Psychiatrists in Clay County, FL

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Photo of Heather Brooks Burson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Heather Brooks Burson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief supportive therapy via secure video sessions (telehealth). I use nonjudgmental active-listening and motivational interviewing to understand your symptoms and goals for treatment.
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief supportive therapy via secure video sessions (telehealth). I use nonjudgmental active-listening and motivational interviewing to understand your symptoms and goals for treatment.
(904) 867-8761 View (904) 867-8761
Photo of Lewis Monroe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Lewis Monroe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Online Only
Looking for a provider who covers Talk-therapy and medication management?
Looking for a provider who covers Talk-therapy and medication management?
(904) 231-9590 View (904) 231-9590
Photo of Rahonie Evans, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rahonie Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice licensed to practice in Florida. As a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with over thirteen years of experience, I am empowered to take a holistic and individualized approach to every client, knowing that mental health can affect multiple areas of one's life. So, if you are feeling overwhelmed and seeking to live a well-balanced life, you have come to the right place.
I am a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice licensed to practice in Florida. As a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with over thirteen years of experience, I am empowered to take a holistic and individualized approach to every client, knowing that mental health can affect multiple areas of one's life. So, if you are feeling overwhelmed and seeking to live a well-balanced life, you have come to the right place.
(904) 298-7382 View (904) 298-7382
Photo of Debbie Huffman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, ANP, PMHNP
Debbie Huffman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, ANP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with 22 years experience as an RN and 12 as an NP. I have 2 national certifications; 1st as an Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP-BC) and 2nd as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have a deep desire to help my clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. I feel a sense of joy when clients tell me how our interactions have changed their lives for the better.
Hello! I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with 22 years experience as an RN and 12 as an NP. I have 2 national certifications; 1st as an Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP-BC) and 2nd as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have a deep desire to help my clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. I feel a sense of joy when clients tell me how our interactions have changed their lives for the better.
(904) 875-8133 View (904) 875-8133
Photo of Rahonie Evans, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rahonie Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice licensed to practice in Florida. As a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with over thirteen years of experience, I am empowered to take a holistic and individualized approach to every client, knowing that mental health can affect multiple areas of one's life. So, if you are feeling overwhelmed and seeking to live a well-balanced life, you have come to the right place.
I am a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice licensed to practice in Florida. As a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with over thirteen years of experience, I am empowered to take a holistic and individualized approach to every client, knowing that mental health can affect multiple areas of one's life. So, if you are feeling overwhelmed and seeking to live a well-balanced life, you have come to the right place.
(904) 326-8914 View (904) 326-8914
Photo of Sandrine Gabot, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandrine Gabot
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Sandrine Gabot, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC With over 15 years of dedicated experience as a clinician, Sandrine Gabot is a distinguished Family Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). Sandrine has an extensive background in providing holistic and compassionate care to patients across the lifespan, from pediatrics to geriatrics. Her multifaceted expertise ensures that she adeptly addresses both the physical and mental health needs of her patients.
Sandrine Gabot, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC With over 15 years of dedicated experience as a clinician, Sandrine Gabot is a distinguished Family Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). Sandrine has an extensive background in providing holistic and compassionate care to patients across the lifespan, from pediatrics to geriatrics. Her multifaceted expertise ensures that she adeptly addresses both the physical and mental health needs of her patients.
(904) 337-4813 View (904) 337-4813
Photo of Maria Reed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Maria Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Orange Park, FL 32073
As a dedicated PMHNP I provide mental health care to individuals across the lifespan with a focus on compassionate, culturally sensitive treatment. Fluent in Spanish, I am dedicated to ensuring that language is never a barrier to accessing mental health services, especially for underserved communities.
As a dedicated PMHNP I provide mental health care to individuals across the lifespan with a focus on compassionate, culturally sensitive treatment. Fluent in Spanish, I am dedicated to ensuring that language is never a barrier to accessing mental health services, especially for underserved communities.
(904) 561-2858 View (904) 561-2858
Photo of Vivian Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vivian Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am a bilingual psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I work with adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-esteem, grief, loss, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and CBT, and I bring empathy and an easygoing style to my practice. I am passionate, dedicated, and realistic about the challenges in today's world.
I am a bilingual psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I work with adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-esteem, grief, loss, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and CBT, and I bring empathy and an easygoing style to my practice. I am passionate, dedicated, and realistic about the challenges in today's world.
(904) 467-4653 View (904) 467-4653
Photo of Dorothea Jattan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Dorothea Jattan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Fleming Island, FL 32003
As a collective, we hold certain beliefs and values that both bring us together as a group and prevent us from moving forward personally. At some point in all our lives, we realize what use to benefit our lives no longer serves our higher selves. As your provider, I hold space for you to come as you are, without judgement or expectations. Our minds are powerful tools that can affect how we interact with the world around us, together let's explore what matters in your mind.
As a collective, we hold certain beliefs and values that both bring us together as a group and prevent us from moving forward personally. At some point in all our lives, we realize what use to benefit our lives no longer serves our higher selves. As your provider, I hold space for you to come as you are, without judgement or expectations. Our minds are powerful tools that can affect how we interact with the world around us, together let's explore what matters in your mind.
(904) 579-0540 View (904) 579-0540
Photo of Vivian Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vivian Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am a bilingual psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I work with adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-esteem, grief, loss, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and CBT, and I bring empathy and an easygoing style to my practice. I am passionate, dedicated, and realistic about the challenges in today's world.
I am a bilingual psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I work with adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-esteem, grief, loss, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and CBT, and I bring empathy and an easygoing style to my practice. I am passionate, dedicated, and realistic about the challenges in today's world.
(904) 688-8123 View (904) 688-8123
Photo of Midlaine Richard-Pean Richard-Pean, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Midlaine Richard-Pean Richard-Pean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
In a world that can often feel overwhelming, many people find themselves carrying heavy emotional burdens. If you're one of them, know that you're not alone. It's completely normal to feel isolated, anxious, or stressed at times, and these feelings can sometimes make it hard to see a way forward. What you might be looking for is a sense of understanding and compassion. It's important to have a safe space where you can express your thoughts and feelings without fear of being judged. We can work towards resilience and a renewed sense of purpose.
In a world that can often feel overwhelming, many people find themselves carrying heavy emotional burdens. If you're one of them, know that you're not alone. It's completely normal to feel isolated, anxious, or stressed at times, and these feelings can sometimes make it hard to see a way forward. What you might be looking for is a sense of understanding and compassion. It's important to have a safe space where you can express your thoughts and feelings without fear of being judged. We can work towards resilience and a renewed sense of purpose.
(904) 478-5888 View (904) 478-5888
Photo of Nicole Hill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Nicole Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Orange Park, FL 32073
Throughout my life, I witnessed many close & immediate family members struggle and overcome various mental health disorders including major depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and most impactful to me, substance abuse. I believe this personal experience has enabled and encouraged me to provide holistic patient-centered care and to foster a warm and trusting relationship with all my clients. I believe in shared decision-making and taking care of your brain as you would for any other organ in your body, “your brain is an organ just like your heart, lungs, kidneys and liver… and just like those other organs, your brain can get sick too.”
Throughout my life, I witnessed many close & immediate family members struggle and overcome various mental health disorders including major depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and most impactful to me, substance abuse. I believe this personal experience has enabled and encouraged me to provide holistic patient-centered care and to foster a warm and trusting relationship with all my clients. I believe in shared decision-making and taking care of your brain as you would for any other organ in your body, “your brain is an organ just like your heart, lungs, kidneys and liver… and just like those other organs, your brain can get sick too.”
(904) 560-6612 View (904) 560-6612
Photo of Shavanna King, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Shavanna King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My clinical philosophy centers on collaboration and empowerment. I believe in working alongside my clients to help them identify their mental health goals and provide them with the tools and coping strategies to achieve meaningful, lasting change. My practice is founded on a patient-centered approach that emphasizes active partnership and mutual respect. I am committed to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care, utilizing the latest guidelines and best practices to ensure optimal outcomes.
My clinical philosophy centers on collaboration and empowerment. I believe in working alongside my clients to help them identify their mental health goals and provide them with the tools and coping strategies to achieve meaningful, lasting change. My practice is founded on a patient-centered approach that emphasizes active partnership and mutual respect. I am committed to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care, utilizing the latest guidelines and best practices to ensure optimal outcomes.
(904) 320-1820 View (904) 320-1820
Photo of Stephanie Victor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Victor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Hi! I am a board-certified PMHNP who was inspired to become a provider because of the increase in mental illness in our society and mental health disparities in certain communities. My care philosophy consist of being a compassionate open-minded provider that tries to meet my clients at their level as they work to improve their quality of life. I provide quality evidence-based care that incorporates medications, counseling, healthy diet, lifestyle changes, exercise, and psychotherapy in their treatment modalities.
Hi! I am a board-certified PMHNP who was inspired to become a provider because of the increase in mental illness in our society and mental health disparities in certain communities. My care philosophy consist of being a compassionate open-minded provider that tries to meet my clients at their level as they work to improve their quality of life. I provide quality evidence-based care that incorporates medications, counseling, healthy diet, lifestyle changes, exercise, and psychotherapy in their treatment modalities.
(904) 822-1737 View (904) 822-1737
Photo of Yuri Gonzalez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yuri Gonzalez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Greetings! I’m Yuri Remedioz, a double board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in healthcare. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Summa Cum Laude), a Master of Science in Nursing in Family Practice, and a Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Chamberlain University, Chicago, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for helping others. My approach is all about diving deep to understand your emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual needs, and uncovering the root causes of your distress.
Greetings! I’m Yuri Remedioz, a double board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in healthcare. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Summa Cum Laude), a Master of Science in Nursing in Family Practice, and a Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Chamberlain University, Chicago, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for helping others. My approach is all about diving deep to understand your emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual needs, and uncovering the root causes of your distress.
(904) 906-8570 View (904) 906-8570
Photo of Yi Duan Low, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yi Duan Low
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, aspiring to blend the holistic with the practical. Trained in both Massachusetts and New York with a specific focus on diverse populations, I work personally with each patient to create a practical and holistic based customized plan that is focused on both results and positive health outcomes. With over 10 years of experience in a variety of settings, I offer a concierge-level of outpatient service and am your advocate for your personal and professional success, regardless of where you are in your treatment plan.
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, aspiring to blend the holistic with the practical. Trained in both Massachusetts and New York with a specific focus on diverse populations, I work personally with each patient to create a practical and holistic based customized plan that is focused on both results and positive health outcomes. With over 10 years of experience in a variety of settings, I offer a concierge-level of outpatient service and am your advocate for your personal and professional success, regardless of where you are in your treatment plan.
(904) 297-2473 View (904) 297-2473
Photo of Virmarie Diaz Fernandez, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Virmarie Diaz Fernandez
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Orange Park, FL 32073
I was born and raised in Puerto Rico by a Cuban mother and a Puertorrican father; completed my medical school training as well as my first year of Psychiatry Residency at the University of Puerto Rico Medical School – San Juan, which is the largest Medical Center in Puerto Rico. After completion of my first year of residency I transferred to Gainesville, Florida to finish my psychiatry residency from the University of Central Florida/ HCA Consortium program.
I was born and raised in Puerto Rico by a Cuban mother and a Puertorrican father; completed my medical school training as well as my first year of Psychiatry Residency at the University of Puerto Rico Medical School – San Juan, which is the largest Medical Center in Puerto Rico. After completion of my first year of residency I transferred to Gainesville, Florida to finish my psychiatry residency from the University of Central Florida/ HCA Consortium program.
(904) 780-9217 View (904) 780-9217
Photo of Dr. Tyquitta Perrier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP, FNP-C
Dr. Tyquitta Perrier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP, FNP-C
7 Endorsed
Middleburg, FL 32068
At Livality Integrated Health, we employ a non-judgmental and welcoming approach to hold space for healing. With a background in physical health, but also extensively mental health & Addictions for more than 15 years, Dr. Perrier our Director recognizes the complex interplay between mind and body. Our practice welcomes clients that are curious about what may lie ahead in terms of improving their health circumstances. We offer inclusive, integrated modalities dedicated to individuals reaching the best versions of themselves. The goal is for each client to leave feeling heard and valued.
At Livality Integrated Health, we employ a non-judgmental and welcoming approach to hold space for healing. With a background in physical health, but also extensively mental health & Addictions for more than 15 years, Dr. Perrier our Director recognizes the complex interplay between mind and body. Our practice welcomes clients that are curious about what may lie ahead in terms of improving their health circumstances. We offer inclusive, integrated modalities dedicated to individuals reaching the best versions of themselves. The goal is for each client to leave feeling heard and valued.
(904) 906-9760 View (904) 906-9760
Photo of James Durogene, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
James Durogene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with five years of experience treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, my ideal client is someone who is navigating the complexities of mental health challenges, such as anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, or trauma-related issues. These individuals often feel overwhelmed by their emotions, struggle with daily functioning, and may experience a sense of hopelessness or isolation. They need not only clinical expertise but also empathy, support, and a safe space to explore their thoughts and feelings.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with five years of experience treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, my ideal client is someone who is navigating the complexities of mental health challenges, such as anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, or trauma-related issues. These individuals often feel overwhelmed by their emotions, struggle with daily functioning, and may experience a sense of hopelessness or isolation. They need not only clinical expertise but also empathy, support, and a safe space to explore their thoughts and feelings.
(904) 830-9268 View (904) 830-9268
Photo of Dr. Maricar Bana, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, CNRN, HNB-BC
Dr. Maricar Bana
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, CNRN, HNB-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you seeking understanding and relief from challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or feeling stuck in life? I believe in providing a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to share your story and explore your emotions, thoughts, and patterns. Together, we can work on your goals, which may include building resilience, improving relationships, finding balance, or reconnecting with your sense of purpose. I am an empathetic listener who works to empower you to heal, grow, and thrive at your highest potential. Together, we will create an individualized plan considering your unique journey toward wellness and transformation.
Are you seeking understanding and relief from challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or feeling stuck in life? I believe in providing a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to share your story and explore your emotions, thoughts, and patterns. Together, we can work on your goals, which may include building resilience, improving relationships, finding balance, or reconnecting with your sense of purpose. I am an empathetic listener who works to empower you to heal, grow, and thrive at your highest potential. Together, we will create an individualized plan considering your unique journey toward wellness and transformation.
(904) 659-9580 View (904) 659-9580

See more therapy options for Clay County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Clay County, FL

40+

Average cost per session

$135

Psychiatrists in Clay County, FL who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
98% Anxiety
91% ADHD
91% Bipolar Disorder
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Trauma and PTSD
63% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
89% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Clay County, FL see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

92% Female
8% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Clay 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.

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.