Psychiatrists in Flagler County, FL

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Photo of Tolu Oduyejo-Williams - HavenNexus Family Psychiatry, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
HavenNexus Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32137
At HavenNexus Family Psychiatry, we utilize an integrative and personalized approach to assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients across the lifespan with medication management, starting from age 6 to adulthood. Each patient's treatment plan is individualized as there is no one size fits all. We are open 6 days a week to accommodate patient's needs and motivate patients to play an active role in their journey towards mental wellness.
At HavenNexus Family Psychiatry, we utilize an integrative and personalized approach to assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients across the lifespan with medication management, starting from age 6 to adulthood. Each patient's treatment plan is individualized as there is no one size fits all. We are open 6 days a week to accommodate patient's needs and motivate patients to play an active role in their journey towards mental wellness.
(386) 465-3454 View (386) 465-3454
Mohammad Farooque
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, ABPN
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32137
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist Medical Director of Craft Behavioral Health LLC and Clinical Assistant Professor Osteopathic Medicine. I treat Patients in Florida, Georgia. Most insurances accepted as well as cash patients. Treating all Psychiatric conditions and addiction. We accept Children, Adolescents, Adults and Senior Adults. I worked at various famous universities in the past. I completed my residency in Psychiatry at the University of Missouri, Kansas City. In addition to M.D., I have a Ph.D. degree in Neuroscience, from the Uppsala University in Sweden.
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist Medical Director of Craft Behavioral Health LLC and Clinical Assistant Professor Osteopathic Medicine. I treat Patients in Florida, Georgia. Most insurances accepted as well as cash patients. Treating all Psychiatric conditions and addiction. We accept Children, Adolescents, Adults and Senior Adults. I worked at various famous universities in the past. I completed my residency in Psychiatry at the University of Missouri, Kansas City. In addition to M.D., I have a Ph.D. degree in Neuroscience, from the Uppsala University in Sweden.
(904) 342-6037 View (904) 342-6037
Photo of Michelle Baxter, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Baxter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32137
Now accepting new patients! Multiple insurances accepted, sliding scale cash pay option that is affordable. Virtual (telehealth) and in person appointments available. Experienced mental health provider treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and mood disorders. You are more than just a diagnosis. I will listen and we will determine together what is the best treatment!
Now accepting new patients! Multiple insurances accepted, sliding scale cash pay option that is affordable. Virtual (telehealth) and in person appointments available. Experienced mental health provider treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and mood disorders. You are more than just a diagnosis. I will listen and we will determine together what is the best treatment!
(386) 230-0402 View (386) 230-0402
Photo of Sonia Reisdorf, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sonia Reisdorf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32137
Currently accepting NEW Patients! I'm psychiatric nurse practitioner with additional training and experience in addiction medicine. I'm dual board certified in both Adult Geriatrics and Psychiatry with an extensive experience treating mental health and addiction. I look forward to working with you.
Currently accepting NEW Patients! I'm psychiatric nurse practitioner with additional training and experience in addiction medicine. I'm dual board certified in both Adult Geriatrics and Psychiatry with an extensive experience treating mental health and addiction. I look forward to working with you.
(386) 319-4699 View (386) 319-4699
Photo of Dr. Jared T. Ritter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jared T. Ritter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32137
My patients start with a goal for their brain health. This is one of the most important steps in getting a bearing and discovering the best path forward. How is your brain? What's it doing well? What could be improved? Is there anything that you would like to change in terms of how you think, feel, or behave? After completing a new patient evaluation, we will work together to develop a plan of care that is based upon your brain health goal. The brain is complex, and finding a solution to improve its functioning and your quality of life is a journey you don't have to go at alone.
My patients start with a goal for their brain health. This is one of the most important steps in getting a bearing and discovering the best path forward. How is your brain? What's it doing well? What could be improved? Is there anything that you would like to change in terms of how you think, feel, or behave? After completing a new patient evaluation, we will work together to develop a plan of care that is based upon your brain health goal. The brain is complex, and finding a solution to improve its functioning and your quality of life is a journey you don't have to go at alone.
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Photo of Rhonda Richardson - Sunshine Psychiatric Care, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sunshine Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Rhonda, I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing individualized care through a holistic and person-centered approach. I believe each person is unique and aim to preserve that uniqueness by formulating a treatment plan that best fits the individual. I pride myself in providing my patients with a treatment approach that is warm and compassionate, with a goal of delivering individualized, holistic, and evidence-based psychiatric care for clients in Florida who are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, down, or with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD.
My name is Rhonda, I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing individualized care through a holistic and person-centered approach. I believe each person is unique and aim to preserve that uniqueness by formulating a treatment plan that best fits the individual. I pride myself in providing my patients with a treatment approach that is warm and compassionate, with a goal of delivering individualized, holistic, and evidence-based psychiatric care for clients in Florida who are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, down, or with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD.
(386) 230-9534 View (386) 230-9534
Photo of Brandi Starks, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandi Starks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to delivering comprehensive mental health care to individuals of all ages. With over 500 hours of supervised clinical experience, I specialize in managing a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, and mood disorders. My approach is deeply rooted in holistic and culturally sensitive care, ensuring that each patient receives tailored and effective treatment.
I’m a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to delivering comprehensive mental health care to individuals of all ages. With over 500 hours of supervised clinical experience, I specialize in managing a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, and mood disorders. My approach is deeply rooted in holistic and culturally sensitive care, ensuring that each patient receives tailored and effective treatment.
(813) 750-0816 View (813) 750-0816
Photo of Deshaunah Dixon, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deshaunah Dixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32164
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgmental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgmental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
(843) 483-1474 View (843) 483-1474
Photo of Arthur Brouse, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Arthur Brouse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Arthur "Eddie" Brouse is a board-certified, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specializing in psychiatric mental health, at Advanced TelePsych. In his own words, "Mental illness is something that is extremely personal, yet often affects more than just one person. Worry, sadness, or feeling overwhelmed are only a few symptoms which cause difficulty for a person to function normally. Is there something that isn’t quite right which causes you trouble? Have you noticed your mood or issues have been affecting not just you, but also those around you? Are you isolating, or feeling alone? Do you feel the roller coaster is out of control?"
Arthur "Eddie" Brouse is a board-certified, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specializing in psychiatric mental health, at Advanced TelePsych. In his own words, "Mental illness is something that is extremely personal, yet often affects more than just one person. Worry, sadness, or feeling overwhelmed are only a few symptoms which cause difficulty for a person to function normally. Is there something that isn’t quite right which causes you trouble? Have you noticed your mood or issues have been affecting not just you, but also those around you? Are you isolating, or feeling alone? Do you feel the roller coaster is out of control?"
(888) 344-3893 View (888) 344-3893
Photo of Henry Owens, PA, Physician Assistant
Henry Owens
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Henry J. Owens is a highly skilled physician assistant based in Clearwater, Florida. With a strong background in various medical fields, Henry has developed expertise in treating chronic kidney disease, asthma, and bronchitis. Additionally, he has a notable proficiency in weight loss management, helping patients achieve and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Henry is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to all his patients, ensuring their health and well-being are always prioritized.
Henry J. Owens is a highly skilled physician assistant based in Clearwater, Florida. With a strong background in various medical fields, Henry has developed expertise in treating chronic kidney disease, asthma, and bronchitis. Additionally, he has a notable proficiency in weight loss management, helping patients achieve and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Henry is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to all his patients, ensuring their health and well-being are always prioritized.
(561) 934-3101 View (561) 934-3101
Photo of Safir Azam Md Telepsychiatry Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Safir Azam Md Telepsychiatry Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My goal is Pharmacological Precision so as to find the right medication in first trial instead of making patients suffer from trails and errors . My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London Hospital UK for 4 years followed by a Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY & a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the UF. I have a fellowship training in psychoanalysis from NYU .
My goal is Pharmacological Precision so as to find the right medication in first trial instead of making patients suffer from trails and errors . My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London Hospital UK for 4 years followed by a Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY & a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the UF. I have a fellowship training in psychoanalysis from NYU .
(305) 614-8923 View (305) 614-8923
Photo of Heather Luing - Florida Center for TMS, MD, Psychiatrist
Florida Center for TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Florida Center for TMS is a specialized psychiatry clinic that specializes in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as well as other advanced psychiatric treatments. Dr. Luing and Dr. Broder are board certified psychiatrists offering this FDA approved treatment to patients in St Johns, Duval, Clay, Putnam, and Flagler counties. TMS is approved by the FDA for treatment resistant depression and is covered by all major insurance including Medicare for this indication. TMS is also used for off label indications including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, and cognitive enhancement for an affordable cash pay rate.
Florida Center for TMS is a specialized psychiatry clinic that specializes in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as well as other advanced psychiatric treatments. Dr. Luing and Dr. Broder are board certified psychiatrists offering this FDA approved treatment to patients in St Johns, Duval, Clay, Putnam, and Flagler counties. TMS is approved by the FDA for treatment resistant depression and is covered by all major insurance including Medicare for this indication. TMS is also used for off label indications including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, and cognitive enhancement for an affordable cash pay rate.
(833) 651-1990 View (833) 651-1990
Photo of Dr. Kevin Joseph - Insight Psychiatric Services PA, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Insight Psychiatric Services PA
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Insight Psychiatric Services, PA, offers high-quality mental health care that patients can rely on. Experienced board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Kevin Joseph, DNP, PMHNP-BC, provides time-limited therapy and medication management virtually throughout the state of Florida.
Insight Psychiatric Services, PA, offers high-quality mental health care that patients can rely on. Experienced board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Kevin Joseph, DNP, PMHNP-BC, provides time-limited therapy and medication management virtually throughout the state of Florida.
(954) 466-3354 View (954) 466-3354
Photo of De-Shaunah Dixon, DNP, APRN, PMMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
De-Shaunah Dixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgmental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgmental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
(954) 715-4365 View (954) 715-4365
Photo of Todd Broder - Florida Center for TMS, MD, Psychiatrist
Florida Center for TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Now Offering Medication Management and therapy! We are specialists in depression and anxiety. Stop just existing and start living! Our cutting edge treatments can help. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine (Spravato) are safe, FDA cleared treatments used to treat depression and covered by insurance. Contact us to learn more information or visit our website www.floridacenterfortms.com. Providing TMS in STA since 2017. Let our board certified, nationally known psychiatrists and well trained psychiatric NP/PA find treatment options for you. Three convenient locations: St Augustine, Ponte Vedra and downtown Orlando.
Now Offering Medication Management and therapy! We are specialists in depression and anxiety. Stop just existing and start living! Our cutting edge treatments can help. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine (Spravato) are safe, FDA cleared treatments used to treat depression and covered by insurance. Contact us to learn more information or visit our website www.floridacenterfortms.com. Providing TMS in STA since 2017. Let our board certified, nationally known psychiatrists and well trained psychiatric NP/PA find treatment options for you. Three convenient locations: St Augustine, Ponte Vedra and downtown Orlando.
(904) 495-7103 View (904) 495-7103
Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Osadolor, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Uhunoma Osadolor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you searching for a compassionate, experienced mental health provider specializing in comprehensive assessments and testing for ADHD, Adult Autism, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), and Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)? I’m here to guide you. With years of clinical experience in mental health and behavioral assessments, my approach is rooted in empathy and evidence-based practices, ensuring each client receives accurate insights and individualized care. I offer ADHD Testing, Adult Autism Testing, and Borderline Personality Disorder Testing.
Are you searching for a compassionate, experienced mental health provider specializing in comprehensive assessments and testing for ADHD, Adult Autism, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), and Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)? I’m here to guide you. With years of clinical experience in mental health and behavioral assessments, my approach is rooted in empathy and evidence-based practices, ensuring each client receives accurate insights and individualized care. I offer ADHD Testing, Adult Autism Testing, and Borderline Personality Disorder Testing.
(716) 354-1233 View (716) 354-1233
Photo of Shinika Clark, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Shinika Clark
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Shinika Clark, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, leads Renew, Restore, Revise Psychiatric Services with compassion and expertise. Embracing each individual's uniqueness, Shinika crafts personalized treatment plans that address specific needs and promote holistic well-being. In Florida and beyond, Shinika supports individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and insomnia. Her approach combines warmth, empathy, and evidence-based care to foster a safe and supportive environment.
Shinika Clark, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, leads Renew, Restore, Revise Psychiatric Services with compassion and expertise. Embracing each individual's uniqueness, Shinika crafts personalized treatment plans that address specific needs and promote holistic well-being. In Florida and beyond, Shinika supports individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and insomnia. Her approach combines warmth, empathy, and evidence-based care to foster a safe and supportive environment.
(727) 485-0575 View (727) 485-0575
Photo of Roxanne C. Swistock, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Roxanne C. Swistock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I’m Roxy. I have been an adult nurse practitioner for 10 years and I reside in Central PA. I have a passion for authenticity and connecting with my patients on a personal level. Throughout my practice experiences, I have found the best outcomes for patients are provided when we, the providers, understand the patient's needs and desires as they relate to reaching our treatment goals. By helping patients reach their healthcare goals, physically, mentally, emotionally, and aesthetically, I hope to add an extra touch of caring and compassion to your healthcare experience.
Hello, I’m Roxy. I have been an adult nurse practitioner for 10 years and I reside in Central PA. I have a passion for authenticity and connecting with my patients on a personal level. Throughout my practice experiences, I have found the best outcomes for patients are provided when we, the providers, understand the patient's needs and desires as they relate to reaching our treatment goals. By helping patients reach their healthcare goals, physically, mentally, emotionally, and aesthetically, I hope to add an extra touch of caring and compassion to your healthcare experience.
(717) 942-9352 View (717) 942-9352

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Vandana Kethini, MD, Psychiatrist
Vandana Kethini
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Kethini is a board-certified psychiatrist in General psychiatry. She completed her medical degree from St. George’s university school of medicine in Grenada. After completing her residency at Bergen New Bridge Medical center, she transitioned to an attending psychiatrist at the same place where she completed her residency. During her initial years as an attending, she took care of her own patients and supervised third year residents in the outpatient setting. After a few years she transitioned to an inpatient setting treating both voluntary and involuntary patients.
Dr. Kethini is a board-certified psychiatrist in General psychiatry. She completed her medical degree from St. George’s university school of medicine in Grenada. After completing her residency at Bergen New Bridge Medical center, she transitioned to an attending psychiatrist at the same place where she completed her residency. During her initial years as an attending, she took care of her own patients and supervised third year residents in the outpatient setting. After a few years she transitioned to an inpatient setting treating both voluntary and involuntary patients.
(856) 588-1048 View (856) 588-1048
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Online Only
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
(772) 212-8364 View (772) 212-8364

See more therapy options for Flagler County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Flagler County, FL

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Flagler County, FL who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
89% ADHD
83% Bipolar Disorder
78% Medication Management
56% Trauma and PTSD
44% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Flagler County, FL see their clients

55% Online Only
45% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Flagler 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.