Psychiatrists in Kissimmee, FL
Angel Avila-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34744 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience treating adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. My goal is Whole-Person Wellness through medication management and psychotherapy. I practice holistic care; I help people achieve their goals by assessing their physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. I believe Whole-Person Wellness is best achieved when medication management and therapy are used in combination. Book a free 15 minutes consultation and commence a life-changing journey toward a brighter future. Hablo español.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience treating adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. My goal is Whole-Person Wellness through medication management and psychotherapy. I practice holistic care; I help people achieve their goals by assessing their physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. I believe Whole-Person Wellness is best achieved when medication management and therapy are used in combination. Book a free 15 minutes consultation and commence a life-changing journey toward a brighter future. Hablo español.
Lisa Abern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34747 (Online Only)
My name is Lisa and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults in multiple settings facing various complex mental health issues, including ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and mood disorders.
My name is Lisa and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults in multiple settings facing various complex mental health issues, including ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and mood disorders.
Mercedes Gibbons is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over ten years of experience in mental health. Most of her experience is in crisis stabilization management in inpatient settings for adult and children. She also has experience in outpatient settings with medication treatment and management. Over time of working in both hospice care and mental health, she decided to pursue for hidden calling, practicing as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She attended Edison State College (Fort Myers, Florida) where she obtained her Associate of Science in Nursing and Associate of Arts Degree.
Mercedes Gibbons is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over ten years of experience in mental health. Most of her experience is in crisis stabilization management in inpatient settings for adult and children. She also has experience in outpatient settings with medication treatment and management. Over time of working in both hospice care and mental health, she decided to pursue for hidden calling, practicing as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She attended Edison State College (Fort Myers, Florida) where she obtained her Associate of Science in Nursing and Associate of Arts Degree.
Dr. Teron Verma is a Psychiatrist with Boston Neurobehavioral Associates (BNBA) with a focus on dealing with various mental health pathologies. He is dedicated on helping his clients deal with the myriad of complexities that come with mental health pathologies, and alleviate stigmas in pursuing care. He provides personalized pharmacotherapy as well as psychotherapy to help his clients deal with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders or any other behavioral disturbances, which the client needs help with during their visit.
Dr. Teron Verma is a Psychiatrist with Boston Neurobehavioral Associates (BNBA) with a focus on dealing with various mental health pathologies. He is dedicated on helping his clients deal with the myriad of complexities that come with mental health pathologies, and alleviate stigmas in pursuing care. He provides personalized pharmacotherapy as well as psychotherapy to help his clients deal with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders or any other behavioral disturbances, which the client needs help with during their visit.
Judeline Docteur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kissimmee, FL 34744 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Judeline Docteur, a psychiatric provider in Florida. Book with me now by clicking on my website. Many of my clients come to me feeling hopeless, emotionally overwhelmed and misunderstood. I firmly believe that mental health is as critical as physical health. It influences all aspects of our day-to-day lives and our relationships. I specialize in assisting those who are dealing with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and ADHD, which are often misunderstood by society, and these conditions can be incredibly isolating for the individuals experiencing them.
Hi, I'm Judeline Docteur, a psychiatric provider in Florida. Book with me now by clicking on my website. Many of my clients come to me feeling hopeless, emotionally overwhelmed and misunderstood. I firmly believe that mental health is as critical as physical health. It influences all aspects of our day-to-day lives and our relationships. I specialize in assisting those who are dealing with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and ADHD, which are often misunderstood by society, and these conditions can be incredibly isolating for the individuals experiencing them.
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.
Dr. Gardine Jacques
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ANP-BC, CDE, CCRN
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34741 (Online Only)
Dr. Gardine Jacques holds two national board certifications with American Credentialing Center (ANCC) as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and adult nurse practitioner (ANP). She is also a certified diabetic educator and certified critical care nurse. Dr. Jacques completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Florida International University. She received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice, and her Master in Nursing at University of South Florida. She received her Post Master at Valdosta State University.
Dr. Gardine Jacques holds two national board certifications with American Credentialing Center (ANCC) as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and adult nurse practitioner (ANP). She is also a certified diabetic educator and certified critical care nurse. Dr. Jacques completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Florida International University. She received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice, and her Master in Nursing at University of South Florida. She received her Post Master at Valdosta State University.
Mente Suave Psychiatry and Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Mente Suave Psychiatry and Medicine takes a comprehensive approach to treating the mind and body, optimizing the advances of evidenced-based research of neurosciences and neurobiology, with a plethora of testing to include genetic, metabolic, nutritional, hormonal, and various other measures creating a unique approach to tailor individual treatment of ones physical and mental wellbeing. Roger is leading a research project at the University of Florida on post-traumatic stress disorder at the Puerto Rico Medical Center Trauma Hospital. His goal is to help implement a PTSD protocol through the aid of precision medicine.
Mente Suave Psychiatry and Medicine takes a comprehensive approach to treating the mind and body, optimizing the advances of evidenced-based research of neurosciences and neurobiology, with a plethora of testing to include genetic, metabolic, nutritional, hormonal, and various other measures creating a unique approach to tailor individual treatment of ones physical and mental wellbeing. Roger is leading a research project at the University of Florida on post-traumatic stress disorder at the Puerto Rico Medical Center Trauma Hospital. His goal is to help implement a PTSD protocol through the aid of precision medicine.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
M-L Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Welcome! I'm Dorrett McDonald-Lovell, a committed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in the vibrant community of Kissimmee, FL. With over 20 years of invaluable experience in the healthcare field, my journey has been fueled by a deep passion for improving the wellbeing of my patients and their families. My expertise lies in understanding and addressing your mental health needs with empathy and professionalism. I've spent significant time honing my skills, practicing as a PMHNP across all ages. My approach is patient-centered, ensuring that you receive personalized care tailored to your unique situation.
Welcome! I'm Dorrett McDonald-Lovell, a committed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in the vibrant community of Kissimmee, FL. With over 20 years of invaluable experience in the healthcare field, my journey has been fueled by a deep passion for improving the wellbeing of my patients and their families. My expertise lies in understanding and addressing your mental health needs with empathy and professionalism. I've spent significant time honing my skills, practicing as a PMHNP across all ages. My approach is patient-centered, ensuring that you receive personalized care tailored to your unique situation.
Dr. Trinese Hardy is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2015. In addition to dual certification in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. , Dr. Hardy holds a Doctorate Degree in Public Health, which has enabled her to develop a style that encompasses the whole patient, mind, body, and soul, not just the physical when treating them. Dr. Hardy can offer non-bias, nonjudgmental, respectful, and positive ways to helping clients identify, understand, and manage their mental health challenges through holistic approaches coupled with other evidenced based practices.
Dr. Trinese Hardy is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2015. In addition to dual certification in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. , Dr. Hardy holds a Doctorate Degree in Public Health, which has enabled her to develop a style that encompasses the whole patient, mind, body, and soul, not just the physical when treating them. Dr. Hardy can offer non-bias, nonjudgmental, respectful, and positive ways to helping clients identify, understand, and manage their mental health challenges through holistic approaches coupled with other evidenced based practices.
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Hysintine Palle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Dr. Hysintine Palle, is a double board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, from Kissimmee AND Florida, treating both physical and mental distress. Dr. Hysintine Palle's main goal is to empower her patients because sometimes, their symptoms leave them feeling helpless. One of her most important obligations as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to provide hope for her patients. Dr. Hysintine Palle believes that in their practice, patients can discover that their progress and goals are achievable by applying the methods and techniques that she uses in session.
Dr. Hysintine Palle, is a double board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, from Kissimmee AND Florida, treating both physical and mental distress. Dr. Hysintine Palle's main goal is to empower her patients because sometimes, their symptoms leave them feeling helpless. One of her most important obligations as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to provide hope for her patients. Dr. Hysintine Palle believes that in their practice, patients can discover that their progress and goals are achievable by applying the methods and techniques that she uses in session.
Joel David Ortega
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP -, BC
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Are you stressed and overwhelmed, or are you suffering from concentration issues? As a nationally board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide personalized care that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I offer specialized treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and mood disorders. My approach combines traditional psychiatric treatments with holistic therapies to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the difference at Uplift Family Psychiatry
Are you stressed and overwhelmed, or are you suffering from concentration issues? As a nationally board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide personalized care that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I offer specialized treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and mood disorders. My approach combines traditional psychiatric treatments with holistic therapies to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the difference at Uplift Family Psychiatry
Dinapoles Galvan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34758 (Online Only)
Dr. Galvan is an English and Spanish speaking provider who services clients 5 years old and up dealing with depression, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD and other mental health conditions.
Dr. Galvan is an English and Spanish speaking provider who services clients 5 years old and up dealing with depression, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD and other mental health conditions.
Esther Luc Pelissier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34758 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Esther, owner of BBMH, profile managed by Grow Therapy. Have you ever felt alone and misunderstood? Like you had no one to turn to for help? What if I told you that you didn't need to be alone? I specialize in helping people of all ages with various mental health issues, including but not limited to mood disorders and anxiety. I am extremely passionate about assisting others and aim to provide the utmost care. I like to take on a more individual and personal approach, developing a care plan that works best for you and your situation.
Hello, my name is Esther, owner of BBMH, profile managed by Grow Therapy. Have you ever felt alone and misunderstood? Like you had no one to turn to for help? What if I told you that you didn't need to be alone? I specialize in helping people of all ages with various mental health issues, including but not limited to mood disorders and anxiety. I am extremely passionate about assisting others and aim to provide the utmost care. I like to take on a more individual and personal approach, developing a care plan that works best for you and your situation.
Rachel Christian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34758 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC); I bring over 20 years of quality care of nursing with the benefit of specialized education in psychiatry and medication management. I am non judgmental and treat all my patients with respect. I empower my patients to be able to manage their mental health, either through medication alone, with therapy or with different modalities, including diet and exercise. I feel it is essential to form a partnership based in trust and compassion and always with the patient’s wishes and goals in mind.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC); I bring over 20 years of quality care of nursing with the benefit of specialized education in psychiatry and medication management. I am non judgmental and treat all my patients with respect. I empower my patients to be able to manage their mental health, either through medication alone, with therapy or with different modalities, including diet and exercise. I feel it is essential to form a partnership based in trust and compassion and always with the patient’s wishes and goals in mind.
Are you struggling with your mental well-being? Do you feel like something isn't quite right and you're unsure where to turn? Are you finding it difficult to manage your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors? I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and diagnoses, along with medication management if necessary. Together, we can uncover the root causes of your challenges and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you regain control of your mental health.
Are you struggling with your mental well-being? Do you feel like something isn't quite right and you're unsure where to turn? Are you finding it difficult to manage your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors? I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and diagnoses, along with medication management if necessary. Together, we can uncover the root causes of your challenges and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you regain control of your mental health.
Psych by Tammy/Healthy Mindz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34758 (Online Only)
Are you tired of struggling to maintain true wellness that encompasses the mind, body, and soul? At Healthy Mindz, we believe that the key to optimal health begins with a healthy mind. We deliver care that is aimed at treating the whole person; not just their mental health needs. It is understood by our practitioners that all of these aspects affect your overall health and wellbeing so our support is aimed at patients’ social, physical, spiritual, and emotional needs as well as their mental health.
Are you tired of struggling to maintain true wellness that encompasses the mind, body, and soul? At Healthy Mindz, we believe that the key to optimal health begins with a healthy mind. We deliver care that is aimed at treating the whole person; not just their mental health needs. It is understood by our practitioners that all of these aspects affect your overall health and wellbeing so our support is aimed at patients’ social, physical, spiritual, and emotional needs as well as their mental health.
Natacha Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Dr. Smith is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She received her nurse practitioner degree from the University of South Alabama and has been in practice for eight years. She provides evidence-based holistic mental health care to individuals of all ages. She is committed to helping patients reach their goals. She also believes in establishing a long-lasting rapport with her patients. Her objective is to ensure her patients’ needs and concerns are being heard and their needs and purposes are being met.
Dr. Smith is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She received her nurse practitioner degree from the University of South Alabama and has been in practice for eight years. She provides evidence-based holistic mental health care to individuals of all ages. She is committed to helping patients reach their goals. She also believes in establishing a long-lasting rapport with her patients. Her objective is to ensure her patients’ needs and concerns are being heard and their needs and purposes are being met.
Elecia Trowers is a Board-Certified Adult, Child, and, Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Science Nursing Degree at The University of South Florida in 2016, she then went on to completing her Master of Science Nursing Degree at The University of Alabama Birmingham in 2019. She completed her psychiatric internship at Florida Behavioral Medicine, Lakeland Regional Health, and, Yantra Psychiatric Services. Elecia's professional background includes surgical transplant nursing, cardio thoracic nursing, she is also a proud nurse leader and continues to practice cardio thoracic nursing at the bedside.
Elecia Trowers is a Board-Certified Adult, Child, and, Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Science Nursing Degree at The University of South Florida in 2016, she then went on to completing her Master of Science Nursing Degree at The University of Alabama Birmingham in 2019. She completed her psychiatric internship at Florida Behavioral Medicine, Lakeland Regional Health, and, Yantra Psychiatric Services. Elecia's professional background includes surgical transplant nursing, cardio thoracic nursing, she is also a proud nurse leader and continues to practice cardio thoracic nursing at the bedside.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Kissimmee, FL
30+
Average cost per session
$160
Psychiatrists in Kissimmee, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
95% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | Medication Management |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | Aetna |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Kissimmee, FL see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kissimmee?
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.