Psychiatrists in 33701

Photo of Bruce Welch, MD, Psychiatrist
Bruce Welch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Welch is a graduate of medical school with five postdoctoral years of formal training in psychiatry, more than the usual, board-certified psychiatrist. He has additional, specialized training in diagnostics and has been asked to testify in a number of high profile court cases in recognition of his training and background. As a medical doctor and psychiatrist who provides sophisticated psychotherapy, Dr. Welch provides the highest level of diagnostic skills and medication expertise to patients who he comes to know quite well. A patient's privacy is considered to be extremely important and is carefully protected.
Dr. Welch is a graduate of medical school with five postdoctoral years of formal training in psychiatry, more than the usual, board-certified psychiatrist. He has additional, specialized training in diagnostics and has been asked to testify in a number of high profile court cases in recognition of his training and background. As a medical doctor and psychiatrist who provides sophisticated psychotherapy, Dr. Welch provides the highest level of diagnostic skills and medication expertise to patients who he comes to know quite well. A patient's privacy is considered to be extremely important and is carefully protected.
(727) 232-4439 View (727) 232-4439
Vanesa Disla de Jesus
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Disla de Jesus is a double-boarded certified child and adolescent forensic psychiatrist. She can work with patients in both English and Spanish. She is motivated to care for children and adolescents who struggle with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. She can assist in forensic cases related to immigration, malpractice, parental fitness, and youth risk assessment. Dr. Disla believes in an emphatic approach and a thorough evaluation to provide up-to-date care for patients and their families.
Dr. Disla de Jesus is a double-boarded certified child and adolescent forensic psychiatrist. She can work with patients in both English and Spanish. She is motivated to care for children and adolescents who struggle with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. She can assist in forensic cases related to immigration, malpractice, parental fitness, and youth risk assessment. Dr. Disla believes in an emphatic approach and a thorough evaluation to provide up-to-date care for patients and their families.
(727) 594-8765 View (727) 594-8765
Photo of Destiny Refuse, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Destiny Refuse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am ready to help you! As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my journey in healthcare has been guided by an unwavering commitment to providing compassionate and patient-centered mental health care. The driving force behind my professional endeavors lies in my deep-seated desire to assist individuals facing mental health challenges, fostering a healing environment where each patient can thrive.
I am ready to help you! As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my journey in healthcare has been guided by an unwavering commitment to providing compassionate and patient-centered mental health care. The driving force behind my professional endeavors lies in my deep-seated desire to assist individuals facing mental health challenges, fostering a healing environment where each patient can thrive.
(727) 761-0216 View (727) 761-0216
Photo of Kimberly Kinard, MD, Psychiatrist
Kimberly Kinard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I can help you with all your psychiatric medication needs for virtually any psychiatric condition. My services are 100% telepsychiatry only. I accept any patient ages 18-60 who lives in SC, NC or FL.
I can help you with all your psychiatric medication needs for virtually any psychiatric condition. My services are 100% telepsychiatry only. I accept any patient ages 18-60 who lives in SC, NC or FL.
(727) 888-6247 View (727) 888-6247
Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations, talk therapy, and medication management. We treat depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Offering affordable out-of-pocket visit rates. Alse, accepting most insurances plans..
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations, talk therapy, and medication management. We treat depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Offering affordable out-of-pocket visit rates. Alse, accepting most insurances plans..
(844) 643-9418 View (844) 643-9418
Photo of Dana Wiesenfeld, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Dana Wiesenfeld
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Are you looking for answers about neurodivergence? Tired of your only option being pharmeceuticals? You have come to the right place. We offer a thorough evaluation and treatment plan to empower your super powers! I am a holistic provider who uses plants, fungus and modern medicines. I aspire to spend the extra time with my clients and ensure their success, rather than toss medications out and run to the next appointment. You will find a caring, curious, professional with me. Let's support you, together.
Are you looking for answers about neurodivergence? Tired of your only option being pharmeceuticals? You have come to the right place. We offer a thorough evaluation and treatment plan to empower your super powers! I am a holistic provider who uses plants, fungus and modern medicines. I aspire to spend the extra time with my clients and ensure their success, rather than toss medications out and run to the next appointment. You will find a caring, curious, professional with me. Let's support you, together.
(727) 594-8818 View (727) 594-8818
Photo of Jacqueline Hubbard, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Jacqueline Hubbard
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dr. Hubbard is a physician dual board-certified in general psychiatry and in child and adolescent psychiatry. She graduated summa cum laude from FSU with a degree in Biological Science, and completed a Doctor of Medicine degree at the USF College of Medicine. She completed her residency and fellowship training at USF where she served as the Chief Resident of the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Program. Dr. Hubbard has been published in a peer-reviewed journal and earned the following awards: Outstanding 3rd and 4th year Medical Student in Psychiatry, Outstanding Resident Teacher, Assistant Chief Resident of Recruitment, and Fellow of the APA.
Dr. Hubbard is a physician dual board-certified in general psychiatry and in child and adolescent psychiatry. She graduated summa cum laude from FSU with a degree in Biological Science, and completed a Doctor of Medicine degree at the USF College of Medicine. She completed her residency and fellowship training at USF where she served as the Chief Resident of the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Program. Dr. Hubbard has been published in a peer-reviewed journal and earned the following awards: Outstanding 3rd and 4th year Medical Student in Psychiatry, Outstanding Resident Teacher, Assistant Chief Resident of Recruitment, and Fellow of the APA.
(727) 513-6702 View (727) 513-6702
Photo of Remiluc Dumas, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Remiluc Dumas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I proudly serve individuals from all walks of life. I encourage each individual to reach out if they need help to overcome their mental illness so that they can keep their lives and families intact and function well in the community again. I promise to be there for you every step of your journey.
I proudly serve individuals from all walks of life. I encourage each individual to reach out if they need help to overcome their mental illness so that they can keep their lives and families intact and function well in the community again. I promise to be there for you every step of your journey.
(727) 591-3926 View (727) 591-3926
Photo of Jeuelle Ottley Sam, MSPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Jeuelle Ottley Sam
Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you stressed, feel disconnected from your partner and children, unhappy with your choices, and struggling with depression? Many women are wearing so many hats that we become wrapped up in life just drifting along. Maybe you’ve been in therapy in the past but the changes you were looking for didn’t last or never really happened. You haven’t been able to figure out how to get rid of your past traumatic experiences and now life seems to be adding new problems to the old ones. Let’s work together to build a brain-healthy lifestyle. I can support you on your journey of lasting behavioral changes.
Are you stressed, feel disconnected from your partner and children, unhappy with your choices, and struggling with depression? Many women are wearing so many hats that we become wrapped up in life just drifting along. Maybe you’ve been in therapy in the past but the changes you were looking for didn’t last or never really happened. You haven’t been able to figure out how to get rid of your past traumatic experiences and now life seems to be adding new problems to the old ones. Let’s work together to build a brain-healthy lifestyle. I can support you on your journey of lasting behavioral changes.
(727) 205-8066 View (727) 205-8066
Photo of Jaclyn Jardine, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jaclyn Jardine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am an integrative and functional psychiatric nurse practitioner, which means I offer a holistic approach utilizing the latest advances in naturopathic and allopathic medicine for mental health.
I am an integrative and functional psychiatric nurse practitioner, which means I offer a holistic approach utilizing the latest advances in naturopathic and allopathic medicine for mental health.
(727) 308-5614 View (727) 308-5614
Photo of Michelle R Mottern - Mosaic Brain Health, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mosaic Brain Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Accepting new patient in person and online. About my practice, many of my clients have struggled with diagnosed or undiagnosed ADHD, anxiety, and depression most often a combination. I work with my clients to find the best treatment plan suited to the individual, not the diagnosis. I listen to what has not worked in the past and adjust the plan. I incorporate not only a medication plan but also therapy, lifestyle modifications, and dietary adjustments. I am OK with supplements only if that is your comfort level. I meet my clients at their comfort level and carve a path toward optimal results.
Accepting new patient in person and online. About my practice, many of my clients have struggled with diagnosed or undiagnosed ADHD, anxiety, and depression most often a combination. I work with my clients to find the best treatment plan suited to the individual, not the diagnosis. I listen to what has not worked in the past and adjust the plan. I incorporate not only a medication plan but also therapy, lifestyle modifications, and dietary adjustments. I am OK with supplements only if that is your comfort level. I meet my clients at their comfort level and carve a path toward optimal results.
(727) 761-0760 View (727) 761-0760
Photo of Dinar Sajan, Psychiatrist
Dinar Sajan
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
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.
(727) 733-6111 View (727) 733-6111
Photo of George Dekeles, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
George Dekeles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My name is George Dekeles and I am Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Practitioner whom successfully earned my Master’s in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of South Florida. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults. I am an understanding clinician who provides medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions, while creating a goal targeted and individuated treatment plan. My approach is extremely thorough, charged by compassion, and grounded by evidence based science.
My name is George Dekeles and I am Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Practitioner whom successfully earned my Master’s in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of South Florida. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults. I am an understanding clinician who provides medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions, while creating a goal targeted and individuated treatment plan. My approach is extremely thorough, charged by compassion, and grounded by evidence based science.
(727) 261-1463 View (727) 261-1463
Photo of Michelle Mottern, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Mottern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hi! My name is Michelle and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Mosaic Brain Health. At Mosaic Brain Health we strive to destigmatize mental health and emphasize brain health. We provide a comprehensive set of services to help boost your confidence and offer support as you navigate your personal brain health and wellness challenges.
Hi! My name is Michelle and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Mosaic Brain Health. At Mosaic Brain Health we strive to destigmatize mental health and emphasize brain health. We provide a comprehensive set of services to help boost your confidence and offer support as you navigate your personal brain health and wellness challenges.
(727) 855-6706 View (727) 855-6706
Photo of Richardo Boyd, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Richardo Boyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, trauma, or ADHD, seeking relief from their mental health challenges. They need compassionate, holistic care that addresses both their symptoms and underlying causes. Their goals include improving their mental well-being, finding balance, and achieving personal growth. They desire effective, personalized treatment that respects their individuality and promotes long-term wellness, allowing them to lead fulfilling, productive lives. They seek a provider who understands their unique journey and offers a supportive, non-judgmental environment.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, trauma, or ADHD, seeking relief from their mental health challenges. They need compassionate, holistic care that addresses both their symptoms and underlying causes. Their goals include improving their mental well-being, finding balance, and achieving personal growth. They desire effective, personalized treatment that respects their individuality and promotes long-term wellness, allowing them to lead fulfilling, productive lives. They seek a provider who understands their unique journey and offers a supportive, non-judgmental environment.
(727) 382-3880 View (727) 382-3880
Photo of Arom Evans - Orion Behavioral Health Network, MD, Psychiatrist
Orion Behavioral Health Network
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Northwest Florida, Central Florida and South Florida: we are here for you via virtual house call. Our services include a thorough evaluation which will include an initial diagnostic impression via virtual medicine. Our office will provide you with patient education and our reccomendations for additions to your current treatment plan, and may serve as a complement to the current treatment team. We are a multidisciplinary team and utilize multiple modalities for patient care with virtual medicine. Orion Behavioral Health Network provides comprehensive behavioral assessment from a care team.
Northwest Florida, Central Florida and South Florida: we are here for you via virtual house call. Our services include a thorough evaluation which will include an initial diagnostic impression via virtual medicine. Our office will provide you with patient education and our reccomendations for additions to your current treatment plan, and may serve as a complement to the current treatment team. We are a multidisciplinary team and utilize multiple modalities for patient care with virtual medicine. Orion Behavioral Health Network provides comprehensive behavioral assessment from a care team.
(727) 308-6753 View (727) 308-6753
Photo of Tracie Schmidt, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Tracie Schmidt
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Physician Assistant at Bionic Bloom Wellness Collective, I bring a compassionate and integrative approach to mental health care, combining evidence-based medical practices with the transformative potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy. With a background in primary care and advanced training in psychedelic medicine, I work collaboratively with clients to create individualized treatment plans that honor both scientific rigor and the deeply personal nature of healing. Guided by Bionic Bloom's core principles of Validate, Accept, Nurture, I prioritize building trust and safety within every therapeutic relationship.
As a Physician Assistant at Bionic Bloom Wellness Collective, I bring a compassionate and integrative approach to mental health care, combining evidence-based medical practices with the transformative potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy. With a background in primary care and advanced training in psychedelic medicine, I work collaboratively with clients to create individualized treatment plans that honor both scientific rigor and the deeply personal nature of healing. Guided by Bionic Bloom's core principles of Validate, Accept, Nurture, I prioritize building trust and safety within every therapeutic relationship.
(608) 925-3184 View (608) 925-3184
Photo of Eloy Franco, MD, Psychiatrist
Eloy Franco
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there! My name is Dr. Eloy Franco, MD and I am a board certified psychiatrist with 16 years of experience in treating and managing a wide range of mental health conditions. I completed my training at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, and then moved to Tampa in 2010. I enjoy caring for patients of all walks of life in a way that is warm, empathic, inquisitive and empowering! If you would like to join my diverse group of patients, please feel free to give us a call. You can find more information about my practice and myself at my website: dreloyfranco.com I look forward to helping and knowing you! Se Habla Español.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Eloy Franco, MD and I am a board certified psychiatrist with 16 years of experience in treating and managing a wide range of mental health conditions. I completed my training at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, and then moved to Tampa in 2010. I enjoy caring for patients of all walks of life in a way that is warm, empathic, inquisitive and empowering! If you would like to join my diverse group of patients, please feel free to give us a call. You can find more information about my practice and myself at my website: dreloyfranco.com I look forward to helping and knowing you! Se Habla Español.
(813) 521-7354 View (813) 521-7354
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Nneka Mbadiwe - Serenity Telehealth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serenity Telehealth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Nneka, pronounced ‘neck-ah’, and as a dual-board-certified clinician in psychiatry and adult health, I am dedicated to providing personalized & empathetic care to individuals aged five and above. Embracing a holistic approach, I ensure the use of minimal medication only when necessary, crafting the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Hello! My name is Nneka, pronounced ‘neck-ah’, and as a dual-board-certified clinician in psychiatry and adult health, I am dedicated to providing personalized & empathetic care to individuals aged five and above. Embracing a holistic approach, I ensure the use of minimal medication only when necessary, crafting the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
(646) 347-6935 View (646) 347-6935
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 33701

40+

Average cost per session

$194

Psychiatrists in 33701 who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
95% Depression
83% Bipolar Disorder
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% ADHD
78% Trauma and PTSD
75% Medication Management

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
93% Cigna and Evernorth
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 33701 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 33701?

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.