Psychiatrists in 33138

Photo of Smita Bhandari, MD, Psychiatrist
Smita Bhandari
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a board certified psychiatrist with 16 years of clinical experience in a variety of medical settings offering expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. My practice focus is highly personalized and evidence-based care in a professional environment of genuineness, acceptance and empathy. My goal is only one - to help you achieve your full potential. As a wellness and integrative psychiatrist, my care philosophy centers around understanding and treating the patient as a whole. Currently, I maintain a broad private practice conveniently located in Miami Beach. I offer same day, evening and weekend appointments.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with 16 years of clinical experience in a variety of medical settings offering expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. My practice focus is highly personalized and evidence-based care in a professional environment of genuineness, acceptance and empathy. My goal is only one - to help you achieve your full potential. As a wellness and integrative psychiatrist, my care philosophy centers around understanding and treating the patient as a whole. Currently, I maintain a broad private practice conveniently located in Miami Beach. I offer same day, evening and weekend appointments.
(305) 699-8084 View (305) 699-8084
Photo of Michelle Paley, MD, FACP, Psychiatrist
Michelle Paley
Psychiatrist, MD, FACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in private practice on Miami Beach. I believe talking about thoughts and feelings within a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship can help us move and even grow through life's challenges with more freedom and flexibility. Recognizing and changing patterns or aspects of ourselves that we are not fully aware of can help with a variety of difficulties, including anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, struggles with relationships or family, sexuality or body image concerns, or even just feeling "stuck," in certain areas when all else in life seems to be going "ok."
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in private practice on Miami Beach. I believe talking about thoughts and feelings within a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship can help us move and even grow through life's challenges with more freedom and flexibility. Recognizing and changing patterns or aspects of ourselves that we are not fully aware of can help with a variety of difficulties, including anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, struggles with relationships or family, sexuality or body image concerns, or even just feeling "stuck," in certain areas when all else in life seems to be going "ok."
(786) 420-6673 View (786) 420-6673
Photo of Noah Smith, MD, Psychiatrist
Noah Smith
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
In my practice, you'll find a safe therapeutic space to explore your inner conflicts and a framework for discovering the answers and deeper understanding you seek. I believe strongly in minimizing medication use when possible and optimizing the many facets of life that contribute to emotional wellbeing. Through additional psychoanalytic training after finishing residency, I've grown a deep appreciation for listening dynamically to patients rather than focusing merely on symptoms that fit a diagnosis. I'm a firm believer in that our therapeutic relationship is equally, if not more, important than the medication or intervention used.
In my practice, you'll find a safe therapeutic space to explore your inner conflicts and a framework for discovering the answers and deeper understanding you seek. I believe strongly in minimizing medication use when possible and optimizing the many facets of life that contribute to emotional wellbeing. Through additional psychoanalytic training after finishing residency, I've grown a deep appreciation for listening dynamically to patients rather than focusing merely on symptoms that fit a diagnosis. I'm a firm believer in that our therapeutic relationship is equally, if not more, important than the medication or intervention used.
(786) 998-9449 View (786) 998-9449
Photo of I Jack Abramson, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
I Jack Abramson
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Individualized treatment rooted in evidence-based medical techniques. Committed to providing the highest quality care for patients, I offer personalized attention in a respectful, courteous environment. By combining my Harvard medical training with an array of psychodynamic and psychotherapeutic modalities, patients explore their conditions with attention to their biological, psychological, and social needs.
Individualized treatment rooted in evidence-based medical techniques. Committed to providing the highest quality care for patients, I offer personalized attention in a respectful, courteous environment. By combining my Harvard medical training with an array of psychodynamic and psychotherapeutic modalities, patients explore their conditions with attention to their biological, psychological, and social needs.
(786) 705-8378 View (786) 705-8378
Photo of Margarette Leandre, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Margarette Leandre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Leandre is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who completed a graduate degree in advanced practice nursing and a certification in psychiatric care. She is a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Leandre's goal is to treat her clients holistically, integrating the physical and mental aspects of the self and providing compassionate care that optimizes patients' wellness. She believes positive mental health outcomes are possible and achievable with impeccable listening skills, support, and treatment modalities.
Dr. Leandre is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who completed a graduate degree in advanced practice nursing and a certification in psychiatric care. She is a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Leandre's goal is to treat her clients holistically, integrating the physical and mental aspects of the self and providing compassionate care that optimizes patients' wellness. She believes positive mental health outcomes are possible and achievable with impeccable listening skills, support, and treatment modalities.
(786) 756-9747 View (786) 756-9747

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Delvena Renee Thomas - DRT Behavioral Services, PLLC, DO, MPH, LCSW, ARNP, Psychiatrist
DRT Behavioral Services, PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH, LCSW, ARNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We have a diverse group of clinical staff including men and women who speak English and Spanish. DRT's clinicians and therapists coordinate a care program to improve your mental health. We incorporate education, teaching, and therapy to facilitate the stabilization process and to address every client's needs. Programs are available that include family participation. We also provide services for Veterans, Educators, and Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs).
We have a diverse group of clinical staff including men and women who speak English and Spanish. DRT's clinicians and therapists coordinate a care program to improve your mental health. We incorporate education, teaching, and therapy to facilitate the stabilization process and to address every client's needs. Programs are available that include family participation. We also provide services for Veterans, Educators, and Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs).
(305) 981-1700 View (305) 981-1700
Photo of Mehdi Bubba Thomas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mehdi Bubba Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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!
(786) 756-8511 View (786) 756-8511
Photo of Hardai R Seemongal, APRN-BC, AGNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hardai R Seemongal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, AGNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
You might be here because you have come to the conclusion that you need help. Realizing you need help, is the first step in healing. As your provider, I will meet you where you are and help get you to where you want to be.
You might be here because you have come to the conclusion that you need help. Realizing you need help, is the first step in healing. As your provider, I will meet you where you are and help get you to where you want to be.
(754) 253-3258 View (754) 253-3258
Photo of Michael Richard Martin, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Richard Martin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I help adult patients to include general psychiatry and mental health issues. If you are suffering with addictions, ADD, ADHD, anxiety, or depression, let me help you overcome these problems. We will work together with a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy when needed. You and your loved ones will see improvements in your overall health and well-being.
I help adult patients to include general psychiatry and mental health issues. If you are suffering with addictions, ADD, ADHD, anxiety, or depression, let me help you overcome these problems. We will work together with a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy when needed. You and your loved ones will see improvements in your overall health and well-being.
(904) 906-9187 View (904) 906-9187
Photo of Jonteria Williams, DNP, PMHNP, CCRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonteria Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CCRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals seeking support and healing. With a solid foundation in psychiatric nursing and extensive experience in both clinical and community base settings, I understand the complexities of mental health disorders and the importance of personalized treatment plans. I am passionate about advocating for mental health awareness and reducing stigma, recognizing that seeking help is a vital step toward recovery. I welcome patients from diverse backgrounds and am committed to understanding and respect.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals seeking support and healing. With a solid foundation in psychiatric nursing and extensive experience in both clinical and community base settings, I understand the complexities of mental health disorders and the importance of personalized treatment plans. I am passionate about advocating for mental health awareness and reducing stigma, recognizing that seeking help is a vital step toward recovery. I welcome patients from diverse backgrounds and am committed to understanding and respect.
(786) 627-6449 View (786) 627-6449
Photo of Nathalie Monuma, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nathalie Monuma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Nathalie Monuma, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to teens and adults.
My name is Nathalie Monuma, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to teens and adults.
(904) 944-9632 View (904) 944-9632
Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, LPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ijeoma Njoku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPN
Verified Verified
Doral, FL 33178
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, and Mood Disorders. As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, I can help patients with mental illness through medication management and patient education about the disorder. In addition, I will teach patients some coping skills, referral to other helpful resources, and collaborate with other interdisciplinary teams.
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, and Mood Disorders. As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, I can help patients with mental illness through medication management and patient education about the disorder. In addition, I will teach patients some coping skills, referral to other helpful resources, and collaborate with other interdisciplinary teams.
(561) 708-5393 View (561) 708-5393
Photo of Robert Arana, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Robert Arana
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Services Available in Both English and Spanish. We understand that every patient’s situation is unique, so we utilize a comprehensive range of diagnostic tools to ensure a complete and accurate assessment. Once the evaluation is complete, we’ll review and explain your results, addressing any questions or concerns. Transparency and open communication are fundamental to our approach, and we work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan as needed. Our psychiatrists are experts in treating psychiatric and behavioral disorders and may recommend medication when appropriate.
Services Available in Both English and Spanish. We understand that every patient’s situation is unique, so we utilize a comprehensive range of diagnostic tools to ensure a complete and accurate assessment. Once the evaluation is complete, we’ll review and explain your results, addressing any questions or concerns. Transparency and open communication are fundamental to our approach, and we work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan as needed. Our psychiatrists are experts in treating psychiatric and behavioral disorders and may recommend medication when appropriate.
(855) 640-0527 View (855) 640-0527
Photo of Ebony Renae Davis - Petit Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Petit Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Ebony Davis-Petit earned her bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She went on to receive her medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine. She completed her adult psychiatry residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital and her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at New York Presbyterian Hospital. She is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology in adult psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry.
Dr. Ebony Davis-Petit earned her bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She went on to receive her medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine. She completed her adult psychiatry residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital and her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at New York Presbyterian Hospital. She is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology in adult psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry.
(321) 567-1172 View (321) 567-1172
Photo of Thessa Moncrieffe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thessa Moncrieffe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you often feel judged, that no one cares or understands what you are going through? My goal for every encounter is that you leave feeling someone truly cares and understands. Let's face it, talking about our emotional or mental state of mind is never one of the easiest topics to discuss, especially when there is associated trauma, hurt, pain, or negative stigma. Whatever it is, you will have a safe place free of criticism or shame, but full of compassion, and understanding for the single purpose of healing, positive progress toward regaining self-sufficiency, and a sense of normalcy in your life once again.
Do you often feel judged, that no one cares or understands what you are going through? My goal for every encounter is that you leave feeling someone truly cares and understands. Let's face it, talking about our emotional or mental state of mind is never one of the easiest topics to discuss, especially when there is associated trauma, hurt, pain, or negative stigma. Whatever it is, you will have a safe place free of criticism or shame, but full of compassion, and understanding for the single purpose of healing, positive progress toward regaining self-sufficiency, and a sense of normalcy in your life once again.
(305) 783-3669 View (305) 783-3669
Photo of Helen Lancy, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
(954) 758-4567 View (954) 758-4567
Photo of Dorrett McDonald-Lovell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dorrett McDonald-Lovell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Dorrett McDonald-Lovell is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is a virtual provider in Florida. She is deeply committed to providing individualized and culturally competent care. She possesses a broad range of experience in treating mentally ill individuals from various demographic backgrounds. Her expertise spans a wide array of mental health disorders, including, but not limited to, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disorders, and trauma. She employs a patient-centered therapeutic approach, focusing on the individual's needs, goals, and circumstances.
Dorrett McDonald-Lovell is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is a virtual provider in Florida. She is deeply committed to providing individualized and culturally competent care. She possesses a broad range of experience in treating mentally ill individuals from various demographic backgrounds. Her expertise spans a wide array of mental health disorders, including, but not limited to, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disorders, and trauma. She employs a patient-centered therapeutic approach, focusing on the individual's needs, goals, and circumstances.
(305) 783-3423 View (305) 783-3423
Photo of Jennifer Cesar, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Cesar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have supported clients experiencing antenatal & postnatal depression, anxiety, mood disorders, as well as other mental health challenges. My experience includes conducting mental health assessments, developing personalized treatment plans, providing counseling and therapy. I also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care for patients. With a personal history of postpartum anxiety, I recognize the importance of treating the whole person and not just their physical symptoms.
I have supported clients experiencing antenatal & postnatal depression, anxiety, mood disorders, as well as other mental health challenges. My experience includes conducting mental health assessments, developing personalized treatment plans, providing counseling and therapy. I also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care for patients. With a personal history of postpartum anxiety, I recognize the importance of treating the whole person and not just their physical symptoms.
(561) 405-7456 View (561) 405-7456
Photo of Zuzana Segev, PhD, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zuzana Segev
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I provide individualized psychiatric care for clients of all ages. I strive for non judgmental and culturally sensitive care for any person suffering with emotional distress or behavioral problems. I am a graduate of Nursing School of University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, where I completed Masters Degree in psychiatric and mental health nursing. I hold a Masters Degree in clinical psychology from University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, and Ph.D. in public health from Walden University, Minneapolis, MN.
I provide individualized psychiatric care for clients of all ages. I strive for non judgmental and culturally sensitive care for any person suffering with emotional distress or behavioral problems. I am a graduate of Nursing School of University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, where I completed Masters Degree in psychiatric and mental health nursing. I hold a Masters Degree in clinical psychology from University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, and Ph.D. in public health from Walden University, Minneapolis, MN.
(786) 882-8055 View (786) 882-8055
Photo of Robert Morales, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Robert Morales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33186
In today's ever changing social climate, staying grounded can seem an overwhelming task. With my patient-led approach to practice, I help individuals reach their fullest potential and guide them to a state of equilibrium using a collaborative model of treatment. I truly believe that a positive mindset and attitude make a world's difference.
In today's ever changing social climate, staying grounded can seem an overwhelming task. With my patient-led approach to practice, I help individuals reach their fullest potential and guide them to a state of equilibrium using a collaborative model of treatment. I truly believe that a positive mindset and attitude make a world's difference.
(786) 761-5904 View (786) 761-5904

See more therapy options for 33138

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 33138

< 10

Psychiatrists in 33138 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% ADHD
80% Psychosis
80% Codependency
80% Stress

Average years in practice

21 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
67% United Medical Resources (UMR)

How Psychiatrists in 33138 see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 33138?

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.