Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL

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Photo of Gundu Reddy - Online Psychiatrist in Jacksonville, Florida, Psychiatrist, MD , MBBS
Online Psychiatrist in Jacksonville, Florida
Psychiatrist, MD , MBBS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Practicing in New York City. Due to requests, I have started providing tele-psychiatry services in Tennessee. I have really enjoyed learning meeting my patients in the South and learning a new culture and way of life. I have trained in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, depression, irritability, anxiety, OCD insomnia, wanting to perform better at work the core principles of symptom treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Practicing in New York City. Due to requests, I have started providing tele-psychiatry services in Tennessee. I have really enjoyed learning meeting my patients in the South and learning a new culture and way of life. I have trained in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, depression, irritability, anxiety, OCD insomnia, wanting to perform better at work the core principles of symptom treatment are often similar.
(904) 675-1124 View (904) 675-1124
Photo of Arlene Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Arlene Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I’m Arlene Johnson, an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 15 years of nursing experience and the last 5 years dedicated to mental and behavioral health, I provide high-quality, holistic mental health services tailored to your individual needs. My passion is helping clients achieve their best mental wellness through compassionate, competent care. I’m here to listen, support, and guide you on your journey to optimal mental health. Your well-being is my priority, and I look forward to being a part of your healing process.
Welcome! I’m Arlene Johnson, an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 15 years of nursing experience and the last 5 years dedicated to mental and behavioral health, I provide high-quality, holistic mental health services tailored to your individual needs. My passion is helping clients achieve their best mental wellness through compassionate, competent care. I’m here to listen, support, and guide you on your journey to optimal mental health. Your well-being is my priority, and I look forward to being a part of your healing process.
(904) 690-5440 View (904) 690-5440
Photo of Bridget Straub - Pacifica Care, Psychiatrist
Pacifica Care
Psychiatrist
Not Verified Not Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32225
Located in Jacksonville FL, Pacifica Care offers Psychiatry Services, Professional Counselors and Medication Management. Our trained medical and therapy staff provide medical screening medication management services and counseling. Our intent is to provide services that help each individual achieve their optimal mental health and peace of mind. Our goal is to help our patients effectively deal with life's challenges and move forward.
Located in Jacksonville FL, Pacifica Care offers Psychiatry Services, Professional Counselors and Medication Management. Our trained medical and therapy staff provide medical screening medication management services and counseling. Our intent is to provide services that help each individual achieve their optimal mental health and peace of mind. Our goal is to help our patients effectively deal with life's challenges and move forward.
(904) 747-8391 View (904) 747-8391
Photo of Chyade Dobson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Chyade Dobson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32257
I specialize in optimizing medication management, psychotherapy, and interventional services including Ketamine, Spravado, TMS, and SGB to address various mental health conditions including trauma, depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, marital/relationships, adjustment disorders, grief, parenting, and insomnia. I am dedicated to helping clients overcome distress and gain peace, autonomy, and consistency.
I specialize in optimizing medication management, psychotherapy, and interventional services including Ketamine, Spravado, TMS, and SGB to address various mental health conditions including trauma, depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, marital/relationships, adjustment disorders, grief, parenting, and insomnia. I am dedicated to helping clients overcome distress and gain peace, autonomy, and consistency.
(904) 966-4667 View (904) 966-4667
Photo of Brence Brooks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Brence Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
(786) 755-3510 View (786) 755-3510
Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations, talk therapy, and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Virtual Psychiatric Care offers affordable personalized services to everyone. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting Medicare and insurances
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations, talk therapy, and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Virtual Psychiatric Care offers affordable personalized services to everyone. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting Medicare and insurances
(833) 653-5203 View (833) 653-5203
Photo of Seth Mandel, Psychiatrist, MD
Seth Mandel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Mandel received his Bachelor of Arts and Doctor of Medicine degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. He completed his Residency in Psychiatry at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Manhattan. He has been board certified in psychiatry since 2001 and is a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has held numerous clinical and academic appointments including serving as Chairperson of Psychiatry at Huntington Hospital in Huntington, New York, and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine.
Dr. Mandel received his Bachelor of Arts and Doctor of Medicine degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. He completed his Residency in Psychiatry at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Manhattan. He has been board certified in psychiatry since 2001 and is a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has held numerous clinical and academic appointments including serving as Chairperson of Psychiatry at Huntington Hospital in Huntington, New York, and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine.
(904) 822-4193 View (904) 822-4193
Photo of Michael Richard Martin, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael Richard Martin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
I help adult patients to include general psychiatry and mental health issues. If you are suffering with addictions, ADD, ADHD, anxiety, or depression, let me help you overcome these problems. We will work together with a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy when needed. You and your loved ones will see improvements in your overall health and well-being.
I help adult patients to include general psychiatry and mental health issues. If you are suffering with addictions, ADD, ADHD, anxiety, or depression, let me help you overcome these problems. We will work together with a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy when needed. You and your loved ones will see improvements in your overall health and well-being.
(904) 906-9187 View (904) 906-9187
Photo of Dr. Bih Bikelle, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Bih Bikelle
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Bih Bikelle is a compassionate psychiatrist based in Florida, dedicated to creating a warm and welcoming environment for her patients. She focuses on empowering individuals to actively participate in their healing journey. Specialized in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, she combines medication management with psychotherapy techniques during 30-minute sessions. She utilizes evidence-based practices tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.lle is an experienced psychiatrist in Florida, bringing over 11 years of dedicated service to adults and children facing emotional disturbances.
Dr. Bih Bikelle is a compassionate psychiatrist based in Florida, dedicated to creating a warm and welcoming environment for her patients. She focuses on empowering individuals to actively participate in their healing journey. Specialized in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, she combines medication management with psychotherapy techniques during 30-minute sessions. She utilizes evidence-based practices tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.lle is an experienced psychiatrist in Florida, bringing over 11 years of dedicated service to adults and children facing emotional disturbances.
(904) 506-1949 View (904) 506-1949
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32277
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(321) 218-5892 View (321) 218-5892
Photo of Aimee Roberts-Serrato, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Aimee Roberts-Serrato
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223
People struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and others. You need someone who will listen, ask questions, and listen again. Trust in the relationship between yourself and your PMHNP is imperative. Without it, you have nothing. Trust leads to medication adherence, attending follow-up appointments, improved communication, rapport, and understanding. People want to be able to smile and mean it, enjoy their hobbies, find purpose, achieve their goals, and live their life in a way that is genuine to them. These are my goals when we work together.
People struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and others. You need someone who will listen, ask questions, and listen again. Trust in the relationship between yourself and your PMHNP is imperative. Without it, you have nothing. Trust leads to medication adherence, attending follow-up appointments, improved communication, rapport, and understanding. People want to be able to smile and mean it, enjoy their hobbies, find purpose, achieve their goals, and live their life in a way that is genuine to them. These are my goals when we work together.
(904) 299-1607 View (904) 299-1607
Photo of Iaisa Bloom, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Iaisa Bloom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I'm a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner based in Florida .
Hi! I'm a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner based in Florida .
(786) 776-2746 View (786) 776-2746
Photo of Reaghan Hicks, Psychiatrist, MD
Reaghan Hicks
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Reaghan Hicks is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General and Addiction Psychiatry. She completed her undergraduate training at The College of Charleston followed by medical school at The University of South Carolina School of Medicine. Dr. Hicks completed Residency in General Psychiatry at The University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville followed by Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at The Medical University of South Carolina.
Dr. Reaghan Hicks is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General and Addiction Psychiatry. She completed her undergraduate training at The College of Charleston followed by medical school at The University of South Carolina School of Medicine. Dr. Hicks completed Residency in General Psychiatry at The University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville followed by Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at The Medical University of South Carolina.
(904) 267-1629 View (904) 267-1629
Photo of Jennifer Richie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Jennifer Richie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Dr. Jennifer Richie, DNP, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). My journey includes earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from Chamberlain University, a graduate degree from Georgetown University, and an undergraduate degree from Drexel University. With a background in child and adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, and addiction medicine, I'm committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to both adolescents and adults.
I'm Dr. Jennifer Richie, DNP, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). My journey includes earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from Chamberlain University, a graduate degree from Georgetown University, and an undergraduate degree from Drexel University. With a background in child and adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, and addiction medicine, I'm committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to both adolescents and adults.
(904) 552-9064 x9835 View (904) 552-9064 x9835
Photo of Brence Brooks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Brence Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
(561) 269-0783 View (561) 269-0783
Photo of Dr. Sonal Goswami, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Dr. Sonal Goswami
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with children, teenagers, young adults, men & women upto age 50 to evaluate-treat for anxiety, depression, ADHD (nontstimulant) ,autism, sleep issues, gender dysphoria, college transition struggle & premenstrual and mood issues related to reproductive years in female. Work with children and parents regarding addressing school issues, parenting style, addressing adjustment issues related to life. Personal interest in working with chronic medical illness like type 1 diabetes, cystic fibrosis, genetic dx and affecting their mood. Provide comprehensive psychiatric consultation and if appropriate provide treatment follow up.
I work with children, teenagers, young adults, men & women upto age 50 to evaluate-treat for anxiety, depression, ADHD (nontstimulant) ,autism, sleep issues, gender dysphoria, college transition struggle & premenstrual and mood issues related to reproductive years in female. Work with children and parents regarding addressing school issues, parenting style, addressing adjustment issues related to life. Personal interest in working with chronic medical illness like type 1 diabetes, cystic fibrosis, genetic dx and affecting their mood. Provide comprehensive psychiatric consultation and if appropriate provide treatment follow up.
(904) 822-3629 View (904) 822-3629
Photo of Dr. Michelle Zaydlin, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Michelle Zaydlin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Michelle Zaydlin is a board-certified psychiatrist who has experience in caring for diverse patient populations presenting with an array of diagnoses. Her interests include neurodevelopmental disorders (autism, ADHD), mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and comorbid medical conditions. She has completed internships in pediatric neuropsychology and worked as a behavior therapist, delivering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, enriching her understanding of development and neurocognitive functioning.
Dr. Michelle Zaydlin is a board-certified psychiatrist who has experience in caring for diverse patient populations presenting with an array of diagnoses. Her interests include neurodevelopmental disorders (autism, ADHD), mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and comorbid medical conditions. She has completed internships in pediatric neuropsychology and worked as a behavior therapist, delivering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, enriching her understanding of development and neurocognitive functioning.
(904) 529-0734 View (904) 529-0734
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Myrtil, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jonathan Myrtil
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Jonathan Myrtil is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He received his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine and completed his Residency in Adult Psychiatry at the University of Central Florida affiliated with North Florida Regional Medical Center. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Myrtil stayed on at North Florida Regional as an Adult Psychiatrist and supervising physician where he treated patients from diverse settings including inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization and IOP.
Dr. Jonathan Myrtil is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He received his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine and completed his Residency in Adult Psychiatry at the University of Central Florida affiliated with North Florida Regional Medical Center. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Myrtil stayed on at North Florida Regional as an Adult Psychiatrist and supervising physician where he treated patients from diverse settings including inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization and IOP.
(904) 368-6017 View (904) 368-6017
Photo of Dr. Ana Rodriguez, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ana Rodriguez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Rodriguez is an adult psychiatrist, who is fluent in Spanish and English. She emphasizes psychoeducation in collaborating with patients to help tailor a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Rodriguez has a patient-centered approach, combined with a passion for optimizing sleep as part of managing psychiatric illness. She offers supportive therapy during medication management visits, and may also offer cognitive behavioral therapy and/or recommend adding a therapist to your care team to optimize outcomes.
Dr. Rodriguez is an adult psychiatrist, who is fluent in Spanish and English. She emphasizes psychoeducation in collaborating with patients to help tailor a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Rodriguez has a patient-centered approach, combined with a passion for optimizing sleep as part of managing psychiatric illness. She offers supportive therapy during medication management visits, and may also offer cognitive behavioral therapy and/or recommend adding a therapist to your care team to optimize outcomes.
(904) 901-6867 View (904) 901-6867
Photo of Victoria Lane, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Victoria Lane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Victoria Lane, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults.
My name is Victoria Lane, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults.
(904) 822-7235 View (904) 822-7235
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See more therapy options for Duval County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL

300+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
95% Depression
84% Bipolar Disorder
77% Medication Management
76% ADHD
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Aetna
78% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL see their clients

64% Online Only
36% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
24% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Duval County?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.