Psychiatrists in Broward County, FL

Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.

Monumental Health Partners is welcoming new clients for psychiatric care! Same-day appointments online are often available for individuals aged 18 & up for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, unable to concentrate or sleep, or stressed about relationship friction with friends, family, or loved ones, We are here to help you! We promise to listen to you without judgment and work with you to devise a personalized plan for your mental health care. We will work with you to arm you with the coping skills to help you achieve mental balance. Our providers also speak Spanish.
Monumental Health Partners is welcoming new clients for psychiatric care! Same-day appointments online are often available for individuals aged 18 & up for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, unable to concentrate or sleep, or stressed about relationship friction with friends, family, or loved ones, We are here to help you! We promise to listen to you without judgment and work with you to devise a personalized plan for your mental health care. We will work with you to arm you with the coping skills to help you achieve mental balance. Our providers also speak Spanish.

Dpsychdoc.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Jill, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who is motivated, open-minded, and seeking guidance to overcome challenges in their personal or professional life. They want clarity, direction, and practical strategies to achieve their goals and improve their circumstances. They value personal growth, seek fulfillment, and aspire to live a purposeful and satisfying life. They appreciate a friendly and supportive partnership to help them navigate obstacles and accelerate their progress towards a more fulfilling future.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated, open-minded, and seeking guidance to overcome challenges in their personal or professional life. They want clarity, direction, and practical strategies to achieve their goals and improve their circumstances. They value personal growth, seek fulfillment, and aspire to live a purposeful and satisfying life. They appreciate a friendly and supportive partnership to help them navigate obstacles and accelerate their progress towards a more fulfilling future.

As a Psychiatric ARNP at One-Stop Psychiatric Clinic, Dr. Heather Brathwaite has the expertise and experience of treating patients for more than 20 years. She brings a humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body, and an abiding commitment to individualized, personalized, comprehensive care for patients. Her clinical practice focuses on consultation, treatment selection and administration, and care coordination for outpatients struggling with a wide range of psychiatric illnesses and co-occurring disorders.
As a Psychiatric ARNP at One-Stop Psychiatric Clinic, Dr. Heather Brathwaite has the expertise and experience of treating patients for more than 20 years. She brings a humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body, and an abiding commitment to individualized, personalized, comprehensive care for patients. Her clinical practice focuses on consultation, treatment selection and administration, and care coordination for outpatients struggling with a wide range of psychiatric illnesses and co-occurring disorders.

Hilary Ortega is a psychiatric professional who has been providing healthcare services of exceptional quality for over twelve years. Hilary is the owner and operator of New Age Psychiatry, and is dedicated to providing comprehensive psychiatric care within convenient system structures. She specializes in psychiatric medication management for ADHD, depression, and anxiety-related issues. Her ultimate goal is to offer the highest quality of care while making her clients feel heard and respected. Ortega consistently goes above and beyond for her patients and is sure to respond to their inquiries on the same or next business day.
Hilary Ortega is a psychiatric professional who has been providing healthcare services of exceptional quality for over twelve years. Hilary is the owner and operator of New Age Psychiatry, and is dedicated to providing comprehensive psychiatric care within convenient system structures. She specializes in psychiatric medication management for ADHD, depression, and anxiety-related issues. Her ultimate goal is to offer the highest quality of care while making her clients feel heard and respected. Ortega consistently goes above and beyond for her patients and is sure to respond to their inquiries on the same or next business day.

Medical Partners in Recovery - Laurie Kupersmith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sunrise, FL 33323
My ideal client is seeking comprehensive mental health support. They may juggle raising children and a demanding job or face profound struggles needing a compassionate ally. They could be an adolescent dealing with teenage complexities or an older adult managing health challenges. Their goals are to find stability, improve well-being, and feel heard and supported. They seek a trusted partner in their mental wellness journey, someone who listens attentively and offers personalized care tailored to their unique needs.
My ideal client is seeking comprehensive mental health support. They may juggle raising children and a demanding job or face profound struggles needing a compassionate ally. They could be an adolescent dealing with teenage complexities or an older adult managing health challenges. Their goals are to find stability, improve well-being, and feel heard and supported. They seek a trusted partner in their mental wellness journey, someone who listens attentively and offers personalized care tailored to their unique needs.

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.

Janique Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
How often do you find yourself avoiding certain activities or situations due to anxiety? Are you feeling as though you are in a challenging or isolated position, with limited support available? How often do you find it difficult to communicate your mental health needs to those around you, including healthcare providers? If you are navigating how to find the right medication option for you, then I am here to help you explore and identify the most effective strategies tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you receive comprehensive support and care on your path to recovery.
How often do you find yourself avoiding certain activities or situations due to anxiety? Are you feeling as though you are in a challenging or isolated position, with limited support available? How often do you find it difficult to communicate your mental health needs to those around you, including healthcare providers? If you are navigating how to find the right medication option for you, then I am here to help you explore and identify the most effective strategies tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you receive comprehensive support and care on your path to recovery.

I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Clinical Psychologist with an emphasis in Health Psychology. I received my Master’s degree in Nursing Science from the University of South Alabama and my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology. I adopt a holistic approach and provide clients with psychosocial supportive therapy, psychoeducation, and psychopharmacolocial treatment throughout their recovery.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Clinical Psychologist with an emphasis in Health Psychology. I received my Master’s degree in Nursing Science from the University of South Alabama and my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology. I adopt a holistic approach and provide clients with psychosocial supportive therapy, psychoeducation, and psychopharmacolocial treatment throughout their recovery.
You might come to us at a time at a time of great turmoil. It is therefore our goal to stay focused on this mission. We identify your inner strengths and foster them. Our training and experience however, cannot replace your own perspective about life. It is essential that as a psychiatrist, an expert in the art of active listening , We seek adequate insight into the problem. We make an alliance to find a path to recovery. Services are offered by a team of experienced providers that also includes a well trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in English, French, Spanish, and Haitian Creole. Serving you is a distinct privilege.
You might come to us at a time at a time of great turmoil. It is therefore our goal to stay focused on this mission. We identify your inner strengths and foster them. Our training and experience however, cannot replace your own perspective about life. It is essential that as a psychiatrist, an expert in the art of active listening , We seek adequate insight into the problem. We make an alliance to find a path to recovery. Services are offered by a team of experienced providers that also includes a well trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in English, French, Spanish, and Haitian Creole. Serving you is a distinct privilege.

Remart Psychiatry Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPA, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Hollywood, FL 33024
Remart Psychiatry is committed to providing effective care that is accessible to all people. Our main goal is to improve access to and qualities of mental health medicine in order to promote highest quality care for our patients, our community, and reduce healthcare disparities in order to have a healthy community. Do not suffer alone or in silence as in Remart psychiatry we will be able to see you via telehealth/virtual or in person. For all of mental health needs such as Depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety, Addiction, Substance abuse, Insomnia, PTSD, and Psychosis you can be seen at your own home or in person.
Remart Psychiatry is committed to providing effective care that is accessible to all people. Our main goal is to improve access to and qualities of mental health medicine in order to promote highest quality care for our patients, our community, and reduce healthcare disparities in order to have a healthy community. Do not suffer alone or in silence as in Remart psychiatry we will be able to see you via telehealth/virtual or in person. For all of mental health needs such as Depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety, Addiction, Substance abuse, Insomnia, PTSD, and Psychosis you can be seen at your own home or in person.
Meet Our Psychiatrists
Martine Vernet Andreus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Coral Springs, FL 33065
Hi, nice to meet you! Are you one of those people struggling with anxiety, depression and other mental disorders facing unique challenges while navigating your daily lives, know that help is on the way! My name is Martine. I am a master’s prepared, double-board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner and I'm here to help.
Hi, nice to meet you! Are you one of those people struggling with anxiety, depression and other mental disorders facing unique challenges while navigating your daily lives, know that help is on the way! My name is Martine. I am a master’s prepared, double-board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner and I'm here to help.

New Age Psychiatry - Low Dose Ketamine Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pembroke Pines, FL 33025
Can't Focus? Anxious? Depressed? Medication Management only $179.99, and follow ups priced/refills at $99.99, Counseling at $79 per hour visit after one time intake fee. New Age Psychiatry is the innovative way to get the mental healthcare you need. With our telemedicine platform that can be accessed across Florida, we make it much more convenient for you to have access to psychiatric care from compassionate providers. Our staff is dedicated towards providing high-quality treatment with an attitude of understanding so you feel comfortable communicating openly about your needs. Fort Lauderdale and Orlando locations available.
Can't Focus? Anxious? Depressed? Medication Management only $179.99, and follow ups priced/refills at $99.99, Counseling at $79 per hour visit after one time intake fee. New Age Psychiatry is the innovative way to get the mental healthcare you need. With our telemedicine platform that can be accessed across Florida, we make it much more convenient for you to have access to psychiatric care from compassionate providers. Our staff is dedicated towards providing high-quality treatment with an attitude of understanding so you feel comfortable communicating openly about your needs. Fort Lauderdale and Orlando locations available.

Fusion Mind & Body
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
Erika has over 25 years of experience as a nurse. She is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Walden University. She is focused on providing care to those struggling with mental illness. Erika believes that creating a trusting relationship, between the patient and provider results in a more calming and communicative experience.
Erika has over 25 years of experience as a nurse. She is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Walden University. She is focused on providing care to those struggling with mental illness. Erika believes that creating a trusting relationship, between the patient and provider results in a more calming and communicative experience.

Erika Leo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
The challenges that we face in today's society can leave many people feeling hopeless, anxious, angry, afraid or depressed. It is our goal at Harbor Village Mental Wellness to help you live life to your full emotional potential and look forward to each day. Working together, we will create a personalized medication treatment plan based on our discussions, assessment tools, pharmacogenetic testing, and evidence-based guidelines. Our telehealth appointments make getting treatment more convenient as it eliminates travel time to and from appointments, meaning less missed work and time away from family or responsibilities.
The challenges that we face in today's society can leave many people feeling hopeless, anxious, angry, afraid or depressed. It is our goal at Harbor Village Mental Wellness to help you live life to your full emotional potential and look forward to each day. Working together, we will create a personalized medication treatment plan based on our discussions, assessment tools, pharmacogenetic testing, and evidence-based guidelines. Our telehealth appointments make getting treatment more convenient as it eliminates travel time to and from appointments, meaning less missed work and time away from family or responsibilities.

The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We strive to provide the highest quality evidence-based, compassionate care through a combination of medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients/families overcome their most difficult challenges and achieve their greatest goals to lead their most joyful, fulfilling lives.
The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We strive to provide the highest quality evidence-based, compassionate care through a combination of medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients/families overcome their most difficult challenges and achieve their greatest goals to lead their most joyful, fulfilling lives.

Evolution Health Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sunrise, FL 33323
Have you been looking for a mental health provider where you feel you are being heard? Whether you are seeking help for yourself or your loved one, feel confident you have made the right decision in choosing us. Rochelle Boyd is a board certified Nurse Practitioner who holds dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 15 years experience in the healthcare industry. Rochelle encourages total wellness, both physically and mentally. She currently treats conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, PTSD, psychosis, sleep disorders as well as ADHD.
Have you been looking for a mental health provider where you feel you are being heard? Whether you are seeking help for yourself or your loved one, feel confident you have made the right decision in choosing us. Rochelle Boyd is a board certified Nurse Practitioner who holds dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 15 years experience in the healthcare industry. Rochelle encourages total wellness, both physically and mentally. She currently treats conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, PTSD, psychosis, sleep disorders as well as ADHD.

Christina McPherson-Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Christina Jimenez (AKA, preferably called MJ) is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and proud owner newly est. of Unique Therapeutic Expressions (U.T.E.), LLC. MJ is currently treating adults (ages 18-65 years old). MJ combines Motivational Interviewing and Holistic/Therapeutic approaches in treating of mental health conditions such as anxiety, mood disorders, addictions, and ADHD. MJ is truly passionate about mental health and believe in the concepts of pharmacological management, behavioral therapy, client teaching and preventative care; an unique, inclusive formula can achieve overall well-being.
Christina Jimenez (AKA, preferably called MJ) is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and proud owner newly est. of Unique Therapeutic Expressions (U.T.E.), LLC. MJ is currently treating adults (ages 18-65 years old). MJ combines Motivational Interviewing and Holistic/Therapeutic approaches in treating of mental health conditions such as anxiety, mood disorders, addictions, and ADHD. MJ is truly passionate about mental health and believe in the concepts of pharmacological management, behavioral therapy, client teaching and preventative care; an unique, inclusive formula can achieve overall well-being.

Do you often feel judged, that no one cares or understands what you are going through? My goal for every encounter is that you leave feeling someone truly cares and understands. Let's face it, talking about our emotional or mental state of mind is never one of the easiest topics to discuss, especially when there is associated trauma, hurt, pain, or negative stigma. Whatever it is, you will have a safe place free of criticism or shame, but full of compassion, and understanding for the single purpose of healing, positive progress toward regaining self-sufficiency, and a sense of normalcy in your life once again.
Do you often feel judged, that no one cares or understands what you are going through? My goal for every encounter is that you leave feeling someone truly cares and understands. Let's face it, talking about our emotional or mental state of mind is never one of the easiest topics to discuss, especially when there is associated trauma, hurt, pain, or negative stigma. Whatever it is, you will have a safe place free of criticism or shame, but full of compassion, and understanding for the single purpose of healing, positive progress toward regaining self-sufficiency, and a sense of normalcy in your life once again.

Yanet Ferro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coral Springs, FL 33067
Welcome My name is Yanet Ferro, I'm a Hispanic bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in general psychiatric care licensed in Florida and New York. Fluent in Spanish, I diagnose and treat a range of mental health disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, weight loss and mood disorders. I am currently accepting new patients for in-office visits as well as Telehealth consultations and I accept various insurances.
Welcome My name is Yanet Ferro, I'm a Hispanic bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in general psychiatric care licensed in Florida and New York. Fluent in Spanish, I diagnose and treat a range of mental health disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, weight loss and mood disorders. I am currently accepting new patients for in-office visits as well as Telehealth consultations and I accept various insurances.
See more therapy options for Broward County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Broward County, FL
400+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Broward County, FL who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | ADHD |
72% | Medication Management |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
90% | Aetna |
67% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Broward County, FL see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Broward County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.