Psychiatrists in Jacksonville Beach, FL

My ideal client is someone who values open and transparent communication, built upon a foundation of trust and rapport. I aim to work collaboratively with my clients to understand their past, current, and future goals and the values they place on them. For me, therapeutic relationships are a two-way street, which means that I pay close attention to finding the best possible care mechanism that I can provide. This is only made possible through the development of a strong and healthy relationship with my clients. I thoroughly enjoy building this relationship, as well as exploring ways to enhance our outcomes together.
My ideal client is someone who values open and transparent communication, built upon a foundation of trust and rapport. I aim to work collaboratively with my clients to understand their past, current, and future goals and the values they place on them. For me, therapeutic relationships are a two-way street, which means that I pay close attention to finding the best possible care mechanism that I can provide. This is only made possible through the development of a strong and healthy relationship with my clients. I thoroughly enjoy building this relationship, as well as exploring ways to enhance our outcomes together.

Dr. Eaglin is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Psychiatry. He completed medical school at the University of Missouri in Kansas City, and residency training through the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Dr. Eaglin evaluates and treats children and adults, using evidence based methods. He provides medication management and psychotherapy services, focusing on improving psychiatric health and well-being. Dr Eaglin believes in using medications responsibly and only as necessary. Far too often patients are improperly diagnosed and prescribed excessive amounts of medication.
Dr. Eaglin is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Psychiatry. He completed medical school at the University of Missouri in Kansas City, and residency training through the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Dr. Eaglin evaluates and treats children and adults, using evidence based methods. He provides medication management and psychotherapy services, focusing on improving psychiatric health and well-being. Dr Eaglin believes in using medications responsibly and only as necessary. Far too often patients are improperly diagnosed and prescribed excessive amounts of medication.

Driven by a commitment to compassionate care, I strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families by addressing their unique needs and improving their quality of life.
Dr. Sanchez-Rivero is Board Certified in Psychiatry and Neurology and a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico and completed her adult psychiatry residency and child psychiatry fellowship at the University of Florida in Gainesville. Dr. Sanchez-Rivero has been providing her expertise at Marsh Landing Behavioral Group since 2017.
Driven by a commitment to compassionate care, I strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families by addressing their unique needs and improving their quality of life.
Dr. Sanchez-Rivero is Board Certified in Psychiatry and Neurology and a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico and completed her adult psychiatry residency and child psychiatry fellowship at the University of Florida in Gainesville. Dr. Sanchez-Rivero has been providing her expertise at Marsh Landing Behavioral Group since 2017.

Telepsychiatric Bridge Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Be seen this week! Exceptional reviews, check me out on Google. Come to our office to be seen and meet our therapy dogs. Want to receive mental health treatment and medication management from the comfort and convenience of your own home or office? I see patients in office or over a HIPAA compliant telepsychiatry service, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I e-prescribe to the pharmacy of your choice.
Be seen this week! Exceptional reviews, check me out on Google. Come to our office to be seen and meet our therapy dogs. Want to receive mental health treatment and medication management from the comfort and convenience of your own home or office? I see patients in office or over a HIPAA compliant telepsychiatry service, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I e-prescribe to the pharmacy of your choice.

I believe in a holistic approach that includes a healthy lifestyle, even though the focus of my practice is primarily addictive and behavioral health care. I believe that I must carefully listen to my patients and understand what they want that I may have to offer. Sometimes patients want so-called treatments or medications that may do more harm than good. In those situations I attempt to help them understand their disorder and how to lead a more fulfilling life, but I will not prescribe medications or use treatments that are counterproductive to their recovery or wellbeing. Recovery is not an easy process in most cases.
I believe in a holistic approach that includes a healthy lifestyle, even though the focus of my practice is primarily addictive and behavioral health care. I believe that I must carefully listen to my patients and understand what they want that I may have to offer. Sometimes patients want so-called treatments or medications that may do more harm than good. In those situations I attempt to help them understand their disorder and how to lead a more fulfilling life, but I will not prescribe medications or use treatments that are counterproductive to their recovery or wellbeing. Recovery is not an easy process in most cases.

I am a compassionate, energetic, and knowledgeable psychiatric nurse practitioner who offers medication management with supportive therapy. I listen, asks questions, and listen again to understand my clients and their struggles. I want you as my client to feel comfortable, heard, and understood.
I am a compassionate, energetic, and knowledgeable psychiatric nurse practitioner who offers medication management with supportive therapy. I listen, asks questions, and listen again to understand my clients and their struggles. I want you as my client to feel comfortable, heard, and understood.

Anxiety, Depression, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), ADD/ ADHD, Medication Management, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Burnout, Sleep, Insomnia, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum (including postpartum depression), Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Infidelity, Divorce, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Coping Skills, Women’s Issues, Family Issues, Peer Relationships, Life Transitions, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Mood Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Life Coaching, Behavioral Issues, Grief, Psychosis, Thinking Disorders.
Anxiety, Depression, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), ADD/ ADHD, Medication Management, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Burnout, Sleep, Insomnia, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum (including postpartum depression), Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Infidelity, Divorce, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Coping Skills, Women’s Issues, Family Issues, Peer Relationships, Life Transitions, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Mood Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Life Coaching, Behavioral Issues, Grief, Psychosis, Thinking Disorders.

Established in 1991 by Dr. Amit Vijapura, we have served the Jacksonville community with quality psychiatric and addiction treatment for over 3 decades. When Dr. Sagar Vijapura, a Jacksonville-native and Harvard-trained psychiatrist, assumed leadership in 2017, he infused the practice with a new focus on integrative psychiatry - an evidence-based, balanced approach that combines the use of lowest-dose, safest, shortest-duration medications with complementary techniques such as psychotherapy, mind-body medicine, as well as nutritional and lifestyle counseling and modifications.
Established in 1991 by Dr. Amit Vijapura, we have served the Jacksonville community with quality psychiatric and addiction treatment for over 3 decades. When Dr. Sagar Vijapura, a Jacksonville-native and Harvard-trained psychiatrist, assumed leadership in 2017, he infused the practice with a new focus on integrative psychiatry - an evidence-based, balanced approach that combines the use of lowest-dose, safest, shortest-duration medications with complementary techniques such as psychotherapy, mind-body medicine, as well as nutritional and lifestyle counseling and modifications.

Are you feeling stuck, disconnected, or overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life? Do you often wonder if life should feel more fulfilling, more in control? It’s easy to forget to prioritize your mental health when there’s so much to manage. But avoiding your emotional needs can lead to burnout and long-term stress. You deserve to live a life that feels balanced, meaningful, and joyful. Together, we can explore how to reconnect with your true self and take charge of your well-being.
Are you feeling stuck, disconnected, or overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life? Do you often wonder if life should feel more fulfilling, more in control? It’s easy to forget to prioritize your mental health when there’s so much to manage. But avoiding your emotional needs can lead to burnout and long-term stress. You deserve to live a life that feels balanced, meaningful, and joyful. Together, we can explore how to reconnect with your true self and take charge of your well-being.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Dr. Emily Goncalves is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who earned her undergraduate degree at Syracuse University and her medical degree from the American University of Antigua. She holds an MBA from Plymouth State University focusing on health care administration. She completed her adult psychiatry residency at Delaware Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, where she was chief resident and completed her fellowship in consultation liaison psychiatry at Jackson Memorial Hospital/University of Miami.
Dr. Emily Goncalves is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who earned her undergraduate degree at Syracuse University and her medical degree from the American University of Antigua. She holds an MBA from Plymouth State University focusing on health care administration. She completed her adult psychiatry residency at Delaware Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, where she was chief resident and completed her fellowship in consultation liaison psychiatry at Jackson Memorial Hospital/University of Miami.

Dr. Dennis Valerstain is a board-certified Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. After completing his undergraduate education at Emory University, he attended medical school at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He subsequently completed psychiatry residency at University of Miami/Jackson Health System and further sub-specialized at University of Miami/Jackson Health System with a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Valerstain has had the opportunity of working with a diverse array of patients including children, adolescent, the severely mentally ill, veterans, and cancer patients.
Dr. Dennis Valerstain is a board-certified Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. After completing his undergraduate education at Emory University, he attended medical school at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He subsequently completed psychiatry residency at University of Miami/Jackson Health System and further sub-specialized at University of Miami/Jackson Health System with a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Valerstain has had the opportunity of working with a diverse array of patients including children, adolescent, the severely mentally ill, veterans, and cancer patients.

I provide Meaning Centered Therapy which is based on the belief that all problems hold potential for learning and growth. I see every person with physical, spiritual, emotional and intellectual needs. I also see each as an overcomer rather than a victim, no matter what the trauma. EMDR, Poetry Therapy and Dream Work may be used, if appropriate. My approach is interpersonal and I see the therapist and client as two people working together toward a goal set by the client. I also offer life-coaching. I offer medication management and integrate natural supplements added to prescription medications whenever possible.
I provide Meaning Centered Therapy which is based on the belief that all problems hold potential for learning and growth. I see every person with physical, spiritual, emotional and intellectual needs. I also see each as an overcomer rather than a victim, no matter what the trauma. EMDR, Poetry Therapy and Dream Work may be used, if appropriate. My approach is interpersonal and I see the therapist and client as two people working together toward a goal set by the client. I also offer life-coaching. I offer medication management and integrate natural supplements added to prescription medications whenever possible.

Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga
Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga

First and foremost I am a adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist providing the latest evidence-based treatments for all psychiatric disorders with special interests in Autism, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Sleep Medicine. I am always striving to provide the best treatment available.
First and foremost I am a adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist providing the latest evidence-based treatments for all psychiatric disorders with special interests in Autism, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Sleep Medicine. I am always striving to provide the best treatment available.

Doctor Ruiz is a board-certified psychiatrist physician who specializes in psychiatric diagnosis and treatment in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, ADHD, and pregnancy related psychiatric conditions. Dr. Ruiz received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry, graduating from the Honors College with Magna Cum Laude. She later completed four-years of medical school at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and an additional four-years of psychiatric residency training
Doctor Ruiz is a board-certified psychiatrist physician who specializes in psychiatric diagnosis and treatment in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, ADHD, and pregnancy related psychiatric conditions. Dr. Ruiz received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry, graduating from the Honors College with Magna Cum Laude. She later completed four-years of medical school at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and an additional four-years of psychiatric residency training

Hi, I'm Brian, Nurse Practitioner and founder of Introspect Mental Health. We offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy via secure video sessions (telehealth), or in-person at our Jacksonville office located in Mandarin. Our caring and highly skilled nurse practitioners are board certified in psychiatry and primary care. We specialize in diagnosing and treating primary mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, adult ADHD, and bipolar disorder, as well as substance use disorders in adults ages 18 and older.
Hi, I'm Brian, Nurse Practitioner and founder of Introspect Mental Health. We offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy via secure video sessions (telehealth), or in-person at our Jacksonville office located in Mandarin. Our caring and highly skilled nurse practitioners are board certified in psychiatry and primary care. We specialize in diagnosing and treating primary mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, adult ADHD, and bipolar disorder, as well as substance use disorders in adults ages 18 and older.

Anxiety, Depression, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), ADD/ ADHD, Medication Management, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Burnout, Sleep, Insomnia, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum (including postpartum depression), Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Infidelity, Divorce, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Coping Skills, Women’s Issues, Family Issues, Peer Relationships, Life Transitions, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Mood Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Life Coaching, Behavioral Issues, Grief, Psychosis, Thinking Disorders.
Anxiety, Depression, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), ADD/ ADHD, Medication Management, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Burnout, Sleep, Insomnia, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum (including postpartum depression), Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Infidelity, Divorce, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Coping Skills, Women’s Issues, Family Issues, Peer Relationships, Life Transitions, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Mood Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Life Coaching, Behavioral Issues, Grief, Psychosis, Thinking Disorders.

I specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD stimulant & non stimulant care (Adderall, concerta, strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management (phentermine, semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (Ambien ,birth control, blood work, Mammography orders, FMLA, Emotional Support Pet Letter ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing (QB Test- neuropsych FDA cleared testing) and much more! NO Benzodiazepines
I specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD stimulant & non stimulant care (Adderall, concerta, strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management (phentermine, semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (Ambien ,birth control, blood work, Mammography orders, FMLA, Emotional Support Pet Letter ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing (QB Test- neuropsych FDA cleared testing) and much more! NO Benzodiazepines

Kerrie Wilder @ Women's Mental Health Specialists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I know how hard it can be to feel misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or unsure of where to turn for help. As a provider, I believe you. Your experiences—whether it’s mood swings, perinatal struggles, personality challenges, or sexual dissatisfaction—are real, valid, and worth exploring.
I know how hard it can be to feel misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or unsure of where to turn for help. As a provider, I believe you. Your experiences—whether it’s mood swings, perinatal struggles, personality challenges, or sexual dissatisfaction—are real, valid, and worth exploring.

My ideal client is someone facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or complex mental health concerns. They may feel overwhelmed or disconnected and seek a compassionate, professional guide. This person values a whole-person approach, understanding that mental health involves the mind, body, and social factors. Their goal is to achieve stability, resilience, and lasting well-being through positive changes in their life. I’m here to support them with empathy, collaboration, and a tailored plan to help them reach a healthier, balanced state.
My ideal client is someone facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or complex mental health concerns. They may feel overwhelmed or disconnected and seek a compassionate, professional guide. This person values a whole-person approach, understanding that mental health involves the mind, body, and social factors. Their goal is to achieve stability, resilience, and lasting well-being through positive changes in their life. I’m here to support them with empathy, collaboration, and a tailored plan to help them reach a healthier, balanced state.
See more therapy options for Jacksonville Beach
Nearby Searches for Jacksonville Beach
- Fernandina Beach
- Fleming Island
- Fruit Cove
- Jacksonville
- Middleburg
- Orange Park
- Ponte Vedra
- Ponte Vedra Beach
- Saint Augustine
- Saint Johns
- Yulee
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Jacksonville Beach, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Jacksonville Beach, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
89% | Medication Management |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Jacksonville Beach, FL see their clients
78% | In Person and Online | |
22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Jacksonville Beach?
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.