Psychiatrists in Boynton Beach, FL

Photo of Jenifer A Deyoe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-BC, ANCC, AANP
Jenifer A Deyoe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-BC, ANCC, AANP
1 Endorsed
Boynton Beach, FL 33436
I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse who is board certified in child, adolescent, and adult Psychiatric/Mental Health and Adult/Geriatric Primary Care. Currently, I work in Psych/Mental Health and manage care of all ages. I am able to evaluate, diagnose, pharmacologically treat, provide supportive therapy, refer, and provide follow-up medication management to individuals who present with DSM V diagnoses.
I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse who is board certified in child, adolescent, and adult Psychiatric/Mental Health and Adult/Geriatric Primary Care. Currently, I work in Psych/Mental Health and manage care of all ages. I am able to evaluate, diagnose, pharmacologically treat, provide supportive therapy, refer, and provide follow-up medication management to individuals who present with DSM V diagnoses.
(561) 418-6749 View (561) 418-6749
Photo of Carla M Grant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Carla M Grant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Boynton Beach, FL 33437
Your mental health is just as critical as your physical health. I believe in a collaborative and person-centered approach, where your voice is heard and your goals guide our work together. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, or life transitions, my role is to support you. My ideal client is motivated and open to exploring all treatment options including medication management, psychotherapy and lifestyle changes as part of your care plan.
Your mental health is just as critical as your physical health. I believe in a collaborative and person-centered approach, where your voice is heard and your goals guide our work together. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, or life transitions, my role is to support you. My ideal client is motivated and open to exploring all treatment options including medication management, psychotherapy and lifestyle changes as part of your care plan.
(561) 956-4133 x100 View (561) 956-4133 x100
Photo of Sara Ahmed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Sara Ahmed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Boynton Beach, FL 33472
My name is Sara, and I am a dedicated healthcare professional with over 23 years of medical experience, including more than 12 years in active clinical practice. I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring a comprehensive and compassionate approach to care, shaped by diverse expertise across family medicine, hospital medicine, emergency care, intensive care, pediatrics, surgery, and infectious disease.
My name is Sara, and I am a dedicated healthcare professional with over 23 years of medical experience, including more than 12 years in active clinical practice. I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring a comprehensive and compassionate approach to care, shaped by diverse expertise across family medicine, hospital medicine, emergency care, intensive care, pediatrics, surgery, and infectious disease.
(561) 783-8838 View (561) 783-8838
Photo of Mabel Cristina Rodriguez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mabel Cristina Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in FL, CO, WA, KS, MN and NV, my passion is helping individuals navigate the challenges of depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, OCD, and ADHD. Our Florida office offers IV hydration, Vitamin injections like B12, and Ketamine assisted therapy. I understand that seeking mental health support can feel overwhelming, but I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and compassionate environment where you can share your experiences openly and without judgment. Together, we will work to identify the root causes of your struggles and develop strategies that lead to meaningful and lasting change.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in FL, CO, WA, KS, MN and NV, my passion is helping individuals navigate the challenges of depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, OCD, and ADHD. Our Florida office offers IV hydration, Vitamin injections like B12, and Ketamine assisted therapy. I understand that seeking mental health support can feel overwhelming, but I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and compassionate environment where you can share your experiences openly and without judgment. Together, we will work to identify the root causes of your struggles and develop strategies that lead to meaningful and lasting change.
(561) 786-4767 View (561) 786-4767
Photo of Kerry Ann Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kerry Ann Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Hi, I'm Kerry-Ann Smith, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner offering personalized services for emotional well-being to guide women toward balance and empowerment in their mental health journeys. I specialize in medication management and supportive therapy for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and hormonal imbalances.
Hi, I'm Kerry-Ann Smith, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner offering personalized services for emotional well-being to guide women toward balance and empowerment in their mental health journeys. I specialize in medication management and supportive therapy for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and hormonal imbalances.
(561) 782-7867 View (561) 782-7867
Photo of Marie Hankins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Marie Hankins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Boynton Beach, FL 33436
Marie specializes in treating complicated and uncomplicated depression, anxiety, and ADHD using medication and/or alternative treatment options. The most important thing to know about mental health is that you are not alone. So many people struggle with depression and anxiety, but there are options. Marie has experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, telemedicine, medication management, supportive psychotherapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and Esketamine.
Marie specializes in treating complicated and uncomplicated depression, anxiety, and ADHD using medication and/or alternative treatment options. The most important thing to know about mental health is that you are not alone. So many people struggle with depression and anxiety, but there are options. Marie has experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, telemedicine, medication management, supportive psychotherapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and Esketamine.
(561) 677-2954 View (561) 677-2954
Photo of Samantha Montealegre, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, PMH-C, IBCLC, RNC-MNN
Samantha Montealegre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, PMH-C, IBCLC, RNC-MNN
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
I treat my clients the way I want to be treated by a provider, with respect and honesty. I provide a respectful, safe environment that facilitate open communication which assists in developing a care plan that assists client's healing. Please Note: Providers cannot reply to EMAILS on the site, but they are forwarded to my office. For reviews from my clients, please visit the following page: provider.kareo.com/dr-samantha-montealegre
I treat my clients the way I want to be treated by a provider, with respect and honesty. I provide a respectful, safe environment that facilitate open communication which assists in developing a care plan that assists client's healing. Please Note: Providers cannot reply to EMAILS on the site, but they are forwarded to my office. For reviews from my clients, please visit the following page: provider.kareo.com/dr-samantha-montealegre
(561) 933-4302 View (561) 933-4302
Photo of Pascale Paul, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Pascale Paul
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With over 20 years of experience across diverse healthcare settings, I am Ms. Paul, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to adults. My approach is grounded in a deep respect for the mind-body connection, combining clinical expertise with a holistic, person-centered perspective. I strive to create a supportive and collaborative environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. My goal is to help each individual thrive—not just survive—by offering personalized care that fosters healing, growth, and the realization of the
With over 20 years of experience across diverse healthcare settings, I am Ms. Paul, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to adults. My approach is grounded in a deep respect for the mind-body connection, combining clinical expertise with a holistic, person-centered perspective. I strive to create a supportive and collaborative environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. My goal is to help each individual thrive—not just survive—by offering personalized care that fosters healing, growth, and the realization of the
(561) 285-0764 View (561) 285-0764
Photo of Dr. Vanise Bastien, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Vanise Bastien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Now accepting new patients. If you are feeling hopeless, anxious, difficulty concentrating, low energy, irritable, changes in sleep or appetite, low self-esteem, or suicidal, I am here to help you. I am Dr. Bastien. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I specialize in adolescent and adult psychiatry. I offer treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, and more. My treatment approach includes medication management and talk therapy.
Now accepting new patients. If you are feeling hopeless, anxious, difficulty concentrating, low energy, irritable, changes in sleep or appetite, low self-esteem, or suicidal, I am here to help you. I am Dr. Bastien. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I specialize in adolescent and adult psychiatry. I offer treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, and more. My treatment approach includes medication management and talk therapy.
(561) 783-6802 View (561) 783-6802
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Online Only
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(850) 990-5837 View (850) 990-5837
Photo of Stephanie Duliepre, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-C, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Stephanie Duliepre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-C, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We all have gaps and areas where we need help in the team sport called life. Once we decide to work together, we’ll act as partners in your therapeutic journey. Instead of taking a generalized treatment approach, I develops personalized care plans that relieve uncomfortable symptoms and help you live your life to the fullest. I’ll be there to listen to you, challenge you, and support you along the way.
We all have gaps and areas where we need help in the team sport called life. Once we decide to work together, we’ll act as partners in your therapeutic journey. Instead of taking a generalized treatment approach, I develops personalized care plans that relieve uncomfortable symptoms and help you live your life to the fullest. I’ll be there to listen to you, challenge you, and support you along the way.
(904) 692-7099 View (904) 692-7099
Photo of Sima Alavi - New Reflections Counseling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
New Reflections Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
Sima Alavi is a Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her career in 1995, after graduating from the University of Miami and continued on to earn her masters and Doctorate degree in the field of mental health with specialization in both children and adults. Her focus is in rehabilitation, detoxification, and recovery for both inpatient and outpatient treatment centers. Through evaluation and stabilization, she targets treatment for individuals experiencing a crisis situation and those who seek the need for immediate intervention. She works collaboratively with fellow psychiatric practitioners
Sima Alavi is a Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her career in 1995, after graduating from the University of Miami and continued on to earn her masters and Doctorate degree in the field of mental health with specialization in both children and adults. Her focus is in rehabilitation, detoxification, and recovery for both inpatient and outpatient treatment centers. Through evaluation and stabilization, she targets treatment for individuals experiencing a crisis situation and those who seek the need for immediate intervention. She works collaboratively with fellow psychiatric practitioners
(561) 475-3869 View (561) 475-3869
Photo of Jen Gregory, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jen Gregory
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse at Stella Mental Health with over 20 years of experience. I specialize in identifying biological treatments that can help relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression & PTSD. After completing a virtual assessment together, I provide custom treatment recommendations across our advanced protocols: the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block), ketamine infusions, integration therapy, spravato (esketamine), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and more. This allows you to feel better faster and maintain long-lasting gains. Treatment offerings vary per state!
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse at Stella Mental Health with over 20 years of experience. I specialize in identifying biological treatments that can help relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression & PTSD. After completing a virtual assessment together, I provide custom treatment recommendations across our advanced protocols: the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block), ketamine infusions, integration therapy, spravato (esketamine), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and more. This allows you to feel better faster and maintain long-lasting gains. Treatment offerings vary per state!
(202) 925-8701 View (202) 925-8701
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care , Psychiatrist
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(352) 431-3940 View (352) 431-3940
Photo of Mehdi Bubba Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mehdi Bubba Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(786) 788-0640 View (786) 788-0640
Photo of David Husted - Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches, Psychiatrist, MD
Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches
Psychiatrist, MD
Boynton Beach, FL 33437
Our team of professionals look forward to hearing from you and helping you live your best life. We treat almost all mental health situations and conditions, whether you feel depressed, or anxious, looking for life coaching or relationship counseling and support with work difficulties. We work hard to get you on track. Whether young or older, in a family setting or feeling alone, we have helped people like you live their best life.
Our team of professionals look forward to hearing from you and helping you live your best life. We treat almost all mental health situations and conditions, whether you feel depressed, or anxious, looking for life coaching or relationship counseling and support with work difficulties. We work hard to get you on track. Whether young or older, in a family setting or feeling alone, we have helped people like you live their best life.
(561) 763-9635 View (561) 763-9635
Giovanny Zapata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am double board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), and I manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns. Over the years, I have worked with a diverse population in various mental health settings. I completed my undergraduate studies at Florida International University and the University of Miami, where I also obtained my Master's degree.
I am double board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), and I manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns. Over the years, I have worked with a diverse population in various mental health settings. I completed my undergraduate studies at Florida International University and the University of Miami, where I also obtained my Master's degree.
(954) 280-8012 View (954) 280-8012
Photo of Eric Malz - Greenbrook Mental Wellness Centers South Florida, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Greenbrook Mental Wellness Centers South Florida
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
Greenbrook Mental Wellness Centers of Florida offers compassionate care to thousands needing mental health support. We provide TMS, esketamine nasal spray, talk therapy, and medication management. Taking the first step towards help can be overwhelming; our team helps create personalized treatment plans. Specializing in treatment-resistant depression, we support those who haven’t found relief elsewhere. Our experienced care team ensures the best possible care for you.
Greenbrook Mental Wellness Centers of Florida offers compassionate care to thousands needing mental health support. We provide TMS, esketamine nasal spray, talk therapy, and medication management. Taking the first step towards help can be overwhelming; our team helps create personalized treatment plans. Specializing in treatment-resistant depression, we support those who haven’t found relief elsewhere. Our experienced care team ensures the best possible care for you.
(561) 484-5520 View (561) 484-5520
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, Psychiatrist, MD
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(786) 565-6164 View (786) 565-6164
Photo of Kristi Mae Wragg, Psychiatrist, MD
Kristi Mae Wragg
Psychiatrist, MD
Boynton Beach, FL 33472
I have a passion for working with adults with mood disorders, psychosis, and survivors of trauma.
I have a passion for working with adults with mood disorders, psychosis, and survivors of trauma.
(561) 794-1837 View (561) 794-1837

See more therapy options for Boynton Beach

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Boynton Beach, FL

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Boynton Beach, FL who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
94% Depression
87% Medication Management
79% Bipolar Disorder
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Sleep or Insomnia
74% ADHD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth
71% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Boynton Beach, FL see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Boynton Beach?

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.