Psychiatrists in Indian River County, FL

Welcome to Wave Treatment Centers. I am a triple board certified psychiatrist. I relocated from Philadelphia where I opened the first location of Wave, specializing in substance use disorders and treatment-resistant depression (complex symptoms that haven't responded to first/second line medications/therapy). I have worked in faculty academic settings, residential treatment and various outpatient settings. My experience and reputation led to two consecutive prestigious "Top Doctor" awards (2023 + 2024) from Castle-Connolly and were featured in Philadelphia Magazine. I have been sought out for expert 2nd opinion consultation & care.
Welcome to Wave Treatment Centers. I am a triple board certified psychiatrist. I relocated from Philadelphia where I opened the first location of Wave, specializing in substance use disorders and treatment-resistant depression (complex symptoms that haven't responded to first/second line medications/therapy). I have worked in faculty academic settings, residential treatment and various outpatient settings. My experience and reputation led to two consecutive prestigious "Top Doctor" awards (2023 + 2024) from Castle-Connolly and were featured in Philadelphia Magazine. I have been sought out for expert 2nd opinion consultation & care.

Mission : 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 fully licensed in California . I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Barts Hospital for 4 years Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.
Mission : 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 fully licensed in California . I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Barts Hospital for 4 years Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.

I am committed to creating a space where every individual feels truly seen, heard, and respected. With a deep background in mental health and a passion for patient-centered care, I strive to combine clinical excellence with genuine empathy. I believe that healing begins with trust, and I prioritize a collaborative approach—one where your voice guides every step of our journey together. Whether we are working through challenges or celebrating progress, I will be with you every step of the way, offering evidence-based guidance, compassionate support, and a commitment to understanding the unique facets of your experience.
I am committed to creating a space where every individual feels truly seen, heard, and respected. With a deep background in mental health and a passion for patient-centered care, I strive to combine clinical excellence with genuine empathy. I believe that healing begins with trust, and I prioritize a collaborative approach—one where your voice guides every step of our journey together. Whether we are working through challenges or celebrating progress, I will be with you every step of the way, offering evidence-based guidance, compassionate support, and a commitment to understanding the unique facets of your experience.

Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.

Each person is a unique individual and there is no single "ideal" client. I believe that the main goal is for the person to learn to love himself/herself. Use of medications is to help balance mood swings or correct low serotonin levels which causes anxiety
Each person is a unique individual and there is no single "ideal" client. I believe that the main goal is for the person to learn to love himself/herself. Use of medications is to help balance mood swings or correct low serotonin levels which causes anxiety

Nola is a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in Sebastian. Nola has an empathetic, compassionate approach when diagnosing and treating. Her specialities include chronic disease, hypertension, diabetes, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, insomnia, borderline personality disorder. Nola offers a judgement free environment where patients can safely express their needs and concerns for living a happy, healthy lifestyle. Knowing that everyone is an individual Nola uses personalized treatment plan including FDA-approved medication & evidence-based therapy,
Nola is a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in Sebastian. Nola has an empathetic, compassionate approach when diagnosing and treating. Her specialities include chronic disease, hypertension, diabetes, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, insomnia, borderline personality disorder. Nola offers a judgement free environment where patients can safely express their needs and concerns for living a happy, healthy lifestyle. Knowing that everyone is an individual Nola uses personalized treatment plan including FDA-approved medication & evidence-based therapy,

Professional Counseling vbcp.LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Vero Beach, FL 32960
Professional Counseling., Children and Adolescent Mental Health Counseling and Psychological Therapy Services. Individuals, Couples and Groups. Support and Educational Workshops. Marriage also Christian Counseling. We are a dynamic group of counselors in Vero Beach, Florida offering a variety of individualized counseling services addressing a wide range of issues. We provide services that span from counseling for anxiety and depression, grief counseling, relationship recovery, parenting support, couples counseling, to life coaching, career counseling, Anger Management and beyond.
Professional Counseling., Children and Adolescent Mental Health Counseling and Psychological Therapy Services. Individuals, Couples and Groups. Support and Educational Workshops. Marriage also Christian Counseling. We are a dynamic group of counselors in Vero Beach, Florida offering a variety of individualized counseling services addressing a wide range of issues. We provide services that span from counseling for anxiety and depression, grief counseling, relationship recovery, parenting support, couples counseling, to life coaching, career counseling, Anger Management and beyond.

Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.

I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in ADHD, Obesity Treatment, Addictions, Depression, Loneliness, Anxiety. I do not prescribe drugs such as Xanax or Adderall. However, I do prescribe stimulants for ADHD. I see all of my clients through TELE-Health and I attempt to work around the schedule of my clients. I do not accept any type of insurance, nor do I bill insurance. If requested, I will furnish a Superbill so that the client can file. Payment is made through an active credit card. I am 75 years old and my therapy model utilizes both Western and Eastern models.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in ADHD, Obesity Treatment, Addictions, Depression, Loneliness, Anxiety. I do not prescribe drugs such as Xanax or Adderall. However, I do prescribe stimulants for ADHD. I see all of my clients through TELE-Health and I attempt to work around the schedule of my clients. I do not accept any type of insurance, nor do I bill insurance. If requested, I will furnish a Superbill so that the client can file. Payment is made through an active credit card. I am 75 years old and my therapy model utilizes both Western and Eastern models.

I believe that listening is so important. It sounds simple, but I've seen many patients over the years who I believe were misdiagnosed simply because no one truly listened to them or asked the right questions. It could mean the difference between treating someone for years for major depressive disorder when they may have bipolar II disorder which typically doesn't improve with antidepressants alone. We, as nurse practitioners, are trained to listen, assess, and treat the whole person.
I believe that listening is so important. It sounds simple, but I've seen many patients over the years who I believe were misdiagnosed simply because no one truly listened to them or asked the right questions. It could mean the difference between treating someone for years for major depressive disorder when they may have bipolar II disorder which typically doesn't improve with antidepressants alone. We, as nurse practitioners, are trained to listen, assess, and treat the whole person.

Children, adolescents, and adults often need medical interventions to improve their level of emotional functioning. Through comprehensive evaluation, individualized recommendations may be provided to develop a road map for successful treatment. This may consist of medical treatment, a referral to a therapist, or a combination of the two.
Children, adolescents, and adults often need medical interventions to improve their level of emotional functioning. Through comprehensive evaluation, individualized recommendations may be provided to develop a road map for successful treatment. This may consist of medical treatment, a referral to a therapist, or a combination of the two.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or like you're just going through the motions? Maybe you're battling anxiety, depression, or struggling with the weight of past trauma. It’s easy to feel alone in these moments, but you don’t have to navigate it by yourself. Many people silently carry these burdens, hoping things will get better on their own — but healing is possible with the right support.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or like you're just going through the motions? Maybe you're battling anxiety, depression, or struggling with the weight of past trauma. It’s easy to feel alone in these moments, but you don’t have to navigate it by yourself. Many people silently carry these burdens, hoping things will get better on their own — but healing is possible with the right support.

Are you someone who seeks not just relief from your mental health challenges, but a pathway to reclaiming their joy, fulfillment, and sense of purpose? Do you yearn for more than just symptom management; crave understanding, empathy, and a partner in your journey towards holistic well-being? Your needs extend beyond medication—you also seek validation, empowerment, and a trusted ally who listens intently and advocates fiercely on their behalf. Every individual deserves the opportunity to live a life of meaning, connection, and emotional vitality. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am here to honor and support that journey.
Are you someone who seeks not just relief from your mental health challenges, but a pathway to reclaiming their joy, fulfillment, and sense of purpose? Do you yearn for more than just symptom management; crave understanding, empathy, and a partner in your journey towards holistic well-being? Your needs extend beyond medication—you also seek validation, empowerment, and a trusted ally who listens intently and advocates fiercely on their behalf. Every individual deserves the opportunity to live a life of meaning, connection, and emotional vitality. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am here to honor and support that journey.

Now Accepting New Clients — Children, Teens & Adults.
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained—whether it’s a child struggling in school due to anxiety or ADHD, a teen navigating depression or trauma, or an adult facing burnout, grief, or substance use. They want relief. They want clarity, peace of mind, and the ability to function and thrive in daily life. Many are seeking answers they haven’t found yet, and they want support that goes beyond a quick fix. They’re looking for someone who truly listens, understands, and can guide them toward lasting change.
Now Accepting New Clients — Children, Teens & Adults.
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained—whether it’s a child struggling in school due to anxiety or ADHD, a teen navigating depression or trauma, or an adult facing burnout, grief, or substance use. They want relief. They want clarity, peace of mind, and the ability to function and thrive in daily life. Many are seeking answers they haven’t found yet, and they want support that goes beyond a quick fix. They’re looking for someone who truly listens, understands, and can guide them toward lasting change.

I provide patients with psychiatric medication management needs out of my Vero Beach, Florida location, with ability to offer services to patients thru Palm Beach County. Telepsych services are available after the initial visit, as is in person visits.
I provide patients with psychiatric medication management needs out of my Vero Beach, Florida location, with ability to offer services to patients thru Palm Beach County. Telepsych services are available after the initial visit, as is in person visits.

Insight Psychiatry and Wellness- Stacie Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Vero Beach, FL 32963
Accepting new patients. Ages 8-up. Drop the rock you are carrying. We treat all mental health struggles. I treat the symptoms, not the diagnosis, holistically. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking a holistic approach to patient care, addressing the symptoms of mental illness and the underlying causes. This is a team approach to mental health treatment as I work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, ketamine therapy, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. I am here to help you!
Accepting new patients. Ages 8-up. Drop the rock you are carrying. We treat all mental health struggles. I treat the symptoms, not the diagnosis, holistically. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking a holistic approach to patient care, addressing the symptoms of mental illness and the underlying causes. This is a team approach to mental health treatment as I work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, ketamine therapy, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. I am here to help you!

I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.

As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 23 years experience in the field, I’ve had the opportunity to work with patients of all ages and in a variety of treatment settings. Specialty areas are recovery from narcissistic abuse/domestic violence, attachment styles/traumas, OCD/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, anger management, postpartum, divorce/separation, and codependency. At my private practice, Family Psychiatric Services, I provide a holistic approach, utilizing intensive therapy, nutrition, and medication management, with the goal of helping patients become medication free (as appropriate).
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 23 years experience in the field, I’ve had the opportunity to work with patients of all ages and in a variety of treatment settings. Specialty areas are recovery from narcissistic abuse/domestic violence, attachment styles/traumas, OCD/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, anger management, postpartum, divorce/separation, and codependency. At my private practice, Family Psychiatric Services, I provide a holistic approach, utilizing intensive therapy, nutrition, and medication management, with the goal of helping patients become medication free (as appropriate).

Welcome to Lighthouse Health Group, your guiding light through the storm. With offices in both Jupiter, FL and Vero Beach, FL, we offer a full-service mental health psychiatry practice dedicated to helping you achieve emotional balance and overall well-being.
Welcome to Lighthouse Health Group, your guiding light through the storm. With offices in both Jupiter, FL and Vero Beach, FL, we offer a full-service mental health psychiatry practice dedicated to helping you achieve emotional balance and overall well-being.

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!
See more therapy options for Indian River County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Indian River County, FL
30+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Indian River County, FL who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | Medication Management |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
85% | Aetna |
75% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Indian River County, FL see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Indian River 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.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.