Psychiatrists in Jacksonville, FL

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.

My name is Dr. Ezechiel Madestin. I am an experienced board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a doctorate degree in nursing practice (DNP). My passion is to help people with mental illnesses such as major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, ADD, ADHD, Schizophrenia...etc. I diagnose mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. I treat them accordingly with a patient-centered approach. I do psychiatric evaluations, prescribe the appropriate drug regimen and treatment, and discontinue unnecessary drugs and treatments. I accurately document my patient care measures .
My name is Dr. Ezechiel Madestin. I am an experienced board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a doctorate degree in nursing practice (DNP). My passion is to help people with mental illnesses such as major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, ADD, ADHD, Schizophrenia...etc. I diagnose mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. I treat them accordingly with a patient-centered approach. I do psychiatric evaluations, prescribe the appropriate drug regimen and treatment, and discontinue unnecessary drugs and treatments. I accurately document my patient care measures .

Dr. Robert Smeed, DO, is a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for healing the human mind and consciousness. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his Psychiatry Residency at Wayne State University College of Medicine. Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), Dr. Smeed served as an outpatient psychiatrist at Veterans Affairs for 11 years, honing his expertise in mental health care.
Dr. Robert Smeed, DO, is a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for healing the human mind and consciousness. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his Psychiatry Residency at Wayne State University College of Medicine. Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), Dr. Smeed served as an outpatient psychiatrist at Veterans Affairs for 11 years, honing his expertise in mental health care.

Dr. Alicia Garcete is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in practice for over 12 years. Her practice focuses on medication management, recognizing family involvement is extremely important and is an integral part of treatment. Dr. Garcete has treated a wide variety of patients. Her primary focus is treating depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD and OCD. Additionally, she can provide supportive therapy and elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy but on occasions more therapy support may be needed, and the recommendation to bring a psychotherapist on the care team may occur to provide an optimal outcome.
Dr. Alicia Garcete is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in practice for over 12 years. Her practice focuses on medication management, recognizing family involvement is extremely important and is an integral part of treatment. Dr. Garcete has treated a wide variety of patients. Her primary focus is treating depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD and OCD. Additionally, she can provide supportive therapy and elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy but on occasions more therapy support may be needed, and the recommendation to bring a psychotherapist on the care team may occur to provide an optimal outcome.

I specialize in optimizing medication management, psychotherapy, and interventional services including Ketamine, Spravado, TMS, and SGB to address various mental health conditions including trauma, depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, marital/relationships, adjustment disorders, grief, parenting, and insomnia. I am dedicated to helping clients overcome distress and gain peace, autonomy, and consistency.
I specialize in optimizing medication management, psychotherapy, and interventional services including Ketamine, Spravado, TMS, and SGB to address various mental health conditions including trauma, depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, marital/relationships, adjustment disorders, grief, parenting, and insomnia. I am dedicated to helping clients overcome distress and gain peace, autonomy, and consistency.

I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of healthcare experience in psychiatric and ER/trauma settings. I care for patients across the lifespan, supporting children, teens, adults, and seniors dealing with behavioral issues, mental stress, life transitions, grief, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I strive to build genuine connections with those open to change and tailor treatment to each individual, focusing on lifestyle, wellness, and mental health.
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of healthcare experience in psychiatric and ER/trauma settings. I care for patients across the lifespan, supporting children, teens, adults, and seniors dealing with behavioral issues, mental stress, life transitions, grief, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I strive to build genuine connections with those open to change and tailor treatment to each individual, focusing on lifestyle, wellness, and mental health.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner based in Florida, working with clients statewide via telehealth. While my specialty is working with children and adolescents, over the last 8 years, I have developed experience in working with clients across the lifespan. My focus is on the treatment of ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, psychosis, substance abuse, and chronic mental illness.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner based in Florida, working with clients statewide via telehealth. While my specialty is working with children and adolescents, over the last 8 years, I have developed experience in working with clients across the lifespan. My focus is on the treatment of ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, psychosis, substance abuse, and chronic mental illness.

Dr. Komarczyk is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She takes a special interest in developing the therapeutic alliance with each patient by providing an informative, encouraging, and holistic approach to mental health. At the heart of her practice is creating a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental space that allows her to work collaboratively with her patients to help them achieve their goals. Her treatment plans include evidence-based medication management as well as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Dr. Komarczyk is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She takes a special interest in developing the therapeutic alliance with each patient by providing an informative, encouraging, and holistic approach to mental health. At the heart of her practice is creating a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental space that allows her to work collaboratively with her patients to help them achieve their goals. Her treatment plans include evidence-based medication management as well as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.

Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.

You’re smart. Self-aware. Probably neurodivergent. Definitely anxious. You’ve read the books, tried the tools, maybe even did therapy “right.” But deep down, your body still doesn’t feel safe. You’re wired, exhausted, and constantly bracing for the next thing to go wrong — even when everything looks “fine.” I work with adults who are burnt out from survival mode. The ones who overthink everything, feel everything, and mask it well.
You’re smart. Self-aware. Probably neurodivergent. Definitely anxious. You’ve read the books, tried the tools, maybe even did therapy “right.” But deep down, your body still doesn’t feel safe. You’re wired, exhausted, and constantly bracing for the next thing to go wrong — even when everything looks “fine.” I work with adults who are burnt out from survival mode. The ones who overthink everything, feel everything, and mask it well.

As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan—from children as young as 6 to adults 80 and older. With over a decade of experience in healthcare, including years as an Emergency Room Nurse and Veterinary Technician, I bring a calm, steady presence and a deep understanding of crisis management and complex mental health needs.
My approach is holistic and collaborative. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered in their healing journey.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan—from children as young as 6 to adults 80 and older. With over a decade of experience in healthcare, including years as an Emergency Room Nurse and Veterinary Technician, I bring a calm, steady presence and a deep understanding of crisis management and complex mental health needs.
My approach is holistic and collaborative. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered in their healing journey.

I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a holistic approach to mental well being. I understand that our physical health and mental health are connected and heavily based upon our life experiences and genetics. I know that stability and healing require hard work and I want to partner alongside clients with education and shared decision making to help them become the healthiest versions of themselves. I have completed perinatal mental health training and I recognize the difficulties adjusting to motherhood, seeking to be a support for those along this journey.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a holistic approach to mental well being. I understand that our physical health and mental health are connected and heavily based upon our life experiences and genetics. I know that stability and healing require hard work and I want to partner alongside clients with education and shared decision making to help them become the healthiest versions of themselves. I have completed perinatal mental health training and I recognize the difficulties adjusting to motherhood, seeking to be a support for those along this journey.

NO WAIT TIME! APPOINTMENTS IN 24 HRS. WEEKENDS AVAILABILITY. SERVING FLORIDA AND OREGON ANTON is aware of the clients’ personal choice of treatment, cultural and spiritual believes, which have the potential to greatly affect the treatment and the therapeutic relationship between provider and patient. He invests the time to explain, educate, and provide the client with all of the needed information to make the best possible choice. Anton understands that a treatment is never static, it is an ongoing and highly dynamic process, involving honest communication and effort from both, provider and client.
NO WAIT TIME! APPOINTMENTS IN 24 HRS. WEEKENDS AVAILABILITY. SERVING FLORIDA AND OREGON ANTON is aware of the clients’ personal choice of treatment, cultural and spiritual believes, which have the potential to greatly affect the treatment and the therapeutic relationship between provider and patient. He invests the time to explain, educate, and provide the client with all of the needed information to make the best possible choice. Anton understands that a treatment is never static, it is an ongoing and highly dynamic process, involving honest communication and effort from both, provider and client.

A well-known provider for his caring, friendly, and courteous, has been in the healthcare profession for over 10 years. Dr. Renaud Jean Louis is a Family, Adult Gerontology, and Mental Nurse Practitioner who always placed his patients as his priority. He is currently practicing at Jackson Memorial Hospital. In addition, he is a clinical instructor for the JMH/UM Hospice/Palliative and Geriatrics Program Fellowship. Dr. Jean Louis believes in quality care that can provide the best patient outcomes based. Dr. Jean Louis speaks Creole, French, English, and conversational Spanish.
A well-known provider for his caring, friendly, and courteous, has been in the healthcare profession for over 10 years. Dr. Renaud Jean Louis is a Family, Adult Gerontology, and Mental Nurse Practitioner who always placed his patients as his priority. He is currently practicing at Jackson Memorial Hospital. In addition, he is a clinical instructor for the JMH/UM Hospice/Palliative and Geriatrics Program Fellowship. Dr. Jean Louis believes in quality care that can provide the best patient outcomes based. Dr. Jean Louis speaks Creole, French, English, and conversational Spanish.

My ideal client would be 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 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.

Welcome to Comprehensive Psych Services, where we provide comprehensive help for lasting change. Through a combination of psychological and psychiatric services, we aim to provide holistic treatment to help you on your journey to wellness. From psychological assessments to medication management, Comprehensive Psych is here to support and assist you. Dr. Ybarra and Mrs. Titus have extensive experience in the healthcare field. Their experience combining psychological and psychiatric perspectives will provide you with care and treatment that is less time intensive and more centered on you.
Welcome to Comprehensive Psych Services, where we provide comprehensive help for lasting change. Through a combination of psychological and psychiatric services, we aim to provide holistic treatment to help you on your journey to wellness. From psychological assessments to medication management, Comprehensive Psych is here to support and assist you. Dr. Ybarra and Mrs. Titus have extensive experience in the healthcare field. Their experience combining psychological and psychiatric perspectives will provide you with care and treatment that is less time intensive and more centered on you.

Dr. Mandel received his Bachelor of Arts and Doctor of Medicine degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. He completed his Residency in Psychiatry at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Manhattan. He has been board certified in psychiatry since 2001 and is a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has held numerous clinical and academic appointments including serving as Chairperson of Psychiatry at Huntington Hospital in Huntington, New York, and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine.
Dr. Mandel received his Bachelor of Arts and Doctor of Medicine degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. He completed his Residency in Psychiatry at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Manhattan. He has been board certified in psychiatry since 2001 and is a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has held numerous clinical and academic appointments including serving as Chairperson of Psychiatry at Huntington Hospital in Huntington, New York, and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine.

Dr. Anantharam Peesapati is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who graduated from General Psychiatry Residency training at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. There, he honed his skills by treating a diverse patient population suffering from various diagnoses, including major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and substance use disorders. Prior to residency, Dr. Peesapati earned his medical degree from Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine & his bachelor's degree in Psychology with a specialization in Behavioral & Cognitive Neuroscience from the University of Florida.
Dr. Anantharam Peesapati is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who graduated from General Psychiatry Residency training at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. There, he honed his skills by treating a diverse patient population suffering from various diagnoses, including major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and substance use disorders. Prior to residency, Dr. Peesapati earned his medical degree from Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine & his bachelor's degree in Psychology with a specialization in Behavioral & Cognitive Neuroscience from the University of Florida.

Dr. Debrey is board-certified in adult psychiatry. Her approach is client-centered, individualized, and collaborative. She focuses on building a strong therapeutic alliance with each client to work towards achieving enhanced functioning and meaning in their lives. She works with individuals experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression and other mood concerns, bipolar spectrum illnesses, OCD, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders.
Dr. Debrey is board-certified in adult psychiatry. Her approach is client-centered, individualized, and collaborative. She focuses on building a strong therapeutic alliance with each client to work towards achieving enhanced functioning and meaning in their lives. She works with individuals experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression and other mood concerns, bipolar spectrum illnesses, OCD, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders.

Dr. James is a board certified adult psychiatrist. She has 32 years of clinical experience and worked as a Chief of Psychiatry at Pro Medica healthcare company. She has experience in outpatient, inpatient, Consult Liaison and ER settings. Dr. James graduated from Tufts University Boston's affiliated program. She was awarded the resident teaching award for excellent teaching program at Steward St. Elizabeth Medical Center Boston where she initiated in her residency program. Her inclination is towards community adult psychiatry and is invested in the care of the families and a variety of individual adult populations.
Dr. James is a board certified adult psychiatrist. She has 32 years of clinical experience and worked as a Chief of Psychiatry at Pro Medica healthcare company. She has experience in outpatient, inpatient, Consult Liaison and ER settings. Dr. James graduated from Tufts University Boston's affiliated program. She was awarded the resident teaching award for excellent teaching program at Steward St. Elizabeth Medical Center Boston where she initiated in her residency program. Her inclination is towards community adult psychiatry and is invested in the care of the families and a variety of individual adult populations.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Jacksonville, FL
400+
Average cost per session
$159
Psychiatrists in Jacksonville, FL who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | ADHD |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Medication Management |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
93% | Aetna |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Jacksonville, FL see their clients
68% | Online Only | |
32% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
21% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Jacksonville?
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.