who have been suffering in silence because they do not want anyone to know, reach out to me, you are not alone. You are in good hands. I focus on actively involving clients in their healthcare decisions to help them think, feel, and be at their best so they may continue to thrive in life. I have seen my family members and friends suffer from mental illness and would not seek help due to the sigma society places on the disease. My goal is to talk to each person one on one and collaboratively develops tailored treatment plans for clients' specific needs.
(321) 323-7955 View (321) 323-7955
Photo of Maria E Pizarro, APRN, MSN, cPhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maria E Pizarro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, cPhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am here to assist you in your life's journey by listening and providing emotional support and reassurance. It is my goal to provide the best care possible in the treatment of mental, emotional, and spiritual issues. Together we will achieve your goals of stability and functionality in society. LGBTQ plus community are welcome!
I am here to assist you in your life's journey by listening and providing emotional support and reassurance. It is my goal to provide the best care possible in the treatment of mental, emotional, and spiritual issues. Together we will achieve your goals of stability and functionality in society. LGBTQ plus community are welcome!
(321) 732-8424 View (321) 732-8424
Photo of Dr. Jose Ruiz - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32825
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) 461-5164 View (321) 461-5164
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 Jose Ruiz, MD, Psychiatrist
Jose Ruiz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32825
Jose D. Ruiz, M.D. Graduated from Medical school Universidad Central del Caribe, Puerto Rico in 1992. Finished Residency in Psychiatry and Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at University of Florida in Gainesville, finishing in 1997. Served in the Army for 6 years as a psychiatrist (Korea, Germany and Georgia). Came to work at current group LifeStance Health that was called Florida Psychiatric Associates back in 2003 and latter Orlando Behabioral Healthcare. He is Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. See's patients from 2 yrs and older.
Jose D. Ruiz, M.D. Graduated from Medical school Universidad Central del Caribe, Puerto Rico in 1992. Finished Residency in Psychiatry and Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at University of Florida in Gainesville, finishing in 1997. Served in the Army for 6 years as a psychiatrist (Korea, Germany and Georgia). Came to work at current group LifeStance Health that was called Florida Psychiatric Associates back in 2003 and latter Orlando Behabioral Healthcare. He is Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. See's patients from 2 yrs and older.
(689) 204-2764 View (689) 204-2764
Photo of Mark Weisman, MD, Psychiatrist
Mark Weisman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32825
LifeStance in Brandon, FL provides counseling and therapy online or in person. Also, psychiatry and medication management are available by video. The choice is yours. We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy and marriage counseling. We accept most insurances and serve all ages. Call or book online today!.
LifeStance in Brandon, FL provides counseling and therapy online or in person. Also, psychiatry and medication management are available by video. The choice is yours. We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy and marriage counseling. We accept most insurances and serve all ages. Call or book online today!.
(813) 640-4934 View (813) 640-4934
Photo of Ambika Kataria, MD, Psychiatrist
Ambika Kataria
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32825
Dr. Ambika Kataria is a Psychiatrist in New York who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Kataria believes that validation, empathy, and medication plus therapy is key to feeling better. In her free time, Dr. Kataria enjoys swimming, spending time with family and friends, exercise, and meditation.
Dr. Ambika Kataria is a Psychiatrist in New York who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Kataria believes that validation, empathy, and medication plus therapy is key to feeling better. In her free time, Dr. Kataria enjoys swimming, spending time with family and friends, exercise, and meditation.
(407) 329-9958 View (407) 329-9958
Photo of Tysam Beckett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tysam Beckett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32825
Tysam Beckett is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing. She is credentialed as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) "“ Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Tysam can provide assessment, diagnosis and medication for mental health conditions or substance use disorders. Tysam believes in providing a holistic, evidence-based treatment plan for her patients.
Tysam Beckett is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing. She is credentialed as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) "“ Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Tysam can provide assessment, diagnosis and medication for mental health conditions or substance use disorders. Tysam believes in providing a holistic, evidence-based treatment plan for her patients.
(321) 450-7696 View (321) 450-7696
Photo of Nadia J Bowser, MSN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nadia J Bowser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Don't go through this alone! Hello, I'm Nadia Bowser, a PMHNP with over 10 years of experience in healthcare. I understand how difficult it can be to feel like you're in a dark place with no light at the end of the tunnel and how disappointing it is to reach out for help and find no one there. I will be your biggest cheerleader. Your victories are my victories, and your disappointments are my disappointments. I will hold your hand through your journey back into the light so that you can see tomorrow.
Don't go through this alone! Hello, I'm Nadia Bowser, a PMHNP with over 10 years of experience in healthcare. I understand how difficult it can be to feel like you're in a dark place with no light at the end of the tunnel and how disappointing it is to reach out for help and find no one there. I will be your biggest cheerleader. Your victories are my victories, and your disappointments are my disappointments. I will hold your hand through your journey back into the light so that you can see tomorrow.
(321) 321-2648 View (321) 321-2648
Photo of Michael Richard Martin, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Richard Martin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I help adult patients to include general psychiatry and mental health issues. If you are suffering with addictions, ADD, ADHD, anxiety, or depression, let me help you overcome these problems. We will work together with a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy when needed. You and your loved ones will see improvements in your overall health and well-being.
I help adult patients to include general psychiatry and mental health issues. If you are suffering with addictions, ADD, ADHD, anxiety, or depression, let me help you overcome these problems. We will work together with a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy when needed. You and your loved ones will see improvements in your overall health and well-being.
(904) 906-9187 View (904) 906-9187
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.
(321) 248-5598 View (321) 248-5598
Photo of Katrina Kesterson - Inlight Psychiatry & Therapy, MD, Psychiatrist
Inlight Psychiatry & Therapy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 Christine Forge, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christine Forge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal clients are pre-teens, teens, and adults who are navigating the complexities of life’s journey. They may be dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, mood disorders, or life transitions. These clients often need support in managing their symptoms, developing coping strategies, and working towards personal growth and stability. Their goals typically include improving mental health, achieving a better quality of life, and fostering positive relationships.
My ideal clients are pre-teens, teens, and adults who are navigating the complexities of life’s journey. They may be dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, mood disorders, or life transitions. These clients often need support in managing their symptoms, developing coping strategies, and working towards personal growth and stability. Their goals typically include improving mental health, achieving a better quality of life, and fostering positive relationships.
(904) 606-1326 View (904) 606-1326
Photo of Raissa Dywou Kouede - KC cares for the mind, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
KC cares for the mind, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have dedicated my career to serving both mental health patients and underserved populations in both inpatient and outpatient environments. I am passionate about assisting individuals facing diverse challenges and those who have experienced trauma. My approach involves collaborating closely with patients, actively listening to their concerns, and guiding them through a healing journey that prioritizes their personal goals. I strive to create a respectful, kind, and nonjudgmental atmosphere that fosters autonomy and empowerment.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have dedicated my career to serving both mental health patients and underserved populations in both inpatient and outpatient environments. I am passionate about assisting individuals facing diverse challenges and those who have experienced trauma. My approach involves collaborating closely with patients, actively listening to their concerns, and guiding them through a healing journey that prioritizes their personal goals. I strive to create a respectful, kind, and nonjudgmental atmosphere that fosters autonomy and empowerment.
(321) 252-3938 View (321) 252-3938

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32832
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 Kristina Ann Rickman-Sykes - Professional Mental Health Wellness Services LLC, MSN, PMHN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Professional Mental Health Wellness Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHN, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am the founder of Professional Mental Health Weness Services, LLC. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My educational background includes a Master of Science in Nursing and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialization from Walden University.
I am the founder of Professional Mental Health Weness Services, LLC. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My educational background includes a Master of Science in Nursing and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialization from Walden University.
(850) 446-4711 View (850) 446-4711
Photo of Bernadine Anderson-Clarke, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bernadine Anderson-Clarke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My goal is to ensure that patients have easy and immediate access to healthcare. When requested by my patients, I combine conventional medications with functional and integrative medicine approaches to address concerns like anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I'm passionate about empowering individuals to find their own motivation for a healthy life. In addition to addressing behavioral health, I am capable of treating a wide range of conditions, both acute (skin and respiratory infections) and chronic (pre-diabetes, diabetes, HTN, and pain)
My goal is to ensure that patients have easy and immediate access to healthcare. When requested by my patients, I combine conventional medications with functional and integrative medicine approaches to address concerns like anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I'm passionate about empowering individuals to find their own motivation for a healthy life. In addition to addressing behavioral health, I am capable of treating a wide range of conditions, both acute (skin and respiratory infections) and chronic (pre-diabetes, diabetes, HTN, and pain)
(561) 467-7345 View (561) 467-7345
Photo of Laura Finory, MD, Psychiatrist
Laura Finory
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Laura Ginory is double boarded in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. She has been practicing for over 12 years. Dr. Ginory's practice focuses on medication management, which is offered in conjunction with supportive therapy offered in 30 min visit follow-up visits. However occasionally Dr. Ginory may believe additional therapy is needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Laura Ginory is double boarded in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. She has been practicing for over 12 years. Dr. Ginory's practice focuses on medication management, which is offered in conjunction with supportive therapy offered in 30 min visit follow-up visits. However occasionally Dr. Ginory may believe additional therapy is needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
(321) 300-2108 View (321) 300-2108

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 32825

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 32825 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
93% Depression
87% Bipolar Disorder
87% Medication Management
80% Trauma and PTSD
73% Psychosis

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Cigna and Evernorth
85% Aetna
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 32825 see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 32825?

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.