Psychiatrists in 34203
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.
Tracey Rzepka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bradenton, FL 34203
Tracey Rzepka is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychopharmacology. She provides management of psychiatric medications along with some therapy. She is great with clients on multiple medications and is able to get clients on the right medication or remodel them as needed or even wean clients off medication if desired. She has a background in general medicine and offers holistic care addressing the body, mind and spirit providing personal, compassionate care. Her visits are longer than most psychiatrists providing more time for counseling and support. Follow up visits are 30 minutes.
Tracey Rzepka is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychopharmacology. She provides management of psychiatric medications along with some therapy. She is great with clients on multiple medications and is able to get clients on the right medication or remodel them as needed or even wean clients off medication if desired. She has a background in general medicine and offers holistic care addressing the body, mind and spirit providing personal, compassionate care. Her visits are longer than most psychiatrists providing more time for counseling and support. Follow up visits are 30 minutes.
Renee has worked in a variety of clinical settings including private practice, school clinics, community health centers, correction facilities, and tele-health. Renee treats patients across the lifespan who have a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, personality disorders, ADD/ADHD, psychosis, OCD, and insomnia. Renee includes a wholistic and individualized approach with each patient.
Renee has worked in a variety of clinical settings including private practice, school clinics, community health centers, correction facilities, and tele-health. Renee treats patients across the lifespan who have a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, personality disorders, ADD/ADHD, psychosis, OCD, and insomnia. Renee includes a wholistic and individualized approach with each patient.
Janique Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bradenton, FL 34203 (Online Only)
How often do you find yourself avoiding certain activities or situations due to anxiety? Are you feeling as though you are in a challenging or isolated position, with limited support available? How often do you find it difficult to communicate your mental health needs to those around you, including healthcare providers? If you are navigating how to find the right medication option for you, then I am here to help you explore and identify the most effective strategies tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you receive comprehensive support and care on your path to recovery.
How often do you find yourself avoiding certain activities or situations due to anxiety? Are you feeling as though you are in a challenging or isolated position, with limited support available? How often do you find it difficult to communicate your mental health needs to those around you, including healthcare providers? If you are navigating how to find the right medication option for you, then I am here to help you explore and identify the most effective strategies tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you receive comprehensive support and care on your path to recovery.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Zoelife Psychiatric Services - Dr. Rose Ampadu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, FPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bradenton, FL 34208
** REGISTERED OUT-OF-STATE HEALTH PROVIDER FOR THE STATE OF FLORIDA ** Untreated mental illness can unravel one’s life causing stress, loss of hope, loss of relationships, loss of employment, and sadly the loss of one's life. As a Family Psychiatrist Nurse Practitioner, I pride myself in partnership with my patients to provide high-quality individualized medication and symptomatology management. http://www.flhealthsource.gov/telehealth
** REGISTERED OUT-OF-STATE HEALTH PROVIDER FOR THE STATE OF FLORIDA ** Untreated mental illness can unravel one’s life causing stress, loss of hope, loss of relationships, loss of employment, and sadly the loss of one's life. As a Family Psychiatrist Nurse Practitioner, I pride myself in partnership with my patients to provide high-quality individualized medication and symptomatology management. http://www.flhealthsource.gov/telehealth
I am board certified in both adult psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. I have extensive experience treating complex mental illness and unique family systems, with particular expertise in treating trauma-related disorders, ADHD, depression, PTSD, autism, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. I emphasize your strengths and collaborate with you and your family. I combine the most current evidence-based medication treatment with taking the time to fully understand your unique perspective to ensure that you achieve the best results with the least medication.
I am board certified in both adult psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. I have extensive experience treating complex mental illness and unique family systems, with particular expertise in treating trauma-related disorders, ADHD, depression, PTSD, autism, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. I emphasize your strengths and collaborate with you and your family. I combine the most current evidence-based medication treatment with taking the time to fully understand your unique perspective to ensure that you achieve the best results with the least medication.
Ugonna Duru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bradenton, FL 34206
My Ideal clients are individuals who are struggling with ADHD and trying to navigate the management and coping with ADHD. I have ample experience treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. ADHD can be lifelong, but witnessing the transformative impact of appropriate treatment and compassionate care has been nothing short of inspiring and rewarding. With my nursing background, I believe in treating the person as a whole, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
My Ideal clients are individuals who are struggling with ADHD and trying to navigate the management and coping with ADHD. I have ample experience treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. ADHD can be lifelong, but witnessing the transformative impact of appropriate treatment and compassionate care has been nothing short of inspiring and rewarding. With my nursing background, I believe in treating the person as a whole, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Michele Privette has over 25 years of experience in treating a variety of psychiatric diagnosis which includes: Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety, PTSD and Bipolar disorders. Her experience ranges from inpatient/outpatient settings, as well as providing psychiatric consultation to Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities.
Michele Privette has over 25 years of experience in treating a variety of psychiatric diagnosis which includes: Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety, PTSD and Bipolar disorders. Her experience ranges from inpatient/outpatient settings, as well as providing psychiatric consultation to Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities.
Carolyn Harkness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34243
Hello, I'm Carolyn Are you finding it hard to cope with changes in your life? Have you been putting your mental health on a back burner? I founded my practice, UpLiftt Mental Wellness, because I am extremely passionate about improving mental wellness to achieve the best possible quality of life. I often see the correlation of neglecting mental health and the negative effects on ones self care and relationships with others. I have a diverse background in psychiatric mental health to treat acute and chronic concerns with a specialty with women's mental health.
Hello, I'm Carolyn Are you finding it hard to cope with changes in your life? Have you been putting your mental health on a back burner? I founded my practice, UpLiftt Mental Wellness, because I am extremely passionate about improving mental wellness to achieve the best possible quality of life. I often see the correlation of neglecting mental health and the negative effects on ones self care and relationships with others. I have a diverse background in psychiatric mental health to treat acute and chronic concerns with a specialty with women's mental health.
Rachel Morgan Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34243
Hi! My name is Rachel Morgan Williams, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Elite DNA Behavioral Health - Sarasota, with more than 16 years of psychiatric experience. My goal as a provider is to work with you to achieve optimal mental health functioning in all areas of your life. I see patients of all ages across the lifespans, including children, adults and seniors. I attended Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing, and have a Bachelors and Masters of Nursing. Services are available in-person in Sarasota and Telehealth across Florida.
Hi! My name is Rachel Morgan Williams, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Elite DNA Behavioral Health - Sarasota, with more than 16 years of psychiatric experience. My goal as a provider is to work with you to achieve optimal mental health functioning in all areas of your life. I see patients of all ages across the lifespans, including children, adults and seniors. I attended Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing, and have a Bachelors and Masters of Nursing. Services are available in-person in Sarasota and Telehealth across Florida.
Eduardo obtained his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from State college of Florida, Master of Science in Nursing from Drexel University. Additionally, he is certified as Psychiatric Mental Health NursePractitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center ANCC. In addition to his extensive professional training, Eduardo also brings a unique cultural perspective. As a native of Peru, Eduardo brings unique insight to those who may feel as outsiders, or have experienced moving or adapting to a new environment. Eduardo speaks fluent English and Spanish, and can treat patients in both languages.
Eduardo obtained his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from State college of Florida, Master of Science in Nursing from Drexel University. Additionally, he is certified as Psychiatric Mental Health NursePractitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center ANCC. In addition to his extensive professional training, Eduardo also brings a unique cultural perspective. As a native of Peru, Eduardo brings unique insight to those who may feel as outsiders, or have experienced moving or adapting to a new environment. Eduardo speaks fluent English and Spanish, and can treat patients in both languages.
Experienced Provider- Appointments Available. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety or feeling irritable I can help you. You can overcome poor energy and poor concentration. I have years of experience with prescribing medications for these issues. If you are looking for a provider that will LISTEN and give you TIME you can count on me. It is a privilege to be able to work for those who are hurting emotionally and I have confidence that I can help you to feel better. You can reach your potential and find more meaning in your job, education or in your relationships. Don't hesitate to reach out to me today.
Experienced Provider- Appointments Available. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety or feeling irritable I can help you. You can overcome poor energy and poor concentration. I have years of experience with prescribing medications for these issues. If you are looking for a provider that will LISTEN and give you TIME you can count on me. It is a privilege to be able to work for those who are hurting emotionally and I have confidence that I can help you to feel better. You can reach your potential and find more meaning in your job, education or in your relationships. Don't hesitate to reach out to me today.
Hello, I’m Sabreen Yousef, a Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatry. If you’re someone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or the challenges of neurodivergence, I want you to know that you’re not alone, and you deserve a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported. You may be looking for help because these struggles have made it difficult to navigate daily life or have affected your sense of well-being. You might feel overwhelmed. My goal is to partner with you on your journey, ensuring you have the tools, support and understanding you need to move beyond simply surviving and start thriving.
Hello, I’m Sabreen Yousef, a Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatry. If you’re someone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or the challenges of neurodivergence, I want you to know that you’re not alone, and you deserve a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported. You may be looking for help because these struggles have made it difficult to navigate daily life or have affected your sense of well-being. You might feel overwhelmed. My goal is to partner with you on your journey, ensuring you have the tools, support and understanding you need to move beyond simply surviving and start thriving.
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant specializing in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I treat patients with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD and OCD. I take the time to get to know each of my patients and make sure they feel safe and comfortable in my office. I work as a team with my patients and their loved ones to achieve their treatment goals. I am dedicated to finding the treatment that will improve my patients quality of life. My goal is to provide patient-centered, empathetic, supportive care with the fewest medications.
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant specializing in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I treat patients with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD and OCD. I take the time to get to know each of my patients and make sure they feel safe and comfortable in my office. I work as a team with my patients and their loved ones to achieve their treatment goals. I am dedicated to finding the treatment that will improve my patients quality of life. My goal is to provide patient-centered, empathetic, supportive care with the fewest medications.
With a dedicated commitment spanning 35 years in the Sarasota/Bradenton area, my unwavering mission is to deliver superlative care to children, adults, and seniors. Guided by the principle of judicious medication use, I advocate for the minimal necessary dosage, ensuring treatment aligns precisely with clinical needs. My overarching objective is to facilitate the return to and sustained maintenance of each individual's optimal level of functioning. Emphasizing a holistic approach, I integrate medications with therapy, fostering the potential for supervised tapering or discontinuation when feasible.
With a dedicated commitment spanning 35 years in the Sarasota/Bradenton area, my unwavering mission is to deliver superlative care to children, adults, and seniors. Guided by the principle of judicious medication use, I advocate for the minimal necessary dosage, ensuring treatment aligns precisely with clinical needs. My overarching objective is to facilitate the return to and sustained maintenance of each individual's optimal level of functioning. Emphasizing a holistic approach, I integrate medications with therapy, fostering the potential for supervised tapering or discontinuation when feasible.
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.
I have more than thirty-five years experience in providing psychotherapy for adults, couples and families who are experiencing difficulties including, but not limited to: anxiety, (including agoraphobia), depression, relationship conflict, or problems related to coping with general life difficulties. My master's degree in both Parent/Child and Psychiatric Nursing, and studies in cognitive-behavioral therapy,and psychoanalytic psychotherapy, enable me to provide an eclectic approach that best fits the person with whom I'm working. Please note: my practice is limited to virtual therapy with people who reside in NJ.
I have more than thirty-five years experience in providing psychotherapy for adults, couples and families who are experiencing difficulties including, but not limited to: anxiety, (including agoraphobia), depression, relationship conflict, or problems related to coping with general life difficulties. My master's degree in both Parent/Child and Psychiatric Nursing, and studies in cognitive-behavioral therapy,and psychoanalytic psychotherapy, enable me to provide an eclectic approach that best fits the person with whom I'm working. Please note: my practice is limited to virtual therapy with people who reside in NJ.
Janice McKendrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34243 (Online Only)
I have over 30 years experience in mental health care provision, spanning all age groups and delivery of care in hospitals and out patient clinics. I have practiced in the United Kingdom and now resident in the United States. With my knowledge and experience, I can help adults and older adults/seniors with mental health needs. In particular those with depression, anxiety and disorders of mood could benefit from my calm, empathetic approach, to diagnosis, medication management, symptom management, increasing coping strategies and attaining mental wellness.
I have over 30 years experience in mental health care provision, spanning all age groups and delivery of care in hospitals and out patient clinics. I have practiced in the United Kingdom and now resident in the United States. With my knowledge and experience, I can help adults and older adults/seniors with mental health needs. In particular those with depression, anxiety and disorders of mood could benefit from my calm, empathetic approach, to diagnosis, medication management, symptom management, increasing coping strategies and attaining mental wellness.
Tampa location is now accepting new patients and has immediate availability! Bethany is a certified Physician Assistant specializing in child/adolescent and adult psychiatry. Bethany strives to help her patients reach their goals for their mental health by utilizing a collaborative approach. She is attentive to each of her patient’s concerns and aims to communicate clear treatment plans and objectives to ensure these needs are met. She has a background in Molecular Medicine and has a passion for staying informed on the latest developments in psychiatric research and treatments.
Tampa location is now accepting new patients and has immediate availability! Bethany is a certified Physician Assistant specializing in child/adolescent and adult psychiatry. Bethany strives to help her patients reach their goals for their mental health by utilizing a collaborative approach. She is attentive to each of her patient’s concerns and aims to communicate clear treatment plans and objectives to ensure these needs are met. She has a background in Molecular Medicine and has a passion for staying informed on the latest developments in psychiatric research and treatments.
See more therapy options for 34203
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 34203
< 10
Psychiatrists in 34203 who prioritize treating:
60% | Depression |
60% | Anxiety |
60% | Bipolar Disorder |
60% | Medication Management |
40% | ADHD |
40% | Grief |
40% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in 34203 see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 34203?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.