Psychiatrists in 32908

Mindset Is Key Virtual Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you, or someone you love dealing with anxiety, depression or is mentally unwell? Mindset is Key is here to provide you or that special someone with professional and effective treatment options, support and guidance. We treat each patient with respect and provide individualized treatment interventions and goals which helps to provide mental clarity and optimum balance. We offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management and genetic testing for psychiatric medication to help create optimum balance and mental clarity. I currently do not prescribe controlled substances but rest assured, there are many other options to consider.
Are you, or someone you love dealing with anxiety, depression or is mentally unwell? Mindset is Key is here to provide you or that special someone with professional and effective treatment options, support and guidance. We treat each patient with respect and provide individualized treatment interventions and goals which helps to provide mental clarity and optimum balance. We offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management and genetic testing for psychiatric medication to help create optimum balance and mental clarity. I currently do not prescribe controlled substances but rest assured, there are many other options to consider.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

MindSet & Recovery Diversified LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Khatriena Johnson, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Port St. Lucie, FL. With extensive training and experience, I specialize in supporting clients facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and various mood and behavioral disorders. My practice caters to adolescents, adults, veterans, and individuals previously incarcerated.
Welcome! I'm Khatriena Johnson, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Port St. Lucie, FL. With extensive training and experience, I specialize in supporting clients facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and various mood and behavioral disorders. My practice caters to adolescents, adults, veterans, and individuals previously incarcerated.

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.

Keasche Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Zakisha Godfrey is a compassionate Provider committed to supporting adults navigating the complexities of mental health and substance use. She provides comprehensive care of individuals facing some of Life’s most challenging moments. A focus on Mental health and substance use has helped, to develop an understanding of interplay between the two. Her holistic approach to treatment embraces the physical, emotional and social aspects of one's well-being. Zakisha fosters a therapeutic environment, where clients feel heard, valued and supported in a virtual setting, which has been invaluable in breaking barriers to care access.
Zakisha Godfrey is a compassionate Provider committed to supporting adults navigating the complexities of mental health and substance use. She provides comprehensive care of individuals facing some of Life’s most challenging moments. A focus on Mental health and substance use has helped, to develop an understanding of interplay between the two. Her holistic approach to treatment embraces the physical, emotional and social aspects of one's well-being. Zakisha fosters a therapeutic environment, where clients feel heard, valued and supported in a virtual setting, which has been invaluable in breaking barriers to care access.

Jennifer Scott
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indialantic, FL 32903
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Jennifer Scott is a Board- Certified Adult Psychiatrist who enjoys working with a wide variety of clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, and life transition issues. She takes an integrative medicine approach to offer guidance for improved overall health and mental well- being. GeneSight testing is available at her office to assist with medication choices. Although Dr. Scott does not accept insurance, clients often collect reimbursement from their insurance companies as part of their out- of- network benefits. Dr. Scott is currently not accepting Medicaid or Medicare.
Dr. Jennifer Scott is a Board- Certified Adult Psychiatrist who enjoys working with a wide variety of clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, and life transition issues. She takes an integrative medicine approach to offer guidance for improved overall health and mental well- being. GeneSight testing is available at her office to assist with medication choices. Although Dr. Scott does not accept insurance, clients often collect reimbursement from their insurance companies as part of their out- of- network benefits. Dr. Scott is currently not accepting Medicaid or Medicare.

I am Jamaican-born, dual-board-certified in Family practice and psychiatric mental health care. I got my FNP At Florida Atlantic University with honors. Since then, I saw there was a need for mental health providers, and having a passion for mental health, and dealing with mental health in my own family I decided that I should pursue a degree in mental health and have my own business to get away from cooperate setting that dictates on how to treat patients and how much time to spend with each client (15 mins) and that's what I did.
I am Jamaican-born, dual-board-certified in Family practice and psychiatric mental health care. I got my FNP At Florida Atlantic University with honors. Since then, I saw there was a need for mental health providers, and having a passion for mental health, and dealing with mental health in my own family I decided that I should pursue a degree in mental health and have my own business to get away from cooperate setting that dictates on how to treat patients and how much time to spend with each client (15 mins) and that's what I did.

Alexis Eppes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Indialantic, FL 32903
Imagine feeling truly heard and supported on your path to mental wellness. You’re a motivated individual striving for balance and clarity while managing life’s pressures. Whether facing anxiety, depression, or stress, you’re dedicated to optimizing your mental health to reach your full potential. You need a prescriber who listens, collaborates, and adapts care to your unique needs.
Imagine feeling truly heard and supported on your path to mental wellness. You’re a motivated individual striving for balance and clarity while managing life’s pressures. Whether facing anxiety, depression, or stress, you’re dedicated to optimizing your mental health to reach your full potential. You need a prescriber who listens, collaborates, and adapts care to your unique needs.

Tamara Edelstein-Snider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHMP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32940
I work with clients of all needs and provide primary care, weight loss, and psychiatric medication services.
I work with clients of all needs and provide primary care, weight loss, and psychiatric medication services.

Hi! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with clients to discuss mental health concerns, identify treatment goals, and work towards meeting those goals. I use psychiatric assessments and screening tools to guide diagnosis and medication recommendations/options.
Hi! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with clients to discuss mental health concerns, identify treatment goals, and work towards meeting those goals. I use psychiatric assessments and screening tools to guide diagnosis and medication recommendations/options.

Tiffany Washington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We offer psychiatric and mental health medication management via telehealth in Florida. Specializing in post-partum, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders for adolescents and adults ages 15-45. For additional information about scheduling your first appointment, you can visit our website!
We offer psychiatric and mental health medication management via telehealth in Florida. Specializing in post-partum, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders for adolescents and adults ages 15-45. For additional information about scheduling your first appointment, you can visit our website!

Jennifer Schneider Weldon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I am originally from Michigan and moved to Brevard County, FL in 1997. I have a BA in Communications from Michigan State University and a Masters in Social Work from the University of Michigan. I worked for Candle Lighters of Brevard, when I first moved to town. worked Labor Delivery/Mother Baby at Wuesthof Melbourne for five years, during which time I went back to University of Central Florida to achieve my MSN/ Family Nurse Practitioner.
Hi there, I am originally from Michigan and moved to Brevard County, FL in 1997. I have a BA in Communications from Michigan State University and a Masters in Social Work from the University of Michigan. I worked for Candle Lighters of Brevard, when I first moved to town. worked Labor Delivery/Mother Baby at Wuesthof Melbourne for five years, during which time I went back to University of Central Florida to achieve my MSN/ Family Nurse Practitioner.

Accepting new patients. Ages 8-up. Drop the rock you are carrying. We treat all mental health struggles. I treat the symptoms, not the diagnosis, holistically. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking a holistic approach to patient care, addressing the symptoms of mental illness and the underlying causes. This is a team approach to mental health treatment as I work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes. We are here to help you!
Accepting new patients. Ages 8-up. Drop the rock you are carrying. We treat all mental health struggles. I treat the symptoms, not the diagnosis, holistically. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking a holistic approach to patient care, addressing the symptoms of mental illness and the underlying causes. This is a team approach to mental health treatment as I work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes. We are here to help you!

Tricia Hanson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32901
At LiveWell, my ideal clients are individuals navigating the challenges of mental health, whether they are children as young as six, older adults, or anyone in between. They may be facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or other mental health concerns that impact their daily lives. They seek compassionate, comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs. Their goals include achieving emotional balance, improving relationships, and enhancing overall well-being. They want a provider who listens, understands, and empowers them on their journey toward mental wellness.
At LiveWell, my ideal clients are individuals navigating the challenges of mental health, whether they are children as young as six, older adults, or anyone in between. They may be facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or other mental health concerns that impact their daily lives. They seek compassionate, comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs. Their goals include achieving emotional balance, improving relationships, and enhancing overall well-being. They want a provider who listens, understands, and empowers them on their journey toward mental wellness.

Brady Bradshaw, M.D. is dual board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She specializes in the evidence-based treatment of mood, anxiety and mental health disorders. Extensively trained in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy at the University of Miami, she offers a comprehensive, personalized approach that is tailored to her patients' individual needs. Through telepsychiatry, Dr. Bradshaw is able to deliver individualized care in the comfort and privacy of your home.
Brady Bradshaw, M.D. is dual board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She specializes in the evidence-based treatment of mood, anxiety and mental health disorders. Extensively trained in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy at the University of Miami, she offers a comprehensive, personalized approach that is tailored to her patients' individual needs. Through telepsychiatry, Dr. Bradshaw is able to deliver individualized care in the comfort and privacy of your home.

Andrea J Briner-Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We treat Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, ADHD, Insomnia, Substance abuse, Weight loss, PTSD, and many other areas to make you feel the best you can be. Our focus is the patient as a whole mind, body, and spirit. We will work closely to achieve your ideal self. We offer individual, children, women, family, and group therapy. We also offer group therapy of special interest. We have in office services and telemedicine -over the internet for individuals who are unable to come to our office in east Port Saint Lucie just North of Jensen Beach.
We treat Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, ADHD, Insomnia, Substance abuse, Weight loss, PTSD, and many other areas to make you feel the best you can be. Our focus is the patient as a whole mind, body, and spirit. We will work closely to achieve your ideal self. We offer individual, children, women, family, and group therapy. We also offer group therapy of special interest. We have in office services and telemedicine -over the internet for individuals who are unable to come to our office in east Port Saint Lucie just North of Jensen Beach.

As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and understanding. I provide personalized, holistic care for anxiety, depression, trauma, and more, tailoring treatments to meet your unique needs. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and empowered to achieve balance, resilience, and lasting mental wellness. Together, we can work toward a brighter, healthier future.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and understanding. I provide personalized, holistic care for anxiety, depression, trauma, and more, tailoring treatments to meet your unique needs. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and empowered to achieve balance, resilience, and lasting mental wellness. Together, we can work toward a brighter, healthier future.

Dorothy Chatelier-Orelus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello There! I am a holistic psychiatric provider with a passion for helping individuals achieve optimal mental and physical well-being. My approach to mental health care is rooted in the belief that the mind and body are interconnected, and that treating one without addressing the other may not lead to lasting recovery. Your overall well-being is also my concern. As a mental health professional, my goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to discuss their concerns, struggles, and emotions.
Hello There! I am a holistic psychiatric provider with a passion for helping individuals achieve optimal mental and physical well-being. My approach to mental health care is rooted in the belief that the mind and body are interconnected, and that treating one without addressing the other may not lead to lasting recovery. Your overall well-being is also my concern. As a mental health professional, my goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to discuss their concerns, struggles, and emotions.

Welcome! My name is Jessica Matos and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Masters in Nursing. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to individuals and families through the lifespan. I possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, my role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and scientist.
Welcome! My name is Jessica Matos and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Masters in Nursing. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to individuals and families through the lifespan. I possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, my role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and scientist.

I take pride in treating each patients specific mental health needs. I treat children ages 5 and up, teens and adults. Together we will set goals and develop a plan in order to accomplish them. It is important to note, when entering my office (in-person or tele-health) you are entering a judgement free zone and will be treated with the utmost compassion and care.
I take pride in treating each patients specific mental health needs. I treat children ages 5 and up, teens and adults. Together we will set goals and develop a plan in order to accomplish them. It is important to note, when entering my office (in-person or tele-health) you are entering a judgement free zone and will be treated with the utmost compassion and care.

Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
See more therapy options for 32908
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 32908
< 10
Psychiatrists in 32908 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in 32908 see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 32908?
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.