Psychiatrists in 34446

Photo of Donna Felkins-Dohm, PMHCNS, APRN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Donna Felkins-Dohm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS, APRN, RN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I proudly serve individuals from all walks of life. I encourage each individual to reach out if they need help to overcome their mental illness so that they can keep their lives and families intact and function well in the community again. I promise to be there for you every step of your journey.
I proudly serve individuals from all walks of life. I encourage each individual to reach out if they need help to overcome their mental illness so that they can keep their lives and families intact and function well in the community again. I promise to be there for you every step of your journey.
(813) 981-7913 View (813) 981-7913

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Tabitha Gennara, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tabitha Gennara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
If you are an adult navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, OCD, or ADHD, you deserve timely, skilled, and personalized care to help you manage your symptoms effectively. Your goals may include achieving mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall well-being. You value a compassionate provider who understands your urgency and works with you to develop a tailored medication management plan. With the right support, you can regain control of your life and reach your full potential.
If you are an adult navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, OCD, or ADHD, you deserve timely, skilled, and personalized care to help you manage your symptoms effectively. Your goals may include achieving mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall well-being. You value a compassionate provider who understands your urgency and works with you to develop a tailored medication management plan. With the right support, you can regain control of your life and reach your full potential.
(813) 696-6901 View (813) 696-6901
Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
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) 218-3626 View (321) 218-3626
Photo of Michelle Desarmes, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Desarmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Michelle is a passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a wealth of experience in the field. Over the past 5 to 6 years, she has tirelessly served as a board-certified professional, specializing in psychiatry. My genuine love for the subject shines through in my daily interactions with patients, as I strive to make a positive impact on their mental well-being. Beyond my professional accomplishments, I embrace the role of a nurturing mother to five beautiful children. Balancing my career and family responsibilities, I exemplify resilience and devotion, both at home and in my practice.
Michelle is a passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a wealth of experience in the field. Over the past 5 to 6 years, she has tirelessly served as a board-certified professional, specializing in psychiatry. My genuine love for the subject shines through in my daily interactions with patients, as I strive to make a positive impact on their mental well-being. Beyond my professional accomplishments, I embrace the role of a nurturing mother to five beautiful children. Balancing my career and family responsibilities, I exemplify resilience and devotion, both at home and in my practice.
(561) 678-0082 View (561) 678-0082
Photo of Joshua Freedman - healthPiper, Psychiatrist
healthPiper
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Serves Area
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
(727) 615-2887 View (727) 615-2887
Photo of Latrice Markison, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Latrice Markison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Hudson, FL 34669
It can be difficult to find mental health support, and even more challenging to find the RIGHT support. Whether you are at the beginning of a journey, wanting to maintain a current course, or have tried various interventions and now want something different, I may be able to help. I work with clients aged 15 and older to create care plans that support long term improvement and avoid overmedication that can destroy creativity and lead to the "zombie" effect. My goal is to shift the focus from "what is wrong?" to "how can things improve?"
It can be difficult to find mental health support, and even more challenging to find the RIGHT support. Whether you are at the beginning of a journey, wanting to maintain a current course, or have tried various interventions and now want something different, I may be able to help. I work with clients aged 15 and older to create care plans that support long term improvement and avoid overmedication that can destroy creativity and lead to the "zombie" effect. My goal is to shift the focus from "what is wrong?" to "how can things improve?"
(813) 336-7373 View (813) 336-7373
Photo of Alicia Allen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alicia Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I am Alicia Allen a dual certified Adult-Gerontology and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.... Are you feeling off balance? Maladjusted? Looking to achieve mental and emotional stability? Together we can cultivate hope, a sense of belonging, healing and growth in challenging conditions.
Hello! I am Alicia Allen a dual certified Adult-Gerontology and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.... Are you feeling off balance? Maladjusted? Looking to achieve mental and emotional stability? Together we can cultivate hope, a sense of belonging, healing and growth in challenging conditions.
(904) 842-2657 View (904) 842-2657
Photo of Shawn Kernz, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shawn Kernz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Weeki Wachee, FL 34613
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start? At Coastal Calm Psychiatric Solutions, I provide compassionate, personalized care to help you regain balance and move forward with confidence. Begin with a <> Free 15-minute Phone Consultation<> to explore how I can support your mental health journey. I offer bother virtual and in person appointments. Together, we’ll create a tailored plan that integrates medication management, therapeutic strategies, and lifestyle changes to address your unique needs and goals.
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start? At Coastal Calm Psychiatric Solutions, I provide compassionate, personalized care to help you regain balance and move forward with confidence. Begin with a <> Free 15-minute Phone Consultation<> to explore how I can support your mental health journey. I offer bother virtual and in person appointments. Together, we’ll create a tailored plan that integrates medication management, therapeutic strategies, and lifestyle changes to address your unique needs and goals.
(786) 983-6543 View (786) 983-6543
Photo of Pragnesh Patel - Instic Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Instic Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Inverness, FL 34452
Pragnesh Patel, MD Board Certified Psychiatry and Neurology Board Certified. Greetings, my name is Pragnesh Patel, MD, a Florida-licensed, board-certified practitioner, specializing in general/adult psychiatry, with just a few words about Instic Health and our larger purpose as a full-service healthcare company. As Medical Director, I enjoy the privilege of overseeing some of the most earnest, empathetic, and talented office and medical professionals in the field. Together, we represent an exceptionally skilled group that genuinely loves what we do and the patients we do it for.Put us to the test and you’ll find us equal to the best
Pragnesh Patel, MD Board Certified Psychiatry and Neurology Board Certified. Greetings, my name is Pragnesh Patel, MD, a Florida-licensed, board-certified practitioner, specializing in general/adult psychiatry, with just a few words about Instic Health and our larger purpose as a full-service healthcare company. As Medical Director, I enjoy the privilege of overseeing some of the most earnest, empathetic, and talented office and medical professionals in the field. Together, we represent an exceptionally skilled group that genuinely loves what we do and the patients we do it for.Put us to the test and you’ll find us equal to the best
(727) 235-7965 View (727) 235-7965
Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist
Dinar Sajan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bushnell, FL 33513
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
(833) 377-2526 View (833) 377-2526
Photo of Evelyn Hamman - Lievy Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN-ED, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lievy Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN-ED
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Evelyn Hamman and I am the founder of Lievy Psychiatry, LLC. I am a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I'm offering tele-psychiatric behavioral health services for ages 12-60. I treat depression, anxiety, panic disorders, sleep disorders, ADHD/ADD, bipolar, schizophrenia, and more. I am bilingual in English and Spanish. Now offering Genesight testing! Now offering student preceptorship. Now serving District of Columbia!
My name is Evelyn Hamman and I am the founder of Lievy Psychiatry, LLC. I am a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I'm offering tele-psychiatric behavioral health services for ages 12-60. I treat depression, anxiety, panic disorders, sleep disorders, ADHD/ADD, bipolar, schizophrenia, and more. I am bilingual in English and Spanish. Now offering Genesight testing! Now offering student preceptorship. Now serving District of Columbia!
(727) 758-7796 View (727) 758-7796
Photo of Ugonna Duru - Anuri Health and Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anuri Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a psychiatric mental health provider, we offer a range of services designed to help individuals effectively manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. We want you to know that we understand the challenges you may be facing with ADHD, anxiety, or depression. The frustrations, the moments of feeling overwhelmed, and the desire for a better way to navigate your daily life. You are not alone in this journey, and We are here to offer support and guidance.
As a psychiatric mental health provider, we offer a range of services designed to help individuals effectively manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. We want you to know that we understand the challenges you may be facing with ADHD, anxiety, or depression. The frustrations, the moments of feeling overwhelmed, and the desire for a better way to navigate your daily life. You are not alone in this journey, and We are here to offer support and guidance.
(509) 471-6509 View (509) 471-6509
Photo of Carole Wilkinson - Shalom Mental Health and Wellness, DNP, APRN, MHNP-BC, MSN/MBA, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shalom Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MHNP-BC, MSN/MBA, RN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Wilkinson is a Board-Certified in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She uses evidence-based practice approach for psychiatric medication management and therapy. She provides education to you regarding your diagnosis, treatment plan, and medication regimen. She strived to provide a Client-Centered-Care with respect, nonjudgmental attitude, acceptance, empathy, authenticity, and professional boundaries. She offers a personal and an individualized treatment plan for each patient based on their personal needs. She offers to be a partner on your journey to improve your mental health and mental wellbeing.
Dr. Wilkinson is a Board-Certified in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She uses evidence-based practice approach for psychiatric medication management and therapy. She provides education to you regarding your diagnosis, treatment plan, and medication regimen. She strived to provide a Client-Centered-Care with respect, nonjudgmental attitude, acceptance, empathy, authenticity, and professional boundaries. She offers a personal and an individualized treatment plan for each patient based on their personal needs. She offers to be a partner on your journey to improve your mental health and mental wellbeing.
(954) 231-1749 View (954) 231-1749
Photo of Nathalie Grant - Breakthrough eClinic, EdD, APRN, PMHNP, BC-ADM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Breakthrough eClinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, APRN, PMHNP, BC-ADM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a professional committed to your well-being, I understand the unique challenges that individuals with mental health issues and diabetes encounter, and I am here to provide you with support, and expert guidance. Living with mental health concerns and diabetes can sometimes feel overwhelming, and it's crucial to have an experienced and reliable, practitioner by your side. My approach is grounded in a deep understanding of the interconnectedness between mental health and physical well-being. I am well equipped with the necessary qualifications and expertise in both fields.
As a professional committed to your well-being, I understand the unique challenges that individuals with mental health issues and diabetes encounter, and I am here to provide you with support, and expert guidance. Living with mental health concerns and diabetes can sometimes feel overwhelming, and it's crucial to have an experienced and reliable, practitioner by your side. My approach is grounded in a deep understanding of the interconnectedness between mental health and physical well-being. I am well equipped with the necessary qualifications and expertise in both fields.
(352) 612-3407 View (352) 612-3407
Photo of Dr. Ernesto L. Sarduy, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Ernesto L. Sarduy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Great to meet you! My name is Dr. Sarduy and I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated from Florida International University with a Doctorate degree. I offer fully virtual behavioral health practice and provide support for a wide range of mental health needs (anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and many other conditions).
Great to meet you! My name is Dr. Sarduy and I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated from Florida International University with a Doctorate degree. I offer fully virtual behavioral health practice and provide support for a wide range of mental health needs (anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and many other conditions).
(786) 833-8036 View (786) 833-8036
Photo of Joshua Freedman - healthPiper, Psychiatrist
healthPiper
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Brooksville, FL 34601
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
(727) 855-8552 View (727) 855-8552
Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist
Dinar Sajan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooksville, FL 34613
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
(833) 377-2526 View (833) 377-2526
Photo of Stacie Allen, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacie Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting new patients. Ages 8-up. Drop the rock you are carrying. We treat all mental health struggles. I treat the symptoms, not the diagnosis, holistically. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking a holistic approach to patient care, addressing the symptoms of mental illness and the underlying causes. This is a team approach to mental health treatment as I work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes. We are here to help!
Accepting new patients. Ages 8-up. Drop the rock you are carrying. We treat all mental health struggles. I treat the symptoms, not the diagnosis, holistically. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking a holistic approach to patient care, addressing the symptoms of mental illness and the underlying causes. This is a team approach to mental health treatment as I work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes. We are here to help!
(772) 362-3906 View (772) 362-3906
Photo of Denise M Chandler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denise M Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bushnell, FL 33513
I help with health care issues that effect quality of life. Hormones play a large role in our physical health which can ultimately effect our mental health. Vitamin deficiency and methylation problems can be an underlying factor. Generic testing can help to narrow down treatment options based on your DNA.
I help with health care issues that effect quality of life. Hormones play a large role in our physical health which can ultimately effect our mental health. Vitamin deficiency and methylation problems can be an underlying factor. Generic testing can help to narrow down treatment options based on your DNA.
(352) 577-0280 View (352) 577-0280
Photo of Pragnesh Patel - Instic Health - Inverness, MD , Psychiatrist
Instic Health - Inverness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Inverness, FL 34452
As Medical Director, I enjoy the privilege of overseeing some of the most earnest, empathetic, and talented office and medical professionals in the field. Together, we represent an exceptionally skilled group that genuinely loves what we do and the patients we do it for. In my own recent past as Vice-Chair of Medicine at Tampa Community Hospital; and, as a lead resident at Department of Medicine at East Tennessee State University, I saw there was a fairly large gap between the standard of mental care needed by patients and that which was typically delivered in terms of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
As Medical Director, I enjoy the privilege of overseeing some of the most earnest, empathetic, and talented office and medical professionals in the field. Together, we represent an exceptionally skilled group that genuinely loves what we do and the patients we do it for. In my own recent past as Vice-Chair of Medicine at Tampa Community Hospital; and, as a lead resident at Department of Medicine at East Tennessee State University, I saw there was a fairly large gap between the standard of mental care needed by patients and that which was typically delivered in terms of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
(352) 290-2188 View (352) 290-2188

See more therapy options for 34446

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 34446

< 10

Psychiatrists in 34446 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Anger Management

Average years in practice

30 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 34446 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 34446?

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.