Psychiatrists in 33432

Photo of Mouville Caro - MorMindful Therapy & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
MorMindful Therapy & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Welcome to MorMindful Therapy & Psychiatry! We are a mindfulness based practice that provides affordable therapy and psychiatry on a cognitive behavioral platform that clients find accessible and hands on. If you are taking the first step to improving your mental health, looking for help for a loved one or considering switching providers, you will quickly find that MorMindul is a unique family-run mental health practice that offers therapeutic interventions delivered with respect, compassion and real clinical expertise in a judgement free zone. To find out more about our staff clinicians please visit www.MorMindful.com.
Welcome to MorMindful Therapy & Psychiatry! We are a mindfulness based practice that provides affordable therapy and psychiatry on a cognitive behavioral platform that clients find accessible and hands on. If you are taking the first step to improving your mental health, looking for help for a loved one or considering switching providers, you will quickly find that MorMindul is a unique family-run mental health practice that offers therapeutic interventions delivered with respect, compassion and real clinical expertise in a judgement free zone. To find out more about our staff clinicians please visit www.MorMindful.com.
(561) 220-4323 View (561) 220-4323
Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist
Dinar Sajan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
(833) 377-2526 View (833) 377-2526
Photo of Harmony United Psychiatric Care - Harmony United Psychiatric Care , Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
(561) 576-9259 View (561) 576-9259
Photo of Eli Nader - Palm Beach Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Palm Beach Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Harvard trained Board Certified Psychiatrist who completed a Harvard residency in psychiatry followed by a Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) fellowship from Boston University. Diverse experience is in various mental illnesses and addiction. We provide services to patients with a wide range of psychopathology that is intertwined with socioeconomic problems. Visit nadermhs.com to schedule a virtual appointment.
Harvard trained Board Certified Psychiatrist who completed a Harvard residency in psychiatry followed by a Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) fellowship from Boston University. Diverse experience is in various mental illnesses and addiction. We provide services to patients with a wide range of psychopathology that is intertwined with socioeconomic problems. Visit nadermhs.com to schedule a virtual appointment.
(561) 710-3216 View (561) 710-3216
Photo of Dr. Christopher J Smallwood - Constructive Psychiatry , PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Constructive Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432
My patients receive individualized treatment that is focused on them as a “whole person” with a unique set of needs and goals that guide their lives. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. I take the time and listen to my patients' needs to understand their symptoms and to identify the correct diagnosis(es). Then, we will work together to integrate my wealth of knowledge and experience into each treatment decision we mutually reach. My approach is scientific and constructivist, as I focus on the physiological aspects of disorders with the understanding that each person's perception of the world is unique.
My patients receive individualized treatment that is focused on them as a “whole person” with a unique set of needs and goals that guide their lives. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. I take the time and listen to my patients' needs to understand their symptoms and to identify the correct diagnosis(es). Then, we will work together to integrate my wealth of knowledge and experience into each treatment decision we mutually reach. My approach is scientific and constructivist, as I focus on the physiological aspects of disorders with the understanding that each person's perception of the world is unique.
(561) 786-1918 View (561) 786-1918
Photo of Michelle Desarmes, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Desarmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Michelle is a passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a wealth of experience in the field. Over the past 5 to 6 years, she has tirelessly served as a board-certified professional, specializing in psychiatry. My genuine love for the subject shines through in my daily interactions with patients, as I strive to make a positive impact on their mental well-being. Beyond my professional accomplishments, I embrace the role of a nurturing mother to five beautiful children. Balancing my career and family responsibilities, I exemplify resilience and devotion, both at home and in my practice.
Michelle is a passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a wealth of experience in the field. Over the past 5 to 6 years, she has tirelessly served as a board-certified professional, specializing in psychiatry. My genuine love for the subject shines through in my daily interactions with patients, as I strive to make a positive impact on their mental well-being. Beyond my professional accomplishments, I embrace the role of a nurturing mother to five beautiful children. Balancing my career and family responsibilities, I exemplify resilience and devotion, both at home and in my practice.
(561) 678-0082 View (561) 678-0082
Photo of Frances Murphy, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Frances Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33432
My name is Frances Murphy and I am a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner offering comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-up visits remotely through telemedicine throughout the state of Florida. I provide medication management and brief psychotherapy to adolescents (13 +), adults and elders suffering from various mental health conditions. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, addictions and trauma.
My name is Frances Murphy and I am a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner offering comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-up visits remotely through telemedicine throughout the state of Florida. I provide medication management and brief psychotherapy to adolescents (13 +), adults and elders suffering from various mental health conditions. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, addictions and trauma.
(561) 556-5160 View (561) 556-5160
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(772) 236-4020 View (772) 236-4020
Photo of Aisha De Freitas, PMHNP, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aisha De Freitas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Aisha De Freitas, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with nine years of experience in the Behavioral Health field. My passion lies in supporting individuals facing serious mental illness, mood disorders, and substance use disorders. I hold a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and a Master's degree from Florida Atlantic University.
I am Aisha De Freitas, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with nine years of experience in the Behavioral Health field. My passion lies in supporting individuals facing serious mental illness, mood disorders, and substance use disorders. I hold a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and a Master's degree from Florida Atlantic University.
(561) 406-0870 View (561) 406-0870
Photo of Michael J Morejon, MD, DABPN, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Michael J Morejon
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Proliance Center is the office of Michael J. Morejon, M.D., or Dr. Mike as he is known. It is a unique and comprehensive private psychiatric and mental health practice located in the heart of Boca Raton, Florida and specializing in delivering the very best personalized and high-quality treatment to those we serve. Many of our adult patients have achieved great success in their lives, but certain key things are lacking either in their own or a family member's life. At Proliance we figure out what those things are, and work to help our patients fix it.
Proliance Center is the office of Michael J. Morejon, M.D., or Dr. Mike as he is known. It is a unique and comprehensive private psychiatric and mental health practice located in the heart of Boca Raton, Florida and specializing in delivering the very best personalized and high-quality treatment to those we serve. Many of our adult patients have achieved great success in their lives, but certain key things are lacking either in their own or a family member's life. At Proliance we figure out what those things are, and work to help our patients fix it.
(561) 257-5318 View (561) 257-5318
Photo of Raul J. Rodriguez, MD, DABPN, ADM, Psychiatrist
Raul J. Rodriguez
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN, ADM
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As an Interventional Psychiatrist, I focus on challenging clinical situations. I help individuals who suffer from Treatment Resistant Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, OCD, Eating Disorders, Psychosis, Addiction, and especially any complex combination of the aforementioned. People often come to me after they have failed multiple prior medication regimens and sometimes even treatment centers. Most have a lot on the line, whether it be work, marriage, the ability to parent, school, or even just maintaining a faint hope that they can experience happiness again one day.
As an Interventional Psychiatrist, I focus on challenging clinical situations. I help individuals who suffer from Treatment Resistant Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, OCD, Eating Disorders, Psychosis, Addiction, and especially any complex combination of the aforementioned. People often come to me after they have failed multiple prior medication regimens and sometimes even treatment centers. Most have a lot on the line, whether it be work, marriage, the ability to parent, school, or even just maintaining a faint hope that they can experience happiness again one day.
(561) 763-4200 View (561) 763-4200
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) 504-7602 View (786) 504-7602
Photo of Isabel C Zapata, MSN , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Isabel C Zapata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward mental wellness. I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment for a variety of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward mental wellness. I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment for a variety of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
(352) 766-5357 View (352) 766-5357
Photo of Pascale Davis - MiamiPsych Concierge-Virtual Psychiatric Care, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MiamiPsych Concierge-Virtual Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat depression, anxiety, or other mental health condition that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. MiamiPsych Concierge offers affordable and convenient telepsychiatry services. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting many insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat depression, anxiety, or other mental health condition that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. MiamiPsych Concierge offers affordable and convenient telepsychiatry services. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting many insurance plans.
(786) 420-4833 View (786) 420-4833
Photo of Sarah Youssef - Psychiatric Care Florida, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Psychiatric Care Florida
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
At Psychiatric Care Florida, we understand that some things are beyond our control. However, we strongly believe in taking charge of our destiny by improving our responses to hardship. We believe that serenity emerges in the wake of chaos and we welcome the opportunity to help you reach your goals. We provide thorough evaluations, medication management, therapy as well interventional psychiatric treatment modalities such as TMS. We take great joy and pride in the care we provide and we are fully committed to your wellbeing. Please see our website for further details of our services and for booking options.
At Psychiatric Care Florida, we understand that some things are beyond our control. However, we strongly believe in taking charge of our destiny by improving our responses to hardship. We believe that serenity emerges in the wake of chaos and we welcome the opportunity to help you reach your goals. We provide thorough evaluations, medication management, therapy as well interventional psychiatric treatment modalities such as TMS. We take great joy and pride in the care we provide and we are fully committed to your wellbeing. Please see our website for further details of our services and for booking options.
(561) 783-3580 View (561) 783-3580
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
View
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Eli Nader - Palm Beach Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Palm Beach Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Distinguished Board Certified Psychiatrist, brings specialized expertise in General Adult Psychiatry from Harvard University and Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) from Boston University. Dual Board Certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, coupled with recognition as a Board Certified Addiction Medicine Specialist by the American Board of Preventive Medicine, attests to his competence. Across inpatient, outpatient, and medical units, his career embraces an integrated care ethos, effectively tending to patients of diverse backgrounds and ages in an evidence-based approach.
Distinguished Board Certified Psychiatrist, brings specialized expertise in General Adult Psychiatry from Harvard University and Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) from Boston University. Dual Board Certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, coupled with recognition as a Board Certified Addiction Medicine Specialist by the American Board of Preventive Medicine, attests to his competence. Across inpatient, outpatient, and medical units, his career embraces an integrated care ethos, effectively tending to patients of diverse backgrounds and ages in an evidence-based approach.
(561) 919-6898 View (561) 919-6898
Photo of Madeleine M Castellanos, MD, Psychiatrist
Madeleine M Castellanos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have 2 different, but overlapping, focuses in my practice. I am a holistic/nutritional psychiatrist, using a functional medicine approach to health and wellness, thereby trying to reduce or eliminate the need for medications. I also have a 15yr+ specialty in sex therapy with couples/individuals treating all sexual dysfunctions in all areas of desire, arousal, orgasm, pain, or sexual issues that interfere with a couple's happiness. I give couples & individuals a holistic understanding of their sexual difficulties - incorporating physical, psychological, emotional, and relational - to enhance sexual pleasure while maintaining balance in one's physical and emotional health.
I have 2 different, but overlapping, focuses in my practice. I am a holistic/nutritional psychiatrist, using a functional medicine approach to health and wellness, thereby trying to reduce or eliminate the need for medications. I also have a 15yr+ specialty in sex therapy with couples/individuals treating all sexual dysfunctions in all areas of desire, arousal, orgasm, pain, or sexual issues that interfere with a couple's happiness. I give couples & individuals a holistic understanding of their sexual difficulties - incorporating physical, psychological, emotional, and relational - to enhance sexual pleasure while maintaining balance in one's physical and emotional health.
(917) 740-4996 View (917) 740-4996

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Lidia Firulescu, MD, Psychiatrist
Lidia Firulescu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
As a passionate psychiatrist, I find joy in working with diverse patients and treating a variety of conditions. I prioritize taking the time to thoroughly understand each patient as a whole, in order to provide the most appropriate care tailored to their individual needs. I am fluent in English and Romanian, and conversational in Spanish, which helps me connect with a wide range of patients. One of my strengths is being an active listener, and I take a collaborative approach with my patients. I believe that a combination of therapy and medication is often the most effective approach, and I prescribe medications in moderation.
As a passionate psychiatrist, I find joy in working with diverse patients and treating a variety of conditions. I prioritize taking the time to thoroughly understand each patient as a whole, in order to provide the most appropriate care tailored to their individual needs. I am fluent in English and Romanian, and conversational in Spanish, which helps me connect with a wide range of patients. One of my strengths is being an active listener, and I take a collaborative approach with my patients. I believe that a combination of therapy and medication is often the most effective approach, and I prescribe medications in moderation.
(954) 740-8331 View (954) 740-8331

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 33432

10+

Average cost per session

$159

Psychiatrists in 33432 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
95% Anxiety
95% Bipolar Disorder
84% Medication Management
79% ADHD
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
79% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
91% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 33432 see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 33432?

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.