Psychiatrists in 33601

Photo of William M Homan, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-PSY
William M Homan
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-PSY
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
*Please note: I'm a practicing Physician Assistant, with prescribing authority located in Brandon, FL. I provide services in General Adult Psychiatry. My primary goal as a provider is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them. Working in a collaborative fashion with the use of therapy, medications, or a combination of both. I seek to help people improve relationships and pursue lives they find meaningful.
*Please note: I'm a practicing Physician Assistant, with prescribing authority located in Brandon, FL. I provide services in General Adult Psychiatry. My primary goal as a provider is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them. Working in a collaborative fashion with the use of therapy, medications, or a combination of both. I seek to help people improve relationships and pursue lives they find meaningful.
(813) 519-3969 View (813) 519-3969
Photo of Mark Sylvester, Psychiatrist, MD
Mark Sylvester
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many patients come to me after not seeing results from previous providers or, worse, experiencing harmful care. They are drawn to my approach, which combines biological and functional psychiatry. I take the time to thoroughly explain their symptoms, treatment options, and the risks, benefits, and alternatives—often hearing that I provide more clarity than any provider they’ve seen before. I pride myself on thinking outside the box, focusing on uncovering the root causes of issues through a holistic approach rather than simply prescribing powerful psychotropic medications based on trial and error, which is far too common.
Many patients come to me after not seeing results from previous providers or, worse, experiencing harmful care. They are drawn to my approach, which combines biological and functional psychiatry. I take the time to thoroughly explain their symptoms, treatment options, and the risks, benefits, and alternatives—often hearing that I provide more clarity than any provider they’ve seen before. I pride myself on thinking outside the box, focusing on uncovering the root causes of issues through a holistic approach rather than simply prescribing powerful psychotropic medications based on trial and error, which is far too common.
(941) 840-5226 View (941) 840-5226
Photo of Charles C Kohnken, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC, MCAP
Charles C Kohnken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC, MCAP
Serves Area
I try to do as much as I can with the least amount of medication as possible. “Less is more.” I keep this simple and explain things in an understanding manner. I treat your symptoms, not any diagnosis you may have.
I try to do as much as I can with the least amount of medication as possible. “Less is more.” I keep this simple and explain things in an understanding manner. I treat your symptoms, not any diagnosis you may have.
(503) 714-9239 View (503) 714-9239
Photo of Debbie Mock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Debbie Mock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you love yourself? Have you lost that desire for your very own existence? Do you feel like you are carrying around a ton of bricks. lost interest in your favorite things, lacking energy, nervous all the time, and self-medicating with drugs or alcohol? Does the sound of the alarm clock turn your stomach? Are you struggling to obtain a full night's sleep? Can't stop your thoughts from racing? If this sounds like something you are going through, we can help you focus on getting your life back on track and learning to fall in love with yourself again.
Do you love yourself? Have you lost that desire for your very own existence? Do you feel like you are carrying around a ton of bricks. lost interest in your favorite things, lacking energy, nervous all the time, and self-medicating with drugs or alcohol? Does the sound of the alarm clock turn your stomach? Are you struggling to obtain a full night's sleep? Can't stop your thoughts from racing? If this sounds like something you are going through, we can help you focus on getting your life back on track and learning to fall in love with yourself again.
(813) 773-1332 View (813) 773-1332
Photo of Lorraine Black, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Lorraine Black
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
10 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have you ever felt like your mental health needs more attention, support, or understanding than it's currently receiving?
Have you ever felt like your mental health needs more attention, support, or understanding than it's currently receiving?
(727) 594-8875 View (727) 594-8875
Photo of Hector Payares, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, NP-C, MSN-ED
Hector Payares
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, NP-C, MSN-ED
Online Only
I've been working in the mental health field since 1996. Over the years, I've gained extensive experience and ultimately became a Nationally Dual Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner.
I've been working in the mental health field since 1996. Over the years, I've gained extensive experience and ultimately became a Nationally Dual Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner.
(786) 891-3669 View (786) 891-3669
Doctors Isaac & Isaac Psychiatric PA
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
We are two psychiatrists and child psychiatrists: Isaac George Isaac, MD and George Isaac, MD, who provide psychiatric evaluations and treatment for children and adults, including senior citizens. We understand the need for excellent psychiatric evaluations, so the problems could be understood well and effective treatment could be provided from the get go, rather than rushed inadequate evaluations resulting in improper understanding resulting in confused treatment and months or years of wasted time and un-necessary suffering.
We are two psychiatrists and child psychiatrists: Isaac George Isaac, MD and George Isaac, MD, who provide psychiatric evaluations and treatment for children and adults, including senior citizens. We understand the need for excellent psychiatric evaluations, so the problems could be understood well and effective treatment could be provided from the get go, rather than rushed inadequate evaluations resulting in improper understanding resulting in confused treatment and months or years of wasted time and un-necessary suffering.
(863) 356-0630 View (863) 356-0630
Photo of Donna Lugene Felkins-Dohm - Seeking Change, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHCNS, BC
Seeking Change
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHCNS, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 29 years in a variety of settings including 10 years in the VA in a Dual Diagnosis program. No matter what role I am in, I bring my compassion for the human spirit, my commitment to helping people, acceptance of diversity, and my sense of humor. My treatment focus is utilization of therapy and medication management for persons with depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, dual diagnosis, and addictions. I see us as a team, working together to explore challenges, and problem-solve for the future.
I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 29 years in a variety of settings including 10 years in the VA in a Dual Diagnosis program. No matter what role I am in, I bring my compassion for the human spirit, my commitment to helping people, acceptance of diversity, and my sense of humor. My treatment focus is utilization of therapy and medication management for persons with depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, dual diagnosis, and addictions. I see us as a team, working together to explore challenges, and problem-solve for the future.
(352) 329-8876 View (352) 329-8876
Photo of Sheila Rojas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, APRN
Sheila Rojas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, APRN
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I work with individuals ages 5 and older who seek support, and practical solutions to improve their mental well-being. Whether you’re dealing with persistent worry, mood swings, or life transitions, my goal is to help you regain control.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I work with individuals ages 5 and older who seek support, and practical solutions to improve their mental well-being. Whether you’re dealing with persistent worry, mood swings, or life transitions, my goal is to help you regain control.
(855) 533-4039 View (855) 533-4039
Photo of Jessica Paige Oliver, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Jessica Paige Oliver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Hey there! I’m Paige, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Thomasville, GA. I am the proud owner of Blooming Minds Psychiatry. I see children (ages 5+), teens, and adults who’s goal is to improve their mental health. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, autism, bipolar, schizophrenia, and co-occurring substance use disorders. I pride myself on consistently gaining education on new treatments, so that I may offer well informed options for my clients. I strive to provide a friendly, honest, non-judgmental treatment approach.
Hey there! I’m Paige, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Thomasville, GA. I am the proud owner of Blooming Minds Psychiatry. I see children (ages 5+), teens, and adults who’s goal is to improve their mental health. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, autism, bipolar, schizophrenia, and co-occurring substance use disorders. I pride myself on consistently gaining education on new treatments, so that I may offer well informed options for my clients. I strive to provide a friendly, honest, non-judgmental treatment approach.
(229) 394-2599 View (229) 394-2599
Photo of Nicole Faessel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Nicole Faessel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Online Only
Accepting new patients in FLORIDA....Schedule directly at www.bellathiapsychiatry.com. I can provide psychiatric services including diagnostic evaluation, medication management, laboratory monitoring, follow up care, and referrals as needed. You are important and so is your self care! I'm here to help. I have several years of diverse experience in education and nursing. My goal is to help you understand why you are feeling this way and how we can work together towards meeting your needs.
Accepting new patients in FLORIDA....Schedule directly at www.bellathiapsychiatry.com. I can provide psychiatric services including diagnostic evaluation, medication management, laboratory monitoring, follow up care, and referrals as needed. You are important and so is your self care! I'm here to help. I have several years of diverse experience in education and nursing. My goal is to help you understand why you are feeling this way and how we can work together towards meeting your needs.
(850) 779-4478 View (850) 779-4478
Photo of Kevin Kerrick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kevin Kerrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes a holistic approach to treating patients. I recognize that people are more than of their parts. Maximizing wellness is the goal when working with clients, and to this end, exploration into complex biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors is important to gain a full view of the client's needs. Clients often seek mental health treatment to alleviate distress. It is incumbent on the provider to work with clients to uncover sources of distress and develop actionable means to empower clients to improve their lives.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes a holistic approach to treating patients. I recognize that people are more than of their parts. Maximizing wellness is the goal when working with clients, and to this end, exploration into complex biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors is important to gain a full view of the client's needs. Clients often seek mental health treatment to alleviate distress. It is incumbent on the provider to work with clients to uncover sources of distress and develop actionable means to empower clients to improve their lives.
(407) 634-1549 View (407) 634-1549
Photo of Analiet Garcia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Analiet Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I always start with an introductory appointment, where you’ll have the opportunity to share your story and what you hope to achieve in your mental health journey. We’ll work together to figure this out! I strive to create a warm, welcoming environment that allows you to feel comfortable sharing and being vulnerable, while also feeling secure. From there, we’ll work together in our appointments that follow to make these goals a reality for you.
I always start with an introductory appointment, where you’ll have the opportunity to share your story and what you hope to achieve in your mental health journey. We’ll work together to figure this out! I strive to create a warm, welcoming environment that allows you to feel comfortable sharing and being vulnerable, while also feeling secure. From there, we’ll work together in our appointments that follow to make these goals a reality for you.
(954) 710-5209 View (954) 710-5209
Photo of Nelson Antonio Pichardo, Psychiatrist, MD
Nelson Antonio Pichardo
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist and addiction medicine physician with added qualification in child and adolescent psychiatry. With over 17 years of experience as a clinician and educator, with specialties in Addiction Medicine, Mental Health, Detox, Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) , Pain Management, Military Mental Health, and Harm Reduction. My overall mission is to help clients regain control of their life, and in that way, they can live to the fullest with their loved ones.
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist and addiction medicine physician with added qualification in child and adolescent psychiatry. With over 17 years of experience as a clinician and educator, with specialties in Addiction Medicine, Mental Health, Detox, Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) , Pain Management, Military Mental Health, and Harm Reduction. My overall mission is to help clients regain control of their life, and in that way, they can live to the fullest with their loved ones.
(321) 221-5183 View (321) 221-5183
Photo of Ronnie Moore - Dual HealthCare Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, AGNP-C, APRN, MSN
Dual HealthCare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, AGNP-C, APRN, MSN
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Ronnie Moore, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping you achieve mental peace and well-being. I specialize in treating various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and ADD/ADHD, through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy. I envision a world where mental health support is accessible, inclusive, and transformative. I'm committed to excellence and ongoing professional development, with certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC (2021) and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner-C (2017).
Welcome! I'm Ronnie Moore, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping you achieve mental peace and well-being. I specialize in treating various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and ADD/ADHD, through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy. I envision a world where mental health support is accessible, inclusive, and transformative. I'm committed to excellence and ongoing professional development, with certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC (2021) and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner-C (2017).
(863) 281-5751 View (863) 281-5751
Photo of Chloe Griffith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
(786) 692-8041 View (786) 692-8041
Photo of Kasey Hughey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kasey Hughey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Since 2012, I have dedicated my career as a healthcare professional to serving my wonderful rural hometown community. In 2021, I earned my Family Nurse Practitioner degree and have since provided primary care services to our amazing pediatric patients. While working with them, I recognized a genuine need for mental health support in our rural area, which sparked my passion for further education. I pursued a post-master’s certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am now excited to be dually certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to better serve those i
Since 2012, I have dedicated my career as a healthcare professional to serving my wonderful rural hometown community. In 2021, I earned my Family Nurse Practitioner degree and have since provided primary care services to our amazing pediatric patients. While working with them, I recognized a genuine need for mental health support in our rural area, which sparked my passion for further education. I pursued a post-master’s certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am now excited to be dually certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to better serve those i
(850) 754-6744 View (850) 754-6744
Photo of Gardy Rigaud, Psychiatrist, MD
Gardy Rigaud
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, or trauma? I am a board-certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in outpatient, inpatient, forensic, and emergency mental health care. I provide compassionate, personalized treatment, including psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Fluent in English, Spanish, French, and Creole, I create a supportive, culturally competent space. Let’s work together toward better mental health—contact me today to get started.
Are you struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, or trauma? I am a board-certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in outpatient, inpatient, forensic, and emergency mental health care. I provide compassionate, personalized treatment, including psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Fluent in English, Spanish, French, and Creole, I create a supportive, culturally competent space. Let’s work together toward better mental health—contact me today to get started.
(954) 866-8657 View (954) 866-8657
Photo of Brence Brooks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Brence Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
(407) 891-4482 View (407) 891-4482
Photo of Ashley Cyronak - Carative Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Carative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Our mission is to enhance wellness and motivate self-improvement by strengthening minds. We offer high quality health care for patients seeking a trustworthy long-term psychiatric provider who can provide medication management and supportive counseling. The providers at Carative Psychiatry (CP) provide care to their patients using medical and mental health care models in order to treat the whole individual. The providers at CP are passionate about serving the community and helping others achieve their goals by using the Carative theory. Telepsychiatry practice serving Florida.
Our mission is to enhance wellness and motivate self-improvement by strengthening minds. We offer high quality health care for patients seeking a trustworthy long-term psychiatric provider who can provide medication management and supportive counseling. The providers at Carative Psychiatry (CP) provide care to their patients using medical and mental health care models in order to treat the whole individual. The providers at CP are passionate about serving the community and helping others achieve their goals by using the Carative theory. Telepsychiatry practice serving Florida.
(843) 595-8742 View (843) 595-8742

See more therapy options for 33601

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 33601

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 33601 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
93% Depression
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Bipolar Disorder
77% ADHD
70% Trauma and PTSD
67% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Cigna and Evernorth
86% Aetna
57% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 33601 see their clients

63% Online Only
37% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 33601?

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.