Psychiatrists in Parkland, FL

Photo of Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Parkland, FL 33067
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(561) 207-7694 View (561) 207-7694
Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parkland, FL 33067
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(561) 207-7694 View (561) 207-7694
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parkland, FL 33067
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(561) 207-7694 View (561) 207-7694
Photo of Crystal Ryan Adkins - Brighter Life Psychiatry , MSN, APN-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brighter Life Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy working with children, teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression and mood disorders by helping them change their negative thought pattern with coping skills and sometimes medication when appropriate. I am also very passionate about helping individuals challenged by addiction maintain sobriety with medication assisted treatment and relapse prevention education. My ideal client is someone who is motivated for healing and understands that recovery is more than just taking medication.
I enjoy working with children, teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression and mood disorders by helping them change their negative thought pattern with coping skills and sometimes medication when appropriate. I am also very passionate about helping individuals challenged by addiction maintain sobriety with medication assisted treatment and relapse prevention education. My ideal client is someone who is motivated for healing and understands that recovery is more than just taking medication.
(954) 833-6963 View (954) 833-6963
Photo of DANIEL A Pietras, MD, Psychiatrist
DANIEL A Pietras
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Pleased to join Neuro Wellness Centers as a Board-certified Psychiatrist offering evaluation and treatment of a broad range of mental conditions, with particular focus on bipolar and unipolar depressive disorders, psychotic disorders, and trauma and stressor-related disorders. Taking a compassionate biopsychosocial approach to each patient I encounter, in a setting of honesty and mutual respect, permits me to discover your needs and aspirations, and empower you with the necessary tools to understand your condition, recover function, succeed in treatment, and achieve a balanced life.
Pleased to join Neuro Wellness Centers as a Board-certified Psychiatrist offering evaluation and treatment of a broad range of mental conditions, with particular focus on bipolar and unipolar depressive disorders, psychotic disorders, and trauma and stressor-related disorders. Taking a compassionate biopsychosocial approach to each patient I encounter, in a setting of honesty and mutual respect, permits me to discover your needs and aspirations, and empower you with the necessary tools to understand your condition, recover function, succeed in treatment, and achieve a balanced life.
(954) 852-4974 View (954) 852-4974
Photo of Dr. Napatia T. Gettings, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Napatia T. Gettings
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Gettings provides functional SPECT Psychiatric evaluations only. SPECT imaging is completed at your local AMEN Clinic. Dr. Gettings is a trained SPECT partner of AMEN clinics. Many individuals who experience different brain symptoms and treatment failure benefit from brain imaging to adequately assess their symptoms in the diagnostic process. The cost of a SPECT evaluation is $2600. This includes Nuclear SPECT Brain Imaging, Executive Functioning Testing, Neuropsychological Testing, and a 2 hour evaluation with Dr. Gettings.
Dr. Gettings provides functional SPECT Psychiatric evaluations only. SPECT imaging is completed at your local AMEN Clinic. Dr. Gettings is a trained SPECT partner of AMEN clinics. Many individuals who experience different brain symptoms and treatment failure benefit from brain imaging to adequately assess their symptoms in the diagnostic process. The cost of a SPECT evaluation is $2600. This includes Nuclear SPECT Brain Imaging, Executive Functioning Testing, Neuropsychological Testing, and a 2 hour evaluation with Dr. Gettings.
(954) 758-4239 View (954) 758-4239
Photo of Daniela Chetan, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniela Chetan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
In the 11 years of clinical experience as a provider, I learned to care for my patients holistically, both mind and body. I am here to offer you a safe and supportive environment where you will feel comfortable and safe enough to share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Whether you are seeking individual therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, I am committed to helping you achieve optimal mental health.
In the 11 years of clinical experience as a provider, I learned to care for my patients holistically, both mind and body. I am here to offer you a safe and supportive environment where you will feel comfortable and safe enough to share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Whether you are seeking individual therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, I am committed to helping you achieve optimal mental health.
(954) 280-2293 View (954) 280-2293
Photo of Barnell Phillips III, MD, Psychiatrist
Barnell Phillips III
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. My training allows me to approach mental health problems in a unique and comprehensive way that is rooted in listening to a person's life story. This lifecycle approach integrated with the assessment of how current circumstances, family history and genetics impact a patient's presentation has allowed me to successfully help patients of all ages overcome mental health challenges.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. My training allows me to approach mental health problems in a unique and comprehensive way that is rooted in listening to a person's life story. This lifecycle approach integrated with the assessment of how current circumstances, family history and genetics impact a patient's presentation has allowed me to successfully help patients of all ages overcome mental health challenges.
(561) 220-2565 View (561) 220-2565
Photo of Renata Angelini - Renata Angelini, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Renata Angelini, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Our philosophy is to take care of mind, body and soul. We strive to achieve positive results and we believe a holistic approach is the best way. Although we can not help everyone, we at least try our best to provide many options for a resolution of many mental health issues. BeWell, BeYoung!
Our philosophy is to take care of mind, body and soul. We strive to achieve positive results and we believe a holistic approach is the best way. Although we can not help everyone, we at least try our best to provide many options for a resolution of many mental health issues. BeWell, BeYoung!
(954) 719-0153 View (954) 719-0153
Photo of Sergio Badel, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Sergio Badel
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. I specialize in medical treatment and psychotherapy for depression, anxiety, anger issues, self-esteem issues, challenges with emotional intimacy, problems coping with stress, and obsessions. These symptoms often present themselves when individuals describe feeling "stuck" in their lives. They may have difficulties avoiding repetitive and unhealthy patterns that cause emotional turmoil and distress. I have found it is most therapeutic and cost-effective to provide psychotherapy combined with medication management (when appropriate).
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. I specialize in medical treatment and psychotherapy for depression, anxiety, anger issues, self-esteem issues, challenges with emotional intimacy, problems coping with stress, and obsessions. These symptoms often present themselves when individuals describe feeling "stuck" in their lives. They may have difficulties avoiding repetitive and unhealthy patterns that cause emotional turmoil and distress. I have found it is most therapeutic and cost-effective to provide psychotherapy combined with medication management (when appropriate).
(954) 662-0422 View (954) 662-0422
Photo of Jonteria Williams, DNP, PMHNP, CCRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonteria Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CCRN
Verified Verified
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 Susan J Bloom, PsyD, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan J Bloom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
(414) 877-5610 View (414) 877-5610

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Altia Landis, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Altia Landis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you been experiencing persistent sadness, difficulties in concentrating and remembering things, and a loss of interest in activities that once brought you joy? Have your sleep patterns become disrupted, making it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep? You might also find yourself grappling with racing thoughts, changes in appetite, and heightened irritability. Has all of this led you to withdraw from social interactions and struggle with connecting with others? It's important to understand that these feelings and experiences are common in depression, and seeking help is a crucial step towards finding relief and support.
Have you been experiencing persistent sadness, difficulties in concentrating and remembering things, and a loss of interest in activities that once brought you joy? Have your sleep patterns become disrupted, making it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep? You might also find yourself grappling with racing thoughts, changes in appetite, and heightened irritability. Has all of this led you to withdraw from social interactions and struggle with connecting with others? It's important to understand that these feelings and experiences are common in depression, and seeking help is a crucial step towards finding relief and support.
(754) 704-8989 View (754) 704-8989
Photo of Erwin Ramos - TMS Provider Services, MD, Psychiatrist
TMS Provider Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wilton Manors, FL 33305
At TMS Provider Services of America, we take the time to get to know our patients, discussing their motivations and goals. Our doctors offer medication management and individual psychotherapy but focus more on TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) as the treatment of choice for Mental Health issues. Our administration, and staff have years of experience and understand the uniqueness the individual with mental health challenges. Our staff are compassionate and attentive, and our practices feature a warm & welcoming environment. ... we strive to make our patients comfortable & experience a professional yet family like environment.
At TMS Provider Services of America, we take the time to get to know our patients, discussing their motivations and goals. Our doctors offer medication management and individual psychotherapy but focus more on TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) as the treatment of choice for Mental Health issues. Our administration, and staff have years of experience and understand the uniqueness the individual with mental health challenges. Our staff are compassionate and attentive, and our practices feature a warm & welcoming environment. ... we strive to make our patients comfortable & experience a professional yet family like environment.
(407) 269-8480 View (407) 269-8480
Photo of Dianelys Rodriguez - Envision Mindcare LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Dianelys Rodriguez, 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. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
Dianelys Rodriguez, 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. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
(786) 220-1969 View (786) 220-1969
Photo of Heather Brathwaite, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Brathwaite
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Psychiatric ARNP at One-Stop Psychiatric Clinic, Dr. Heather Brathwaite has the expertise and experience of treating patients for more than 20 years. She brings a humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body, and an abiding commitment to individualized, personalized, comprehensive care for patients. Her clinical practice focuses on consultation, treatment selection and administration, and care coordination for outpatients struggling with a wide range of psychiatric illnesses and co-occurring disorders.
As a Psychiatric ARNP at One-Stop Psychiatric Clinic, Dr. Heather Brathwaite has the expertise and experience of treating patients for more than 20 years. She brings a humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body, and an abiding commitment to individualized, personalized, comprehensive care for patients. Her clinical practice focuses on consultation, treatment selection and administration, and care coordination for outpatients struggling with a wide range of psychiatric illnesses and co-occurring disorders.
(954) 289-5078 View (954) 289-5078
Photo of Ian Victorio, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ian Victorio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cooper City, FL 33328
Are you tired of psychiatric providers not getting to know you and treating you like a number rather than a person? Are you looking for someone to manage your medications and also care about you and your process? Are you hoping to feel connected to your medication management provider rather than it feeling like a transactional interaction? My goal as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to create an authentic relationship with my patients so that we can collaboratively work on achieving their goals.
Are you tired of psychiatric providers not getting to know you and treating you like a number rather than a person? Are you looking for someone to manage your medications and also care about you and your process? Are you hoping to feel connected to your medication management provider rather than it feeling like a transactional interaction? My goal as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to create an authentic relationship with my patients so that we can collaboratively work on achieving their goals.
(954) 799-3193 View (954) 799-3193
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(561) 816-4903 View (561) 816-4903
Photo of Donald Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Donald Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in offering virtual mental health evaluations, assessments and medication management tailored to the individual needs of my clients. Through interview, application of appropriate screening tools, and collaboration with my clients I am able to help develop a treatment strategy that will work well for my clients. I help young adults, working professionals, homemakers, college students and others that need help dealing with life's stresses. I am able to help with a variety of issues, including depression anxiety, PTSD, insomnia and adult ADHD.
I specialize in offering virtual mental health evaluations, assessments and medication management tailored to the individual needs of my clients. Through interview, application of appropriate screening tools, and collaboration with my clients I am able to help develop a treatment strategy that will work well for my clients. I help young adults, working professionals, homemakers, college students and others that need help dealing with life's stresses. I am able to help with a variety of issues, including depression anxiety, PTSD, insomnia and adult ADHD.
(352) 780-1445 View (352) 780-1445
Photo of Kevin K Joseph, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kevin K Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice licensed to practice in the state of Florida. As a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner, I take a holistic and individualized approach to every client. This approach stems from the understanding that mental health can affect multiple areas of one's life. I treat every client with individualized care and evidence-based interventions. I utilize medication in conjunction with therapy to improve patient outcomes.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice licensed to practice in the state of Florida. As a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner, I take a holistic and individualized approach to every client. This approach stems from the understanding that mental health can affect multiple areas of one's life. I treat every client with individualized care and evidence-based interventions. I utilize medication in conjunction with therapy to improve patient outcomes.
(954) 475-6228 View (954) 475-6228

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Parkland, FL

10+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in Parkland, FL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
83% Trauma and PTSD
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Medication Management
67% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Cigna and Evernorth
78% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Parkland, FL see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

64% Female
36% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Parkland?

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.