Psychiatrists in Clearwater, FL

Photo of Cathi Stephens, Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, AGNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Cathi Stephens
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, AGNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Clearwater, FL 33761
Do you need help with mental health issues? Are you looking to change your life and become the best version of yourself? I work with my patients to identify the underlying issues that are impacting their quality of life and come up with a personalized, evidenced based plan to help them. I provide compassionate, non-judgmental quality care. I treat a wide range of psychiatric issues, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, alcohol use, PTSD, OCD, opioid use, ADHD, stress, postpartum depression, psychosis, and mood disorders.
Do you need help with mental health issues? Are you looking to change your life and become the best version of yourself? I work with my patients to identify the underlying issues that are impacting their quality of life and come up with a personalized, evidenced based plan to help them. I provide compassionate, non-judgmental quality care. I treat a wide range of psychiatric issues, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, alcohol use, PTSD, OCD, opioid use, ADHD, stress, postpartum depression, psychosis, and mood disorders.
(727) 202-5236 View (727) 202-5236
Photo of Michelle Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michelle Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Clearwater, FL 33759
I am a dual certified nurse practitioner in pediatric primary care and psychiatric mental health, offering integrative mental health treatments (a holistic approach that uses conventional and complimentary therapies to treat psychiatric disorders) to children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, eating disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD and PTSD, as well as behavioral issues in children and teenagers.
I am a dual certified nurse practitioner in pediatric primary care and psychiatric mental health, offering integrative mental health treatments (a holistic approach that uses conventional and complimentary therapies to treat psychiatric disorders) to children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, eating disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD and PTSD, as well as behavioral issues in children and teenagers.
(727) 910-5780 View (727) 910-5780
Photo of Dorit Morecraft - Greenbrook Mental Wellness Centers Central Florida, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Greenbrook Mental Wellness Centers Central Florida
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Clearwater, FL 33759
Greenbrook Mental Wellness Centers of Florida offers compassionate care to thousands needing mental health support. We provide transcranial magnetic stimulation, 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 transcranial magnetic stimulation, 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 William M. Hervey, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
William M. Hervey
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Clearwater, FL 33761
Dr. Hervey specializes in TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. Dr. Hervey earned his medical degree from the University of South Florida and is a Board Certified Fellow in psychiatry. Dr. Hervey has been published in several peer-reviewed medical journals. He is a strong advocate of evidence-based medicine and the power of TMS to transform lives. TMS helps patients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or OCD find almost immediate and long lasting relief from their mental health issues -- without medication. TMS is FDA approved, safe, painless, and effective.
Dr. Hervey specializes in TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. Dr. Hervey earned his medical degree from the University of South Florida and is a Board Certified Fellow in psychiatry. Dr. Hervey has been published in several peer-reviewed medical journals. He is a strong advocate of evidence-based medicine and the power of TMS to transform lives. TMS helps patients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or OCD find almost immediate and long lasting relief from their mental health issues -- without medication. TMS is FDA approved, safe, painless, and effective.
(727) 314-6263 View (727) 314-6263
Photo of Katherine Rizzo - Advantage TMS, Psychiatrist, DO
Advantage TMS
Psychiatrist, DO
Clearwater, FL 33761
Medication not working? Want to avoid medication side effects? Counseling hasn't resolved your issues? Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA cleared treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD and more that safely targets areas of your brain responsible for mood so you can get on with your life! For most patients, symptoms decrease or go away completely after 6 weeks of treatment. Covered by most insurances and Medicare. Complimentary consults and benefits investigations. Dr. Rizzo is a psychiatrist with a wealth of TMS experience who personally oversees all our TMS patients.
Medication not working? Want to avoid medication side effects? Counseling hasn't resolved your issues? Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA cleared treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD and more that safely targets areas of your brain responsible for mood so you can get on with your life! For most patients, symptoms decrease or go away completely after 6 weeks of treatment. Covered by most insurances and Medicare. Complimentary consults and benefits investigations. Dr. Rizzo is a psychiatrist with a wealth of TMS experience who personally oversees all our TMS patients.
(727) 228-6171 View (727) 228-6171
Photo of Amy Bockelkamp, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Amy Bockelkamp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33761
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of sadness, worry, or burnout? Whether you’re navigating college, starting your career, managing relationships, or dealing with health challenges—you don’t have to go through it alone.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of sadness, worry, or burnout? Whether you’re navigating college, starting your career, managing relationships, or dealing with health challenges—you don’t have to go through it alone.
(727) 610-6017 View (727) 610-6017
Photo of Lisa A Lowe - Tranquility Mental Health & Wellness, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Tranquility Mental Health & Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Each patient has a unique set of needs and therefore requires a unique approach to achieve their individual mental health goals. Not every patient is a one size fits all approach. Often, creativity in care planning is necessary to give my patient the best intervention strategy that fits their life and their goals. Ultimately, we both want the same thing but getting there begins with a trusting, professional client/provider relationship. I want to ensure that my patients understand their treatments and are improving or maintaining stable mental health with treatment all while minimizing risks or further health deterioration.
Each patient has a unique set of needs and therefore requires a unique approach to achieve their individual mental health goals. Not every patient is a one size fits all approach. Often, creativity in care planning is necessary to give my patient the best intervention strategy that fits their life and their goals. Ultimately, we both want the same thing but getting there begins with a trusting, professional client/provider relationship. I want to ensure that my patients understand their treatments and are improving or maintaining stable mental health with treatment all while minimizing risks or further health deterioration.
(727) 353-5261 View (727) 353-5261
Photo of Walter Griffith - Dr TMS Therapy Griffith Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Life can be difficult. Are you feeling down? Having trouble sleeping? Is it difficult to focus and complete tasks? Are you lonely? Do you feel like a failure? Are your racing thoughts keeping you up at night? Are you sick of the side effects your medications are giving you? Does your provider genuinely care about you and spend enough time with you? Does your Doctor's office pick up the phone or return your calls? Do you feel like you need expert guidance on your current situation? Are you curious if there is better care out there?
Life can be difficult. Are you feeling down? Having trouble sleeping? Is it difficult to focus and complete tasks? Are you lonely? Do you feel like a failure? Are your racing thoughts keeping you up at night? Are you sick of the side effects your medications are giving you? Does your provider genuinely care about you and spend enough time with you? Does your Doctor's office pick up the phone or return your calls? Do you feel like you need expert guidance on your current situation? Are you curious if there is better care out there?
(727) 591-6303 View (727) 591-6303
Photo of Valentina Cimolai Md, Psychiatrist, NY, FL, CA, VA
Valentina Cimolai Md
Psychiatrist, NY, FL, CA, VA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you wondering what else you can do for your mental health? At Bloom Psychiatry And Wellness, we go above and beyond. We are attentive listeners and caring clinicians. You will have exclusive access to concierge psychiatric care: flexible, discreet, effective and simple-to-access tailored care from the comfort of your home.
Are you wondering what else you can do for your mental health? At Bloom Psychiatry And Wellness, we go above and beyond. We are attentive listeners and caring clinicians. You will have exclusive access to concierge psychiatric care: flexible, discreet, effective and simple-to-access tailored care from the comfort of your home.
(727) 205-7993 View (727) 205-7993
Photo of Katherine Rizzo, Psychiatrist, DO
Katherine Rizzo
Psychiatrist, DO
Clearwater, FL 33761
Katherine R. Rizzo, DO, graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in Microbiology and Cell Science and from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Rizzo is a compassionate, caring physician who puts all her patients at ease. Confident in the latest techniques, theories and medication, Dr. Rizzo is an outstanding physician who was chosen as Chief Resident at the University of South Florida. While at USF she received clinical awards and served on several of USF's professional clinical committees. Dr. Rizzo is certified in NeuroStar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Katherine R. Rizzo, DO, graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in Microbiology and Cell Science and from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Rizzo is a compassionate, caring physician who puts all her patients at ease. Confident in the latest techniques, theories and medication, Dr. Rizzo is an outstanding physician who was chosen as Chief Resident at the University of South Florida. While at USF she received clinical awards and served on several of USF's professional clinical committees. Dr. Rizzo is certified in NeuroStar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
(727) 205-7977 View (727) 205-7977
Photo of Jade Goodloe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Online Only
You’re smart. Self-aware. Probably neurodivergent. Definitely anxious. You’ve read the books, tried the tools, maybe even did therapy “right.” But deep down, your body still doesn’t feel safe. You’re wired, exhausted, and constantly bracing for the next thing to go wrong — even when everything looks “fine.” I work with adults who are burnt out from survival mode. The ones who overthink everything, feel everything, and mask it well.
You’re smart. Self-aware. Probably neurodivergent. Definitely anxious. You’ve read the books, tried the tools, maybe even did therapy “right.” But deep down, your body still doesn’t feel safe. You’re wired, exhausted, and constantly bracing for the next thing to go wrong — even when everything looks “fine.” I work with adults who are burnt out from survival mode. The ones who overthink everything, feel everything, and mask it well.
View
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!
(321) 248-1851 View (321) 248-1851
Photo of Jennifer Self, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, LMHC, APRN
Jennifer Self
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, LMHC, APRN
Clearwater, FL 33761
Ready for a fresh approach? My goal is to provide compassionate, non-judgmental, comprehensive, high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. I am here to listen and to take the time to understand what you are going through. I will get to know you, answer your questions, and together we can decide on a plan that works for you. I offer medication management and counseling for a full range of psychiatric issues, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, addiction, ADHD, stress, trauma, and mood disorders.
Ready for a fresh approach? My goal is to provide compassionate, non-judgmental, comprehensive, high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. I am here to listen and to take the time to understand what you are going through. I will get to know you, answer your questions, and together we can decide on a plan that works for you. I offer medication management and counseling for a full range of psychiatric issues, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, addiction, ADHD, stress, trauma, and mood disorders.
(727) 485-0549 View (727) 485-0549
Photo of Dinar Sajan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dinar Sajan
Psychiatrist, MD
Clearwater, FL 33761
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
(833) 377-2526 View (833) 377-2526
Photo of Lisa Loyless, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Lisa Loyless
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33756
Providing psychiatric care to the Tampa Bay area for ages 15 and up.
Providing psychiatric care to the Tampa Bay area for ages 15 and up.
(727) 824-8181 View (727) 824-8181
Photo of Jana Ramsey M D, Psychiatrist, MD
Jana Ramsey M D
Psychiatrist, MD
8 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33756
Psychiatric medication management. Most insurances accepted. New clients are seen within days, not weeks or months.
Psychiatric medication management. Most insurances accepted. New clients are seen within days, not weeks or months.
(727) 444-0319 View (727) 444-0319
Photo of Elizabeth Di Martino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elizabeth Di Martino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Clearwater, FL 33759
We all need an unbiased ear to share emotions that could be negatively impacting our lives. If you are suffering with anxiety, depression, mood swings, poor concentration, trauma, or insomnia, and would like to have a comprehensive evaluation, please call or email the office. I provide multiple services such as maintenance medication and ketamine treatments that pair cohesively with psychotherapy.
We all need an unbiased ear to share emotions that could be negatively impacting our lives. If you are suffering with anxiety, depression, mood swings, poor concentration, trauma, or insomnia, and would like to have a comprehensive evaluation, please call or email the office. I provide multiple services such as maintenance medication and ketamine treatments that pair cohesively with psychotherapy.
(813) 295-7808 View (813) 295-7808
Photo of Dawn Marie Chui, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Dawn Marie Chui
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33759
Are you tired of feeling down, depressed, not like your usual self? Having trouble sleeping, focusing, and feeling anxious? Looking for accessible and quality mental health care from a provider that will treat you with the compassion and respect you deserve? It can be difficult to navigate life’s challenges when you are experiencing mental pain and suffering. We will work together to ease your pain and help you become a more peaceful and happier version of yourself. I utilize a holistic approach to mental health that combines both traditional medications and complimentary treatments that are evidenced-based.
Are you tired of feeling down, depressed, not like your usual self? Having trouble sleeping, focusing, and feeling anxious? Looking for accessible and quality mental health care from a provider that will treat you with the compassion and respect you deserve? It can be difficult to navigate life’s challenges when you are experiencing mental pain and suffering. We will work together to ease your pain and help you become a more peaceful and happier version of yourself. I utilize a holistic approach to mental health that combines both traditional medications and complimentary treatments that are evidenced-based.
(727) 496-4544 View (727) 496-4544
Photo of Shannon Munz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, DNP-C, PMHNP, APRN
Shannon Munz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, DNP-C, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
I have a passion for helping people of various backgrounds. Whether transitional phases are work-related, personal, or social; it can cause us to become out of equilibrium. Small daily stressors can slowly deteriorate our wellbeing and my goal is to prevent the small problems from becoming serious ones. We can help you improve the quality of your life if you are prepared to put in the work. My intention is not to repress your emotions with medications but to assist you in making clear decisions that will improve your life. My goal is to help you get back to your best and truest self.
I have a passion for helping people of various backgrounds. Whether transitional phases are work-related, personal, or social; it can cause us to become out of equilibrium. Small daily stressors can slowly deteriorate our wellbeing and my goal is to prevent the small problems from becoming serious ones. We can help you improve the quality of your life if you are prepared to put in the work. My intention is not to repress your emotions with medications but to assist you in making clear decisions that will improve your life. My goal is to help you get back to your best and truest self.
(727) 353-0278 View (727) 353-0278
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!
(321) 241-3246 View (321) 241-3246

See more therapy options for Clearwater

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Clearwater, FL

50+

Average cost per session

$199

Psychiatrists in Clearwater, FL who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
93% Depression
89% Medication Management
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Bipolar Disorder
72% ADHD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
84% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Clearwater, FL see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Clearwater?

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.