Psychiatrists in Miami Gardens, FL

Photo of Rosie Mitchel - Heavenly Soul's Care LLC - Psychiatric Office, MD, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heavenly Soul's Care LLC - Psychiatric Office
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, APRN
Verified Verified
Miami Gardens, FL 33169
One in five Americans suffers from a mental illness. Nearly 6 in 10 people with mental illness get no treatment or medication. Heavenly Soul’s Care is a patient-centered mental health office with psychiatric providers dedicated to serving the mental health needs of the residents of South Florida and beyond. Our team of well-trained, multilingual providers with years of experience in in-patient and outpatient psychiatric care, is committed to delivering the highest quality of care and exceptional services to each of our patients without prejudice. Our vision is to improve the quality of life for teens and adults with mental illness.
One in five Americans suffers from a mental illness. Nearly 6 in 10 people with mental illness get no treatment or medication. Heavenly Soul’s Care is a patient-centered mental health office with psychiatric providers dedicated to serving the mental health needs of the residents of South Florida and beyond. Our team of well-trained, multilingual providers with years of experience in in-patient and outpatient psychiatric care, is committed to delivering the highest quality of care and exceptional services to each of our patients without prejudice. Our vision is to improve the quality of life for teens and adults with mental illness.
(954) 637-0673 View (954) 637-0673
Photo of Vickki-Ann Samuel, MD, Psychiatrist
Vickki-Ann Samuel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Miami Gardens, FL 33169
Obtaining optimal mental health is important for achieving and maintaining one's overall health and well-being. At Reflections of Mental Health restoring your peace of mind is our top priority. For many generations suffering from mental illness has been stigmatized. Due to this, we provide a serene non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable to share your ailments and begin the journey to finding infinite bliss. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with training in Forensic Psychiatry. I specialize in the treatment of depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders, psychosis, dual diagnosis (mental illness along with substance abuse), and legal aspects of mental health.
Obtaining optimal mental health is important for achieving and maintaining one's overall health and well-being. At Reflections of Mental Health restoring your peace of mind is our top priority. For many generations suffering from mental illness has been stigmatized. Due to this, we provide a serene non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable to share your ailments and begin the journey to finding infinite bliss. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with training in Forensic Psychiatry. I specialize in the treatment of depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders, psychosis, dual diagnosis (mental illness along with substance abuse), and legal aspects of mental health.
(305) 549-8100 View (305) 549-8100
Photo of Maytee Cuevas, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maytee Cuevas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Waitlist for new clients
As a prospective psychiatric nurse practitioner, my foremost commitment is to fostering a compassionate, respectful, and trust-filled therapeutic relationship with each of my clients. I understand that seeking mental health care can be a significant and sometimes challenging step, and my goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard, understood, and valued. Trust is the foundation of any therapeutic relationship, and I am committed to earning and maintaining your trust through transparency, consistency, and unwavering support. Together, we will navigate the complexities of mental health
As a prospective psychiatric nurse practitioner, my foremost commitment is to fostering a compassionate, respectful, and trust-filled therapeutic relationship with each of my clients. I understand that seeking mental health care can be a significant and sometimes challenging step, and my goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard, understood, and valued. Trust is the foundation of any therapeutic relationship, and I am committed to earning and maintaining your trust through transparency, consistency, and unwavering support. Together, we will navigate the complexities of mental health
(786) 840-8644 View (786) 840-8644
Photo of Tashara Redding Jean - Spiritual NP Mentor, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Spiritual NP Mentor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Gardens, FL 33056  (Online Only)
An ideal client would be cisgender minority women although all genders are equally accepted. These individuals typically face adversities related to gender roles, bias, home environment stress, imposter syndrome, and day-to-day feelings of acceptance in society. My goal as the provider typically would include not only diagnosing and treating acute psychiatric conditions but also providing a safe space to share their day-to-day stressors.
An ideal client would be cisgender minority women although all genders are equally accepted. These individuals typically face adversities related to gender roles, bias, home environment stress, imposter syndrome, and day-to-day feelings of acceptance in society. My goal as the provider typically would include not only diagnosing and treating acute psychiatric conditions but also providing a safe space to share their day-to-day stressors.
(786) 410-3258 View (786) 410-3258
Photo of Angel Snipes, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angel Snipes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Gardens, FL 33056  (Online Only)
Dedicated to providing compassionate care throughout every individual's healing journey, Angel specializes in treating a range of mental health conditions. These include complex mood and anxiety disorders, panic disorder, PTSD, women's health issues, ADHD, insomnia, grief and loss, life transitions, and OCD.
Dedicated to providing compassionate care throughout every individual's healing journey, Angel specializes in treating a range of mental health conditions. These include complex mood and anxiety disorders, panic disorder, PTSD, women's health issues, ADHD, insomnia, grief and loss, life transitions, and OCD.
(305) 257-9082 View (305) 257-9082
Photo of Josette Hylton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Josette Hylton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Miami Gardens, FL 33055
Working in the medical field for over 17 years, I know firsthand how important it is to care for the whole person, taking into account their physical, emotional, and social well-being into consideration during treatment. My number one goal is to provide a welcoming space devoid of criticism so that you can feel heard and be inclusive with the treatment plan. Patient safety and regaining a sense of functioning are my utmost priorities when it comes to assisting you reach your mental health wellness. Every day, a lot of people face challenges that are both scary and seem out of reach. Restoring your mental wellness is our mission.
Working in the medical field for over 17 years, I know firsthand how important it is to care for the whole person, taking into account their physical, emotional, and social well-being into consideration during treatment. My number one goal is to provide a welcoming space devoid of criticism so that you can feel heard and be inclusive with the treatment plan. Patient safety and regaining a sense of functioning are my utmost priorities when it comes to assisting you reach your mental health wellness. Every day, a lot of people face challenges that are both scary and seem out of reach. Restoring your mental wellness is our mission.
(954) 738-5236 View (954) 738-5236
Photo of Dr. Clara Alvarez, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Dr. Clara Alvarez
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Hi! I am a triple board-certified psychiatrist with years of clinical experience and medical teaching. I focus on Brain/Gut health, emotional regulation, chronic illnesses, positive interventions, empowerment, mind-body healing, and lifestyle. I help individuals to achieve their wellness goals, including personal and professional growth. The comprehensive neuropsychiatric assessments are personalized to medical, emotional, situational, and spiritual targets. For Appointments visit Headway.co (under Florida providers)
Hi! I am a triple board-certified psychiatrist with years of clinical experience and medical teaching. I focus on Brain/Gut health, emotional regulation, chronic illnesses, positive interventions, empowerment, mind-body healing, and lifestyle. I help individuals to achieve their wellness goals, including personal and professional growth. The comprehensive neuropsychiatric assessments are personalized to medical, emotional, situational, and spiritual targets. For Appointments visit Headway.co (under Florida providers)
(786) 207-1396 View (786) 207-1396
Photo of Dr. Guylaine Dunac, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Guylaine Dunac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami Gardens, FL 33056  (Online Only)
My name is Guylaine Dunac. I am a board-certified family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My education and training have equipped me to treat my clients holistically using the latest evidence-based treatments.
My name is Guylaine Dunac. I am a board-certified family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My education and training have equipped me to treat my clients holistically using the latest evidence-based treatments.
(786) 882-4147 View (786) 882-4147

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Outreach Recovery
Psychiatrist, MD, DO
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33180
We have addiction and mental health outpatient clinics across Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Virginia. We can provide medical and psychological evaluations, medication assisted treatment, addiction therapy, addiction referral services, home treatment programs, and a variety of wellness services. We treat our patients in outpatient settings, so they continue normal routines except without the dependency on harmful drugs. Patients can respond very quickly with positive results and low risk.
We have addiction and mental health outpatient clinics across Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Virginia. We can provide medical and psychological evaluations, medication assisted treatment, addiction therapy, addiction referral services, home treatment programs, and a variety of wellness services. We treat our patients in outpatient settings, so they continue normal routines except without the dependency on harmful drugs. Patients can respond very quickly with positive results and low risk.
(786) 638-6149 View (786) 638-6149
Photo of Daniel Santos Frutos, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel Santos Frutos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hialeah, FL 33018  (Online Only)
Accepting new Patients! If you are seeking a mental health professional extensively trained in the treatment of depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, Bipolar disorders and need to begin or continue care, look no further. Hola! Si está buscando un profesional de la salud mental ampliamente capacitado en el tratamiento de la depresión, el duelo, la ansiedad, el ADHD, los trastornos alimentarios, los trastornos bipolares y necesita comenzar o continuar con la atención, no busque más.
Accepting new Patients! If you are seeking a mental health professional extensively trained in the treatment of depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, Bipolar disorders and need to begin or continue care, look no further. Hola! Si está buscando un profesional de la salud mental ampliamente capacitado en el tratamiento de la depresión, el duelo, la ansiedad, el ADHD, los trastornos alimentarios, los trastornos bipolares y necesita comenzar o continuar con la atención, no busque más.
(321) 410-5340 View (321) 410-5340
Photo of Michelle Mottern, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Mottern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hialeah, FL 33010
Hi! My name is Michelle and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Mosaic Brain Health. At Mosaic Brain Health we strive to destigmatize mental health and emphasize brain health. We provide a comprehensive set of services to help boost your confidence and offer support as you navigate your personal brain health and wellness challenges.
Hi! My name is Michelle and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Mosaic Brain Health. At Mosaic Brain Health we strive to destigmatize mental health and emphasize brain health. We provide a comprehensive set of services to help boost your confidence and offer support as you navigate your personal brain health and wellness challenges.
(727) 855-6706 View (727) 855-6706
Photo of Jessica Nicole Balok-Angelilli, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Nicole Balok-Angelilli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33127  (Online Only)
My name is Jessica Balok-Angelilli and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to teens and adults..
My name is Jessica Balok-Angelilli and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to teens and adults..
(904) 822-5391 View (904) 822-5391
Photo of Jonteria Williams, DNP, PMHNP, CCRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonteria Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CCRN
Verified Verified
Aventura, FL 33160  (Online Only)
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals seeking support and healing. With a solid foundation in psychiatric nursing and extensive experience in both clinical and community base settings, I understand the complexities of mental health disorders and the importance of personalized treatment plans. I am passionate about advocating for mental health awareness and reducing stigma, recognizing that seeking help is a vital step toward recovery. I welcome patients from diverse backgrounds and am committed to understanding and respect.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals seeking support and healing. With a solid foundation in psychiatric nursing and extensive experience in both clinical and community base settings, I understand the complexities of mental health disorders and the importance of personalized treatment plans. I am passionate about advocating for mental health awareness and reducing stigma, recognizing that seeking help is a vital step toward recovery. I welcome patients from diverse backgrounds and am committed to understanding and respect.
(786) 627-6449 View (786) 627-6449
Photo of Pierrot Badio - Mind-Body Optimal Care, LLC, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind-Body Optimal Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Miramar, FL 33025  (Online Only)
My name is Pierrot Badio owner of Mind-Body-Optimal Care., LLC . I specialize in treating mental health disorders such as, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Schizophrenia, and dr during pregnancy, postpartum and infertility. I enjoy working with my patients and their therapists in a collaborative model where we come together to identify goals, discuss the treatment options and make informed decisions as a team. At MBOC we create an environment where you feel comfortable, safe and understood. We also strive to provide you with evidence-based information so you can make informed decisions about what could be best for you.
My name is Pierrot Badio owner of Mind-Body-Optimal Care., LLC . I specialize in treating mental health disorders such as, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Schizophrenia, and dr during pregnancy, postpartum and infertility. I enjoy working with my patients and their therapists in a collaborative model where we come together to identify goals, discuss the treatment options and make informed decisions as a team. At MBOC we create an environment where you feel comfortable, safe and understood. We also strive to provide you with evidence-based information so you can make informed decisions about what could be best for you.
(954) 287-3473 View (954) 287-3473
Photo of Tania P. Alfonso - Florida Mental Health Resources, LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Florida Mental Health Resources, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami Lakes, FL 33016
A highly motivated,flexible,and patient-focused board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with proven expertise in child, adolescent, adult, and geriatric psychiatric care, substance abuse and dependence, and other specialty groups within the community. Background in primary, acute, and long-term inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care. A bilingual service-oriented healthcare provider with many years of experience specialized in providing compassionate and competent psychiatric services to individuals and families with a variety of psychiatric disorders and mental health needs to reach their emotional wellbeing.
A highly motivated,flexible,and patient-focused board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with proven expertise in child, adolescent, adult, and geriatric psychiatric care, substance abuse and dependence, and other specialty groups within the community. Background in primary, acute, and long-term inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care. A bilingual service-oriented healthcare provider with many years of experience specialized in providing compassionate and competent psychiatric services to individuals and families with a variety of psychiatric disorders and mental health needs to reach their emotional wellbeing.
(786) 822-7523 View (786) 822-7523
Photo of Dr. Jessica Francois, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Jessica Francois
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hialeah, FL 33012  (Online Only)
My ideal client faces OCD, anxiety, or mood challenges and seeks relief, understanding, and guidance toward managing these struggles effectively. They want a tailored treatment plan that respects their unique history and needs, using evidence-based approaches to build lasting resilience and improve their quality of life.
My ideal client faces OCD, anxiety, or mood challenges and seeks relief, understanding, and guidance toward managing these struggles effectively. They want a tailored treatment plan that respects their unique history and needs, using evidence-based approaches to build lasting resilience and improve their quality of life.
(305) 224-8125 View (305) 224-8125
Photo of Islam Ganie - TCL Medical, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
TCL Medical
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Hialeah, FL 33012
I am a dual certified NP in psychiatry and family medicine. I have integrative and holistic psychiatry and medical experience! I have spent the last 17 years caring for patients in all different walks of life. I have 12 years of education post high school to improve and/or enhance patient’s mental and psychical health and well-being. My comprehensive nurse practitioner experience is in psychiatry, naturopathic, integrative, holistic medicine, addiction medicine (in and outpatient) and internal medicine, urgent care, walk-in clinic, pulmonology and pediatric rehab medicine.
I am a dual certified NP in psychiatry and family medicine. I have integrative and holistic psychiatry and medical experience! I have spent the last 17 years caring for patients in all different walks of life. I have 12 years of education post high school to improve and/or enhance patient’s mental and psychical health and well-being. My comprehensive nurse practitioner experience is in psychiatry, naturopathic, integrative, holistic medicine, addiction medicine (in and outpatient) and internal medicine, urgent care, walk-in clinic, pulmonology and pediatric rehab medicine.
(727) 605-5740 View (727) 605-5740
Photo of Caryn B Schorr, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Caryn B Schorr
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Hallandale Beach, FL 33009
I am a double boarded psychiatrist, a psychotherapist and a psychoanalyst. I treat adults who despite their innate capabilities are experiencing difficulties in their relationships, academics or career. Together our work focuses on identifying and dealing with those issues which are outside of awareness and are interfering with the freedom to succeed. Seeking therapy is often a difficult decision, but it can be one of the most important emotional investments you make.
I am a double boarded psychiatrist, a psychotherapist and a psychoanalyst. I treat adults who despite their innate capabilities are experiencing difficulties in their relationships, academics or career. Together our work focuses on identifying and dealing with those issues which are outside of awareness and are interfering with the freedom to succeed. Seeking therapy is often a difficult decision, but it can be one of the most important emotional investments you make.
(754) 704-4431 View (754) 704-4431
Photo of Rochelle Bradley, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rochelle Bradley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hialeah, FL 33016  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Specializing in Anxiety, Depression and ADHD, Dr. Bradley, DNP helps clients navigate through their mental health diagnosis.
Specializing in Anxiety, Depression and ADHD, Dr. Bradley, DNP helps clients navigate through their mental health diagnosis.
View
Photo of Anabel Ruiz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anabel Ruiz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hialeah, FL 33014  (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I emphasize a holistic and patient-centered approach to mental health care. I honor my patients' autonomy and advocate for collaborative, goal-oriented treatment plans. I work with adults and the elderly experiencing various psychiatric symptoms and stressors, utilizing evidence-based methods to enhance self-efficacy and restore balance.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I emphasize a holistic and patient-centered approach to mental health care. I honor my patients' autonomy and advocate for collaborative, goal-oriented treatment plans. I work with adults and the elderly experiencing various psychiatric symptoms and stressors, utilizing evidence-based methods to enhance self-efficacy and restore balance.
(786) 829-1168 View (786) 829-1168

See more therapy options for Miami Gardens

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Miami Gardens, FL

< 10

Psychiatrists in Miami Gardens, FL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
88% Anxiety
88% ADHD
88% Trauma and PTSD
88% Bipolar Disorder
88% Medication Management
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Miami Gardens, FL see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Miami Gardens?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.