Psychiatrists in Orlando, FL

Photo of Roberto Pohlenz-McBeath, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Roberto Pohlenz-McBeath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Online Only
My ideal client faces anxiety, ADHD, or depression, seeking relief from overwhelming symptoms. They need compassionate, culturally sensitive care and want tailored treatment plans that focus on emotional well-being and lasting improvement. Their goal is to regain balance and thrive.
My ideal client faces anxiety, ADHD, or depression, seeking relief from overwhelming symptoms. They need compassionate, culturally sensitive care and want tailored treatment plans that focus on emotional well-being and lasting improvement. Their goal is to regain balance and thrive.
(321) 406-8041 View (321) 406-8041
Photo of Joan Brise, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Joan Brise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Orlando, FL 32801
Joan S. Brise is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2015. She has a BSN from Florida International University, an MSN, Adult-Gerontology Primary care Nurse Practitioner from Florida A&M University, and a Post Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from Wilkes University. Joan provides high quality, evidence based and compassionate care to improve the mental health and overall wellbeing of the adolescent, adult, and elderly client.
Joan S. Brise is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2015. She has a BSN from Florida International University, an MSN, Adult-Gerontology Primary care Nurse Practitioner from Florida A&M University, and a Post Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from Wilkes University. Joan provides high quality, evidence based and compassionate care to improve the mental health and overall wellbeing of the adolescent, adult, and elderly client.
(407) 502-5334 View (407) 502-5334
Photo of Debra Franzen - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Orlando, FL 32814
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(689) 263-9067 View (689) 263-9067
Photo of Lilly Matthews, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lilly Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I am dedicated to providing high-quality care to adults aged 18-64 who are struggling with mental health challenges. Mental health struggles can feel overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. Whether you are facing anxiety that makes it difficult to function, mood swings that disrupt your day-to-day life, or the lingering effects of past trauma, I want you to know that you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Together, we can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. If you're ready to take the first step, I am here to help.
I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I am dedicated to providing high-quality care to adults aged 18-64 who are struggling with mental health challenges. Mental health struggles can feel overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. Whether you are facing anxiety that makes it difficult to function, mood swings that disrupt your day-to-day life, or the lingering effects of past trauma, I want you to know that you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Together, we can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. If you're ready to take the first step, I am here to help.
(407) 809-1056 View (407) 809-1056
Photo of Lisa Babb, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Lisa Babb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Orlando, FL 32804
Are you searching for a path to a more enriching life? Is the weight of anxiety a daily struggle for you? Whether it's challenges at home, work, or in your relationships, feeling overwhelmed can take a toll. If stability feels like a distant dream, consider this your personal invitation to Breakthrough HQ. Your emotions, concerns, and feelings matter, and you deserve a life filled with joy and contentment. At Breakthrough HQ, I am committed to a collaborative journey with you, providing a compassionate, understanding, and tailored approach. Let's work together to navigate the obstacles you're facing and rediscover a profound sense!
Are you searching for a path to a more enriching life? Is the weight of anxiety a daily struggle for you? Whether it's challenges at home, work, or in your relationships, feeling overwhelmed can take a toll. If stability feels like a distant dream, consider this your personal invitation to Breakthrough HQ. Your emotions, concerns, and feelings matter, and you deserve a life filled with joy and contentment. At Breakthrough HQ, I am committed to a collaborative journey with you, providing a compassionate, understanding, and tailored approach. Let's work together to navigate the obstacles you're facing and rediscover a profound sense!
(407) 602-6231 View (407) 602-6231
Photo of Mryan Murphy - A New Hope Psychiatric Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
A New Hope Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Our ideal clients are individuals grappling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mood disorders. They seek relief from symptoms impacting daily life, relationships, and well-being. They require compassionate, personalized psychiatric care via telehealth, fitting into their busy schedules. Seeking understanding, support, and effective treatment, they aim for stability, symptom management, hope, and resilience. They desire expert care respecting their unique needs, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives with A New Hope Psychiatric Services.
Our ideal clients are individuals grappling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mood disorders. They seek relief from symptoms impacting daily life, relationships, and well-being. They require compassionate, personalized psychiatric care via telehealth, fitting into their busy schedules. Seeking understanding, support, and effective treatment, they aim for stability, symptom management, hope, and resilience. They desire expert care respecting their unique needs, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives with A New Hope Psychiatric Services.
(321) 384-8749 View (321) 384-8749
Photo of Roxana Ferrera, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Roxana Ferrera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Online Only
Mental health is an integral part of being healthy. Positive mental health allows people to realize their full potential, cope with the everyday stressors of life, work productively in society and make meaningful contributions in society. Just as we can develop problems with our physical health, mental health problems will be experienced by many of us throughout the course of our lives.
Mental health is an integral part of being healthy. Positive mental health allows people to realize their full potential, cope with the everyday stressors of life, work productively in society and make meaningful contributions in society. Just as we can develop problems with our physical health, mental health problems will be experienced by many of us throughout the course of our lives.
(321) 449-8977 View (321) 449-8977
Photo of Gabriel Jalles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Gabriel Jalles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32827
Hi, I’m Gabriel Jalles, a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at MyPsychiatrist, and I’m passionate about providing comprehensive, personalized mental health care. Fluent in both Spanish and Portuguese, I’m especially dedicated to serving the Latin American community, ensuring that cultural and linguistic diversity are embraced in each treatment plan.
Hi, I’m Gabriel Jalles, a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at MyPsychiatrist, and I’m passionate about providing comprehensive, personalized mental health care. Fluent in both Spanish and Portuguese, I’m especially dedicated to serving the Latin American community, ensuring that cultural and linguistic diversity are embraced in each treatment plan.
(321) 510-9427 View (321) 510-9427
Photo of Iftikhar Rasul - Serene Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Serene Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Orlando, FL 32835
At Serene Behavioral we provide affordable, top quality Psychiatric Services to the adults and Geriatric population of Orlando & surrounding areas of Florida.We are specialized in the diagnosis & treatment of Psychiatric conditions including Depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, Schizoaffective disorders, Panic disorder, Memory problems, Dementia, Suboxone treatment & much more. People seek psychiatric help for many reasons. There are problems that can be sudden, such as a Panic attack, frightening hallucinations, thoughts of suicide, or hearing "voices". There may be long-term problems, such as feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or anxiousness that never seem to go away, preventing you from optimal performance.
At Serene Behavioral we provide affordable, top quality Psychiatric Services to the adults and Geriatric population of Orlando & surrounding areas of Florida.We are specialized in the diagnosis & treatment of Psychiatric conditions including Depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, Schizoaffective disorders, Panic disorder, Memory problems, Dementia, Suboxone treatment & much more. People seek psychiatric help for many reasons. There are problems that can be sudden, such as a Panic attack, frightening hallucinations, thoughts of suicide, or hearing "voices". There may be long-term problems, such as feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or anxiousness that never seem to go away, preventing you from optimal performance.
(321) 325-3674 View (321) 325-3674
Photo of Sandy Sahadeo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sandy Sahadeo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Dr. Sandy Sahadeo, MD-PMHNP. With over 18 years of experience, my expertise includes children, adults, and the geriatric population struggling with mental health to examine all aspects of the individual. My approach includes addressing the psychological, spiritual, social, and biological factors. I aim to fully understand each person's unique challenges and facilitate healing through a multi-disciplinary approach. Some of the most used theoretical approaches in my practice include biological, psychodynamic, behavioral, and cognitive. My integrative psychiatry approach uses medications, therapy, and complementary medicine.
My name is Dr. Sandy Sahadeo, MD-PMHNP. With over 18 years of experience, my expertise includes children, adults, and the geriatric population struggling with mental health to examine all aspects of the individual. My approach includes addressing the psychological, spiritual, social, and biological factors. I aim to fully understand each person's unique challenges and facilitate healing through a multi-disciplinary approach. Some of the most used theoretical approaches in my practice include biological, psychodynamic, behavioral, and cognitive. My integrative psychiatry approach uses medications, therapy, and complementary medicine.
(786) 977-4099 View (786) 977-4099
Photo of Kevin Buford, Psychiatrist, MD
Kevin Buford
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32832
Dr. Buford enjoys helping people to live life as their authentic selves and move past mental road blocks so that they can live their best lives. He is a staunch advocate for holistic psychological, emotional, social and physical wellness beyond just medication management. Motivational interviewing, CBT, and supportive therapy are provided as needed. Dr. Buford looks forward to partnering with you or a loved one to navigate the current difficulties for a more optimal tomorrow.
Dr. Buford enjoys helping people to live life as their authentic selves and move past mental road blocks so that they can live their best lives. He is a staunch advocate for holistic psychological, emotional, social and physical wellness beyond just medication management. Motivational interviewing, CBT, and supportive therapy are provided as needed. Dr. Buford looks forward to partnering with you or a loved one to navigate the current difficulties for a more optimal tomorrow.
(321) 415-8933 View (321) 415-8933
Photo of Dr. Enrique Vargas, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Enrique Vargas
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32827
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over a decade of experience in both clinical practice and academic medicine. As an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Central Florida, I actively train resident physicians across multiple specialties as well as medical students. My approach to care is grounded in delivering comprehensive, evidence-based, and compassionate psychiatric treatment tailored to the individual needs of each patient.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over a decade of experience in both clinical practice and academic medicine. As an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Central Florida, I actively train resident physicians across multiple specialties as well as medical students. My approach to care is grounded in delivering comprehensive, evidence-based, and compassionate psychiatric treatment tailored to the individual needs of each patient.
(321) 360-4861 View (321) 360-4861
Photo of Dinar Sajan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dinar Sajan
Psychiatrist, MD
Orlando, FL 32801
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.
(833) 377-2526 View (833) 377-2526
Photo of Sandra L Arnold - Saxon Psychiatric & Medical Solutions , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C
Saxon Psychiatric & Medical Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C
3 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801
I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric & Family Nurse Practitioner who is deeply committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals navigating the challenges of mental health. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a genuine desire to help each person rediscover balance and meaning to their life. With clinical experience in treating a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions, I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and supported. I believe in the power of collaborative therapeutic relationships and evidence-base treatments.
I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric & Family Nurse Practitioner who is deeply committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals navigating the challenges of mental health. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a genuine desire to help each person rediscover balance and meaning to their life. With clinical experience in treating a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions, I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and supported. I believe in the power of collaborative therapeutic relationships and evidence-base treatments.
(321) 413-9673 View (321) 413-9673
Photo of Dr. Ambika Kataria - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Orlando, FL 32827
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(321) 364-3840 View (321) 364-3840
Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
Orlando, FL 32808
My ideal client would be open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
(321) 334-3377 View (321) 334-3377
Photo of Michael Lo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Michael Lo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Online Only
My focus are client who struggles with anxiety, depression, or ADHD and seeks tailored, compassionate care to manage their mental health. They need an empathetic listener who offers effective treatments and involves them in decision-making. Their goal is to improve their quality of life through personalized strategies that align with their unique needs. I believe mental health care should not be limited by financial constraints. I offer services to both insured and uninsured clients. Feel free to contact me via the listed email or phone number for scheduling, I have availability daily and can see clients as soon as next day!
My focus are client who struggles with anxiety, depression, or ADHD and seeks tailored, compassionate care to manage their mental health. They need an empathetic listener who offers effective treatments and involves them in decision-making. Their goal is to improve their quality of life through personalized strategies that align with their unique needs. I believe mental health care should not be limited by financial constraints. I offer services to both insured and uninsured clients. Feel free to contact me via the listed email or phone number for scheduling, I have availability daily and can see clients as soon as next day!
(321) 521-3952 View (321) 521-3952
Photo of Cyndia Milord-Giordani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Cyndia Milord-Giordani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of sadness? As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I’m here to walk with you through life’s challenges and guide you toward healing and clarity. I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health concerns. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and grounded in evidence-based care.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of sadness? As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I’m here to walk with you through life’s challenges and guide you toward healing and clarity. I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health concerns. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and grounded in evidence-based care.
(321) 587-3133 View (321) 587-3133
Photo of Irene Brassard - Transformation Psychiatry and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Veteran
Transformation Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Veteran
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Florida! Are you feeling forgetful, unable to concentrate or easily distracted? Are you finding it hard to get out of bed, lack motivation, feel tearful or sad? Do you find it hard to fall asleep or wake up multiple times during the night making you feel uber tired the next day? Have you experienced trauma that sends your anxiety through the roof? Then it might be time to seek help. Remember, it's okay not to be okay. I will respond to your email within 48 hours. If you don't see an email from me, please don't forget to check your SPAM folder.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Florida! Are you feeling forgetful, unable to concentrate or easily distracted? Are you finding it hard to get out of bed, lack motivation, feel tearful or sad? Do you find it hard to fall asleep or wake up multiple times during the night making you feel uber tired the next day? Have you experienced trauma that sends your anxiety through the roof? Then it might be time to seek help. Remember, it's okay not to be okay. I will respond to your email within 48 hours. If you don't see an email from me, please don't forget to check your SPAM folder.
(727) 855-8536 View (727) 855-8536
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Orlando, FL 32801
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119

See more therapy options for Orlando

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Orlando, FL

400+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Orlando, FL who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
95% Depression
82% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Medication Management
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Cigna and Evernorth
94% Aetna
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Orlando, FL see their clients

53% Online Only
47% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Orlando?

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.