Psychiatrists in Arcadia, FL

Photo of Lisa Abern, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Abern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Lisa and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults in multiple settings facing various complex mental health issues, including ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and mood disorders.
My name is Lisa and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults in multiple settings facing various complex mental health issues, including ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and mood disorders.
(407) 214-3498 View (407) 214-3498
Photo of Fallon Page Shelton - Fallon Shelton Concierge Mental Health PLLC , MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fallon Shelton Concierge Mental Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I bring with me a unique set of work experiences that have fostered my passion for helping those that suffer from mental health disorders. My own personal experiences and past employment endeavors have given me empathy to help patients with mental health disorders. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my goal to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care. I will do all I can to assist individuals and their families in recognizing, without stigma, the value of psychiatric assistance.
I bring with me a unique set of work experiences that have fostered my passion for helping those that suffer from mental health disorders. My own personal experiences and past employment endeavors have given me empathy to help patients with mental health disorders. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my goal to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care. I will do all I can to assist individuals and their families in recognizing, without stigma, the value of psychiatric assistance.
(813) 851-2912 View (813) 851-2912

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Gretchen Dettlinger, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gretchen Dettlinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Gretchen believes that effective mental health care extends beyond traditional methods, integrating physical, emotional, and social well-being to foster comprehensive recovery and growth. Her practice is rooted in the conviction that each patient’s journey is unique, and she is committed to creating tailored treatment plans that respect and respond to individual needs.
Gretchen believes that effective mental health care extends beyond traditional methods, integrating physical, emotional, and social well-being to foster comprehensive recovery and growth. Her practice is rooted in the conviction that each patient’s journey is unique, and she is committed to creating tailored treatment plans that respect and respond to individual needs.
(904) 709-7564 View (904) 709-7564
Photo of Andrew Lister, DO, Psychiatrist
Andrew Lister
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Punta Gorda, FL 33983
I'm here to help my patients with whatever their mental health needs may be including anxiety, depression, stress, bi-polar, mood disorder, ADHD, focus, trauma, PTSD or other mental health needs.
I'm here to help my patients with whatever their mental health needs may be including anxiety, depression, stress, bi-polar, mood disorder, ADHD, focus, trauma, PTSD or other mental health needs.
(941) 499-8167 View (941) 499-8167
Photo of Celeste Boyd, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Celeste Boyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Celeste Boyd is the Founder and CEO of Metamorphosis Psyche. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP), Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) from the University of Miami. She is licensed and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). She Possesses a Master of Arts in Developmental Psychology from Gallaudet University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Florida State University.
Dr. Celeste Boyd is the Founder and CEO of Metamorphosis Psyche. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP), Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) from the University of Miami. She is licensed and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). She Possesses a Master of Arts in Developmental Psychology from Gallaudet University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Florida State University.
(321) 450-3464 View (321) 450-3464
Photo of Fabiola Anglade-Pascal - Aura B Health , MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aura B Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal clients are diverse individuals and families from various cultural, socioeconomic, and lifestyle backgrounds, ranging across the lifespan. These individuals often present with anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress-related disorders, relationship challenges, chronic illness, life transitions, ADHD, autism, or substance use concerns. They require comprehensive assessment and diagnosis, personalized treatment planning, medication management, therapy, lifestyle guidance, family support, and connection to community resources.
My ideal clients are diverse individuals and families from various cultural, socioeconomic, and lifestyle backgrounds, ranging across the lifespan. These individuals often present with anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress-related disorders, relationship challenges, chronic illness, life transitions, ADHD, autism, or substance use concerns. They require comprehensive assessment and diagnosis, personalized treatment planning, medication management, therapy, lifestyle guidance, family support, and connection to community resources.
(941) 299-6541 View (941) 299-6541
Nicole A Millich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Specializing in child, adolescent, and young adult mental health care, including full medication management.
Specializing in child, adolescent, and young adult mental health care, including full medication management.
(239) 932-4500 View (239) 932-4500
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33909
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.
(239) 441-4860 View (239) 441-4860
Photo of Dr. Michelle L Antanovich - Inspired Life Behavioral Health & Counseling, NP, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Inspired Life Behavioral Health & Counseling, NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you feeling frustrated, hopeless that you will ever feel better. Many tell me this when we meet. Listening empathetically and to your story helps me formulate a plan that will assist you in improving your mental health. The process can be frustrating at times and as one who has dealt with my own mental health needs. I know all to well how long it takes to find the right provider. One that is empathetic, compassionate and works with you to help your live the best version of yourself. It's time we think outside the box and find new ways to conquer the trial and tribulations of life. Don't let fear hold you back.
Are you feeling frustrated, hopeless that you will ever feel better. Many tell me this when we meet. Listening empathetically and to your story helps me formulate a plan that will assist you in improving your mental health. The process can be frustrating at times and as one who has dealt with my own mental health needs. I know all to well how long it takes to find the right provider. One that is empathetic, compassionate and works with you to help your live the best version of yourself. It's time we think outside the box and find new ways to conquer the trial and tribulations of life. Don't let fear hold you back.
(941) 841-6715 View (941) 841-6715
Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Online Only
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) 257-2429 View (321) 257-2429
Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist
Dinar Sajan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Punta Gorda, FL 33983
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 Rachel Morgan Williams, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Morgan Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Tiffany Lynn Yelton - T & S Psychiatric Consulants, LLC, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
T & S Psychiatric Consulants, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Port, FL 34287
My theoretical foundational approach when it comes to providing patient care is based on a collaborative-practice approach AND a person-centered approach. Current psychiatric practice is one that is guided by evidence-based care, but with person centered care each patient has experiences in their lives that may affect the approach to treatment we may choose, this may be conflicting with current evidence. This approach may not always be easy, and I may have to integrate and adapt my approach. I hope this will help with building rapport and a lasting relationship with my patients.
My theoretical foundational approach when it comes to providing patient care is based on a collaborative-practice approach AND a person-centered approach. Current psychiatric practice is one that is guided by evidence-based care, but with person centered care each patient has experiences in their lives that may affect the approach to treatment we may choose, this may be conflicting with current evidence. This approach may not always be easy, and I may have to integrate and adapt my approach. I hope this will help with building rapport and a lasting relationship with my patients.
(941) 344-3861 View (941) 344-3861
Photo of Nerilene L Ballard - Mental Ease Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mental Ease Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome to Mental Ease, where your well-being is our top priority. We specialize in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and a variety of other mental health conditions. We also offer Spravato for treatment resistant depression. At Mental Ease, we provide compassionate, individualized care designed to support your mental wellness journey.
Welcome to Mental Ease, where your well-being is our top priority. We specialize in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and a variety of other mental health conditions. We also offer Spravato for treatment resistant depression. At Mental Ease, we provide compassionate, individualized care designed to support your mental wellness journey.
(954) 280-9831 View (954) 280-9831
Photo of Deniese Williams - Converse Psychiatry LLC, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Converse Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34288
Mental health challenges comes in multiple forms, trauma, stress, life changes, grief and loss. When we are faced with these issues, the goal is to find the strength and resilience to get through the darkness. There are times when this resilience is easy to find, but when it evades us, we sometimes need a guiding light to help us find our way. If you are feeling lost in the mist of darkness, let us be your light, we can get you through.
Mental health challenges comes in multiple forms, trauma, stress, life changes, grief and loss. When we are faced with these issues, the goal is to find the strength and resilience to get through the darkness. There are times when this resilience is easy to find, but when it evades us, we sometimes need a guiding light to help us find our way. If you are feeling lost in the mist of darkness, let us be your light, we can get you through.
(941) 326-4582 View (941) 326-4582
Photo of Mateland Keith, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mateland Keith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am transitioning to my new practice, Epiphany Integrated Health, and will be accepting new clients (see website link below). I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner that specializes in psychiatric and mental health concerns. I closely work with my clients to create hope, health and healing through a holistic mental wellness approach. My goal is to engage with the client to identify and treat the underlying cause(s) to their symptoms through tailored interventions. I have the experience to treat an array of mental health issues and disorders while providing a patient-centered experience for all ages. (See website link below)
I am transitioning to my new practice, Epiphany Integrated Health, and will be accepting new clients (see website link below). I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner that specializes in psychiatric and mental health concerns. I closely work with my clients to create hope, health and healing through a holistic mental wellness approach. My goal is to engage with the client to identify and treat the underlying cause(s) to their symptoms through tailored interventions. I have the experience to treat an array of mental health issues and disorders while providing a patient-centered experience for all ages. (See website link below)
(941) 269-2301 View (941) 269-2301
Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Port Charlotte, FL 33980
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) 248-5519 View (321) 248-5519
Photo of Tamara Russell, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tamara Russell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Tamara Russell is a highly passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of professional experience. She earned a doctorate degree in nursing practice. She is double board certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Her experience in the field is varied and dynamic - she has worked in a variety of mental health settings including community mental health, and private clinics. As a seasoned healthcare professional, her patients can expect a holistic approach that incorporates a range of evidence-based, time-tested treatment modalities.
Dr. Tamara Russell is a highly passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of professional experience. She earned a doctorate degree in nursing practice. She is double board certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Her experience in the field is varied and dynamic - she has worked in a variety of mental health settings including community mental health, and private clinics. As a seasoned healthcare professional, her patients can expect a holistic approach that incorporates a range of evidence-based, time-tested treatment modalities.
(904) 601-1960 View (904) 601-1960
Photo of Schevon Pierre, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Schevon Pierre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients! In Psychiatry, I learned that giving of myself, listening, caring, without judgement, was necessary to facilitate a therapeutic relationship and to help my clients heal. I have a family member who suffers with schizophrenia, so I have personal experience with the struggles of the person who suffers with mental illness. I can also empathize with the heart aches of the family who try to be supportive and often lose hope. I am grateful to be able to do what I love and make a difference in the lives of others.
Accepting New Clients! In Psychiatry, I learned that giving of myself, listening, caring, without judgement, was necessary to facilitate a therapeutic relationship and to help my clients heal. I have a family member who suffers with schizophrenia, so I have personal experience with the struggles of the person who suffers with mental illness. I can also empathize with the heart aches of the family who try to be supportive and often lose hope. I am grateful to be able to do what I love and make a difference in the lives of others.
(321) 401-6139 View (321) 401-6139
Photo of Rebecca Fox, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms, improve daily functioning, enhance coping skills, foster self-awareness, and promote long-term mental well-being. With the incorporation of therapy and medication when necessary, individuals are empowered to actively engage in their mental health journey.
Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms, improve daily functioning, enhance coping skills, foster self-awareness, and promote long-term mental well-being. With the incorporation of therapy and medication when necessary, individuals are empowered to actively engage in their mental health journey.
(239) 933-6387 View (239) 933-6387

See more therapy options for Arcadia

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Arcadia, FL

< 10

Psychiatrists in Arcadia, FL who prioritize treating:

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

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Other

How Psychiatrists in Arcadia, FL see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Arcadia?

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.