Psychiatrists in Pembroke Pines, FL

Photo of Karen A Bethel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Karen A Bethel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Pembroke Pines, FL 33024
I’ve been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for over 30 years. I love working in the mental health field. I love helping people with their issues and I’m good at finding the correct medication to help. I also offer second opinions. I also do hypnosis for weight loss, anxiety and depression and regression therapy I also practice holistic strategies using Nelson Bach flower remedies to promote well being and let patients have choices in their treatment.
I’ve been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for over 30 years. I love working in the mental health field. I love helping people with their issues and I’m good at finding the correct medication to help. I also offer second opinions. I also do hypnosis for weight loss, anxiety and depression and regression therapy I also practice holistic strategies using Nelson Bach flower remedies to promote well being and let patients have choices in their treatment.
(954) 738-6020 View (954) 738-6020
Photo of Anne Jeantinor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Anne Jeantinor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, offering culturally sensitive psychiatric care in Florida. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management and brief psychotherapy for clients aged 18 and older.
I am a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, offering culturally sensitive psychiatric care in Florida. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management and brief psychotherapy for clients aged 18 and older.
(954) 420-8516 View (954) 420-8516
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Online Only
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(954) 787-1986 View (954) 787-1986
Photo of Anna Binder-Baskina - Psych 4 U, Psychiatrist, MD
Psych 4 U
Psychiatrist, MD
Pembroke Pines, FL 33028
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of American Psychiatric Association. I am fully trained in Adult, Child and Adolescent, Geriatric, Emergency and Addiction Psychiatry. I received my general and adult psychiatry training at University of Maryland/ Sheppard Pratt and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry training from Johns Hopkins Medical Institution. I was selected as a Top Psychiatrist in Stamford, CT by the International Association of Health Care Professionals (IAHCP) and spotlighted in the publication The Leading Physicians of the World 2014 Ed
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of American Psychiatric Association. I am fully trained in Adult, Child and Adolescent, Geriatric, Emergency and Addiction Psychiatry. I received my general and adult psychiatry training at University of Maryland/ Sheppard Pratt and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry training from Johns Hopkins Medical Institution. I was selected as a Top Psychiatrist in Stamford, CT by the International Association of Health Care Professionals (IAHCP) and spotlighted in the publication The Leading Physicians of the World 2014 Ed
(786) 226-0546 View (786) 226-0546
Photo of Magdalie Querette, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Magdalie Querette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a passionate and seasoned Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in diverse healthcare settings. My career spans in Emergency Care, Intensive Care, and Behavioral and Mental Health, reflecting a deep and broad clinical foundation. I specialize in psychiatric nursing, where I find purpose in supporting individuals on their path to mental wellness.
I am a passionate and seasoned Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in diverse healthcare settings. My career spans in Emergency Care, Intensive Care, and Behavioral and Mental Health, reflecting a deep and broad clinical foundation. I specialize in psychiatric nursing, where I find purpose in supporting individuals on their path to mental wellness.
(954) 852-5339 View (954) 852-5339
Photo of Rebecca Budyszewick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Rebecca Budyszewick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Pembroke Pines, FL 33028
Hi, I’m Rebecca—a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving adolescents and adults in Florida through telehealth. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in cycles of stress, difficulty gaining mental clarity and rest, you're not alone—and you've found the right place to start making changes. I specialize working with individuals navigating ADHD, mood disorders, and the emotional strain of high-pressure work or personal circumstances. These challenges often surface as anxiety, insomnia, rage or mental fog, making even simple task feel burdensome.
Hi, I’m Rebecca—a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving adolescents and adults in Florida through telehealth. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in cycles of stress, difficulty gaining mental clarity and rest, you're not alone—and you've found the right place to start making changes. I specialize working with individuals navigating ADHD, mood disorders, and the emotional strain of high-pressure work or personal circumstances. These challenges often surface as anxiety, insomnia, rage or mental fog, making even simple task feel burdensome.
(954) 833-1513 View (954) 833-1513
Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
Pembroke Pines, FL 33026
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.
(954) 231-7445 View (954) 231-7445
Photo of Lisa B Marshall - Memorial Mental Health of South Florida, LLC, Psychiatrist, DMSc
Memorial Mental Health of South Florida, LLC
Psychiatrist, DMSc
1 Endorsed
Online Only
There are times you may not feel “ok.” That could mean emotionally, psychologically, or even socially. You may feel like you can handle the dips in your emotions and even believe you do not need help. But just like needing a doctor for persistent abdominal pain, or for a rash that won’t go away or to help with an unstable blood pressure, you may need someone with experience to assist and to help alleviate or resolve the issue. The brain needs assistance also, especially when we are feeling overwhelmed.
There are times you may not feel “ok.” That could mean emotionally, psychologically, or even socially. You may feel like you can handle the dips in your emotions and even believe you do not need help. But just like needing a doctor for persistent abdominal pain, or for a rash that won’t go away or to help with an unstable blood pressure, you may need someone with experience to assist and to help alleviate or resolve the issue. The brain needs assistance also, especially when we are feeling overwhelmed.
(954) 513-4065 View (954) 513-4065
Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
Pembroke Pines, FL 33024
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.
(754) 666-8751 View (754) 666-8751
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Pembroke Pines, FL 33024
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency at 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 diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency at 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 diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(754) 314-5355 View (754) 314-5355
Advance Health and Community Services
Psychiatrist, MD, PMHNP, LMHC, LCSW, PMHC
Pembroke Pines, FL 33026
Welcome! Advance Health and Community Services was founded in 2014 with the intention of providing quality behavioral health services. It is the mission of AHCS to assist and work closely with individuals, couples, and families to promote emotional wellness, build resilience, and provide the necessary support to make a positive change in their lives. Our organizational framework allows us to help individuals in regaining their independence and to help them to better cope with their behavioral health issues in accordance with national best practices. Investing in your mental health is a brave step forward towards your happiness.
Welcome! Advance Health and Community Services was founded in 2014 with the intention of providing quality behavioral health services. It is the mission of AHCS to assist and work closely with individuals, couples, and families to promote emotional wellness, build resilience, and provide the necessary support to make a positive change in their lives. Our organizational framework allows us to help individuals in regaining their independence and to help them to better cope with their behavioral health issues in accordance with national best practices. Investing in your mental health is a brave step forward towards your happiness.
(954) 367-2840 x100 View (954) 367-2840 x100
Photo of Lyssa Brooks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Lyssa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Pembroke Pines, FL 33026
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may be struggling with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may be struggling with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
(754) 341-1660 View (754) 341-1660
Photo of Saru Bhattarai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Saru Bhattarai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Pembroke Pines, FL 33028
Let’s Work Together Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood-related challenges, know that you don’t have to face these struggles alone. I am here to offer compassionate support and practical guidance tailored to your unique experience. Together, we can build a safe, collaborative space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Through our work, we will strive toward greater emotional stability, meaningful healing, and ongoing personal growth. No matter where you are on your journey, taking the first step is a powerful act of courage.
Let’s Work Together Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood-related challenges, know that you don’t have to face these struggles alone. I am here to offer compassionate support and practical guidance tailored to your unique experience. Together, we can build a safe, collaborative space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Through our work, we will strive toward greater emotional stability, meaningful healing, and ongoing personal growth. No matter where you are on your journey, taking the first step is a powerful act of courage.
(954) 906-9315 View (954) 906-9315
Photo of Dr. Vasthie Arteaga, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Vasthie Arteaga
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
EARLY Morning Appointments available. Taking NEW clients. My approach in providing care is a collaborative one where I work with the patient to set goals and expectations. I am overall committed to providing compassionate care and ongoing support to my patients. I provide stabilization through medication management if needed and support/ guidance through focused therapy sessions.
EARLY Morning Appointments available. Taking NEW clients. My approach in providing care is a collaborative one where I work with the patient to set goals and expectations. I am overall committed to providing compassionate care and ongoing support to my patients. I provide stabilization through medication management if needed and support/ guidance through focused therapy sessions.
View
Xochil Echeona
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Pembroke Pines, FL 33028
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner whose warm and empathetic personality makes her a trusted and beloved figure in the lives of her patients. With a natural ability to connect with people, Xochil creates a safe and supportive environment where her patients feel truly heard and understood. Her approach to care is holistic, considering not only the mental health challenges her patients face but also their overall well-being, including physical, emotional, and social factors. Xochil's deep empathy and genuine concern for others are evident in every interaction. She is known for her patience.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner whose warm and empathetic personality makes her a trusted and beloved figure in the lives of her patients. With a natural ability to connect with people, Xochil creates a safe and supportive environment where her patients feel truly heard and understood. Her approach to care is holistic, considering not only the mental health challenges her patients face but also their overall well-being, including physical, emotional, and social factors. Xochil's deep empathy and genuine concern for others are evident in every interaction. She is known for her patience.
(954) 335-8455 View (954) 335-8455
Photo of Dr. Shirley English, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Dr. Shirley English
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who works with women, mothers, collegiates and professionals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD and burnout to have more energy, improve work performance, boost self-image, and feel happier and more content. While I work with patients of all backgrounds, I am also equipped to offer culturally-competent care to people of color and those of the Christian faith.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who works with women, mothers, collegiates and professionals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD and burnout to have more energy, improve work performance, boost self-image, and feel happier and more content. While I work with patients of all backgrounds, I am also equipped to offer culturally-competent care to people of color and those of the Christian faith.
(786) 686-8460 View (786) 686-8460
Photo of Dee Bortner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP, MSN
Dee Bortner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP, MSN
Online Only
If you’re here, you’re likely exhausted from trying to keep it all together. Maybe you or your loved one have been told that you’re “too emotional,” “too distracted,” or “too much.” I help people that feel overwhelmed by racing thoughts, deep sadness, emotional highs and lows, behavioral issues, and among others, that make life unpredictable. You’ll find a space where your experiences are respected and your treatment is tailored to you. I take the time to listen so we can build a treatment plan that supports your goals and fits your life.
If you’re here, you’re likely exhausted from trying to keep it all together. Maybe you or your loved one have been told that you’re “too emotional,” “too distracted,” or “too much.” I help people that feel overwhelmed by racing thoughts, deep sadness, emotional highs and lows, behavioral issues, and among others, that make life unpredictable. You’ll find a space where your experiences are respected and your treatment is tailored to you. I take the time to listen so we can build a treatment plan that supports your goals and fits your life.
(954) 231-1778 View (954) 231-1778
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Pembroke Pines, FL 33026
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency at 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 diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency at 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 diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(754) 287-5141 View (754) 287-5141
Photo of Ana Binder - Psych 4 U, Psychiatrist, MD
Psych 4 U
Psychiatrist, MD
Pembroke Pines, FL 33028
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the ABPN. I am fully trained in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I received my psychiatry training at University of Maryland and attended Johns Hopkins Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the ABPN. I am fully trained in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I received my psychiatry training at University of Maryland and attended Johns Hopkins Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best.
(786) 226-0592 View (786) 226-0592
Ray of Grace Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
Mrs. Daniel-Cleophat, is a highly experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 19 years of nursing experience. Mrs. Daniel-Cleophat established the company on August 10, 2021, with a vision to revolutionize mental health carethrough a blend of cutting-edge tele-health solutions and future in-person services. Mrs. Daniel-Cleophat holds a Master of Nursing Practice in Family Practice Medicine and to mental well-being and comprehensive care. Herextensive educational background and experience positions her to offer expert medication management and culturally competent care tailoredto diverse psychiatric conditions.
Mrs. Daniel-Cleophat, is a highly experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 19 years of nursing experience. Mrs. Daniel-Cleophat established the company on August 10, 2021, with a vision to revolutionize mental health carethrough a blend of cutting-edge tele-health solutions and future in-person services. Mrs. Daniel-Cleophat holds a Master of Nursing Practice in Family Practice Medicine and to mental well-being and comprehensive care. Herextensive educational background and experience positions her to offer expert medication management and culturally competent care tailoredto diverse psychiatric conditions.
(954) 807-1618 View (954) 807-1618

See more therapy options for Pembroke Pines

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Pembroke Pines, FL

70+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Pembroke Pines, FL who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
95% Depression
89% Bipolar Disorder
82% ADHD
79% Medication Management
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Cigna and Evernorth
95% Aetna
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Pembroke Pines, FL see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Pembroke Pines?

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.