Psychiatrists in 33837

Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Davenport, FL 33837
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
(850) 290-0616 View (850) 290-0616
Photo of Amy Bockelkamp, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Bockelkamp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Davenport, FL 33837
NP Care Clinic specializes in diagnosing and managing psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar II, ADHD, and binge eating disorder. Our focus areas include mental health for organ transplant patient recipient families, infertility (for both men and women), fibromyalgia, rheumatology, and college-age populations.
NP Care Clinic specializes in diagnosing and managing psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar II, ADHD, and binge eating disorder. Our focus areas include mental health for organ transplant patient recipient families, infertility (for both men and women), fibromyalgia, rheumatology, and college-age populations.
(352) 747-8004 View (352) 747-8004

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kajessa Joseph, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kajessa Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Celebration, FL 34747
Kajessa D. Joseph is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2022. Kajessa started working as a certified pharmacy technician at Aspire Health Partners which solidify her desire into mental health. She also worked there as a licensed practical nurse and a registered nurse. She acquired experience as a registered nurse in the progressive care unit, postpartum and newborn nursery at Advent Health hospitals.
Kajessa D. Joseph is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2022. Kajessa started working as a certified pharmacy technician at Aspire Health Partners which solidify her desire into mental health. She also worked there as a licensed practical nurse and a registered nurse. She acquired experience as a registered nurse in the progressive care unit, postpartum and newborn nursery at Advent Health hospitals.
(689) 202-4191 View (689) 202-4191
Photo of Michelie Levrier - Walk In Family Psychiatry Care, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Walk In Family Psychiatry Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Celebration, FL 34747
"I promise to be there for you every step of your journey. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life." M. Levrier, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC
"I promise to be there for you every step of your journey. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life." M. Levrier, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC
(407) 214-5383 View (407) 214-5383
Photo of Colleen Conrad, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Colleen Conrad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34758
Are you struggling with your mental well-being? Do you feel like something isn't quite right and you're unsure where to turn? Are you finding it difficult to manage your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors?​ I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and diagnoses, along with medication management if necessary. Together, we can uncover the root causes of your challenges and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you regain control of your mental health.​
Are you struggling with your mental well-being? Do you feel like something isn't quite right and you're unsure where to turn? Are you finding it difficult to manage your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors?​ I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and diagnoses, along with medication management if necessary. Together, we can uncover the root causes of your challenges and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you regain control of your mental health.​
(904) 977-2724 View (904) 977-2724
Photo of Trinese Hardy, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trinese Hardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34746
Dr. Trinese Hardy is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2015. In addition to dual certification in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. , Dr. Hardy holds a Doctorate Degree in Public Health, which has enabled her to develop a style that encompasses the whole patient, mind, body, and soul, not just the physical when treating them. Dr. Hardy can offer non-bias, nonjudgmental, respectful, and positive ways to helping clients identify, understand, and manage their mental health challenges through holistic approaches coupled with other evidenced based practices.
Dr. Trinese Hardy is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2015. In addition to dual certification in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. , Dr. Hardy holds a Doctorate Degree in Public Health, which has enabled her to develop a style that encompasses the whole patient, mind, body, and soul, not just the physical when treating them. Dr. Hardy can offer non-bias, nonjudgmental, respectful, and positive ways to helping clients identify, understand, and manage their mental health challenges through holistic approaches coupled with other evidenced based practices.
(407) 710-9846 View (407) 710-9846
Photo of Elecia Trowers, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elecia Trowers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Celebration, FL 34747
Elecia Trowers is a Board-Certified Adult, Child, and, Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Science Nursing Degree at The University of South Florida in 2016, she then went on to completing her Master of Science Nursing Degree at The University of Alabama Birmingham in 2019. She completed her psychiatric internship at Florida Behavioral Medicine, Lakeland Regional Health, and, Yantra Psychiatric Services. Elecia's professional background includes surgical transplant nursing, cardio thoracic nursing, she is also a proud nurse leader and continues to practice cardio thoracic nursing at the bedside.
Elecia Trowers is a Board-Certified Adult, Child, and, Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Science Nursing Degree at The University of South Florida in 2016, she then went on to completing her Master of Science Nursing Degree at The University of Alabama Birmingham in 2019. She completed her psychiatric internship at Florida Behavioral Medicine, Lakeland Regional Health, and, Yantra Psychiatric Services. Elecia's professional background includes surgical transplant nursing, cardio thoracic nursing, she is also a proud nurse leader and continues to practice cardio thoracic nursing at the bedside.
(407) 986-2094 View (407) 986-2094
Photo of Esther Luc Pelissier, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Esther Luc Pelissier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34758  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Esther, owner of BBMH, profile managed by Grow Therapy. Have you ever felt alone and misunderstood? Like you had no one to turn to for help? What if I told you that you didn't need to be alone? I specialize in helping people of all ages with various mental health issues, including but not limited to mood disorders and anxiety. I am extremely passionate about assisting others and aim to provide the utmost care. I like to take on a more individual and personal approach, developing a care plan that works best for you and your situation.
Hello, my name is Esther, owner of BBMH, profile managed by Grow Therapy. Have you ever felt alone and misunderstood? Like you had no one to turn to for help? What if I told you that you didn't need to be alone? I specialize in helping people of all ages with various mental health issues, including but not limited to mood disorders and anxiety. I am extremely passionate about assisting others and aim to provide the utmost care. I like to take on a more individual and personal approach, developing a care plan that works best for you and your situation.
(386) 356-3203 View (386) 356-3203
Photo of Judeline Docteur, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Judeline Docteur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kissimmee, FL 34746  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Judeline Docteur, a psychiatric provider in Florida. Book with me now by clicking on my website. Many of my clients come to me feeling hopeless, emotionally overwhelmed and misunderstood. I firmly believe that mental health is as critical as physical health. It influences all aspects of our day-to-day lives and our relationships. I specialize in assisting those who are dealing with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and ADHD, which are often misunderstood by society, and these conditions can be incredibly isolating for the individuals experiencing them.
Hi, I'm Judeline Docteur, a psychiatric provider in Florida. Book with me now by clicking on my website. Many of my clients come to me feeling hopeless, emotionally overwhelmed and misunderstood. I firmly believe that mental health is as critical as physical health. It influences all aspects of our day-to-day lives and our relationships. I specialize in assisting those who are dealing with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and ADHD, which are often misunderstood by society, and these conditions can be incredibly isolating for the individuals experiencing them.
(321) 381-4795 View (321) 381-4795
Photo of Edeline Dardignac - Optimum Care Clinic, MSN, APRN, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Optimum Care Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP
Verified Verified
Davenport, FL 33836
Clients can expect customized treatment tailored to meet their specific mental health condition. Collaborative care, promoting always a safe, comfortable environment that empowers clients to share without hesitation or reservation. My goal is to assist every client to achieve optimum results, tangible goals, which vary among clients.
Clients can expect customized treatment tailored to meet their specific mental health condition. Collaborative care, promoting always a safe, comfortable environment that empowers clients to share without hesitation or reservation. My goal is to assist every client to achieve optimum results, tangible goals, which vary among clients.
(352) 675-3851 View (352) 675-3851
Photo of Precious M Spencer, PMHNP, BC, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Precious M Spencer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, ARNP
Verified Verified
Celebration, FL 34747  (Online Only)
I provide assistance in many areas including ADHD, depression, anxiety , mood disorder and many others. The course of treatment is individualized to fit each person’s unique circumstances.
I provide assistance in many areas including ADHD, depression, anxiety , mood disorder and many others. The course of treatment is individualized to fit each person’s unique circumstances.
(407) 706-5864 View (407) 706-5864
Photo of Rachel Christian, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Christian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34758  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC); I bring over 20 years of quality care of nursing with the benefit of specialized education in psychiatry and medication management. I am non judgmental and treat all my patients with respect. I empower my patients to be able to manage their mental health, either through medication alone, with therapy or with different modalities, including diet and exercise. I feel it is essential to form a partnership based in trust and compassion and always with the patient’s wishes and goals in mind.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC); I bring over 20 years of quality care of nursing with the benefit of specialized education in psychiatry and medication management. I am non judgmental and treat all my patients with respect. I empower my patients to be able to manage their mental health, either through medication alone, with therapy or with different modalities, including diet and exercise. I feel it is essential to form a partnership based in trust and compassion and always with the patient’s wishes and goals in mind.
(561) 933-7761 View (561) 933-7761
Photo of Hysintine Palle, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hysintine Palle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34746
Dr. Hysintine Palle, is a double board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, from Kissimmee AND Florida, treating both physical and mental distress. Dr. Hysintine Palle's main goal is to empower her patients because sometimes, their symptoms leave them feeling helpless. One of her most important obligations as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to provide hope for her patients. Dr. Hysintine Palle believes that in their practice, patients can discover that their progress and goals are achievable by applying the methods and techniques that she uses in session.
Dr. Hysintine Palle, is a double board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, from Kissimmee AND Florida, treating both physical and mental distress. Dr. Hysintine Palle's main goal is to empower her patients because sometimes, their symptoms leave them feeling helpless. One of her most important obligations as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to provide hope for her patients. Dr. Hysintine Palle believes that in their practice, patients can discover that their progress and goals are achievable by applying the methods and techniques that she uses in session.
(407) 537-6554 View (407) 537-6554
Photo of Dinapoles Galvan, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dinapoles Galvan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34758  (Online Only)
Dr. Galvan is an English and Spanish speaking provider who services clients 5 years old and up dealing with depression, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD and other mental health conditions.
Dr. Galvan is an English and Spanish speaking provider who services clients 5 years old and up dealing with depression, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD and other mental health conditions.
(786) 504-7362 View (786) 504-7362
Photo of Dawn Marie Chui, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dawn Marie Chui
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Davenport, FL 33896
Are you tired of feeling down, depressed, not like your usual self? Having trouble sleeping, focusing, and feeling anxious? Looking for accessible and quality mental health care from a provider that will treat you with the compassion and respect you deserve? It can be difficult to navigate life’s challenges when you are experiencing mental pain and suffering. We will work together to ease your pain and help you become a more peaceful and happier version of yourself. I utilize a holistic approach to mental health that combines both traditional medications and complimentary treatments that are evidenced-based.
Are you tired of feeling down, depressed, not like your usual self? Having trouble sleeping, focusing, and feeling anxious? Looking for accessible and quality mental health care from a provider that will treat you with the compassion and respect you deserve? It can be difficult to navigate life’s challenges when you are experiencing mental pain and suffering. We will work together to ease your pain and help you become a more peaceful and happier version of yourself. I utilize a holistic approach to mental health that combines both traditional medications and complimentary treatments that are evidenced-based.
(727) 496-4544 View (727) 496-4544
Photo of Tammy Ewing - Psych by Tammy/Healthy Mindz , NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psych by Tammy/Healthy Mindz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kissimmee, FL 34758  (Online Only)
Are you tired of struggling to maintain true wellness that encompasses the mind, body, and soul? At Healthy Mindz, we believe that the key to optimal health begins with a healthy mind. We deliver care that is aimed at treating the whole person; not just their mental health needs. It is understood by our practitioners that all of these aspects affect your overall health and wellbeing so our support is aimed at patients’ social, physical, spiritual, and emotional needs as well as their mental health.
Are you tired of struggling to maintain true wellness that encompasses the mind, body, and soul? At Healthy Mindz, we believe that the key to optimal health begins with a healthy mind. We deliver care that is aimed at treating the whole person; not just their mental health needs. It is understood by our practitioners that all of these aspects affect your overall health and wellbeing so our support is aimed at patients’ social, physical, spiritual, and emotional needs as well as their mental health.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of Indhira Almonte - Sunshine Premier Wellness Center, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Sunshine Premier Wellness Center, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Celebration, FL 34747
Positive mental health occurs when every aspect of one’s life is in balance. It incorporates emotional and physical health. This balance requires learning the necessary skills to cope with stress and react appropriately to life’s uncertainties. At Sunshine Premier Wellness Center, we are dedicated to helping adults, teens, and kids overcome the challenges of mental health conditions and move forward toward their goals. We offer psychiatric and psychological evaluations, neuropsychological testing, medication management, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) services.
Positive mental health occurs when every aspect of one’s life is in balance. It incorporates emotional and physical health. This balance requires learning the necessary skills to cope with stress and react appropriately to life’s uncertainties. At Sunshine Premier Wellness Center, we are dedicated to helping adults, teens, and kids overcome the challenges of mental health conditions and move forward toward their goals. We offer psychiatric and psychological evaluations, neuropsychological testing, medication management, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) services.
(321) 333-4924 View (321) 333-4924
Photo of Susan Vazquez, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Vazquez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Celebration, FL 34747  (Online Only)
As a compassionate and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I draw upon my own life experiences to guide my practice. Witnessing the impact of mental health challenges during my career in emergency medicine, I’ve developed a profound understanding and respect of the human psyche. My commitment extends beyond clinical expertise; it’s deeply rooted in empathy and resilience. I approach mental health care holistically delving into biopsychosocial factors, recognizing that mental health is influenced by genetics, environment, and personal history. My assessments consider the whole person, not just symptoms.
As a compassionate and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I draw upon my own life experiences to guide my practice. Witnessing the impact of mental health challenges during my career in emergency medicine, I’ve developed a profound understanding and respect of the human psyche. My commitment extends beyond clinical expertise; it’s deeply rooted in empathy and resilience. I approach mental health care holistically delving into biopsychosocial factors, recognizing that mental health is influenced by genetics, environment, and personal history. My assessments consider the whole person, not just symptoms.
(321) 730-3284 View (321) 730-3284
Photo of Carolann Brooks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carolann Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Celebration, FL 34747
A board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, Ms. Carolann Brooks is humble and caring. She is currently employed at Life Stance Health Celebration, FL location. Patients visit her for a variety of concerns involving mood disorders, anxiety, adhd, psychiatry consultations, and medication management. Ms. Brooks earned her bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida. She pursued her master's degree in counselor education from Florida Polytechnic University and another master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University.
A board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, Ms. Carolann Brooks is humble and caring. She is currently employed at Life Stance Health Celebration, FL location. Patients visit her for a variety of concerns involving mood disorders, anxiety, adhd, psychiatry consultations, and medication management. Ms. Brooks earned her bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida. She pursued her master's degree in counselor education from Florida Polytechnic University and another master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University.
(407) 307-2737 View (407) 307-2737
Photo of Mercedes Gibbons, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mercedes Gibbons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34746
Mercedes Gibbons is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over ten years of experience in mental health. Most of her experience is in crisis stabilization management in inpatient settings for adult and children. She also has experience in outpatient settings with medication treatment and management. Over time of working in both hospice care and mental health, she decided to pursue for hidden calling, practicing as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She attended Edison State College (Fort Myers, Florida) where she obtained her Associate of Science in Nursing and Associate of Arts Degree.
Mercedes Gibbons is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over ten years of experience in mental health. Most of her experience is in crisis stabilization management in inpatient settings for adult and children. She also has experience in outpatient settings with medication treatment and management. Over time of working in both hospice care and mental health, she decided to pursue for hidden calling, practicing as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She attended Edison State College (Fort Myers, Florida) where she obtained her Associate of Science in Nursing and Associate of Arts Degree.
(407) 904-4322 View (407) 904-4322

See more therapy options for 33837

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 33837

< 10

Psychiatrists in 33837 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Eating Disorders
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Other

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Coventry
100% Other

How Psychiatrists in 33837 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 33837?

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.