Psychiatrists in Clermont, FL

Photo of Kelly Spence, MD, Psychiatrist
Kelly Spence
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Clermont, FL 34711
Graduated UTSW and completed internal medicine/psychiatry residency at KUMC. Double boarded in internal medicine and psychiatry.
Graduated UTSW and completed internal medicine/psychiatry residency at KUMC. Double boarded in internal medicine and psychiatry.
(321) 203-0576 View (321) 203-0576
Photo of Tysam Beckett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tysam Beckett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clermont, FL 34711
Tysam Beckett is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing. She is credentialed as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) "“ Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Tysam can provide assessment, diagnosis and medication for mental health conditions or substance use disorders. Tysam believes in providing a holistic, evidence-based treatment plan for her patients.
Tysam Beckett is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing. She is credentialed as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) "“ Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Tysam can provide assessment, diagnosis and medication for mental health conditions or substance use disorders. Tysam believes in providing a holistic, evidence-based treatment plan for her patients.
(321) 450-7696 View (321) 450-7696
Photo of Dr. Kelly Spence - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Clermont, FL 34711
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(689) 308-3160 View (689) 308-3160
Photo of Roberto Gouthman, DO, Psychiatrist
Roberto Gouthman
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Clermont, FL 34711
As a psychiatrist, I am not only focused on treatment but also on prevention and education. I believe in empowering patients with knowledge about their conditions and involving them actively in their treatment plans. This collaborative approach builds trust and encourages patients to take an active role in their mental health journey. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with diverse populations, from children and adolescents to adults and the elderly. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the various ways mental health issues manifest across different life stages and cultural contexts.
As a psychiatrist, I am not only focused on treatment but also on prevention and education. I believe in empowering patients with knowledge about their conditions and involving them actively in their treatment plans. This collaborative approach builds trust and encourages patients to take an active role in their mental health journey. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with diverse populations, from children and adolescents to adults and the elderly. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the various ways mental health issues manifest across different life stages and cultural contexts.
(352) 691-7416 View (352) 691-7416
Photo of Cindy M Jean-Pierre - Solace Virtual Psychiatric Care, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Solace Virtual Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clermont, FL 34714
Not accepting new clients
The purpose and intent of my practice, Solace Virtual Psychiatric Care, is to use my knowledge and skill set to inspire you to begin building your most optimal life. At Solace, we strive to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for learning and practicing the tools to respond to life’s challenges.
The purpose and intent of my practice, Solace Virtual Psychiatric Care, is to use my knowledge and skill set to inspire you to begin building your most optimal life. At Solace, we strive to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for learning and practicing the tools to respond to life’s challenges.
(321) 336-5860 View (321) 336-5860
Photo of Jennifer Butler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am committed to improving my clients’ mental health and overall well-being by providing compassionate, individualized care. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed by daily responsibilities, struggle with maintaining healthy relationships, or face career-related stress that impacts their mental health. I understand the importance of feeling heard and supported, which is why I take a personalized approach—listening to your concerns, adjusting your treatment plan as needed, and working collaboratively to help you achieve balance. My holistic care considers your mental health, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
I am committed to improving my clients’ mental health and overall well-being by providing compassionate, individualized care. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed by daily responsibilities, struggle with maintaining healthy relationships, or face career-related stress that impacts their mental health. I understand the importance of feeling heard and supported, which is why I take a personalized approach—listening to your concerns, adjusting your treatment plan as needed, and working collaboratively to help you achieve balance. My holistic care considers your mental health, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
(352) 605-3160 View (352) 605-3160
Photo of Stacy Felix, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacy Felix
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clermont, FL 34711
Waitlist for new clients
I have an extensive history working with individuals who struggle with substance abuse, mood disorders and trauma. As a prescriber of psychiatric medications, I understand that it is critical that we start low and go slow. You are the decision maker and I'm your expert advisor. I promise to give you the time you need to fully discuss your concerns and ask all your questions. Only through understanding your unique situation can I provide you with the care you deserve.
I have an extensive history working with individuals who struggle with substance abuse, mood disorders and trauma. As a prescriber of psychiatric medications, I understand that it is critical that we start low and go slow. You are the decision maker and I'm your expert advisor. I promise to give you the time you need to fully discuss your concerns and ask all your questions. Only through understanding your unique situation can I provide you with the care you deserve.
(352) 717-6703 View (352) 717-6703
Photo of Edeline Dardignac - Optimum Care Clinic, MSN, APRN, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Optimum Care Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP
Verified Verified
Clermont, FL 34711
Clients can expect customized treatment tailored to meet their specific mental health condition. Collaborative care, promoting always a safe, comfortable environment that empowers clients to share without hesitation or reservation. My goal is to assist every client to achieve optimum results, tangible goals, which vary among clients.
Clients can expect customized treatment tailored to meet their specific mental health condition. Collaborative care, promoting always a safe, comfortable environment that empowers clients to share without hesitation or reservation. My goal is to assist every client to achieve optimum results, tangible goals, which vary among clients.
(352) 675-3851 View (352) 675-3851
Photo of Joel David Ortega, MSN, APRN, PMHNP -, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joel David Ortega
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP -, BC
Verified Verified
Clermont, FL 34711
Are you stressed and overwhelmed, or are you suffering from concentration issues? As a nationally board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide personalized care that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I offer specialized treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and mood disorders. My approach combines traditional psychiatric treatments with holistic therapies to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness.
Are you stressed and overwhelmed, or are you suffering from concentration issues? As a nationally board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide personalized care that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I offer specialized treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and mood disorders. My approach combines traditional psychiatric treatments with holistic therapies to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness.
(407) 378-2157 View (407) 378-2157
Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Clermont, FL 34711
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
(321) 257-2689 View (321) 257-2689
Photo of Wesley Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wesley Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clermont, FL 34711
Facing mental health challenges or looking for ongoing care? Need an evaluation or seeking a second opinion? We’re here to collaborate with you in crafting a personalized plan to address your unique needs. We often keep appointment spots saved for same-day or next-day appointments, and you can meet with your provider through convenient telehealth services.
Facing mental health challenges or looking for ongoing care? Need an evaluation or seeking a second opinion? We’re here to collaborate with you in crafting a personalized plan to address your unique needs. We often keep appointment spots saved for same-day or next-day appointments, and you can meet with your provider through convenient telehealth services.
(689) 300-4011 View (689) 300-4011
Photo of Elecia Trowers - LifeStance Health, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(321) 475-2731 View (321) 475-2731
Photo of Dorian Williams, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dorian Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Dorian. I take a holistic approach to mental health, focusing on treating not just the symptoms, but the individual as a whole. I recognize the intricate connection between mental, emotional, and physical well-being and strive to create an environment where clients feel understood, supported, and safe. My philosophy emphasizes the importance of empowering clients with knowledge and fostering a collaborative partnership in your mental health journey.
My name is Dorian. I take a holistic approach to mental health, focusing on treating not just the symptoms, but the individual as a whole. I recognize the intricate connection between mental, emotional, and physical well-being and strive to create an environment where clients feel understood, supported, and safe. My philosophy emphasizes the importance of empowering clients with knowledge and fostering a collaborative partnership in your mental health journey.
(321) 415-7286 View (321) 415-7286
Photo of Kris Haukoos, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kris Haukoos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
47 Endorsed
Online Only
I love working with clients in various stages of their life. Our mental health needs change depending on where we are in life and sometimes you can feel like you've lost your way. I see children, teens, college students, and adults. Additionally, I provide care for expectant and postpartum mothers. I am experienced in the treatment of depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and behavioral issues like oppositional defiant disorder.
I love working with clients in various stages of their life. Our mental health needs change depending on where we are in life and sometimes you can feel like you've lost your way. I see children, teens, college students, and adults. Additionally, I provide care for expectant and postpartum mothers. I am experienced in the treatment of depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and behavioral issues like oppositional defiant disorder.
(352) 660-7681 View (352) 660-7681
Photo of Dr. Sarah Blizzard, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Sarah Blizzard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a nurse practitioner who is board certified in both family practice and psychiatric mental health. I have been in practice for 28 years as both a registered nurse and a nurse practitioner. I have extensive experience in psychiatric mental health, emergency medicine. I specialize in treating patients with anxiety, depression, substance abuse/dependence, OCD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and more. My philosophy of care is to treat every patient as if they were my family. Although I specialize in medication management, I also believe in the "whole person" approach to psychiatry, body, mind, and spirit.
I am a nurse practitioner who is board certified in both family practice and psychiatric mental health. I have been in practice for 28 years as both a registered nurse and a nurse practitioner. I have extensive experience in psychiatric mental health, emergency medicine. I specialize in treating patients with anxiety, depression, substance abuse/dependence, OCD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and more. My philosophy of care is to treat every patient as if they were my family. Although I specialize in medication management, I also believe in the "whole person" approach to psychiatry, body, mind, and spirit.
(407) 559-8892 View (407) 559-8892
Photo of Carolann Brooks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carolann Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
A board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, Ms. Carolann Brooks is humble and caring. She is currently employed at Life Stance Health Celebration, FL location. Patients visit her for a variety of concerns involving mood disorders, anxiety, adhd, psychiatry consultations, and medication management. Ms. Brooks earned her bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida. She pursued her master's degree in counselor education from Florida Polytechnic University and another master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University.
A board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, Ms. Carolann Brooks is humble and caring. She is currently employed at Life Stance Health Celebration, FL location. Patients visit her for a variety of concerns involving mood disorders, anxiety, adhd, psychiatry consultations, and medication management. Ms. Brooks earned her bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida. She pursued her master's degree in counselor education from Florida Polytechnic University and another master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University.
(407) 307-2737 View (407) 307-2737
Photo of Sherin M Parvez - Silver Lining Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Silver Lining Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Sherin Parvez is an experienced psychiatrist who specializes in adult mental health diagnosis & treatment. She is up to date with the current cutting edge advancements in the medical field of Psychiatry. She seamlessly combines her training & experience into her practice. Dr. Parvez has more than 10 years of experience in the medical field, which includes her work in Internal Medicine, ObGyn, NeuroPsych, and General Psychiatry. She finished her residency at the University of Missouri, School of Medicine, Columbia.
Dr. Sherin Parvez is an experienced psychiatrist who specializes in adult mental health diagnosis & treatment. She is up to date with the current cutting edge advancements in the medical field of Psychiatry. She seamlessly combines her training & experience into her practice. Dr. Parvez has more than 10 years of experience in the medical field, which includes her work in Internal Medicine, ObGyn, NeuroPsych, and General Psychiatry. She finished her residency at the University of Missouri, School of Medicine, Columbia.
(407) 759-5505 View (407) 759-5505
Photo of Kike Aurelus, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kike Aurelus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am excited that you are taking the time to know me. I was born and raised in Jamaica by a Jamaican mother and Nigerian father. I started my nursing career as a surgical transplant nurse and have also worked in cardiac nursing. I have always been passionate about nursing and the mental health of my patients. As a psychiatric nurse I cared for acute psychiatric patients in crisis. My desire has always been to improve the mental health of my patients. My ideal patient is anyone between the ages of 6 to 60 who desires to be heard, understood and cared for with compassion and in a holistic way.
I am excited that you are taking the time to know me. I was born and raised in Jamaica by a Jamaican mother and Nigerian father. I started my nursing career as a surgical transplant nurse and have also worked in cardiac nursing. I have always been passionate about nursing and the mental health of my patients. As a psychiatric nurse I cared for acute psychiatric patients in crisis. My desire has always been to improve the mental health of my patients. My ideal patient is anyone between the ages of 6 to 60 who desires to be heard, understood and cared for with compassion and in a holistic way.
(321) 966-4005 View (321) 966-4005
Photo of Kajessa Joseph, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kajessa Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Kajessa D. Joseph is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2022. Kajessa started working as a certified pharmacy technician at Aspire Health Partners which solidify her desire into mental health. She also worked there as a licensed practical nurse and a registered nurse. She acquired experience as a registered nurse in the progressive care unit, postpartum and newborn nursery at Advent Health hospitals.
Kajessa D. Joseph is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2022. Kajessa started working as a certified pharmacy technician at Aspire Health Partners which solidify her desire into mental health. She also worked there as a licensed practical nurse and a registered nurse. She acquired experience as a registered nurse in the progressive care unit, postpartum and newborn nursery at Advent Health hospitals.
(689) 202-4191 View (689) 202-4191
Photo of Kelly Jean-Louis, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly Jean-Louis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Kelly believes treating not just the symptoms but the person as a whole, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She promotes an environment where clients feel understood, supported and safe. She believes in empowering knowledge and fostering a collaborative approach to mental health. Her broad exposure has equipped her with a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health, enabling her to tailor her approach to the unique needs of each individual.
Kelly believes treating not just the symptoms but the person as a whole, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She promotes an environment where clients feel understood, supported and safe. She believes in empowering knowledge and fostering a collaborative approach to mental health. Her broad exposure has equipped her with a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health, enabling her to tailor her approach to the unique needs of each individual.
(321) 306-0487 View (321) 306-0487
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Clermont, FL

20+

Average cost per session

$180

Psychiatrists in Clermont, FL who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
91% Medication Management
86% Bipolar Disorder
68% Trauma and PTSD
68% Sleep or Insomnia
64% ADHD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Cigna and Evernorth
91% Aetna
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Clermont, FL see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Clermont?

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.