Psychiatrists in 33542
![Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/922cafe8-ddc2-4eef-a766-fed62549176e/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Melissa Wilson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a96f51d8-f6b6-4a83-ac76-660eaac87ddf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
Seeking professional help for mental health can be daunting for many people and even intimidating when trying to find the right place to start. Let alone, finding the right practitioner to work with adds another layer of stress. Greetings! My name is Melissa Wilson, and I am a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.
Seeking professional help for mental health can be daunting for many people and even intimidating when trying to find the right place to start. Let alone, finding the right practitioner to work with adds another layer of stress. Greetings! My name is Melissa Wilson, and I am a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Jazma Martinez, MBA, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bba45c8-fca4-4f00-9863-64bd7bbede89/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jazma Martinez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
Hi everyone, my name is Jazma Martinez, I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed in Florida and Arizona. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy for the treatment of different mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD and mood disorders. I currently assist patients' virtually in Arizona via my private practice Boundless Mental Wellness.
Hi everyone, my name is Jazma Martinez, I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed in Florida and Arizona. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy for the treatment of different mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD and mood disorders. I currently assist patients' virtually in Arizona via my private practice Boundless Mental Wellness.
![Photo of Heather Christenson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0a8b8ef-31dc-44c9-b1d8-4ee2bdc1fd07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Christenson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
Many people struggle with mental health conditions and there’s no need to be embarrassed or feel alone. I am here to help you explore these feelings and to discuss medication options to find the one that will work best for you. I believe in educating clients on their mental health disorders and developing a plan of care together to best suit your needs.
Many people struggle with mental health conditions and there’s no need to be embarrassed or feel alone. I am here to help you explore these feelings and to discuss medication options to find the one that will work best for you. I believe in educating clients on their mental health disorders and developing a plan of care together to best suit your needs.
![Photo of Evelio Estrada Molina, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b619cc27-47b6-4593-aade-eba9696c9054/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Florida with a Foreign Physician background. I received my Post Master in Psychiatry from St. Thomas University and have been practicing for 4 years. I help persons of 18 years old and older that struggle with mental health issues to recover the control of their lives, to feel better, and to function properly.
Hi! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Florida with a Foreign Physician background. I received my Post Master in Psychiatry from St. Thomas University and have been practicing for 4 years. I help persons of 18 years old and older that struggle with mental health issues to recover the control of their lives, to feel better, and to function properly.
![Photo of Danielle Kassella Dnp Aprn Pmhnp-Bc, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a117be8-2a25-47ed-8491-820005d0fee3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Kassella Dnp Aprn Pmhnp-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
Do you feel alone, even when you are surrounded by people? Do your dark thoughts and feelings impact your energy, sleep, appetite, or sex life? Is it difficult to enjoy time with family and friends, or function at work? Do you feel misunderstood and helpless to change your situation?
Do you feel alone, even when you are surrounded by people? Do your dark thoughts and feelings impact your energy, sleep, appetite, or sex life? Is it difficult to enjoy time with family and friends, or function at work? Do you feel misunderstood and helpless to change your situation?
![Photo of Natalee Mullings, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f4010b7-932e-4dd1-a614-3476f622ec2d/2/320x400.png)
At Diamond Psychiatry we are passionate about building trusting relationships that fit your individual needs. Our mission is to partner with you for happiness, health and emotional well-being.
At Diamond Psychiatry we are passionate about building trusting relationships that fit your individual needs. Our mission is to partner with you for happiness, health and emotional well-being.
![Photo of Joain Sophie Silvera, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7340d6a-b714-4900-aefb-02a2724f05a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joain Sophie Silvera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Florida. I received my Masters from the Florida State University and a doctorate from Walden University have been practicing for 3 years.
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Florida. I received my Masters from the Florida State University and a doctorate from Walden University have been practicing for 3 years.
![Photo of Khadine Corniffe, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffb0318c-b80b-4d82-957b-7996a84d9b3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Khadine Corniffe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
Hi! I am Khadine, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received a Masters from Nova Southeastern University and have been practicing for over 2 years. I have worked in various areas of psychiatry, helping patients to achieve positive outcomes and be able to live a more fulfilling life. I aim to create safe, welcoming experience for each patient I encounter.
Hi! I am Khadine, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received a Masters from Nova Southeastern University and have been practicing for over 2 years. I have worked in various areas of psychiatry, helping patients to achieve positive outcomes and be able to live a more fulfilling life. I aim to create safe, welcoming experience for each patient I encounter.
![Photo of Love Bamisile, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a80d2d94-9ed6-4583-bb35-dc4c095f133e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Love Bamisile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
My name is Love Bamisile, MSN, PMHNP-BC, certified by the American Nursing Credentialing Center, with over 10 years of experience in mental health.
My name is Love Bamisile, MSN, PMHNP-BC, certified by the American Nursing Credentialing Center, with over 10 years of experience in mental health.
![Photo of Yanet Moreda, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c3920e5-5cbe-4ac3-9c12-3cf0918b5cdb/1/320x400.png)
Yanet Moreda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
I am a Bilingual Dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Double Board Certify: AANP, AANC , I received my Masters from the ST . Thomas University and have been practicing for 7 years. I help young adults struggling with career stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves. Conducted comprehensive psychiatric evaluations to assess patients' mental health conditions and formulate accurate diagnoses Utilized evidence-based diagnostic tools and clinical interviews to identify mental health disorders . Collaborated with patients and their families to develop personalized treatment plans . Prescribed and managed psychotropic
I am a Bilingual Dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Double Board Certify: AANP, AANC , I received my Masters from the ST . Thomas University and have been practicing for 7 years. I help young adults struggling with career stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves. Conducted comprehensive psychiatric evaluations to assess patients' mental health conditions and formulate accurate diagnoses Utilized evidence-based diagnostic tools and clinical interviews to identify mental health disorders . Collaborated with patients and their families to develop personalized treatment plans . Prescribed and managed psychotropic
![Photo of Lizi Enamorado, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67c0839d-9239-46be-99c1-d07bda9cd745/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated and compassionate dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 23 years of experience in the healthcare field.
I am a dedicated and compassionate dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 23 years of experience in the healthcare field.
![Photo of Michele Privette, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c1a112e-4473-4edb-9d3d-2cf1db4c9309/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Privette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
HI, My name is Michele . I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years experience in treating a variety of psychiatric diagnosis which include Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety , PTSD, and ADHD . My experience ranges from inpatient /outpatient settings as as well as psychiatric consultations to nursing homes /Assisted living facilities .I enjoy working with ages from 18 and up . I do provide some counseling but mainly provide medication management .
HI, My name is Michele . I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years experience in treating a variety of psychiatric diagnosis which include Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety , PTSD, and ADHD . My experience ranges from inpatient /outpatient settings as as well as psychiatric consultations to nursing homes /Assisted living facilities .I enjoy working with ages from 18 and up . I do provide some counseling but mainly provide medication management .
Florence Alexandre Desgraves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zephyrhills, FL 33542
I began my journey in nursing with a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of others. My extensive clinical experience spans various healthcare settings, including inpatient psychiatric units, community mental health centers, and outpatient clinics. As a PMHNP, I am skilled in conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing mental health disorders, and developing personalized treatment plans. I am passionate about empowering individuals to achieve mental wellness through a combination of medication management, therapy, and holistic interventions.
I began my journey in nursing with a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of others. My extensive clinical experience spans various healthcare settings, including inpatient psychiatric units, community mental health centers, and outpatient clinics. As a PMHNP, I am skilled in conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing mental health disorders, and developing personalized treatment plans. I am passionate about empowering individuals to achieve mental wellness through a combination of medication management, therapy, and holistic interventions.
![Photo of Yanet Hernandez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35851a3e-12bc-43da-a237-f49f3cdd55c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yanet Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
My name is Yanet Hernandez, I'm from Cuba, I received my master from Regis College, I have been practicing for more than 20 years, helping adults struggling with stress, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, ect. I have been working in the mental health field for several years.
My name is Yanet Hernandez, I'm from Cuba, I received my master from Regis College, I have been practicing for more than 20 years, helping adults struggling with stress, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, ect. I have been working in the mental health field for several years.
![Photo of Jesse Rodriguez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3a51c8b-8cbd-4928-a70d-6c746aa7a2af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jesse Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Gerontology Primary care Nurse Practitioner with 8 years experience. I originally did not plan to work in health care as a young man growing up. As a child my parents moved my twin brother and I up in the mountains in Idaho to live off the land and grid. We had lots of chores tending to animals, gardens, some foraging from the forest. I have traveled/lived as a young adult to South America and Mexico gaining a greater appreciation for all that we have in life.
I am a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Gerontology Primary care Nurse Practitioner with 8 years experience. I originally did not plan to work in health care as a young man growing up. As a child my parents moved my twin brother and I up in the mountains in Idaho to live off the land and grid. We had lots of chores tending to animals, gardens, some foraging from the forest. I have traveled/lived as a young adult to South America and Mexico gaining a greater appreciation for all that we have in life.
![Photo of Michael A Prieto, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfc03638-18a6-44ac-863c-53aa25187416/1/320x400.png)
Michael A Prieto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
Michael is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in the treatment of persons suffering from mental health and substance use disorders. He helps treat patients with Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Insomnia, ADHD, OCD and other Mental health disorders.
Michael is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in the treatment of persons suffering from mental health and substance use disorders. He helps treat patients with Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Insomnia, ADHD, OCD and other Mental health disorders.
![Photo of Roxana Ferrera, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33bf5206-e05d-4c3f-b1d6-254326881b4f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Roxana Ferrera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
Mental health is an integral part of being healthy. Positive mental health allows people to realize their full potential, cope with the everyday stressors of life, work productively in society and make meaningful contributions in society. Just as we can develop problems with our physical health, mental health problems will be experienced by many of us throughout the course of our lives.
Mental health is an integral part of being healthy. Positive mental health allows people to realize their full potential, cope with the everyday stressors of life, work productively in society and make meaningful contributions in society. Just as we can develop problems with our physical health, mental health problems will be experienced by many of us throughout the course of our lives.
![Photo of Maulik Trivedi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f96fc27-6446-45f0-86df-72b0d462b618/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal patients are motivated, self-reliant individuals seeking long-lasting changes in their lives. My patients are seriously committed to making positive life-changes. I look forward to the opportunity to guide you to your optimal life.
My ideal patients are motivated, self-reliant individuals seeking long-lasting changes in their lives. My patients are seriously committed to making positive life-changes. I look forward to the opportunity to guide you to your optimal life.
![Photo of Maria Fernanda Antunez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2618506b-ea7c-460c-aea4-0f7c0b701c25/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Fernanda Antunez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 (Online Only)
I’m a board certified, psychiatric mental nurse practitioner. I received my Master’s of Science in Nursing from Regis College of Nursing from Boston, Massachusetts. I focuses on treating adult’s patients across the life span, while working alongside with families, and other health professionals. This is essential in forming a treatment plan that follows a holistic approach, with the overall goal of creating a more desirable quality of life. I’m very easy to talk to and I’m focuses on making sure you are heard. We’ll will brainstorm ideas together, we’ll develop a plan, and set goals.
I’m a board certified, psychiatric mental nurse practitioner. I received my Master’s of Science in Nursing from Regis College of Nursing from Boston, Massachusetts. I focuses on treating adult’s patients across the life span, while working alongside with families, and other health professionals. This is essential in forming a treatment plan that follows a holistic approach, with the overall goal of creating a more desirable quality of life. I’m very easy to talk to and I’m focuses on making sure you are heard. We’ll will brainstorm ideas together, we’ll develop a plan, and set goals.
See more therapy options for 33542
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 33542
20+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 33542 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
90% | Bipolar Disorder |
86% | ADHD |
81% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
62% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
95% | Optum |
95% | United Medical Resources (UMR) |
How Psychiatrists in 33542 see their clients
76% | Online Only | |
24% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 33542?
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.