Psychiatrists in 33134

Now Accepting New Clients: As a compassionate and experienced Board-Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in Florida and Massachusetts, I understand that seeking help for mental health can be challenging. My concierge telehealth practice offers a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and work towards achieving mental well-being.
Now Accepting New Clients: As a compassionate and experienced Board-Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in Florida and Massachusetts, I understand that seeking help for mental health can be challenging. My concierge telehealth practice offers a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and work towards achieving mental well-being.

Dr. Aarti Jerath, MD MA, is a board certified psychiatrist who treats adults and children. She feels passionate and driven about helping people feel mentally and emotionally healthy. She is committed to her patients’ well-being with the goal of helping them achieve happiness, enjoy life and be successful. The source of Dr. Jerath’s quality of care comes from her genuine love and empathy for people.
Dr. Aarti Jerath, MD MA, is a board certified psychiatrist who treats adults and children. She feels passionate and driven about helping people feel mentally and emotionally healthy. She is committed to her patients’ well-being with the goal of helping them achieve happiness, enjoy life and be successful. The source of Dr. Jerath’s quality of care comes from her genuine love and empathy for people.

We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!

I service individuals of all ages who are seeking mental wellness. My patients may face a range of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction challenges, and other mental health concerns. I provide better understanding, relief from distress, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. My goal is to have them regain control over their lives, enhance their mental health, and find balance and fulfillment. I can help them feel better, understand themselves better, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.
I service individuals of all ages who are seeking mental wellness. My patients may face a range of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction challenges, and other mental health concerns. I provide better understanding, relief from distress, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. My goal is to have them regain control over their lives, enhance their mental health, and find balance and fulfillment. I can help them feel better, understand themselves better, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.

As a Harvard-trained MD-PhD psychiatrist, I work with individuals who are ready to understand themselves more deeply and move toward lasting change. My clients may be facing challenges with mood, anxiety, focus, or more complex conditions—and they often seek clarity, balance, and a greater sense of purpose. I offer thoughtful, personalized care that includes cutting-edge medication management and psychotherapy, always adapted to your needs and preferences. Whether in English, Spanish, Portuguese, or Farsi, I’m here to support your growth with insight, precision, and care. Together, we’ll turn difficulty into direction.
As a Harvard-trained MD-PhD psychiatrist, I work with individuals who are ready to understand themselves more deeply and move toward lasting change. My clients may be facing challenges with mood, anxiety, focus, or more complex conditions—and they often seek clarity, balance, and a greater sense of purpose. I offer thoughtful, personalized care that includes cutting-edge medication management and psychotherapy, always adapted to your needs and preferences. Whether in English, Spanish, Portuguese, or Farsi, I’m here to support your growth with insight, precision, and care. Together, we’ll turn difficulty into direction.

As a board-certified Psychiatrist (MD-BC), I provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and medication management services for individuals aged 13 years and older. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Psychotic disorders, and various other psychiatric diagnoses.
As a board-certified Psychiatrist (MD-BC), I provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and medication management services for individuals aged 13 years and older. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Psychotic disorders, and various other psychiatric diagnoses.

Our goal at Sunflower Psychiatry is to help our clients achieve a balanced lifestyle. We develop a three-pronged approach to patient care by incorporating nutritional, chemical and therapeutic aspects catered towards each client’s needs. Our approach offers alternative interventions-with a focus on diet and nutrition- in addition to traditional medication management.
Our goal at Sunflower Psychiatry is to help our clients achieve a balanced lifestyle. We develop a three-pronged approach to patient care by incorporating nutritional, chemical and therapeutic aspects catered towards each client’s needs. Our approach offers alternative interventions-with a focus on diet and nutrition- in addition to traditional medication management.

In the past 30 years, I have had the pleasure of working with individuals seeking a better quality of life through medication management and counseling. Integrating the whole person as an emotional, physical, spiritual being through integrated process has demonstrated effective in improving quality of life. Cognitive Behavioral therapy for treatment of most psychiatric symptoms & sensible Medication management approach provided in office or video. To book an appointment: use my website or Text (305) 417-9149 with your preferred day and time.
In the past 30 years, I have had the pleasure of working with individuals seeking a better quality of life through medication management and counseling. Integrating the whole person as an emotional, physical, spiritual being through integrated process has demonstrated effective in improving quality of life. Cognitive Behavioral therapy for treatment of most psychiatric symptoms & sensible Medication management approach provided in office or video. To book an appointment: use my website or Text (305) 417-9149 with your preferred day and time.

We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!

As an experienced and holistic psychiatrist and psychotherapist I enjoy treating adolescents and adults. During my initial evaluation I focus on a whole mind-body connection of an individual. This includes family concerns, dietary habits, environmental issues, social and cultural matters and underlying medical disease that may have an impact on mental health. I provide therapeutic interventions such as psychopharmacological medication management, psychosocial interventions including patient education, supportive and individualized therapy, and referrals to alternative modalities of healing as indicated for the patient.
As an experienced and holistic psychiatrist and psychotherapist I enjoy treating adolescents and adults. During my initial evaluation I focus on a whole mind-body connection of an individual. This includes family concerns, dietary habits, environmental issues, social and cultural matters and underlying medical disease that may have an impact on mental health. I provide therapeutic interventions such as psychopharmacological medication management, psychosocial interventions including patient education, supportive and individualized therapy, and referrals to alternative modalities of healing as indicated for the patient.

Dr. Mia Bell is a caring and compassionate psychiatrist. She believes in completing a thorough psychiatric assessment for all patients in order to make the best individualized treatment recommendations. Dr. Bell is a physician that is board certified in child, adolescent and general psychiatry. She see’s patients between the ages of 6 and 64 and treats a wide variety of mental illnesses including: Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Depression, Insomnia, OCD, panic attacks, Perinatal/Reproductive Psychiatry. Some insurances accepted!
Dr. Mia Bell is a caring and compassionate psychiatrist. She believes in completing a thorough psychiatric assessment for all patients in order to make the best individualized treatment recommendations. Dr. Bell is a physician that is board certified in child, adolescent and general psychiatry. She see’s patients between the ages of 6 and 64 and treats a wide variety of mental illnesses including: Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Depression, Insomnia, OCD, panic attacks, Perinatal/Reproductive Psychiatry. Some insurances accepted!

Many families feel overwhelmed and have a hard time finding the right psychiatrist for their child. It can be a lonely and frightening experience when a child or teenager has behavioral, emotional, or mental health issues. The whole family is affected when a loved one is suffering. Is your child experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, mood swings, or behavioral problems that are affecting the family, their relationships, or school performance? With the proper psychiatric support and expertise, you can help your child thrive and reach their highest potential.
Many families feel overwhelmed and have a hard time finding the right psychiatrist for their child. It can be a lonely and frightening experience when a child or teenager has behavioral, emotional, or mental health issues. The whole family is affected when a loved one is suffering. Is your child experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, mood swings, or behavioral problems that are affecting the family, their relationships, or school performance? With the proper psychiatric support and expertise, you can help your child thrive and reach their highest potential.

My work is focused on cultivating and utilizing therapeutic relationships for deep self-exploration. Expanding our conscious awareness is critical to help identify and work with the root cause(s) of our joy and suffering. A prescription pad isn't sufficient to treat complex human mind-body-heart challenges like depression, anxiety, disordered eating, OCD, or PTSD/CPTSD. Building a safe, reliable supportive psychotherapeutic relationship is as important in my work as medication. I also offer in-person Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I am accepting patients in FL, IL, SD, CA, and OR.
My work is focused on cultivating and utilizing therapeutic relationships for deep self-exploration. Expanding our conscious awareness is critical to help identify and work with the root cause(s) of our joy and suffering. A prescription pad isn't sufficient to treat complex human mind-body-heart challenges like depression, anxiety, disordered eating, OCD, or PTSD/CPTSD. Building a safe, reliable supportive psychotherapeutic relationship is as important in my work as medication. I also offer in-person Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I am accepting patients in FL, IL, SD, CA, and OR.

We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services (via video) across Florida. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments if needed. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services (via video) across Florida. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments if needed. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home.

LIFE CAN BE HARD AND COMPLICATED AT TIMES BUT IT CAN ALSO BRING JOY, EXCITEMENT AND HAPPINESS. A LOT OF TIMES WE CAN FIGURE IT OUT ON OUR OWN AND MAKE THINGS WORK, OTHER TIMES WE MAY NOT KNOW WHERE TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP TO OR WE MAY EVEN FEEL LOST. SOUND FAMILIAR? YOU ARE NOT ALONE. IF YOU WANT THINGS TO WORK OUT YOU NEED TO MAKE A CHANGE; CHANGE IN BEHAVIOR OR A CHANGE IN PERSPECTIVE. WE DON'T HAVE CONTROL OVER OTHERS BUT WE DO HAVE CONTROL OVER HOW WE DECIDE TO MANAGE A SITUATION.
LIFE CAN BE HARD AND COMPLICATED AT TIMES BUT IT CAN ALSO BRING JOY, EXCITEMENT AND HAPPINESS. A LOT OF TIMES WE CAN FIGURE IT OUT ON OUR OWN AND MAKE THINGS WORK, OTHER TIMES WE MAY NOT KNOW WHERE TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP TO OR WE MAY EVEN FEEL LOST. SOUND FAMILIAR? YOU ARE NOT ALONE. IF YOU WANT THINGS TO WORK OUT YOU NEED TO MAKE A CHANGE; CHANGE IN BEHAVIOR OR A CHANGE IN PERSPECTIVE. WE DON'T HAVE CONTROL OVER OTHERS BUT WE DO HAVE CONTROL OVER HOW WE DECIDE TO MANAGE A SITUATION.

I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Physician with same-month availability. I provide medication management and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for both children and adults in Miami & throughout Florida. I completed 5 years of residency/fellowship training in General and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry after completing medical school and see child, adolescent, and adult patients. I take time to provide quality, unrushed, evidence-based treatment and it shows in my patient's results. I allocate 90 minutes of intake appointments and 30 minutes for follow-up visits in addition to communication via phone and direct message.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Physician with same-month availability. I provide medication management and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for both children and adults in Miami & throughout Florida. I completed 5 years of residency/fellowship training in General and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry after completing medical school and see child, adolescent, and adult patients. I take time to provide quality, unrushed, evidence-based treatment and it shows in my patient's results. I allocate 90 minutes of intake appointments and 30 minutes for follow-up visits in addition to communication via phone and direct message.

Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. We want to help!
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. We want to help!

Welcome, thanks for visiting my profile! Asking for help is a touchy subject for a lot of folks, especially when it comes to navigating mental health. I'm here to help you manage your mind in a judgement-free space, one that establishes trust and compassion. While I have worked with most mental health conditions, I spent a significant part of my career (in the greater Emerald Coast area) caring for postpartum mothers, adolescents (13+), young adults struggling with interpersonal relationships (at home, school or work), and our nation's veterans.
Welcome, thanks for visiting my profile! Asking for help is a touchy subject for a lot of folks, especially when it comes to navigating mental health. I'm here to help you manage your mind in a judgement-free space, one that establishes trust and compassion. While I have worked with most mental health conditions, I spent a significant part of my career (in the greater Emerald Coast area) caring for postpartum mothers, adolescents (13+), young adults struggling with interpersonal relationships (at home, school or work), and our nation's veterans.

AIM Psychiatric Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. We want to help!
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. We want to help!

Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
See more therapy options for 33134
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 33134
70+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 33134 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
97% | Depression |
87% | ADHD |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | Sleep or Insomnia |
62% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
93% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 33134 see their clients
78% | Online Only | |
22% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
76% | Female | |
24% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 33134?
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.