Psychiatrists in Doral, FL

Photo of Dinar Sajan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dinar Sajan
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
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.
(305) 676-8346 View (305) 676-8346
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Doral, FL 33178
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(239) 510-8324 View (239) 510-8324
Photo of Harmony United Psychiatric Care - 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!
(561) 363-5874 View (561) 363-5874
Photo of Lyssa Brooks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Lyssa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Doral, FL 33178
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
(239) 990-5612 View (239) 990-5612
Photo of Rochelle Bradley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Rochelle Bradley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are someone who is seeking a thoughtful, collaborative, and effective approach to mental health care, this is for you. Are you experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD and are motivated to find solutions that help you feel more balanced and in control of your life? Do you value a personalized approach and are eager to explore strategies like brief psychotherapy and/or medication management to achieve your goals. Are you seeking a provider who listens, understands, and works with you to create meaningful change in your mental health journey?
If you are someone who is seeking a thoughtful, collaborative, and effective approach to mental health care, this is for you. Are you experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD and are motivated to find solutions that help you feel more balanced and in control of your life? Do you value a personalized approach and are eager to explore strategies like brief psychotherapy and/or medication management to achieve your goals. Are you seeking a provider who listens, understands, and works with you to create meaningful change in your mental health journey?
(786) 998-3034 View (786) 998-3034
Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
Doral, FL 33178
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
(239) 977-5843 View (239) 977-5843
Photo of Dinorah Rodriguez Regalado, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Dinorah Rodriguez Regalado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
Doral, FL 33166
Dinorah Rodriguez, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, CEO and founder of Miami Healing Solutions, Inc., is a highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner on a mission to break the stigma around mental health. Her leadership ensures every patient receives compassionate, personalized care for lasting wellness.
Dinorah Rodriguez, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, CEO and founder of Miami Healing Solutions, Inc., is a highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner on a mission to break the stigma around mental health. Her leadership ensures every patient receives compassionate, personalized care for lasting wellness.
(786) 982-7587 View (786) 982-7587
Photo of Alberto Sanchez - Happy Minds Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Happy Minds Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Doral, FL 33166
Happy Minds Wellness Center is an Outpatient/Telemedicine psychiatric clinic offering expert consultation, evaluation & treatment to clients with mental health disorders. Our Board-Certified psychiatric clinicians are dedicated to providing optimal individualized, one-on-one psychiatric care. We focus on each client’s unique mental health care needs and intervene them with treatment options customized to their specific goals. At Happy Minds we specialize in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, & many more. Our vision at Happy Minds is to provide you with the tools need to be happy, balanced, and to live life to the fullest.
Happy Minds Wellness Center is an Outpatient/Telemedicine psychiatric clinic offering expert consultation, evaluation & treatment to clients with mental health disorders. Our Board-Certified psychiatric clinicians are dedicated to providing optimal individualized, one-on-one psychiatric care. We focus on each client’s unique mental health care needs and intervene them with treatment options customized to their specific goals. At Happy Minds we specialize in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, & many more. Our vision at Happy Minds is to provide you with the tools need to be happy, balanced, and to live life to the fullest.
(786) 244-7637 View (786) 244-7637
Photo of Caleb Evan Combs, Psychiatrist, MD
Caleb Evan Combs
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Studying and practicing in South Florida, I have had the privilege or working with clients of all ages, walks of life, and diverse cultural backgrounds. I enjoy learning about each persons' unique needs and perspectives. In residency, fellowship, and continued study, I have been able to treat a wide variety of concerns using evidence-based medication management and therapy: including depression, anxiety, mania, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, suicidality, issues of grief, situational stress, and also goals for personal growth, relationships and development. I welcome people of all backgrounds and orientations.
Studying and practicing in South Florida, I have had the privilege or working with clients of all ages, walks of life, and diverse cultural backgrounds. I enjoy learning about each persons' unique needs and perspectives. In residency, fellowship, and continued study, I have been able to treat a wide variety of concerns using evidence-based medication management and therapy: including depression, anxiety, mania, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, suicidality, issues of grief, situational stress, and also goals for personal growth, relationships and development. I welcome people of all backgrounds and orientations.
(786) 386-1191 View (786) 386-1191
Photo of Miguel Diaz - Community Behavioral Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Community Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Doral, FL 33126
Community Behavioral Health (CBH) was created by a group of mental Health providers to provide outpatient mental health services in Florida We believe in practicing integrative and holistic psychiatry with all our patients. This is an approach that looks at all aspects of your life including: mental, physical, and spiritual health.All new patients start with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation that includes pharmacogenetic testing to make sure that their treatment plan and medication recommendations are tailored according to their specific patient needs. Our plans include medication management and Therapy services
Community Behavioral Health (CBH) was created by a group of mental Health providers to provide outpatient mental health services in Florida We believe in practicing integrative and holistic psychiatry with all our patients. This is an approach that looks at all aspects of your life including: mental, physical, and spiritual health.All new patients start with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation that includes pharmacogenetic testing to make sure that their treatment plan and medication recommendations are tailored according to their specific patient needs. Our plans include medication management and Therapy services
(305) 493-8759 View (305) 493-8759
Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
Doral, FL 33178
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
(239) 579-9783 View (239) 579-9783
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, Psychiatrist, MD
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
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!
(786) 733-6303 View (786) 733-6303
Photo of Mehdi Bubba Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mehdi Bubba Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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!
(561) 269-5808 View (561) 269-5808
Photo of Gianinne M Alvarez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
Gianinne M Alvarez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal client is a functional adult who’s doing their best to manage daily life—work, school, relationships—but feels emotionally stuck or mentally exhausted. They may be dealing with anxiety, ADHD, depression, or a mood disorder that makes it hard to stay motivated, focused, or emotionally steady. They often describe feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or like they’re constantly “pushing through.” Many have never seen a psychiatric provider before, or they’ve tried treatment in the past that didn’t quite work for them. They’re not in crisis, but they know something needs to change. What they want is to feel more like themselves.
My ideal client is a functional adult who’s doing their best to manage daily life—work, school, relationships—but feels emotionally stuck or mentally exhausted. They may be dealing with anxiety, ADHD, depression, or a mood disorder that makes it hard to stay motivated, focused, or emotionally steady. They often describe feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or like they’re constantly “pushing through.” Many have never seen a psychiatric provider before, or they’ve tried treatment in the past that didn’t quite work for them. They’re not in crisis, but they know something needs to change. What they want is to feel more like themselves.
(786) 550-2503 View (786) 550-2503
Photo of Lourdes Velazquez Perez - Envision Mindcare, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Envision Mindcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
(786) 220-1969 View (786) 220-1969
Photo of Sandra R. Pelaez-Munsey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Sandra R. Pelaez-Munsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my approach to mental health care is holistic and patient-centered in nature. I respect the autonomy of my patients and promote aligned treatment goals and collaboration in practice. I work with children, adolescents and adults exhibiting a wide range of psychiatric symptoms and stressors. I use evidence-based treatments to improve self-efficacy and restore a sense of equilibrium.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my approach to mental health care is holistic and patient-centered in nature. I respect the autonomy of my patients and promote aligned treatment goals and collaboration in practice. I work with children, adolescents and adults exhibiting a wide range of psychiatric symptoms and stressors. I use evidence-based treatments to improve self-efficacy and restore a sense of equilibrium.
(863) 588-7489 View (863) 588-7489
Photo of Kenny Perez - ElevateTMS Doral, Psychiatrist, MD
ElevateTMS Doral
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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!
(786) 590-0759 View (786) 590-0759
Photo of Yenia Torres, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Yenia Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, and thank you for being here. I’m Yenia Torres, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a background as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in providing thoughtful, compassionate mental health care across the lifespan — from children to adolescents, adults, and older adults.
Hello, and thank you for being here. I’m Yenia Torres, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a background as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in providing thoughtful, compassionate mental health care across the lifespan — from children to adolescents, adults, and older adults.
(833) 773-7431 View (833) 773-7431
Photo of Maria Botero - Envision Mindcare LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, ACNPCAG
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, ACNPCAG
Serves Area
Maria Botero,APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, ACNPC-AG Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental wellness. With a passion for mental health and a dedication to compassionate care. My mission is to provide comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric care that promotes healing, resilience, and overall well-being. I am dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, striving to create a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, heard, and empowered to seek the help they deserve.
Maria Botero,APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, ACNPC-AG Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental wellness. With a passion for mental health and a dedication to compassionate care. My mission is to provide comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric care that promotes healing, resilience, and overall well-being. I am dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, striving to create a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, heard, and empowered to seek the help they deserve.
(786) 220-1969 View (786) 220-1969
Photo of Randy T Warner, Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Randy T Warner
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Serves Area
Each and every individual is unique and has had their own collective experience to shape the person that they have become. Also, each and every individual has variances in how they might respond to standard or novel treatments. Decades of experience in post-residency training and thousands of patients of all ages later have shaped my treatment approach. That would be one that is extremely methodical. You can be assured that every step along the way will be executed to the highest professional standards. I will work tirelessly to see that you are returned to your baseline functioning and won't stop trying until that is attained.
Each and every individual is unique and has had their own collective experience to shape the person that they have become. Also, each and every individual has variances in how they might respond to standard or novel treatments. Decades of experience in post-residency training and thousands of patients of all ages later have shaped my treatment approach. That would be one that is extremely methodical. You can be assured that every step along the way will be executed to the highest professional standards. I will work tirelessly to see that you are returned to your baseline functioning and won't stop trying until that is attained.
(786) 220-1969 View (786) 220-1969

See more therapy options for Doral

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Doral, FL

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Doral, FL who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
93% Anxiety
86% ADHD
86% Trauma and PTSD
83% Medication Management
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Doral, FL see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Doral?

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.