Psychiatrists in Saint Johns County, FL

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Photo of Dr. Deanna J Seymour - Seymour Behavioral Health Solutions, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Seymour Behavioral Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Saint Augustine, FL 32092
I can help in many ways; first by providing an in depth psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and treatment recommendations including integrative therapies and medication management strategies. I also provide a specialized form of therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, the evidence-based treatment for disorders of emotional dysregulation. I can help with anxiety disorders using the Mastery of Anxiety and Panic exposure strategies, which bring lifelong relief from these disorders. I'm also trained and adept at DBT-PE, the DBT informed evidence-based treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
I can help in many ways; first by providing an in depth psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and treatment recommendations including integrative therapies and medication management strategies. I also provide a specialized form of therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, the evidence-based treatment for disorders of emotional dysregulation. I can help with anxiety disorders using the Mastery of Anxiety and Panic exposure strategies, which bring lifelong relief from these disorders. I'm also trained and adept at DBT-PE, the DBT informed evidence-based treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
(904) 344-0435 View (904) 344-0435
Photo of Jacqueline Henschke, Psychiatrist, MD
Jacqueline Henschke
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a native of Washington DC and earned my bachelor's degree in psychology from Georgetown University. I obtained my medical degree from Tulane School of Medicine in 2004. I completed an internship in pediatrics at Nemours Children’s Hospital. I completed my adult psychiatry residency at George Washington University and my child psychiatry fellowship at Stanford University. I am a mother to 2 children and enjoy spending time with my family, getting out into nature, traveling, crochet, and yoga. I enjoy working with individuals and families to improve quality of life with the least medication possible.
I am a native of Washington DC and earned my bachelor's degree in psychology from Georgetown University. I obtained my medical degree from Tulane School of Medicine in 2004. I completed an internship in pediatrics at Nemours Children’s Hospital. I completed my adult psychiatry residency at George Washington University and my child psychiatry fellowship at Stanford University. I am a mother to 2 children and enjoy spending time with my family, getting out into nature, traveling, crochet, and yoga. I enjoy working with individuals and families to improve quality of life with the least medication possible.
(904) 901-9482 View (904) 901-9482
Photo of Riaz Ahmed, Psychiatrist, MD
Riaz Ahmed
Psychiatrist, MD
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
We are a new psychiatric clinic committed to helping the St. Johns community. Located just out side Nocatee and twenty minutes from St. Augustine on Phillips Highway (US1). If you are looking for caring, compassionate and ethical psychiatrist who deals with counseling and medication management, we can provide the care you need on a schedule that fits yours--no need to miss work or school. Give us a call. 904-834-8042.
We are a new psychiatric clinic committed to helping the St. Johns community. Located just out side Nocatee and twenty minutes from St. Augustine on Phillips Highway (US1). If you are looking for caring, compassionate and ethical psychiatrist who deals with counseling and medication management, we can provide the care you need on a schedule that fits yours--no need to miss work or school. Give us a call. 904-834-8042.
(904) 834-8042 View (904) 834-8042
Photo of Patricia Gilliano - Magnolia Behavioral Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Magnolia Behavioral Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Saint Augustine, FL 32084
I like to spend time getting to know a client. Listening is important to me. My focus is to help ensure we can get you to be your best self through optimizing ways in your daily life to find solutions. I look at sleep, nutrition, and movement, then talk about stressors and goals. Together we can come up with a plan to best fit your needs and get you to where you want to go. I use a combination of holistic approaches, medicine, and lifestyle changes to complement what you feel most comfortable doing and then work to get you there.
I like to spend time getting to know a client. Listening is important to me. My focus is to help ensure we can get you to be your best self through optimizing ways in your daily life to find solutions. I look at sleep, nutrition, and movement, then talk about stressors and goals. Together we can come up with a plan to best fit your needs and get you to where you want to go. I use a combination of holistic approaches, medicine, and lifestyle changes to complement what you feel most comfortable doing and then work to get you there.
(904) 877-4216 View (904) 877-4216
Photo of Justin Kuhns Spooner, Psychiatrist, MD
Justin Kuhns Spooner
Psychiatrist, MD
First and foremost I am a adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist providing the latest evidence-based treatments for all psychiatric disorders with special interests in Autism, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Sleep Medicine. I am always striving to provide the best treatment available.
First and foremost I am a adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist providing the latest evidence-based treatments for all psychiatric disorders with special interests in Autism, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Sleep Medicine. I am always striving to provide the best treatment available.
(904) 650-3639 View (904) 650-3639
Photo of Saira Saqib, Psychiatrist, MD
Saira Saqib
Psychiatrist, MD
Saint Augustine, FL 32086
Currently Tele-Medicine appointments with prompt appointments. Treatment for PTSD, Unipolar and Bipolar Depression, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Eating Disorders, OCD, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bariatric Surgery Pre- Surgical Evaluations, Spinal Cord Stimulation Evaluation, Couples Therapy, Substance Abuse and much more. Online groups to come soon. Call 904-296-3113. How much is the deductible for a patient even if they see me five times a year on cash, it might be still cheaper than their deductible. The convenience of having quality psychiatric care is priceless.
Currently Tele-Medicine appointments with prompt appointments. Treatment for PTSD, Unipolar and Bipolar Depression, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Eating Disorders, OCD, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bariatric Surgery Pre- Surgical Evaluations, Spinal Cord Stimulation Evaluation, Couples Therapy, Substance Abuse and much more. Online groups to come soon. Call 904-296-3113. How much is the deductible for a patient even if they see me five times a year on cash, it might be still cheaper than their deductible. The convenience of having quality psychiatric care is priceless.
(904) 490-6860 View (904) 490-6860
Photo of Lindsey Burd, Psychiatric Nurse, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN
Lindsey Burd
Psychiatric Nurse, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN
2 Endorsed
Saint Augustine, FL 32092
Offering compassionate care for teens and adults who struggle with mentall illness. With additional training in integrative health- I work with you to offer holistic treatment, meaning you are treated as more than a diagnosis, you are treated as a client. Your lifestyle, unique challenges, and strengths, and feelings about medication are always considered. I see my patients as a "team member"- with your needs and goals as part of the treatment plan. I offer both therapy and medication management options. I offer personalized psychiatric care from the comfort of your own home via telepsychiatry.
Offering compassionate care for teens and adults who struggle with mentall illness. With additional training in integrative health- I work with you to offer holistic treatment, meaning you are treated as more than a diagnosis, you are treated as a client. Your lifestyle, unique challenges, and strengths, and feelings about medication are always considered. I see my patients as a "team member"- with your needs and goals as part of the treatment plan. I offer both therapy and medication management options. I offer personalized psychiatric care from the comfort of your own home via telepsychiatry.
(904) 454-8458 View (904) 454-8458
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency at Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. He earned his medical degree from Midwestern University – Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine after receiving his B.S. in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from UC Davis.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency at Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. He earned his medical degree from Midwestern University – Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine after receiving his B.S. in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from UC Davis.
(904) 694-5366 View (904) 694-5366
Photo of Tina Mobley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNPBC, PMHNPBC
Tina Mobley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNPBC, PMHNPBC
15 Endorsed
Saint Augustine, FL 32095
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. I'm invested in providing personalized service by combining functional and traditional medicine. This integrative approach improves quality of life by focusing on whole body wellness.
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. I'm invested in providing personalized service by combining functional and traditional medicine. This integrative approach improves quality of life by focusing on whole body wellness.
(904) 664-7074 View (904) 664-7074
Photo of Shinika Clark, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Shinika Clark
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Shinika Clark, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, leads Renew, Restore, Revise Psychiatric Services with compassion and expertise. Embracing each individual's uniqueness, Shinika crafts personalized treatment plans that address specific needs and promote holistic well-being. In Florida and beyond, Shinika supports individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and insomnia. Her approach combines warmth, empathy, and evidence-based care to foster a safe and supportive environment.
Shinika Clark, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, leads Renew, Restore, Revise Psychiatric Services with compassion and expertise. Embracing each individual's uniqueness, Shinika crafts personalized treatment plans that address specific needs and promote holistic well-being. In Florida and beyond, Shinika supports individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and insomnia. Her approach combines warmth, empathy, and evidence-based care to foster a safe and supportive environment.
(727) 485-0575 View (727) 485-0575
Photo of Danielle Renee Gallagher - Nurture Wellbeing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN
Nurture Wellbeing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting patients at this time. Mental health IS health, and I am passionate about holistic treatment. My goal is to help you become the best version of your authentic self. With extensive experience in both medical treatment and psychiatry, I take a comprehensive approach to your care, considering the whole person when recommending treatments.
Not accepting patients at this time. Mental health IS health, and I am passionate about holistic treatment. My goal is to help you become the best version of your authentic self. With extensive experience in both medical treatment and psychiatry, I take a comprehensive approach to your care, considering the whole person when recommending treatments.
(904) 892-8839 View (904) 892-8839
Photo of Dinar Sajan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dinar Sajan
Psychiatrist, MD
Saint Augustine, FL 32084
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
(833) 377-2526 View (833) 377-2526
Photo of Patti Gilliano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Patti Gilliano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
2 Endorsed
Saint Augustine, FL 32095
Hi! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida. I have been in healthcare for over 35 years as a clinical nurse and executive leader. I have worked with many clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, Post COVID issues, grief, suffering, or self-image issues. I am results oriented first to listen to your needs, then partner to help you achieve your goals. I can help you find your best self.
Hi! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida. I have been in healthcare for over 35 years as a clinical nurse and executive leader. I have worked with many clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, Post COVID issues, grief, suffering, or self-image issues. I am results oriented first to listen to your needs, then partner to help you achieve your goals. I can help you find your best self.
(904) 467-4694 View (904) 467-4694
Photo of Jorge Andres Diaz - Summit Pediatric Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Summit Pediatric Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Saint Augustine, FL 32086
Now accepting private insurance Aetna, United Health Care, Oscar Health and Oxford via Headway. Accepting New Patients AND No Long Wait Time! Jorge A. Diaz, M.D is an experienced Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist seeing ages 4 to 24. If you're worried about your child's mental health, Dr. Diaz can provide an empathetic evaluation and evidence-based treatment to alleviate and prevent any worsening on symptoms. "As a father myself I like to answer any important question a parent might have about their child's current condition and to provide the best support. I believe in an individual care plan tailored to each patient".
Now accepting private insurance Aetna, United Health Care, Oscar Health and Oxford via Headway. Accepting New Patients AND No Long Wait Time! Jorge A. Diaz, M.D is an experienced Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist seeing ages 4 to 24. If you're worried about your child's mental health, Dr. Diaz can provide an empathetic evaluation and evidence-based treatment to alleviate and prevent any worsening on symptoms. "As a father myself I like to answer any important question a parent might have about their child's current condition and to provide the best support. I believe in an individual care plan tailored to each patient".
(904) 584-3933 View (904) 584-3933
Photo of Todd Broder - Florida Center for TMS, Psychiatrist, MD
Florida Center for TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Saint Augustine, FL 32086
Now Offering Medication Management and therapy! We are specialists in depression and anxiety. Stop just existing and start living! Our cutting edge treatments can help. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine (Spravato) are safe, FDA cleared treatments used to treat depression and covered by insurance. Contact us to learn more information or visit our website www.floridacenterfortms.com. Providing TMS in STA since 2017. Let our board certified, nationally known psychiatrists and well trained psychiatric NP/PA find treatment options for you. Three convenient locations: St Augustine, Ponte Vedra and downtown Orlando.
Now Offering Medication Management and therapy! We are specialists in depression and anxiety. Stop just existing and start living! Our cutting edge treatments can help. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine (Spravato) are safe, FDA cleared treatments used to treat depression and covered by insurance. Contact us to learn more information or visit our website www.floridacenterfortms.com. Providing TMS in STA since 2017. Let our board certified, nationally known psychiatrists and well trained psychiatric NP/PA find treatment options for you. Three convenient locations: St Augustine, Ponte Vedra and downtown Orlando.
(904) 495-7103 View (904) 495-7103
Photo of Lena Rain Russell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, PATP
Lena Rain Russell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, PATP
Saint Augustine, FL 32084
My name is Lena, thank you for considering me as your provider. Mental health and wellness is my passion and it is a privilege to work in this field. I am dedicated to exploring potential causes of symptoms and feelings and helping you to find meaningful resolutions with lasting positive change. My intention is to support you to restore your health, balance and inner peace. I am originally from the UK and have over 20 years of experience in healthcare. My experience includes community mental health, emergency rooms, and as a medic in the British Army.
My name is Lena, thank you for considering me as your provider. Mental health and wellness is my passion and it is a privilege to work in this field. I am dedicated to exploring potential causes of symptoms and feelings and helping you to find meaningful resolutions with lasting positive change. My intention is to support you to restore your health, balance and inner peace. I am originally from the UK and have over 20 years of experience in healthcare. My experience includes community mental health, emergency rooms, and as a medic in the British Army.
(904) 299-8482 View (904) 299-8482
Photo of Heather Luing - Florida Center for TMS, Psychiatrist, MD
Florida Center for TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Saint Augustine, FL 32086
Florida Center for TMS is a specialized psychiatry clinic that specializes in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as well as other advanced psychiatric treatments. Dr. Luing and Dr. Broder are board certified psychiatrists offering this FDA approved treatment to patients in St Johns, Duval, Clay, Putnam, and Flagler counties. TMS is approved by the FDA for treatment resistant depression and is covered by all major insurance including Medicare for this indication. TMS is also used for off label indications including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, and cognitive enhancement for an affordable cash pay rate.
Florida Center for TMS is a specialized psychiatry clinic that specializes in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as well as other advanced psychiatric treatments. Dr. Luing and Dr. Broder are board certified psychiatrists offering this FDA approved treatment to patients in St Johns, Duval, Clay, Putnam, and Flagler counties. TMS is approved by the FDA for treatment resistant depression and is covered by all major insurance including Medicare for this indication. TMS is also used for off label indications including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, and cognitive enhancement for an affordable cash pay rate.
(833) 651-1990 View (833) 651-1990
Photo of Dr. Kamal Albright, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Kamal Albright
Psychiatrist, MD
Saint Augustine, FL 32084
I’m a psychiatrist who specializes in providing integrative care to foster inner discovery and facilitate tangible change for all of my patients. To me, this means utilizing evidence-based psychotherapeutic methods with medication management as appropriate for achieving personal goals and inner wellness. My integrative knowledge base ensures that each patient’s physical, mental, and spiritual factors are considered holistically in their healing journey. I strive to make sessions collaborative, effective, meaningful, and empowering, for all of my clients. I also supervise psychiatry physicians in training at Orange Park HCA Hospital.
I’m a psychiatrist who specializes in providing integrative care to foster inner discovery and facilitate tangible change for all of my patients. To me, this means utilizing evidence-based psychotherapeutic methods with medication management as appropriate for achieving personal goals and inner wellness. My integrative knowledge base ensures that each patient’s physical, mental, and spiritual factors are considered holistically in their healing journey. I strive to make sessions collaborative, effective, meaningful, and empowering, for all of my clients. I also supervise psychiatry physicians in training at Orange Park HCA Hospital.
(904) 747-9780 View (904) 747-9780
Photo of Dr. Beth Gabriel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Beth Gabriel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting NEW patients. Any provider can prescribe psychiatric medication - but there is considerable skill involved in creating a thoughtful and effective regimen tailored to each patient and their specific needs. MOST importantly I Listen to my patients! My specialties are depression, anxiety (generalized, social, OCD), and ADHD, but I treat all types of psychiatric conditions. I try to get creative and I am not scared to use 'outside of the box' thinking when other methods have failed.
Accepting NEW patients. Any provider can prescribe psychiatric medication - but there is considerable skill involved in creating a thoughtful and effective regimen tailored to each patient and their specific needs. MOST importantly I Listen to my patients! My specialties are depression, anxiety (generalized, social, OCD), and ADHD, but I treat all types of psychiatric conditions. I try to get creative and I am not scared to use 'outside of the box' thinking when other methods have failed.
(904) 944-9169 View (904) 944-9169
Photo of Dana M Hatwig - Achieve Psychiatric Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH-BC
Achieve Psychiatric Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH-BC
Online Only
With a balanced blend of lifestyle enhancements and the right prescription medications, our goal is to restore you to feeling your very best.
With a balanced blend of lifestyle enhancements and the right prescription medications, our goal is to restore you to feeling your very best.
(904) 329-7547 View (904) 329-7547

See more therapy options for Saint Johns County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Saint Johns County, FL

70+

Average cost per session

$160

Psychiatrists in Saint Johns County, FL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
92% Depression
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
72% Medication Management
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
78% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Saint Johns County, FL see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
29% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Saint Johns 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.