Psychiatrists in Coconut Grove, FL
Heather E Cowan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coconut Grove, FL 33133 (Online Only)
I approach each client with open-minded and positive regard put my clients at ease. I evaluate the strengths, needs, and goals of each individual. My treatment plans incorporate wholistic physical, emotional, and cognitive health in addition to diagnostic and prescriptive practice. My treatment plans incorporate affirming motivation for change as well as specific goals and solutions for each individual. Clients can expect to come away with a better understanding of their concerns, tools and strategies for improvement, and medication where necessary.
I approach each client with open-minded and positive regard put my clients at ease. I evaluate the strengths, needs, and goals of each individual. My treatment plans incorporate wholistic physical, emotional, and cognitive health in addition to diagnostic and prescriptive practice. My treatment plans incorporate affirming motivation for change as well as specific goals and solutions for each individual. Clients can expect to come away with a better understanding of their concerns, tools and strategies for improvement, and medication where necessary.
I am a psychoanalyst and board-certified psychiatrist. Individuals with real-world concerns: struggling in their work lives, relationships or school, feeling stuck in ways that may be difficult to define can often do well with psychotherapy. There may not be a need to recommend medication when we're curious to understand how and why our minds have taken us to where we are, or what it is about how we have experienced the world that may be preventing us from living life more fully.
I am a psychoanalyst and board-certified psychiatrist. Individuals with real-world concerns: struggling in their work lives, relationships or school, feeling stuck in ways that may be difficult to define can often do well with psychotherapy. There may not be a need to recommend medication when we're curious to understand how and why our minds have taken us to where we are, or what it is about how we have experienced the world that may be preventing us from living life more fully.
I am a Board-Certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist in Coral Gables, FL. I received my general psychiatry training at Duke University and later moved to NYU for my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Training. After finishing training I moved back to my hometown of San Juan, PR, where I established a successful private practice as well as worked at the University of Puerto Rico Medical School, as the Associate Residency Training Director for the Child Psychiatry Residency Training Program. In 2016 I started working with South Florida Integrative Medicine, an integrative/holistic practice in Coral Gables Florida.
I am a Board-Certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist in Coral Gables, FL. I received my general psychiatry training at Duke University and later moved to NYU for my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Training. After finishing training I moved back to my hometown of San Juan, PR, where I established a successful private practice as well as worked at the University of Puerto Rico Medical School, as the Associate Residency Training Director for the Child Psychiatry Residency Training Program. In 2016 I started working with South Florida Integrative Medicine, an integrative/holistic practice in Coral Gables Florida.
Mehdi Bubba Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Coconut Grove, FL 33133 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
ElevateTMS, is a center that offers a safe and non-invasive treatment for those suffering from depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. Located in Miami, Florida, we are here to change the stigma around mental health treatments by providing a safe and supportive environment where patients can feel comfortable with their journey towards recovery. Our team of experts will work with you, one on one, to develop a personalized plan based on your individual needs so you can get back to living life again!
ElevateTMS, is a center that offers a safe and non-invasive treatment for those suffering from depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. Located in Miami, Florida, we are here to change the stigma around mental health treatments by providing a safe and supportive environment where patients can feel comfortable with their journey towards recovery. Our team of experts will work with you, one on one, to develop a personalized plan based on your individual needs so you can get back to living life again!
Luis E Mendez Luaces
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
As a double-board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and collaboration, as I believe in working together to create a path towards healing and growth. I strive to build a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship with each individual, respecting their unique journey and values. It is my goal to empower my clients to discover their inner strengths and resilience, guiding them on their path to mental wellness and self-discovery.
As a double-board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and collaboration, as I believe in working together to create a path towards healing and growth. I strive to build a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship with each individual, respecting their unique journey and values. It is my goal to empower my clients to discover their inner strengths and resilience, guiding them on their path to mental wellness and self-discovery.
Elevate Psychiatry Coconut Grove
Psychiatrist, MD, PA-C, PMNHP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
Elevate Psychiatry Coconut Grove provides friendly, affordable psychiatric care near Cocowalk! We offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapy for common mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar, and ADHD. Our patients receive expert, individualized care with dedicated time to spend with your provider. We include telepsychiatry, e-prescriptions, and DNA swab testing in our services. We're proud that our patients have rated Elevate Psychiatry the number one Psychiatrist in Miami on Yelp!
Elevate Psychiatry Coconut Grove provides friendly, affordable psychiatric care near Cocowalk! We offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapy for common mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar, and ADHD. Our patients receive expert, individualized care with dedicated time to spend with your provider. We include telepsychiatry, e-prescriptions, and DNA swab testing in our services. We're proud that our patients have rated Elevate Psychiatry the number one Psychiatrist in Miami on Yelp!
Deana Goldin - Pinecrest Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who evaluates and treats individuals with emotional difficulties, depression, anxiety, adult and young adult mood and behavioral disorders/difficulties, ADHD and substance abuse. I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy. My goal is for us to work together to create positive outcomes, helping you gain a sense of well-being and stabilization through effective management.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who evaluates and treats individuals with emotional difficulties, depression, anxiety, adult and young adult mood and behavioral disorders/difficulties, ADHD and substance abuse. I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy. My goal is for us to work together to create positive outcomes, helping you gain a sense of well-being and stabilization through effective management.
Dr. Maria Lama is a dedicated psychiatrist with a passion for supporting individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults. She specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide spectrum of mental health diagnoses with a comprehensive approach, while also addressing the unique needs of adults navigating life transitions and mental health challenges. She believes in the power of community support and is committed to helping each individual achieve their fullest potential.
Dr. Maria Lama is a dedicated psychiatrist with a passion for supporting individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults. She specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide spectrum of mental health diagnoses with a comprehensive approach, while also addressing the unique needs of adults navigating life transitions and mental health challenges. She believes in the power of community support and is committed to helping each individual achieve their fullest potential.
John Murdock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Coconut Grove, FL 33146 (Online Only)
I provide psychiatric medication prescriptions, refills, diagnoses, and therapy. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to provide a holistic approach to mental healthcare that is specially tailored to every patient. For appointments CALL 954-851-9690.
I provide psychiatric medication prescriptions, refills, diagnoses, and therapy. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to provide a holistic approach to mental healthcare that is specially tailored to every patient. For appointments CALL 954-851-9690.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Our goal at Sunflower Psychiatry is to help our clients achieve a balanced lifestyle. We develop a three-pronged approach to patient care by incorporating nutritional, chemical and therapeutic aspects catered towards each client’s needs. Our approach offers alternative interventions-with a focus on diet and nutrition- in addition to traditional medication management.
Our goal at Sunflower Psychiatry is to help our clients achieve a balanced lifestyle. We develop a three-pronged approach to patient care by incorporating nutritional, chemical and therapeutic aspects catered towards each client’s needs. Our approach offers alternative interventions-with a focus on diet and nutrition- in addition to traditional medication management.
Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Issues, Stress Management, Burnout, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), Psychosis, Suicidal Ideation, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Issues, Postpartum Support, Self-Esteem Issues, Women's Concerns, Life Changes, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Challenges, Coping Skills, Dual Diagnosis.
Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Issues, Stress Management, Burnout, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), Psychosis, Suicidal Ideation, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Issues, Postpartum Support, Self-Esteem Issues, Women's Concerns, Life Changes, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Challenges, Coping Skills, Dual Diagnosis.
Dr. Jose G. Valdes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coral Gables, FL 33145 (Online Only)
Dr. Valdes is a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Trained at FIU, he offers initial psychiatric evaluations, medication management (for DEA controlled and non-controlled substances), and psychotherapy when appropriate. Dr. Valdes specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, child and adolescent, LGBTQ practice sensitivity, bipolar disorder, and sleep issues. Esteemed for his open, empathetic, and approachable demeanor, he provides a personalized touch and comprehensive approach to mental health, fostering a judgment-free environment where patients feel safe, seen, heard, and supported.
Dr. Valdes is a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Trained at FIU, he offers initial psychiatric evaluations, medication management (for DEA controlled and non-controlled substances), and psychotherapy when appropriate. Dr. Valdes specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, child and adolescent, LGBTQ practice sensitivity, bipolar disorder, and sleep issues. Esteemed for his open, empathetic, and approachable demeanor, he provides a personalized touch and comprehensive approach to mental health, fostering a judgment-free environment where patients feel safe, seen, heard, and supported.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Michelle Clarke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33133 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Michelle Clarke, I am a licensed/board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My clients' mental health is my priority. As a prescriber, the theoretical approach I use when caring for clients with mental disorders is supportive therapy. Supportive therapy embarks upon primarily, emotional support, encouraging my clients to express their feelings and concerns in a safe, non-judgmental environment. This enables provider/client trust and bonding to develop when supportive therapy is utilized.
Hello! My name is Michelle Clarke, I am a licensed/board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My clients' mental health is my priority. As a prescriber, the theoretical approach I use when caring for clients with mental disorders is supportive therapy. Supportive therapy embarks upon primarily, emotional support, encouraging my clients to express their feelings and concerns in a safe, non-judgmental environment. This enables provider/client trust and bonding to develop when supportive therapy is utilized.
I am a holistic practitioner who believes in each individual's ability to improve themselves. I am also a Duke University-trained medical doctor, a therapist, a researcher, a husband and a father. I strive to bring the knowledge and experience that I continue to acquire in these roles into my approach to the practice of medicine. During sessions, I focus on the here-and-now and use a variety of tools to help my clients move forward. My work is characterized by compassion, collaboration, optimism, warmth and hope.
I am a holistic practitioner who believes in each individual's ability to improve themselves. I am also a Duke University-trained medical doctor, a therapist, a researcher, a husband and a father. I strive to bring the knowledge and experience that I continue to acquire in these roles into my approach to the practice of medicine. During sessions, I focus on the here-and-now and use a variety of tools to help my clients move forward. My work is characterized by compassion, collaboration, optimism, warmth and hope.
Cynthia Baxter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33133 (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Michelle Baxter, I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I see patients for mental wellness. I have been a nurse for many years and pursued my passion to help more patients overcome the stigma of mental disorders. I listen to patient problems and work with patients to develop the best treatment, backed by research and proven outcomes. I provide patient-centered care by listening to what is most important to each patient. I treat patients, not their diagnosis. I incorporate mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, and whole-body wellness for optimum improvement.
Hi there! My name is Michelle Baxter, I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I see patients for mental wellness. I have been a nurse for many years and pursued my passion to help more patients overcome the stigma of mental disorders. I listen to patient problems and work with patients to develop the best treatment, backed by research and proven outcomes. I provide patient-centered care by listening to what is most important to each patient. I treat patients, not their diagnosis. I incorporate mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, and whole-body wellness for optimum improvement.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
See more therapy options for Coconut Grove
Nearby Searches for Coconut Grove
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Coconut Grove, FL
10+
Average cost per session
$247
Psychiatrists in Coconut Grove, FL who prioritize treating:
90% | Depression |
90% | Anxiety |
80% | Medication Management |
70% | ADHD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Bipolar Disorder |
60% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Coconut Grove, FL see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Coconut Grove?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.