Psychiatrists in Miami, FL
Online psychiatric care for busy travel professionals with ADHD, anxiety, and depression
You’re smart and capable, but your brain feels like it’s working against you. You put things off until the last minute, lie awake replaying conversations, or drag yourself through the day on fumes. You don’t have time for long waitlists or driving across town for a 15‑minute med check.
Online psychiatric care for busy travel professionals with ADHD, anxiety, and depression
You’re smart and capable, but your brain feels like it’s working against you. You put things off until the last minute, lie awake replaying conversations, or drag yourself through the day on fumes. You don’t have time for long waitlists or driving across town for a 15‑minute med check.
The education and experiences of 25+ years, have given me the skills of evaluating and treating a multitude of life situations. I treat clients who are adults, couples, teens, and children. Problems may include marriages that are off track, have communication problems, lack intimacy, affairs; individuals stress in life resulting from divorce, work, family, loss; teens and children with trauma, loss, family changes, difficulties with peers, trouble focusing on school work, change in grades, increasing irritability; families concerned about a family member, having communication struggles, divorce recovery and/or other family trauma.
The education and experiences of 25+ years, have given me the skills of evaluating and treating a multitude of life situations. I treat clients who are adults, couples, teens, and children. Problems may include marriages that are off track, have communication problems, lack intimacy, affairs; individuals stress in life resulting from divorce, work, family, loss; teens and children with trauma, loss, family changes, difficulties with peers, trouble focusing on school work, change in grades, increasing irritability; families concerned about a family member, having communication struggles, divorce recovery and/or other family trauma.
Welcoming New Patients! Bubba is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. A military veteran, Bubba has a keen interest in caring for military members, veterans, and their families. With a commitment to optimizing medications while minimizing polypharmacy, he practices holistic care, acknowledging the intricate connection between mental health and physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Welcoming New Patients! Bubba is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. A military veteran, Bubba has a keen interest in caring for military members, veterans, and their families. With a commitment to optimizing medications while minimizing polypharmacy, he practices holistic care, acknowledging the intricate connection between mental health and physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Welcoming New Patients! Alicia is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She has more than 15 years of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. Known for her compassionate, constructive approach, she supports her clients to make practical, sustaining changes to improve mental wellbeing. She also offers medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for alcohol and opioid use disorders.
Welcoming New Patients! Alicia is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She has more than 15 years of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. Known for her compassionate, constructive approach, she supports her clients to make practical, sustaining changes to improve mental wellbeing. She also offers medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for alcohol and opioid use disorders.
My name is Folukemi Olawepo, and i am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in the health care industry. I see my patient with genuine empathy at the core of each session. My approach is to ensure that you are healthy in body mind and soul. I am firmly resolved to cultivate a nurturing and non-judgmental environment that empowers my patients throughout their journeys toward improved mental well-being. Through close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, I endeavor to craft and implement, patient-centered care plans that cater to specific and diverse needs of each patient.
My name is Folukemi Olawepo, and i am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in the health care industry. I see my patient with genuine empathy at the core of each session. My approach is to ensure that you are healthy in body mind and soul. I am firmly resolved to cultivate a nurturing and non-judgmental environment that empowers my patients throughout their journeys toward improved mental well-being. Through close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, I endeavor to craft and implement, patient-centered care plans that cater to specific and diverse needs of each patient.
I am a dedicated and compassionate dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 26 years of experience in the healthcare field. I hold a Master's degree in Nursing Education and a Post Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Across the lifespan as well as Adult Primary Care. I have a strong background in providing comprehensive care to adolescents and adults, focusing on preventive health measures and managing mental health and chronic conditions.
I am a dedicated and compassionate dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 26 years of experience in the healthcare field. I hold a Master's degree in Nursing Education and a Post Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Across the lifespan as well as Adult Primary Care. I have a strong background in providing comprehensive care to adolescents and adults, focusing on preventive health measures and managing mental health and chronic conditions.
I specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD neuropsych testing and non-stimulant care (NO Adderall, NO concerta, yes-strattera, yes- 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 neuropsych testing and non-stimulant care (NO Adderall, NO concerta, yes-strattera, yes- 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
Laura Pinero, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Laura speaks both English and Spanish fluently. This linguistic proficiency, coupled with her innate empathy, has been instrumental in her ability to connect with and provide comprehensive care to patients from various cultural backgrounds. Her dedication, empathy, and commitment to cultural competence make her a valued healthcare provider in the vibrant and diverse city of Miami.
Laura Pinero, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Laura speaks both English and Spanish fluently. This linguistic proficiency, coupled with her innate empathy, has been instrumental in her ability to connect with and provide comprehensive care to patients from various cultural backgrounds. Her dedication, empathy, and commitment to cultural competence make her a valued healthcare provider in the vibrant and diverse city of Miami.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the ABPN. I am fully trained in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I received my psychiatry training at University of Maryland and attended Johns Hopkins Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best.
I am currently licensed in FL, CT and MD and see patients virtually in these 3 states.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the ABPN. I am fully trained in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I received my psychiatry training at University of Maryland and attended Johns Hopkins Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best.
I am currently licensed in FL, CT and MD and see patients virtually in these 3 states.
My ideal client is someone navigating mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, mood disorders, or other related conditions. These struggles can deeply affect daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being.
I recognize that seeking mental health care can be difficult—and often overwhelming. That’s why my approach is rooted in compassion, understanding, and opting to a personalized care. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can feel heard, valued, and empowered.
My ideal client is someone navigating mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, mood disorders, or other related conditions. These struggles can deeply affect daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being.
I recognize that seeking mental health care can be difficult—and often overwhelming. That’s why my approach is rooted in compassion, understanding, and opting to a personalized care. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can feel heard, valued, and empowered.
Each and every individual is unique and has had their own collective experience to shape the person that they have become. Also, each and every individual has variances in how they might respond to standard or novel treatments. Decades of experience in post-residency training and thousands of patients of all ages later have shaped my treatment approach. That would be one that is extremely methodical. You can be assured that every step along the way will be executed to the highest professional standards. I will work tirelessly to see that you are returned to your baseline functioning and won't stop trying until that is attained.
Each and every individual is unique and has had their own collective experience to shape the person that they have become. Also, each and every individual has variances in how they might respond to standard or novel treatments. Decades of experience in post-residency training and thousands of patients of all ages later have shaped my treatment approach. That would be one that is extremely methodical. You can be assured that every step along the way will be executed to the highest professional standards. I will work tirelessly to see that you are returned to your baseline functioning and won't stop trying until that is attained.
Dedicated and experienced board-certified psychiatrist with a strong background in adolescent and adult psychiatry. Having completed her psychiatry residency at Larkin Community Hospital, where she served as Chief Resident, she has honed her skills in providing comprehensive, evidence-based care. Dr. Duconge Munarriz takes a holistic approach to treatment, focusing on individualized care plans that include medication management and ongoing support. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Dr. Duconge is able to offer compassionate care to a diverse patient population, helping individuals of all ages navigate their mental health challenges.
Dedicated and experienced board-certified psychiatrist with a strong background in adolescent and adult psychiatry. Having completed her psychiatry residency at Larkin Community Hospital, where she served as Chief Resident, she has honed her skills in providing comprehensive, evidence-based care. Dr. Duconge Munarriz takes a holistic approach to treatment, focusing on individualized care plans that include medication management and ongoing support. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Dr. Duconge is able to offer compassionate care to a diverse patient population, helping individuals of all ages navigate their mental health challenges.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood swings? You don’t have to navigate it alone.
I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for adolescents (12+) and adults across Florida through secure telehealth.
My approach blends thoughtful medication management with real collaboration. Together, we’ll uncover what’s driving your symptoms and build a personalized plan for clarity, emotional stability, and lasting confidence.
You deserve care that actually listens. Let’s take the next step.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood swings? You don’t have to navigate it alone.
I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for adolescents (12+) and adults across Florida through secure telehealth.
My approach blends thoughtful medication management with real collaboration. Together, we’ll uncover what’s driving your symptoms and build a personalized plan for clarity, emotional stability, and lasting confidence.
You deserve care that actually listens. Let’s take the next step.
Welcoming New Patients! Bubba is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. A military veteran, Bubba has a keen interest in caring for military members, veterans, and their families. With a commitment to optimizing medications while minimizing polypharmacy, he practices holistic care, acknowledging the intricate connection between mental health and physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Welcoming New Patients! Bubba is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. A military veteran, Bubba has a keen interest in caring for military members, veterans, and their families. With a commitment to optimizing medications while minimizing polypharmacy, he practices holistic care, acknowledging the intricate connection between mental health and physical, emotional, and social well-being.
My name is Katrina Flanagan, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide telehealth and in-person services for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health conditions. I strive to create a compassionate space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered. I conduct thorough assessments and develop personalized treatment plans, using tools such as genetic testing to tailor care to your unique needs. If you’re ready to take the next step toward well-being, I invite you to reach out, you don’t have to face this journey alone.
My name is Katrina Flanagan, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide telehealth and in-person services for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health conditions. I strive to create a compassionate space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered. I conduct thorough assessments and develop personalized treatment plans, using tools such as genetic testing to tailor care to your unique needs. If you’re ready to take the next step toward well-being, I invite you to reach out, you don’t have to face this journey alone.
I work best with high-functioning adults who look successful externally yet feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or mentally stretched internally. Many are professionals, entrepreneurs, healthcare workers, and analytical thinkers who have pushed through anxiety, burnout, or attention difficulties without clear answers. Some question ADHD or autism, while others have prior diagnoses that still feel incomplete. They often seek clarity, validation, and a more accurate understanding of their experience. I provide structured evaluation, thoughtful medication management when appropriate and practical strategies to restore balance, improve fun!
I work best with high-functioning adults who look successful externally yet feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or mentally stretched internally. Many are professionals, entrepreneurs, healthcare workers, and analytical thinkers who have pushed through anxiety, burnout, or attention difficulties without clear answers. Some question ADHD or autism, while others have prior diagnoses that still feel incomplete. They often seek clarity, validation, and a more accurate understanding of their experience. I provide structured evaluation, thoughtful medication management when appropriate and practical strategies to restore balance, improve fun!
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand that seeking mental health care takes courage. You may be feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or simply stuck—and you deserve compassionate, personalized care. What makes me unique is my ability to listen without judgment, meet you where you are, and partner with you to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your values, goals, and life. Together, we’ll create a path forward that feels right for you.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand that seeking mental health care takes courage. You may be feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or simply stuck—and you deserve compassionate, personalized care. What makes me unique is my ability to listen without judgment, meet you where you are, and partner with you to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your values, goals, and life. Together, we’ll create a path forward that feels right for you.
Sonia Garcia Santos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33183
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I strongly believe in whole-person, patient-centered care. My approach blends advanced medical training with a warm, thoughtful presence—meeting you where you are, and working together toward where you want to be.
I provide personalized psychiatric care for individuals navigating concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and more. Each treatment plan is grounded in evidence-based practice and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I strongly believe in whole-person, patient-centered care. My approach blends advanced medical training with a warm, thoughtful presence—meeting you where you are, and working together toward where you want to be.
I provide personalized psychiatric care for individuals navigating concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and more. Each treatment plan is grounded in evidence-based practice and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Hi, I’m Dr. Myra Morales, a Board-Certified Psychiatrist practicing at My Psychiatrist in South Miami. My journey in psychiatry began with my studies at The University of Virginia and continued through my medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine. I completed my residency at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, where I developed a deep commitment to providing empathetic and comprehensive mental health care. I understand that seeking help for mental health can be a challenging decision, and I’m here to create a warm, welcoming environment where you feel truly supported.
Hi, I’m Dr. Myra Morales, a Board-Certified Psychiatrist practicing at My Psychiatrist in South Miami. My journey in psychiatry began with my studies at The University of Virginia and continued through my medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine. I completed my residency at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, where I developed a deep commitment to providing empathetic and comprehensive mental health care. I understand that seeking help for mental health can be a challenging decision, and I’m here to create a warm, welcoming environment where you feel truly supported.
I am a board-certified Psychiatrist with a strong background in the treatment of mental illnesses in children, adults, and geriatric population. I treat several conditions including ADHD, Autism, Alcohol use disorder, bipolar disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, OCD, ODD, borderline personality disorders, PTSD, etc.
I am a board-certified Psychiatrist with a strong background in the treatment of mental illnesses in children, adults, and geriatric population. I treat several conditions including ADHD, Autism, Alcohol use disorder, bipolar disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, OCD, ODD, borderline personality disorders, PTSD, etc.
See more therapy options for Miami
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Miami, FL
700+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Miami, FL who prioritize treating:
| 96% | Anxiety |
| 93% | Depression |
| 79% | ADHD |
| 77% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 69% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
| 68% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 94% | Aetna |
| 94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 74% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Miami, FL see their clients
| 52% | Online Only | |
| 48% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
| 69% | Female | |
| 31% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Miami?
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.


