Psychiatrists in 34235

Photo of Harpreet Kang, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Harpreet Kang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34235
Harpreet Kang is a board certified and licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner in the state of Florida with over 5 years of experience in psychiatric mental health. She completed her education at Virginia Commonwealth University before pursuing further education. She is currently working on her doctorate at The University of South Alabama. Harpreet envisions to provide mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults in managing Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and other mood disorders.
Harpreet Kang is a board certified and licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner in the state of Florida with over 5 years of experience in psychiatric mental health. She completed her education at Virginia Commonwealth University before pursuing further education. She is currently working on her doctorate at The University of South Alabama. Harpreet envisions to provide mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults in managing Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and other mood disorders.
(571) 570-3848 View (571) 570-3848
Photo of Yekaterina Ambrose, MSN,  PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yekaterina Ambrose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34235
Katya's expertise is particularly focused on treating anxiety, bipolar disorder, and childhood behavior issues. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate these challenges, offering personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. Her commitment to mental health care extends to various interventions, including individual therapy and medication management, ensuring comprehensive support for her patients. In addition to her primary specialties, Katya has a deep interest in treating PTSD/trauma, gender identity issues, and postpartum depression/anxiety.
Katya's expertise is particularly focused on treating anxiety, bipolar disorder, and childhood behavior issues. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate these challenges, offering personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. Her commitment to mental health care extends to various interventions, including individual therapy and medication management, ensuring comprehensive support for her patients. In addition to her primary specialties, Katya has a deep interest in treating PTSD/trauma, gender identity issues, and postpartum depression/anxiety.
(844) 905-3395 View (844) 905-3395
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34235
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(855) 930-5973 View (855) 930-5973
Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care , Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34235
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.
(321) 306-0765 View (321) 306-0765
Photo of Ibis Mercedes Menendez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ibis Mercedes Menendez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34235
(954) 284-3268 View (954) 284-3268

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Martin J. DeSantis, DO, Psychiatrist
Martin J. DeSantis
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Bradenton, FL 34202
Dr. DeSantis is a board certified psychiatrist in both general and geriatric psychiatry. He is originally from Reading, PA. He graduated from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (Erie, PA) in 2006. His medical internship was at Memorial Hospital in York, PA in 2006-07. His psychiatric residency was from 2007-10 at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine (Stratford, NJ). His geriatric fellowship was in 2010-11 at Rowan University’s New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging (Stratford, NJ).
Dr. DeSantis is a board certified psychiatrist in both general and geriatric psychiatry. He is originally from Reading, PA. He graduated from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (Erie, PA) in 2006. His medical internship was at Memorial Hospital in York, PA in 2006-07. His psychiatric residency was from 2007-10 at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine (Stratford, NJ). His geriatric fellowship was in 2010-11 at Rowan University’s New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging (Stratford, NJ).
(941) 260-0804 View (941) 260-0804
Photo of Bethany Martin, PA-C, MPAS, MS, Physician Assistant
Bethany Martin
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS, MS
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34243
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.
(941) 900-3216 View (941) 900-3216
Carol T Sanden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, CS, BC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34237  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am an adult mental health nurse practitioner with 30+ years experience in practice, seeing adults, age 18yrs and up for diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders, therapy and medication management. My expertise is in adult ADD, mood disorders, stress management, helping each person find their 'truths' and assist them to set and reach goals to be their personal 'best'. I have worked for years in addiction treatment, codependency, and 'ACOA' issues, as well as PTSD, gender related issues and anxiety in its many presentations.I am on many insurance panels including Medicare, BC/BS, Aetna, United and others
I am an adult mental health nurse practitioner with 30+ years experience in practice, seeing adults, age 18yrs and up for diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders, therapy and medication management. My expertise is in adult ADD, mood disorders, stress management, helping each person find their 'truths' and assist them to set and reach goals to be their personal 'best'. I have worked for years in addiction treatment, codependency, and 'ACOA' issues, as well as PTSD, gender related issues and anxiety in its many presentations.I am on many insurance panels including Medicare, BC/BS, Aetna, United and others
(941) 999-2598 View (941) 999-2598
Photo of Schevon M Pierre - Curatif Behavioral Health, Inc, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Curatif Behavioral Health, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34237  (Online Only)
Welcome to Curatif Behavioral Health, where your journey to emotional wealth begins. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who is licensed to treat individuals across the lifespan. Our practice treats adults who suffer with many disorders, including mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. Other disorders we treat include pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and ADHD. At Curatif, we work with you so you gain a better understanding of your disorder, along with understanding options for treatment either through medication or psychotherapy.
Welcome to Curatif Behavioral Health, where your journey to emotional wealth begins. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who is licensed to treat individuals across the lifespan. Our practice treats adults who suffer with many disorders, including mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. Other disorders we treat include pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and ADHD. At Curatif, we work with you so you gain a better understanding of your disorder, along with understanding options for treatment either through medication or psychotherapy.
(321) 455-8127 View (321) 455-8127
Photo of Ciara O'connor, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Ciara O'connor
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34243
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.
(941) 413-0834 View (941) 413-0834
Photo of Jacklyn Dunski, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacklyn Dunski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34243  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Jacklyn Dunski, a caring and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with board certification. With over ten years of experience in various healthcare settings, I’m passionate about providing compassionate and comprehensive care to my patients. I hold a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Regis College. My nursing journey began in 2011 as a Licensed Practical Nurse. I continued my education and became a Registered Nurse in 2018. In 2022, I obtained my license as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), allowing me to provide specialized care.
Hello! I'm Jacklyn Dunski, a caring and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with board certification. With over ten years of experience in various healthcare settings, I’m passionate about providing compassionate and comprehensive care to my patients. I hold a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Regis College. My nursing journey began in 2011 as a Licensed Practical Nurse. I continued my education and became a Registered Nurse in 2018. In 2022, I obtained my license as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), allowing me to provide specialized care.
(941) 233-9371 View (941) 233-9371
Photo of Sandtrail Feet, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandtrail Feet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bradenton, FL 34204
Assured Mental & Physical Health promotes finding a healthy balance of mental and physical wellness to all individuals by providing accessible and quality mental healthcare. Feeling depressed, stressed, anxious, or experiencing other moods? We LISTEN to our clients and work with them to achieve their goals and find that healthy balance of mental and physical health. Helping you find that balance is my number one goal. We will work together and develop a plan to navigate through this journey.
Assured Mental & Physical Health promotes finding a healthy balance of mental and physical wellness to all individuals by providing accessible and quality mental healthcare. Feeling depressed, stressed, anxious, or experiencing other moods? We LISTEN to our clients and work with them to achieve their goals and find that healthy balance of mental and physical health. Helping you find that balance is my number one goal. We will work together and develop a plan to navigate through this journey.
(813) 590-6367 View (813) 590-6367
Photo of Marnin Fischbach, MD, Psychiatrist
Marnin Fischbach
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34240  (Online Only)
I have had the privilege to treat patients for 49 years. I've learned that investing in a warm and authentic doctor-patient relationship lays the groundwork for lasting healing. Yours will be personal and personable care. My practice is devoted to providing medication management and/or psychodynamic psychotherapy to adults aged 18-65.
I have had the privilege to treat patients for 49 years. I've learned that investing in a warm and authentic doctor-patient relationship lays the groundwork for lasting healing. Yours will be personal and personable care. My practice is devoted to providing medication management and/or psychodynamic psychotherapy to adults aged 18-65.
(941) 666-7536 View (941) 666-7536
Photo of Walter Griffith - Dr. Walter Griffith & Dr. TMS Therapy, PhD, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Walter Griffith & Dr. TMS Therapy
Psychiatrist, PhD, MD
Verified Verified
Depression is one of the most debilitating diseases out there. Lacking sleep? Lacking focus? Motivation? Happiness? Do you feel like you have to wear a mask? Is there a 'fog' surrounding you? Are you experiencing the heavy burden on your shoulders? Do you regret the past? Or are you fearful of the future? Are the antidepressants even working? We provide the tools & solutions you need to beat depression. This allows you to spend more time with your family & friends. It allows you to start up those hobbies you used to love doing. You can get the sleep you deserve & still wake up early to accomplish your goals. As a team, we can do it
Depression is one of the most debilitating diseases out there. Lacking sleep? Lacking focus? Motivation? Happiness? Do you feel like you have to wear a mask? Is there a 'fog' surrounding you? Are you experiencing the heavy burden on your shoulders? Do you regret the past? Or are you fearful of the future? Are the antidepressants even working? We provide the tools & solutions you need to beat depression. This allows you to spend more time with your family & friends. It allows you to start up those hobbies you used to love doing. You can get the sleep you deserve & still wake up early to accomplish your goals. As a team, we can do it
(941) 529-8800 View (941) 529-8800
Photo of Rachel Morgan Williams, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(941) 231-7275 View (941) 231-7275
Photo of Sabreen Yousef, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Sabreen Yousef
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34243
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.
(941) 299-6921 View (941) 299-6921
Photo of Carolyn Harkness, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(607) 360-5993 View (607) 360-5993
Photo of Deena Ganesh, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deena Ganesh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202  (Online Only)
We provide evidence-based psychiatric care for adults and older adults struggling with mental health conditions.
We provide evidence-based psychiatric care for adults and older adults struggling with mental health conditions.
(941) 207-3737 View (941) 207-3737
Photo of Walter Griffith - Dr TMS Therapy Griffith Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr TMS Therapy Griffith Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Life can be difficult. Are you feeling down? Having trouble sleeping? Is it difficult to focus and complete tasks? Are you lonely? Do you feel like a failure? Are your racing thoughts keeping you up at night? Are you sick of the side effects your medications are giving you? Does your provider genuinely care about you and spend enough time with you? Does your Doctor's office pick up the phone or return your calls? Do you feel like you need expert guidance on your current situation? Are you curious if there is better care out there?
Life can be difficult. Are you feeling down? Having trouble sleeping? Is it difficult to focus and complete tasks? Are you lonely? Do you feel like a failure? Are your racing thoughts keeping you up at night? Are you sick of the side effects your medications are giving you? Does your provider genuinely care about you and spend enough time with you? Does your Doctor's office pick up the phone or return your calls? Do you feel like you need expert guidance on your current situation? Are you curious if there is better care out there?
(941) 205-7330 View (941) 205-7330
Photo of Bryan Espinet, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bryan Espinet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34232  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you struggle with this constant heaviness inside of you? Do you carry what feels like the weight of the world on your shoulders? Have you struggled with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, trouble concentrating, struggling to sleep, and just never feeling “just right” for a long time with little relief? Do you feel like no matter how hard you try; your voice is never truly heard?
Do you feel like you struggle with this constant heaviness inside of you? Do you carry what feels like the weight of the world on your shoulders? Have you struggled with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, trouble concentrating, struggling to sleep, and just never feeling “just right” for a long time with little relief? Do you feel like no matter how hard you try; your voice is never truly heard?
(941) 265-2681 View (941) 265-2681

See more therapy options for 34235

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 34235

< 10

Psychiatrists in 34235 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
80% ADHD
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Sleep or Insomnia
80% Medication Management

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Humana
100% MultiPlan

How Psychiatrists in 34235 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 34235?

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.