Psychiatrists in Pasco County, FL

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Photo of Khaled Bowarshi - Florida TMS Clinic, Psychiatrist, MD
Florida TMS Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
You may have felt depressed for as long as you can member. You may have tried many antidepressants with little to no improvement. You may have experienced significant side effects of medications that interfered with your daily life and relationships. If you are like many patients with Treatment Resistant Depression or TRD for short, then you probably have very little hope that the next treatment option could work. I have good news for you. There is an effective, safe, noninvasive, FDA-cleared treatment for your depression. It is called Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation or TMS. It's time to think outside the pill box!
You may have felt depressed for as long as you can member. You may have tried many antidepressants with little to no improvement. You may have experienced significant side effects of medications that interfered with your daily life and relationships. If you are like many patients with Treatment Resistant Depression or TRD for short, then you probably have very little hope that the next treatment option could work. I have good news for you. There is an effective, safe, noninvasive, FDA-cleared treatment for your depression. It is called Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation or TMS. It's time to think outside the pill box!
(813) 867-2378 View (813) 867-2378
Photo of Nephetalie Jules, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nephetalie Jules
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or life’s challenges? You don’t have to navigate it alone. As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your concerns and receive the compassionate care you deserve. With years of experience in mental health care, I take a holistic and evidence-based approach to treatment. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapeutic support tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to empower you to regain control, find balance, and improve your overall well-being.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or life’s challenges? You don’t have to navigate it alone. As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your concerns and receive the compassionate care you deserve. With years of experience in mental health care, I take a holistic and evidence-based approach to treatment. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapeutic support tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to empower you to regain control, find balance, and improve your overall well-being.
(813) 590-6926 View (813) 590-6926
Photo of Linh Phuong (Trish) Thi Dinh - Beacon Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD, PA, LMHC
Beacon Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PA, LMHC
Trinity, FL 34655
Living with mental illness is just as, if not more, challenging than living with a physical illness. We understand that just because an illness can’t be seen, that doesn’t mean it’s not there. We are empathetic to the suffering and struggles that patients with mental illness experience as even we have multiple family members who have ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD and/or PTSD. Advocating for the proper mental health treatment of our family members and patients is a priority for us as we have witnessed the profound effect successful psychiatric treatment can have on improving one’s quality of life.
Living with mental illness is just as, if not more, challenging than living with a physical illness. We understand that just because an illness can’t be seen, that doesn’t mean it’s not there. We are empathetic to the suffering and struggles that patients with mental illness experience as even we have multiple family members who have ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD and/or PTSD. Advocating for the proper mental health treatment of our family members and patients is a priority for us as we have witnessed the profound effect successful psychiatric treatment can have on improving one’s quality of life.
(727) 910-2395 View (727) 910-2395
Photo of Andrew Joseph Hewitt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Andrew Joseph Hewitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
New Port Richey, FL 34652
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have expertise in medication management and specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric disorders. I provide compassionate, knowledgeable, and individualized psychiatric and talk therapy care to teens and adults with a wide range of emotional and psychological concerns and issues. I believe that the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that cause conflicts in our lives can be identified and processed using a variety of techniques and methods. Some personal information about me: I am a native New Yorker. I grew up in Brooklyn. I am a husband and father.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have expertise in medication management and specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric disorders. I provide compassionate, knowledgeable, and individualized psychiatric and talk therapy care to teens and adults with a wide range of emotional and psychological concerns and issues. I believe that the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that cause conflicts in our lives can be identified and processed using a variety of techniques and methods. Some personal information about me: I am a native New Yorker. I grew up in Brooklyn. I am a husband and father.
(727) 334-2392 View (727) 334-2392
Photo of Cheryl Rumph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cheryl Rumph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I offer telehealth services to a variety of clients in Florida and Colorado with different needs including ADHD, depression, and anxiety just to name a few. I focus on medication management but offer talk and supportive therapy.
I offer telehealth services to a variety of clients in Florida and Colorado with different needs including ADHD, depression, and anxiety just to name a few. I focus on medication management but offer talk and supportive therapy.
(813) 548-3494 View (813) 548-3494
Photo of Heidi Mattison - Advanced Psychiatric Health - Sun City Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Advanced Psychiatric Health - Sun City Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
At Advanced Psychiatric Health, our mission transcends beyond providing premier psychiatric services; it's about offering timely, accessible, and personalized care when you need it the most. Recognized as a pillar of mental services in Florida, our practice is built on the principles of compassion, innovation, and excellence in mental health care. We are committed to delivering a broad spectrum of psychiatric services, ranging from individual therapy and medication management to specialized treatments and comprehensive mental health evaluations.
At Advanced Psychiatric Health, our mission transcends beyond providing premier psychiatric services; it's about offering timely, accessible, and personalized care when you need it the most. Recognized as a pillar of mental services in Florida, our practice is built on the principles of compassion, innovation, and excellence in mental health care. We are committed to delivering a broad spectrum of psychiatric services, ranging from individual therapy and medication management to specialized treatments and comprehensive mental health evaluations.
(352) 618-3489 View (352) 618-3489
Photo of Boguslaw Gluszak, Psychiatrist, MD
Boguslaw Gluszak
Psychiatrist, MD
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
I provide personalized and individualized care to patients of all ages. Services include psychotherapy and medication management. I cooperate with psychologists, mental health counselors and social workers coordinating care. I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry with an extensive experience managing bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety disorders in adults and children.
I provide personalized and individualized care to patients of all ages. Services include psychotherapy and medication management. I cooperate with psychologists, mental health counselors and social workers coordinating care. I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry with an extensive experience managing bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety disorders in adults and children.
(813) 508-7933 View (813) 508-7933
Photo of Marisol Torres, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Marisol Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Wesley Chapel, FL 33543
Accepting new patients, ages 5 and up! Meet with a compassionate provider who treats depression, mood disorders, anxiety, autism, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, addiction, eating disorders and other conditions. Not feeling like yourself? Struggling with anxiety? Feeling overwhelmed? Is it hard for you to concentrate and focus? Are you having trouble sleeping? Fighting with addiction? I take my time getting to know each patient and we develop a treatment plan together that aligns with your lifestyle and goals! Ready to transform?
Accepting new patients, ages 5 and up! Meet with a compassionate provider who treats depression, mood disorders, anxiety, autism, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, addiction, eating disorders and other conditions. Not feeling like yourself? Struggling with anxiety? Feeling overwhelmed? Is it hard for you to concentrate and focus? Are you having trouble sleeping? Fighting with addiction? I take my time getting to know each patient and we develop a treatment plan together that aligns with your lifestyle and goals! Ready to transform?
(813) 859-7548 View (813) 859-7548
Photo of Carolyn Linek-Rajapaksha - Florida Family Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Florida Family Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Land O Lakes, FL 34639
Our Commitment to Patients: 1. Highest quality care provided by a board-certified psychiatrist: Dr. Linek is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. 2. Family-focused practice philosophy: We believe that families do best when each member of your family gets the help they need. Therefore, we offer psychiatric services for your children, teens, and other family members as appropriate. 3. Compassionate Care: We pride ourselves on being caring, compassionate, and detail-oriented in care delivery.
Our Commitment to Patients: 1. Highest quality care provided by a board-certified psychiatrist: Dr. Linek is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. 2. Family-focused practice philosophy: We believe that families do best when each member of your family gets the help they need. Therefore, we offer psychiatric services for your children, teens, and other family members as appropriate. 3. Compassionate Care: We pride ourselves on being caring, compassionate, and detail-oriented in care delivery.
(813) 491-1384 View (813) 491-1384
Photo of Travis Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, EMTP
Travis Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, EMTP
1 Endorsed
New Port Richey, FL 34655
Before accomplishing my educational goals, I served in the United States Army, and was a law enforcement officer. I have been a paramedic for more than a decade, and have been deployed overseas. I credit my civil service experience in helping prepare me to help others better understand the impacts of trauma and stress both mentally and physically. I see all ages from 10 years of age and up. I am LGBTQ supportive, and feel everyone should be encouraged to be themselves and loved! I continue to support our veterans, first responders, emergency services personnel through my clinical work, helping those that help others!
Before accomplishing my educational goals, I served in the United States Army, and was a law enforcement officer. I have been a paramedic for more than a decade, and have been deployed overseas. I credit my civil service experience in helping prepare me to help others better understand the impacts of trauma and stress both mentally and physically. I see all ages from 10 years of age and up. I am LGBTQ supportive, and feel everyone should be encouraged to be themselves and loved! I continue to support our veterans, first responders, emergency services personnel through my clinical work, helping those that help others!
(321) 405-1979 View (321) 405-1979
Photo of Pragnesh Patel - Instic Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Instic Health
Psychiatrist, MD
New Port Richey, FL 34653
Pragnesh Patel, MD Board Certified Psychiatry and Neurology Board Certified. Greetings, my name is Pragnesh Patel, MD, a Florida-licensed, board-certified practitioner, specializing in general/adult psychiatry, with just a few words about Instic Health and our larger purpose as a full-service healthcare company. As Medical Director, I enjoy the privilege of overseeing some of the most earnest, empathetic, and talented office and medical professionals in the field. Together, we represent an exceptionally skilled group that genuinely loves what we do and the patients we do it for.Put us to the test and you’ll find us equal to the best
Pragnesh Patel, MD Board Certified Psychiatry and Neurology Board Certified. Greetings, my name is Pragnesh Patel, MD, a Florida-licensed, board-certified practitioner, specializing in general/adult psychiatry, with just a few words about Instic Health and our larger purpose as a full-service healthcare company. As Medical Director, I enjoy the privilege of overseeing some of the most earnest, empathetic, and talented office and medical professionals in the field. Together, we represent an exceptionally skilled group that genuinely loves what we do and the patients we do it for.Put us to the test and you’ll find us equal to the best
(727) 235-7965 View (727) 235-7965
Photo of Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Port Richey, FL 34668
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 received the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy award 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 received the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy award 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.
(727) 607-8490 View (727) 607-8490
Photo of Dr. Fey Ramey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Fey Ramey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Struggling with anxiety, trauma, insomnia, or ADHD? I help people get unstuck with the right treatment and compassionate support. I'm Dr. Fey Ramey, with over 17 years of experience in psychiatric nursing and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Duke University. My approach to mental health care is integrative, focusing on a deep understanding of each person's unique needs, background, and life story.
Struggling with anxiety, trauma, insomnia, or ADHD? I help people get unstuck with the right treatment and compassionate support. I'm Dr. Fey Ramey, with over 17 years of experience in psychiatric nursing and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Duke University. My approach to mental health care is integrative, focusing on a deep understanding of each person's unique needs, background, and life story.
(813) 513-1932 View (813) 513-1932
Photo of Anna Stouffer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, FNP, PMHNP
Anna Stouffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
Welcome! I am a dual-board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in providing compassionate care to a diverse range of adolescents and adults. I take a personalized approach to treatment, ensuring each individual receives the support they need.
Welcome! I am a dual-board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in providing compassionate care to a diverse range of adolescents and adults. I take a personalized approach to treatment, ensuring each individual receives the support they need.
(813) 686-5759 x301 View (813) 686-5759 x301
Photo of Lauren Perez - Advanced Psychiatric Health - Wesley Chapel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Advanced Psychiatric Health - Wesley Chapel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
Lauren is committed to providing compassionate and effective care to individuals struggling with mental health issues and disorders to help them achieve their full potential through medication management, supportive therapies, and lifestyle modifications.
Lauren is committed to providing compassionate and effective care to individuals struggling with mental health issues and disorders to help them achieve their full potential through medication management, supportive therapies, and lifestyle modifications.
(813) 736-6797 View (813) 736-6797
Photo of Anna Stouffer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, FNP, PMHNP
Anna Stouffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, FNP, PMHNP
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
Welcome! I am a dual-board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in providing compassionate care to a diverse range of adolescents and adults. I take a personalized approach to treatment, ensuring each individual receives the support they need.
Welcome! I am a dual-board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in providing compassionate care to a diverse range of adolescents and adults. I take a personalized approach to treatment, ensuring each individual receives the support they need.
(813) 497-4318 x301 View (813) 497-4318 x301
Photo of Margaret Olivero-Pachiano - Margaret Olivero-Pachiano Has Immediate Openings!, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CDP, PMH-BC, CCMC-BC
Margaret Olivero-Pachiano Has Immediate Openings!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CDP, PMH-BC, CCMC-BC
Online Only
My name is Margaret Olivero Pachiano. I am a Florida Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Certified Dementia Provider. I hold a Master's Degree in Nursing from St. Thomas University Miami Gardens Florida, and a Bachelor of Science from Pasco Hernando State College. In my nursing career, I have seen firsthand the harmful impact of social stigma associated with mental illness. This is one of the reasons, I have pursued this journey in hopes that I can be a part of reducing the social stigma that is all too often associated with mental health.
My name is Margaret Olivero Pachiano. I am a Florida Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Certified Dementia Provider. I hold a Master's Degree in Nursing from St. Thomas University Miami Gardens Florida, and a Bachelor of Science from Pasco Hernando State College. In my nursing career, I have seen firsthand the harmful impact of social stigma associated with mental illness. This is one of the reasons, I have pursued this journey in hopes that I can be a part of reducing the social stigma that is all too often associated with mental health.
(813) 544-6696 View (813) 544-6696
Photo of Robert Nicholas Brady, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, ADHD-CC
Robert Nicholas Brady
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, ADHD-CC
1 Endorsed
New Port Richey, FL 34655
Robert is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN, APRN,PMHNP-BC. Roberts professional career spans over a decade in various environments from Intensive care, Case Management and other various leadership roles. Robert enjoys nothing better than coming alongside someone to help them to achieve a greater sense of well-being and fulfillment in life. Although he considers ADHD his specialty and holds specialty certifications in ADHD, Robert is able to treat a wide array of conditions including PTSD, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Bipolar Disorder and many others.
Robert is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN, APRN,PMHNP-BC. Roberts professional career spans over a decade in various environments from Intensive care, Case Management and other various leadership roles. Robert enjoys nothing better than coming alongside someone to help them to achieve a greater sense of well-being and fulfillment in life. Although he considers ADHD his specialty and holds specialty certifications in ADHD, Robert is able to treat a wide array of conditions including PTSD, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Bipolar Disorder and many others.
(941) 541-2963 View (941) 541-2963
Photo of Shannon N Turner-Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
Shannon N Turner-Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
1 Endorsed
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
My name is Shannon Turner-Anderson. I am a Florida Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I hold a Master's Degree in Nursing from Alabama University in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and a Bachelor of Science from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona. Before relocating to Florida, I lived in Windsor, Connecticut. I am married with three daughters, ages seven, seventeen, and twenty-two. I enjoy spending time with my family, attending church on Sundays, and watching track and field and basketball. I am passionate about mental health care.
My name is Shannon Turner-Anderson. I am a Florida Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I hold a Master's Degree in Nursing from Alabama University in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and a Bachelor of Science from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona. Before relocating to Florida, I lived in Windsor, Connecticut. I am married with three daughters, ages seven, seventeen, and twenty-two. I enjoy spending time with my family, attending church on Sundays, and watching track and field and basketball. I am passionate about mental health care.
(813) 547-5719 View (813) 547-5719
Photo of Jay Leathers, Psychiatrist, MD
Jay Leathers
Psychiatrist, MD
New Port Richey, FL 34655
Dr. Leathers has the experience, insight and personal interest to help treat mental illness within the community. He is a support to help improve the lives of patients who want to improve their lives and to grow from their current mental health hardships. He listens well to help understand what the patient is requesting. He has the knowledge to help educate and inform the patient of their treatment options, and he is able to help the patient develop an informed decision for an appropriate treatment plan.
Dr. Leathers has the experience, insight and personal interest to help treat mental illness within the community. He is a support to help improve the lives of patients who want to improve their lives and to grow from their current mental health hardships. He listens well to help understand what the patient is requesting. He has the knowledge to help educate and inform the patient of their treatment options, and he is able to help the patient develop an informed decision for an appropriate treatment plan.
(813) 797-5735 View (813) 797-5735

See more therapy options for Pasco County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Pasco County, FL

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Pasco County, FL who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
92% Depression
84% ADHD
78% Bipolar Disorder
70% Trauma and PTSD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
66% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Pasco County, FL see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Pasco County?

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.