Psychiatrists in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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Photo of Rajimol Raju, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Rajimol Raju
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33331
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through the ANCC with a multi-state license (FL,MT,AZ,WA,More). My philosophy centers on holistic care, addressing immediate crises and the entire person. I am dedicated to educating others on the vital importance of mental health, equating it with physical health in its significance. I believe everyone has the potential to lead a fulfilling life, regardless of their circumstances, choices, or past experiences. Our mission is to make quality mental health care accessible to all. Our clients benefit from a variety of evidence-based approaches, including CBT and DBT I
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through the ANCC with a multi-state license (FL,MT,AZ,WA,More). My philosophy centers on holistic care, addressing immediate crises and the entire person. I am dedicated to educating others on the vital importance of mental health, equating it with physical health in its significance. I believe everyone has the potential to lead a fulfilling life, regardless of their circumstances, choices, or past experiences. Our mission is to make quality mental health care accessible to all. Our clients benefit from a variety of evidence-based approaches, including CBT and DBT I
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of Regina Maria Carney, Psychiatrist, MD
Regina Maria Carney
Psychiatrist, MD
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
My ideal client is someone struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mood disorders, often feeling stuck despite trying various treatments. They seek relief, emotional stability, and a better quality of life. Their goal is to overcome symptoms and achieve sustained recovery, so they can rediscover joy, balance, and purpose in life. They want personalized, compassionate care, including innovative options like TMS and Spravato, to address their unique needs and help them regain control of their mental well-being.
My ideal client is someone struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mood disorders, often feeling stuck despite trying various treatments. They seek relief, emotional stability, and a better quality of life. Their goal is to overcome symptoms and achieve sustained recovery, so they can rediscover joy, balance, and purpose in life. They want personalized, compassionate care, including innovative options like TMS and Spravato, to address their unique needs and help them regain control of their mental well-being.
(954) 960-3557 View (954) 960-3557
Photo of Lyssa Brooks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Lyssa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
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.
(954) 505-8465 View (954) 505-8465
Photo of Jacqueline Carlson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacqueline Carlson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I'm dedicated to helping people navigate mental health challenges and achieve wellness. My approach is collaborative and empowering, recognizing patients as experts of their own lives while providing professional guidance. I'm committed to continuous learning and growth, ensuring I offer the best possible care to support individuals on their journey to better mental health.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I'm dedicated to helping people navigate mental health challenges and achieve wellness. My approach is collaborative and empowering, recognizing patients as experts of their own lives while providing professional guidance. I'm committed to continuous learning and growth, ensuring I offer the best possible care to support individuals on their journey to better mental health.
(954) 324-2160 View (954) 324-2160
Photo of Smitha Ajesh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Smitha Ajesh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I completed my master's in nursing at Walden University. I have over 28 years of experience working in mental health, starting as a registered nurse in the psychiatric unit. As an NP, I have worked with a wide range of patient populations including adults and older adults, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My focus has been on providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, managing medications, and utilizing psychotherapy techniques.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I completed my master's in nursing at Walden University. I have over 28 years of experience working in mental health, starting as a registered nurse in the psychiatric unit. As an NP, I have worked with a wide range of patient populations including adults and older adults, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My focus has been on providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, managing medications, and utilizing psychotherapy techniques.
(954) 751-4156 View (954) 751-4156
Photo of Thessa Moncrieffe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Thessa Moncrieffe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Online Only
Do you often feel judged, that no one cares or understands what you are going through? My goal for every encounter is that you leave feeling someone truly cares and understands. Let's face it, talking about our emotional or mental state of mind is never one of the easiest topics to discuss, especially when there is associated trauma, hurt, pain, or negative stigma. Whatever it is, you will have a safe place free of criticism or shame, but full of compassion, and understanding for the single purpose of healing, positive progress toward regaining self-sufficiency, and a sense of normalcy in your life once again.
Do you often feel judged, that no one cares or understands what you are going through? My goal for every encounter is that you leave feeling someone truly cares and understands. Let's face it, talking about our emotional or mental state of mind is never one of the easiest topics to discuss, especially when there is associated trauma, hurt, pain, or negative stigma. Whatever it is, you will have a safe place free of criticism or shame, but full of compassion, and understanding for the single purpose of healing, positive progress toward regaining self-sufficiency, and a sense of normalcy in your life once again.
(305) 783-3669 View (305) 783-3669
Photo of Margali Sagaille, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Margali Sagaille
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Primary Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Hollywood, Florida, providing telehealth services. With over 30 years of nursing experience and 15 years in advanced practice, I take a holistic approach to mental health care, addressing the mind and body to promote overall wellness. I specialize in medication management for adults and older adults, offering personalized care tailored to each individual’s needs.
I am a Board-Certified Primary Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Hollywood, Florida, providing telehealth services. With over 30 years of nursing experience and 15 years in advanced practice, I take a holistic approach to mental health care, addressing the mind and body to promote overall wellness. I specialize in medication management for adults and older adults, offering personalized care tailored to each individual’s needs.
(954) 737-4815 View (954) 737-4815
Photo of Olga Katz, Psychiatrist, MD
Olga Katz
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Olga Katz, MD is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and a recognized expert in treating psychiatric disorders in children, adolescents and adults. As the founder and Medical Director of Crasmere Psychiatric Services for 23 years, Dr. Olga Katz dedicated her career to improving the mental health of her patients. She utilizes bio psychosocial model which allows her to focus on the appropriate medications and psychodynamic psychotherapy to successfully treating the most challenging variety of psychiatric pathologies, including Panic Disorder, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD.
Olga Katz, MD is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and a recognized expert in treating psychiatric disorders in children, adolescents and adults. As the founder and Medical Director of Crasmere Psychiatric Services for 23 years, Dr. Olga Katz dedicated her career to improving the mental health of her patients. She utilizes bio psychosocial model which allows her to focus on the appropriate medications and psychodynamic psychotherapy to successfully treating the most challenging variety of psychiatric pathologies, including Panic Disorder, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD.
(848) 315-2145 View (848) 315-2145
Photo of Shannon Schaal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shannon Schaal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, sleep disorders, bipolar disorder, and more. After realizing that I could make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, I decided to further my education. I have experience working with clients in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and addiction services. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care to my clients.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, sleep disorders, bipolar disorder, and more. After realizing that I could make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, I decided to further my education. I have experience working with clients in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and addiction services. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care to my clients.
(561) 529-9078 View (561) 529-9078
Photo of Dr. Alejandra Cattan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Alejandra Cattan
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Healthy Mind First LLC, is an Adult Psychiatry Practice that provides a comprehensive approach to understanding the patient. Alejandra Cattan, MD, is bilingual and delivers quality care in English and Spanish. I began my training at Hospital Italiano de Bs. As. and completed General Psychiatry Residency at Bronx Care/Mount Sinai. I concluded additional training in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy at the NY Medical College Psychoanalytic Institute. Ensuring an exceptional standard of care is central to my treatment methodology. I work closely and collaboratively with therapists and counselors to fit each person’s unique circumstances.
Healthy Mind First LLC, is an Adult Psychiatry Practice that provides a comprehensive approach to understanding the patient. Alejandra Cattan, MD, is bilingual and delivers quality care in English and Spanish. I began my training at Hospital Italiano de Bs. As. and completed General Psychiatry Residency at Bronx Care/Mount Sinai. I concluded additional training in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy at the NY Medical College Psychoanalytic Institute. Ensuring an exceptional standard of care is central to my treatment methodology. I work closely and collaboratively with therapists and counselors to fit each person’s unique circumstances.
(954) 758-5541 View (954) 758-5541
Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
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.
(954) 751-4453 View (954) 751-4453
Photo of Esther Louis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Esther Louis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Esther Louis is a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family. I’ve been in nursing for more than 10 years. I work with several patients in mental health with various conditions. My focus area is more on mental health conditions such as anxiety and panic disorder, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, schizophrenia, psychotic disorders etc. My patients have the ability to receive great mental health treatments, psychotherapy, and focus more on a holistic approach.
Esther Louis is a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family. I’ve been in nursing for more than 10 years. I work with several patients in mental health with various conditions. My focus area is more on mental health conditions such as anxiety and panic disorder, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, schizophrenia, psychotic disorders etc. My patients have the ability to receive great mental health treatments, psychotherapy, and focus more on a holistic approach.
(954) 902-4473 View (954) 902-4473
Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
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.
(954) 710-5789 View (954) 710-5789
Photo of Ian Matthews, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Ian Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Same week appointments currently available! Ian Matthews created Up Psychiatry with the mission of providing the highest quality psychiatric care that is personalized to each individual. An important foundation of successful psychiatric treatment lies in establishing a strong therapeutic relationship between the patient and healthcare provider. With this, Ian provides special attention to detail throughout the entire treatment journey. He aims to understand each patient's unique story which allows for the application of an individualized treatment approach through evidenced-based medication management and psychotherapy.
Same week appointments currently available! Ian Matthews created Up Psychiatry with the mission of providing the highest quality psychiatric care that is personalized to each individual. An important foundation of successful psychiatric treatment lies in establishing a strong therapeutic relationship between the patient and healthcare provider. With this, Ian provides special attention to detail throughout the entire treatment journey. He aims to understand each patient's unique story which allows for the application of an individualized treatment approach through evidenced-based medication management and psychotherapy.
(239) 428-2517 View (239) 428-2517
Photo of Millian Okafor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Millian Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am focused on becoming a change agent to provide the best possible care to enable and equip patients to attain optimal mental health and wellness. I am family-oriented and believe in the importance and strength of family and the social support system. I provide individualized, holistic care, combining evidence-based therapeutic interventions, medication management, and psychotherapy.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am focused on becoming a change agent to provide the best possible care to enable and equip patients to attain optimal mental health and wellness. I am family-oriented and believe in the importance and strength of family and the social support system. I provide individualized, holistic care, combining evidence-based therapeutic interventions, medication management, and psychotherapy.
(904) 734-7020 View (904) 734-7020
Photo of Gintaras Razaitis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP, MSN
Gintaras Razaitis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP, MSN
Online Only
I am Gintaras Razaitis, a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) holding a graduate degree from the University of Miami. Previously, I practiced as a psychiatrist at Vilnius University in Lithuania, part of the European Union. In the US, I've worked across different settings, aiding individuals grappling with diverse mental health challenges. My commitment lies in furnishing personalized, evidence-driven mental health support characterized by unwavering empathy, compassion, and superior quality care. Further information is available at www.dranderson.us/intake/
I am Gintaras Razaitis, a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) holding a graduate degree from the University of Miami. Previously, I practiced as a psychiatrist at Vilnius University in Lithuania, part of the European Union. In the US, I've worked across different settings, aiding individuals grappling with diverse mental health challenges. My commitment lies in furnishing personalized, evidence-driven mental health support characterized by unwavering empathy, compassion, and superior quality care. Further information is available at www.dranderson.us/intake/
(954) 507-9455 View (954) 507-9455
Photo of Heather Brathwaite, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Heather Brathwaite
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Heather Brathwaite, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is board-certified and doctoral-prepared, with a Ph.D., in Nursing. My approach to mental health care is collaborative, meaning that I use an evidence-based way to improve patient outcomes.
My name is Heather Brathwaite, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is board-certified and doctoral-prepared, with a Ph.D., in Nursing. My approach to mental health care is collaborative, meaning that I use an evidence-based way to improve patient outcomes.
(954) 466-2764 View (954) 466-2764
Photo of Khadine Corniffe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Khadine Corniffe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received a master's degree from Nova Southeastern University and have been working with clients via telehealth. I have worked in various areas of psychiatry, helping patients to achieve positive outcomes and live more fulfilling lives. I aim to create a safe, welcoming experience for each patient I encounter. My approach to providing mental healthcare is rooted in creating a compassionate and non-judgmental therapeutic space where clients can explore their concerns openly.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received a master's degree from Nova Southeastern University and have been working with clients via telehealth. I have worked in various areas of psychiatry, helping patients to achieve positive outcomes and live more fulfilling lives. I aim to create a safe, welcoming experience for each patient I encounter. My approach to providing mental healthcare is rooted in creating a compassionate and non-judgmental therapeutic space where clients can explore their concerns openly.
(904) 593-4225 View (904) 593-4225
Photo of Jermilla Augustin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jermilla Augustin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Jermilla Augustin, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong desire to help people and improve their daily lives. I specialize in helping individuals with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked as a mental health nurse for over 10 years in various acute settings, treating anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders.
I am Jermilla Augustin, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong desire to help people and improve their daily lives. I specialize in helping individuals with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked as a mental health nurse for over 10 years in various acute settings, treating anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders.
(954) 932-5745 View (954) 932-5745

See more therapy options for Fort Lauderdale

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Fort Lauderdale, FL

200+

Average cost per session

$160

Psychiatrists in Fort Lauderdale, FL who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
96% Depression
81% ADHD
81% Bipolar Disorder
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
69% Trauma and PTSD
66% Medication Management

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
64% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Fort Lauderdale, FL see their clients

51% In Person and Online
49% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Fort Lauderdale?

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.