Psychiatrists in 33127

Photo of Chris Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC
Chris Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Chris Lee PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and specializes in diagnostic evaluation and medication management for patients of all ages. Chris completed his training in psychiatry at New York University and holds undergraduate degrees from University of Southern California and Miami Dade College. Chris Lee has trained at some of the nation's top mental health facilities including NYC Bellevue Hospital Psychiatric Emergency Department, The Addiction Institute at Mount Sinai, and St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital in New York City. He is a California native but has proudly called Miami home for 17 years.
Chris Lee PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and specializes in diagnostic evaluation and medication management for patients of all ages. Chris completed his training in psychiatry at New York University and holds undergraduate degrees from University of Southern California and Miami Dade College. Chris Lee has trained at some of the nation's top mental health facilities including NYC Bellevue Hospital Psychiatric Emergency Department, The Addiction Institute at Mount Sinai, and St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital in New York City. He is a California native but has proudly called Miami home for 17 years.
(877) 990-0001 View (877) 990-0001
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care , Psychiatrist
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(561) 823-4694 View (561) 823-4694
Photo of Jessica Nicole Balok-Angelilli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jessica Nicole Balok-Angelilli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Jessica Balok-Angelilli and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to teens and adults..
My name is Jessica Balok-Angelilli and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to teens and adults..
(904) 822-5391 View (904) 822-5391
Photo of Ashley Chatigny, Psychiatrist, DO
Ashley Chatigny
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
My name is Ashley Chatigny, DO and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering online medication management to children and adults.I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include PTSD, mood disorders, and ADHD.
My name is Ashley Chatigny, DO and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering online medication management to children and adults.I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include PTSD, mood disorders, and ADHD.
(904) 650-4341 View (904) 650-4341
Photo of Amy R Pharr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, FNP
Amy R Pharr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, FNP
Online Only
Regardless of the issues you may be experiencing, there is help available. We can provide you with knowledge into your situation and help you through. We offer a personable and caring provider who will listen to you and work with you in an effort to get you where you want and deserve to be. I provide full psychiatric services, providing evaluation, assessments, diagnosis and implement treatment that may or may not include medication management. If therapy is needed, we also have a wonderful therapist, Adam Howell who is within our practice.
Regardless of the issues you may be experiencing, there is help available. We can provide you with knowledge into your situation and help you through. We offer a personable and caring provider who will listen to you and work with you in an effort to get you where you want and deserve to be. I provide full psychiatric services, providing evaluation, assessments, diagnosis and implement treatment that may or may not include medication management. If therapy is needed, we also have a wonderful therapist, Adam Howell who is within our practice.
(843) 920-3951 View (843) 920-3951

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Danesh Alam - Ambrosia Treatment Center, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA, DFASAM
Ambrosia Treatment Center
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA, DFASAM
Serves Area
Don't settle for any generic treatment center. You deserve care that actually helps you stay sober for good and recover from mental health challenges. Backed by 10-years of experience, 10K+ success stories, hundreds of verified positive online reviews and partnerships with both the NFL and university researchers, Ambrosia is the change you've been looking for. Offering dual diagnosis and trauma treatment programs. We specialize in treating substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, PTSD, ADHD and other cases.
Don't settle for any generic treatment center. You deserve care that actually helps you stay sober for good and recover from mental health challenges. Backed by 10-years of experience, 10K+ success stories, hundreds of verified positive online reviews and partnerships with both the NFL and university researchers, Ambrosia is the change you've been looking for. Offering dual diagnosis and trauma treatment programs. We specialize in treating substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, PTSD, ADHD and other cases.
(561) 250-8124 View (561) 250-8124
Photo of Bernadine Anderson-Clarke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Bernadine Anderson-Clarke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
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 Matthew Appling - Kaleidoscope Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Kaleidoscope Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Appling graduated from Broward College in Fort Lauderdale, FL in 2013 with his Associate's Degree in Nursing Science. He received his Bachelor of Nursing Science from Kaplan University in 2016 with honors, and in 2019 received his MSN from the University of South Alabama. He recently completed his Doctorate of Nursing Practice at the same institution, with honors in the fall of 2021. Kaleidoscope Health treats individuals 18 years and older in the states of Florida and Georgia through tele-health technologies.
Dr. Appling graduated from Broward College in Fort Lauderdale, FL in 2013 with his Associate's Degree in Nursing Science. He received his Bachelor of Nursing Science from Kaplan University in 2016 with honors, and in 2019 received his MSN from the University of South Alabama. He recently completed his Doctorate of Nursing Practice at the same institution, with honors in the fall of 2021. Kaleidoscope Health treats individuals 18 years and older in the states of Florida and Georgia through tele-health technologies.
(561) 468-3132 View (561) 468-3132
Photo of Heather Brathwaite, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP-B
Heather Brathwaite
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP-B
Miramar, FL 33025
My ideal client is someone who recognizes the importance of mental health and seeks specialized psychiatric care. They may be grappling with various psychiatric illnesses or co-occurring disorders, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Their primary need is expert evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and effective medication management to alleviate symptoms and improve their overall well-being. They aspire to regain stability, function better in their daily lives, and foster healthier relationships.
My ideal client is someone who recognizes the importance of mental health and seeks specialized psychiatric care. They may be grappling with various psychiatric illnesses or co-occurring disorders, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Their primary need is expert evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and effective medication management to alleviate symptoms and improve their overall well-being. They aspire to regain stability, function better in their daily lives, and foster healthier relationships.
(954) 758-9551 View (954) 758-9551
Photo of Quisqueya Espinal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BC
Quisqueya Espinal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with national recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Several of my long-term goals include, but are not limited to, enhancing medication management and clinical treatment of children and the seriously mentally ill, as well as delivering mental health education and training to both patients and healthcare providers. I am committed to raising mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness. I want to create a supportive and inclusive workplace where people feel respected, heard, and get the help they need.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with national recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Several of my long-term goals include, but are not limited to, enhancing medication management and clinical treatment of children and the seriously mentally ill, as well as delivering mental health education and training to both patients and healthcare providers. I am committed to raising mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness. I want to create a supportive and inclusive workplace where people feel respected, heard, and get the help they need.
(786) 876-6959 View (786) 876-6959
Photo of Margarette Leandre, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Margarette Leandre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am Dr. Leandre. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who has completed a graduate degree in advanced practice nursing and a certification in psychiatric care. I am a certified psychiatric Nurse in family practice. I received my Doctorate in Nursing Practice at the University of North Florida, my Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Washburn University, and my Family Nurse Practitioner at South University.
Hello, I am Dr. Leandre. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who has completed a graduate degree in advanced practice nursing and a certification in psychiatric care. I am a certified psychiatric Nurse in family practice. I received my Doctorate in Nursing Practice at the University of North Florida, my Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Washburn University, and my Family Nurse Practitioner at South University.
(352) 261-8468 View (352) 261-8468
Photo of Izabella Waldo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Izabella Waldo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take a compassionate and evidence-based approach to mental health, tailoring treatment to each individual’s unique needs. My goal is to create a supportive space where we can work together toward lasting well-being. I provide comprehensive psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health conditions, with a special focus on trauma, anxiety, and depression. My approach is tailored to each individual, addressing both immediate concerns and long-term well-being.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take a compassionate and evidence-based approach to mental health, tailoring treatment to each individual’s unique needs. My goal is to create a supportive space where we can work together toward lasting well-being. I provide comprehensive psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health conditions, with a special focus on trauma, anxiety, and depression. My approach is tailored to each individual, addressing both immediate concerns and long-term well-being.
(954) 607-7998 View (954) 607-7998
Photo of Teresa Jackson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Teresa Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi! My name is Dr. Teresa Jackson, DNP, FNP-BC, APRN, PMHNP-BC I have been a Family Nurse Practitioner for over 23 years having demonstrated leadership in collaboration with multidisciplinary colleagues; identifying population needs and community resources; and providing health promotion, disease prevention, and health care management across the lifespan of communities I serve. I obtained my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner post-graduate degree at Wilkes University in 2022. I graduated with my Doctor of Nursing in 2013 at the University of Alabama with Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honors.
Hi! My name is Dr. Teresa Jackson, DNP, FNP-BC, APRN, PMHNP-BC I have been a Family Nurse Practitioner for over 23 years having demonstrated leadership in collaboration with multidisciplinary colleagues; identifying population needs and community resources; and providing health promotion, disease prevention, and health care management across the lifespan of communities I serve. I obtained my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner post-graduate degree at Wilkes University in 2022. I graduated with my Doctor of Nursing in 2013 at the University of Alabama with Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honors.
(352) 706-0841 View (352) 706-0841
Photo of David J Campopiano - Specialized Psychiatric Care, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP-C, PMHNP-C
Specialized Psychiatric Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP-C, PMHNP-C
Serves Area
Practice focus: the diagnosis, medical treatment & med management of psychiatric disorders and underlying medical conditions. Dedicated provider with 20 years of practice experience as both a psychiatric & medical NP provider. Alum of Yale University -dual speciality, Adult Health/Internal Med & Psych/MH. 10yrs prior private practice, as PCP & Psych provider & contracted hospital ED, ICU, med-surge & SNF psychiatric consult service provider, N. London Hosp, NH; Psych In/Out Pt & Primary care NP at Catholic Med Center, NH; 6 yrs Instructor for FSC, NP program while FT NP provider at LRH Family Health Clinic, Lakeland, FL
Practice focus: the diagnosis, medical treatment & med management of psychiatric disorders and underlying medical conditions. Dedicated provider with 20 years of practice experience as both a psychiatric & medical NP provider. Alum of Yale University -dual speciality, Adult Health/Internal Med & Psych/MH. 10yrs prior private practice, as PCP & Psych provider & contracted hospital ED, ICU, med-surge & SNF psychiatric consult service provider, N. London Hosp, NH; Psych In/Out Pt & Primary care NP at Catholic Med Center, NH; 6 yrs Instructor for FSC, NP program while FT NP provider at LRH Family Health Clinic, Lakeland, FL
(941) 241-3821 View (941) 241-3821
Photo of Leticia Meighan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Leticia Meighan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I'm Leticia, Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, fatigued, having difficulty sleeping, feeling sad and anxious every day and unable to control those feelings? Are you having trouble focusing and staying on task? Well, you are not alone. Many people feel just like you do and I would like to encourage you to take the first step and schedule an appointment with me to help figure things out.
Hi, I'm Leticia, Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, fatigued, having difficulty sleeping, feeling sad and anxious every day and unable to control those feelings? Are you having trouble focusing and staying on task? Well, you are not alone. Many people feel just like you do and I would like to encourage you to take the first step and schedule an appointment with me to help figure things out.
(786) 686-6749 View (786) 686-6749
Photo of Dr. Michele Byrd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Dr. Michele Byrd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Online Only
Hello. My name is Michele Byrd. I began practicing as a PMHNP in 2019 after graduating from Walden University. In 2023 I went on to obtain my Doctor of Nursing Practice.
Hello. My name is Michele Byrd. I began practicing as a PMHNP in 2019 after graduating from Walden University. In 2023 I went on to obtain my Doctor of Nursing Practice.
(754) 335-5430 View (754) 335-5430
Photo of Krissy English, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Krissy English
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). I specialize in psychiatric medication management, providing evidence-based treatment for a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more. My goal is to collaborate with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that support their mental wellness and overall quality of life. I believe in meeting patients where they are and developing a personalized treatment plan that fits their unique needs and goals.
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). I specialize in psychiatric medication management, providing evidence-based treatment for a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more. My goal is to collaborate with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that support their mental wellness and overall quality of life. I believe in meeting patients where they are and developing a personalized treatment plan that fits their unique needs and goals.
(786) 981-3368 View (786) 981-3368
Photo of Dr. Holly Nicewicz, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Holly Nicewicz
Psychiatrist, DO
2 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
I enjoy working with clients who are interested in enhancing their quality of life through a combination of medications and lifestyle modifications. I believe in the importance of incorporating compassion, empathy, and unconditional positive regard in the treatment of all my clients, along with creating a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. I use a holistic approach to wellness and enable the patient to actively participate in their care.
I enjoy working with clients who are interested in enhancing their quality of life through a combination of medications and lifestyle modifications. I believe in the importance of incorporating compassion, empathy, and unconditional positive regard in the treatment of all my clients, along with creating a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. I use a holistic approach to wellness and enable the patient to actively participate in their care.
(954) 231-2387 View (954) 231-2387
Photo of Aaron Padron - Insightful Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Insightful Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Miami, FL 33101
Appointments Available! We are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments available. www.insightfulpsychiatry.com
Appointments Available! We are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments available. www.insightfulpsychiatry.com
(206) 620-1222 View (206) 620-1222
Photo of Chloe Griffith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
(786) 692-8041 View (786) 692-8041

See more therapy options for 33127

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 33127

< 10

Psychiatrists in 33127 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

20 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 33127 see their clients

80% Online Only
20% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 33127?

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.