Psychiatrists in 32830
Priti Purushothaman, MD, FAPA, is a Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist in Orlando, Florida. She received her medical degree from Govt. Medical College, Bhavnagar, India and completed residency in Psychiatry at University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Purushothaman then completed her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and fellowship in Community Psychiatry. Dr. Purushothaman is double board certified in Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
Priti Purushothaman, MD, FAPA, is a Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist in Orlando, Florida. She received her medical degree from Govt. Medical College, Bhavnagar, India and completed residency in Psychiatry at University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Purushothaman then completed her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and fellowship in Community Psychiatry. Dr. Purushothaman is double board certified in Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
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Mary Kathryn Parham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32836 (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.
Kajessa D. Joseph is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2022. Kajessa started working as a certified pharmacy technician at Aspire Health Partners which solidify her desire into mental health. She also worked there as a licensed practical nurse and a registered nurse. She acquired experience as a registered nurse in the progressive care unit, postpartum and newborn nursery at Advent Health hospitals.
Kajessa D. Joseph is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2022. Kajessa started working as a certified pharmacy technician at Aspire Health Partners which solidify her desire into mental health. She also worked there as a licensed practical nurse and a registered nurse. She acquired experience as a registered nurse in the progressive care unit, postpartum and newborn nursery at Advent Health hospitals.
Are you feeling down or out of energy? Finding it hard to enjoy life? Always on edge or nervous? Maybe you’re overwhelmed to the point you can’t eat, sleep, or get things finished. Perhaps you’re feeling lonely and isolated? I can help. I’m Dr. Sidawi, and I’m a University of Florida trained, board certified psychiatrist who will spend the time necessary to make sure you feel your problems are understood. I provide my patients concierge levels of access by answering all calls and messages personally, and strive to maintain privacy by protecting your mental health information from automatically being shared with insurance bureaus.
Are you feeling down or out of energy? Finding it hard to enjoy life? Always on edge or nervous? Maybe you’re overwhelmed to the point you can’t eat, sleep, or get things finished. Perhaps you’re feeling lonely and isolated? I can help. I’m Dr. Sidawi, and I’m a University of Florida trained, board certified psychiatrist who will spend the time necessary to make sure you feel your problems are understood. I provide my patients concierge levels of access by answering all calls and messages personally, and strive to maintain privacy by protecting your mental health information from automatically being shared with insurance bureaus.
The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We strive to provide the highest quality evidence-based, compassionate care through a combination of medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients/families overcome their most difficult challenges and achieve their greatest goals to lead their most joyful, fulfilling lives.
The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We strive to provide the highest quality evidence-based, compassionate care through a combination of medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients/families overcome their most difficult challenges and achieve their greatest goals to lead their most joyful, fulfilling lives.
Walk In Family Psychiatry Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32837
"I promise to be there for you every step of your journey. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life." M. Levrier, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC
"I promise to be there for you every step of your journey. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life." M. Levrier, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC
psychpointe.com (Syed O Quadri, M.D & Team)
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32836
Syed O. Quadri, MD is an experienced psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of child, adolescent, and adult behavioral and mental health treatment. Please click on www.psychpointe.com for more information. Patients appreciate the time, attention and expertise that Dr. Quadri provides each of his patients. Dr. Quadri had many years of experience working in Medicine, Surgery, Neuropsychiatry, General Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Quadri has been involved with clinical trials at University Of South Florida, Texas Tech University, John Hopkins University, and University of Arizona.
Syed O. Quadri, MD is an experienced psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of child, adolescent, and adult behavioral and mental health treatment. Please click on www.psychpointe.com for more information. Patients appreciate the time, attention and expertise that Dr. Quadri provides each of his patients. Dr. Quadri had many years of experience working in Medicine, Surgery, Neuropsychiatry, General Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Quadri has been involved with clinical trials at University Of South Florida, Texas Tech University, John Hopkins University, and University of Arizona.
Susan Vazquez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Celebration, FL 34747 (Online Only)
As a compassionate and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I draw upon my own life experiences to guide my practice. Witnessing the impact of mental health challenges during my career in emergency medicine, I’ve developed a profound understanding and respect of the human psyche. My commitment extends beyond clinical expertise; it’s deeply rooted in empathy and resilience. I approach mental health care holistically delving into biopsychosocial factors, recognizing that mental health is influenced by genetics, environment, and personal history. My assessments consider the whole person, not just symptoms.
As a compassionate and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I draw upon my own life experiences to guide my practice. Witnessing the impact of mental health challenges during my career in emergency medicine, I’ve developed a profound understanding and respect of the human psyche. My commitment extends beyond clinical expertise; it’s deeply rooted in empathy and resilience. I approach mental health care holistically delving into biopsychosocial factors, recognizing that mental health is influenced by genetics, environment, and personal history. My assessments consider the whole person, not just symptoms.
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.
Judeline Docteur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32837 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Judeline Docteur, a psychiatric provider in Florida. Book with me now by clicking on my website. Many of my clients come to me feeling hopeless, emotionally overwhelmed and misunderstood. I firmly believe that mental health is as critical as physical health. It influences all aspects of our day-to-day lives and our relationships. I specialize in assisting those who are dealing with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and ADHD, which are often misunderstood by society, and these conditions can be incredibly isolating for the individuals experiencing them.
Hi, I'm Judeline Docteur, a psychiatric provider in Florida. Book with me now by clicking on my website. Many of my clients come to me feeling hopeless, emotionally overwhelmed and misunderstood. I firmly believe that mental health is as critical as physical health. It influences all aspects of our day-to-day lives and our relationships. I specialize in assisting those who are dealing with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and ADHD, which are often misunderstood by society, and these conditions can be incredibly isolating for the individuals experiencing them.
Dr. Celeste Boyd is the Founder and CEO of Metamorphosis Psyche. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP), Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) from the University of Miami. She is licensed and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). She Possesses a Master of Arts in Developmental Psychology from Gallaudet University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Florida State University.
Dr. Celeste Boyd is the Founder and CEO of Metamorphosis Psyche. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP), Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) from the University of Miami. She is licensed and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). She Possesses a Master of Arts in Developmental Psychology from Gallaudet University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Florida State University.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Eloy Franco, MD and I am a board certified psychiatrist with 16 years of experience in treating and managing a wide range of mental health conditions. I completed my training at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, and then moved to Tampa in 2010. I enjoy caring for patients of all walks of life in a way that is warm, empathic, inquisitive and empowering! If you would like to join my diverse group of patients, please feel free to give us a call. You can find more information about my practice and myself at my website: dreloyfranco.com I look forward to helping and knowing you! Se Habla Español.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Eloy Franco, MD and I am a board certified psychiatrist with 16 years of experience in treating and managing a wide range of mental health conditions. I completed my training at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, and then moved to Tampa in 2010. I enjoy caring for patients of all walks of life in a way that is warm, empathic, inquisitive and empowering! If you would like to join my diverse group of patients, please feel free to give us a call. You can find more information about my practice and myself at my website: dreloyfranco.com I look forward to helping and knowing you! Se Habla Español.
Joel David Ortega
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP -, BC
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34741
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. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the difference at Uplift Family Psychiatry
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. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the difference at Uplift Family Psychiatry
A board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, Ms. Carolann Brooks is humble and caring. She is currently employed at Life Stance Health Celebration, FL location. Patients visit her for a variety of concerns involving mood disorders, anxiety, adhd, psychiatry consultations, and medication management. Ms. Brooks earned her bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida. She pursued her master's degree in counselor education from Florida Polytechnic University and another master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University.
A board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, Ms. Carolann Brooks is humble and caring. She is currently employed at Life Stance Health Celebration, FL location. Patients visit her for a variety of concerns involving mood disorders, anxiety, adhd, psychiatry consultations, and medication management. Ms. Brooks earned her bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida. She pursued her master's degree in counselor education from Florida Polytechnic University and another master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University.
Mercedes Gibbons is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over ten years of experience in mental health. Most of her experience is in crisis stabilization management in inpatient settings for adult and children. She also has experience in outpatient settings with medication treatment and management. Over time of working in both hospice care and mental health, she decided to pursue for hidden calling, practicing as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She attended Edison State College (Fort Myers, Florida) where she obtained her Associate of Science in Nursing and Associate of Arts Degree.
Mercedes Gibbons is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over ten years of experience in mental health. Most of her experience is in crisis stabilization management in inpatient settings for adult and children. She also has experience in outpatient settings with medication treatment and management. Over time of working in both hospice care and mental health, she decided to pursue for hidden calling, practicing as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She attended Edison State College (Fort Myers, Florida) where she obtained her Associate of Science in Nursing and Associate of Arts Degree.
Precious M Spencer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, ARNP
Verified Verified
Celebration, FL 34747 (Online Only)
I provide assistance in many areas including ADHD, depression, anxiety , mood disorder and many others. The course of treatment is individualized to fit each person’s unique circumstances.
I provide assistance in many areas including ADHD, depression, anxiety , mood disorder and many others. The course of treatment is individualized to fit each person’s unique circumstances.
Lisa Abern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34747 (Online Only)
My name is Lisa and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults in multiple settings facing various complex mental health issues, including ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and mood disorders.
My name is Lisa and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults in multiple settings facing various complex mental health issues, including ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and mood disorders.
Lillian Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32836 (Online Only)
Same week appointments available. Lillian Matthews is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner treating adults 18-64 years old. She specializes in treatment of all general mental health conditions. She primarily offers medication management but also incorporates supportive psychotherapy with clients. She offers care in an approach that is warm, thorough and empathetic. She was drawn to working in mental health care to make a lasting positive impact on clients. Success in Lillian's practice is working with clients to help them grow toward leading healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives.
Same week appointments available. Lillian Matthews is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner treating adults 18-64 years old. She specializes in treatment of all general mental health conditions. She primarily offers medication management but also incorporates supportive psychotherapy with clients. She offers care in an approach that is warm, thorough and empathetic. She was drawn to working in mental health care to make a lasting positive impact on clients. Success in Lillian's practice is working with clients to help them grow toward leading healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives.
Positive mental health occurs when every aspect of one’s life is in balance. It incorporates emotional and physical health. This balance requires learning the necessary skills to cope with stress and react appropriately to life’s uncertainties. At Sunshine Premier Wellness Center, we are dedicated to helping adults, teens, and kids overcome the challenges of mental health conditions and move forward toward their goals. We offer psychiatric and psychological evaluations, neuropsychological testing, medication management, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) services.
Positive mental health occurs when every aspect of one’s life is in balance. It incorporates emotional and physical health. This balance requires learning the necessary skills to cope with stress and react appropriately to life’s uncertainties. At Sunshine Premier Wellness Center, we are dedicated to helping adults, teens, and kids overcome the challenges of mental health conditions and move forward toward their goals. We offer psychiatric and psychological evaluations, neuropsychological testing, medication management, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) services.
Dr. Trinese Hardy is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2015. In addition to dual certification in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. , Dr. Hardy holds a Doctorate Degree in Public Health, which has enabled her to develop a style that encompasses the whole patient, mind, body, and soul, not just the physical when treating them. Dr. Hardy can offer non-bias, nonjudgmental, respectful, and positive ways to helping clients identify, understand, and manage their mental health challenges through holistic approaches coupled with other evidenced based practices.
Dr. Trinese Hardy is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2015. In addition to dual certification in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. , Dr. Hardy holds a Doctorate Degree in Public Health, which has enabled her to develop a style that encompasses the whole patient, mind, body, and soul, not just the physical when treating them. Dr. Hardy can offer non-bias, nonjudgmental, respectful, and positive ways to helping clients identify, understand, and manage their mental health challenges through holistic approaches coupled with other evidenced based practices.
See more therapy options for 32830
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 32830
< 10
Psychiatrists in 32830 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Parenting |
100% | Autism |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in 32830 see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 32830?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.