Psychiatrists in Tampa, FL

Photo of Geidy Rivers, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Geidy Rivers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33634
I am a licensed and dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a PMHNP, I take the time to get to know my patients and allow them to be included in the decision-making process. I believe in the importance of educating my patients in their treatment options so that they can make informed decisions. I understand and recognize the negative stigma associated with mental health, but I can assure you that it is my objective to alleviate this stigma while making sure that my patients feel comfortable, and able to trust me when it comes to their mental health concerns.
I am a licensed and dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a PMHNP, I take the time to get to know my patients and allow them to be included in the decision-making process. I believe in the importance of educating my patients in their treatment options so that they can make informed decisions. I understand and recognize the negative stigma associated with mental health, but I can assure you that it is my objective to alleviate this stigma while making sure that my patients feel comfortable, and able to trust me when it comes to their mental health concerns.
(813) 400-8632 View (813) 400-8632
Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Carol Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33602
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
(561) 209-8283 View (561) 209-8283
Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33673  (Online Only)
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
(561) 468-3958 View (561) 468-3958
Photo of Siddharth Arora - Care Clinic, DO, MS, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Care Clinic
Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33602
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
(863) 302-9675 View (863) 302-9675
Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, LPN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Ijeoma Njoku
Psychiatric Nurse, LPN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33602
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live a fruitful and healthy life.
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live a fruitful and healthy life.
(561) 209-8283 View (561) 209-8283
Photo of Edgar Lopez, MD, Psychiatrist
Edgar Lopez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33613
With many years of experience in healthcare, I bring a wealth of expertise to every session. I hold Medical Degree from the University of Medical Sciences of Sancti Spiritus, Cuba. I also hold a Master’s Degree in Pharmacology from The University of Basque Country, Spain. After earning a Master’s Degree, I completed a four-year Psychiatry Residency at Saint Barnabas Hospital in the Bronx, New York, where I served as Chief Psychiatry Resident during the fourth year of training. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse populations and addressing a wide array of mental health concerns.
With many years of experience in healthcare, I bring a wealth of expertise to every session. I hold Medical Degree from the University of Medical Sciences of Sancti Spiritus, Cuba. I also hold a Master’s Degree in Pharmacology from The University of Basque Country, Spain. After earning a Master’s Degree, I completed a four-year Psychiatry Residency at Saint Barnabas Hospital in the Bronx, New York, where I served as Chief Psychiatry Resident during the fourth year of training. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse populations and addressing a wide array of mental health concerns.
(727) 855-3653 View (727) 855-3653
Photo of Mary Louise Stedman, MD, Psychiatrist
Mary Louise Stedman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33613
Dedicated research facility. Qualified patients receive study medication, exams and labs at no cost to them and will be compensated for their time and travel. Specializing in Alzheimer's disease, Bipolar Disorder, and Depression. Visit my profile for more information. We are currently enrolling in several studies for memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. I also have a private practice for Psychiatric Patients.
Dedicated research facility. Qualified patients receive study medication, exams and labs at no cost to them and will be compensated for their time and travel. Specializing in Alzheimer's disease, Bipolar Disorder, and Depression. Visit my profile for more information. We are currently enrolling in several studies for memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. I also have a private practice for Psychiatric Patients.
(813) 440-3104 View (813) 440-3104
Photo of Rachael Pavone, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachael Pavone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33607
Hi there, I'm Rachael, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I completed my Masters of Science in Nursing at the University of Tampa and pursued my Post Masters Certification at The University of Miami, where I also attended Nursing School. My professional background encompasses addiction medicine and adult psychiatry. My passion lies in offering comprehensive mental health care to individuals and families seeking support for their loved ones. My clinical approach is deeply rooted in empathy and building strong therapeutic relationships with my patients. Those who choose to work with me can expe
Hi there, I'm Rachael, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I completed my Masters of Science in Nursing at the University of Tampa and pursued my Post Masters Certification at The University of Miami, where I also attended Nursing School. My professional background encompasses addiction medicine and adult psychiatry. My passion lies in offering comprehensive mental health care to individuals and families seeking support for their loved ones. My clinical approach is deeply rooted in empathy and building strong therapeutic relationships with my patients. Those who choose to work with me can expe
(727) 607-0646 View (727) 607-0646
Photo of Eloy Franco, MD, Psychiatrist
Eloy Franco
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33647  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Dr. Eloy Franco, MD and I am a board certified psychiatrist with 16 years of experience in treating and managing a wide range of mental health conditions. I completed my training at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, and then moved to Tampa in 2010. I enjoy caring for patients of all walks of life in a way that is warm, empathic, inquisitive and empowering! If you would like to join my diverse group of patients, please feel free to give us a call. You can find more information about my practice and myself at my website: dreloyfranco.com I look forward to helping and knowing you! Se Habla Español.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Eloy Franco, MD and I am a board certified psychiatrist with 16 years of experience in treating and managing a wide range of mental health conditions. I completed my training at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, and then moved to Tampa in 2010. I enjoy caring for patients of all walks of life in a way that is warm, empathic, inquisitive and empowering! If you would like to join my diverse group of patients, please feel free to give us a call. You can find more information about my practice and myself at my website: dreloyfranco.com I look forward to helping and knowing you! Se Habla Español.
(813) 521-7354 View (813) 521-7354
Photo of Felix Widlacki, DO, Psychiatrist
Felix Widlacki
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33615
When you are suffering, you want help now, not three weeks from now! I keep appointments open for new patients, so you can be seen quickly, usually within a few days. Imagine waking up feeling refreshed and ready for the day. Imagine going to bed at night and falling asleep easily, not dreading the next day. Do you want to feel less depressed, and start enjoying life again? Are you suffering from the terrible pain of anxiety? There is help, and I can help you feel better.
When you are suffering, you want help now, not three weeks from now! I keep appointments open for new patients, so you can be seen quickly, usually within a few days. Imagine waking up feeling refreshed and ready for the day. Imagine going to bed at night and falling asleep easily, not dreading the next day. Do you want to feel less depressed, and start enjoying life again? Are you suffering from the terrible pain of anxiety? There is help, and I can help you feel better.
(813) 773-1316 View (813) 773-1316
Photo of Stacy Wideman, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacy Wideman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33602  (Online Only)
Stacy has 25 years of experience, in both inpatient and outpatient mental health.
Stacy has 25 years of experience, in both inpatient and outpatient mental health.
(813) 798-3468 View (813) 798-3468
Photo of Ingrid Maria Suazo - Sublimity Care, LLC, DrHA, MSN, AAPRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sublimity Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrHA, MSN, AAPRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33637
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years.
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years.
(813) 437-5784 View (813) 437-5784
Photo of Lyssa Brooks, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lyssa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33602
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle 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 struggle 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.
(813) 566-0098 View (813) 566-0098
Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care , Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33629  (Online Only)
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
(321) 204-7972 View (321) 204-7972
Photo of Esther Mugomba-Bird - Thrive Behavioral Health Services LLC, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thrive Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33637
Thrive Behavioral Health Services is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner led clinic focused on treating various Psychiatric conditions to include Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Various types of Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorders as well as Binge Eating Disorders.
Thrive Behavioral Health Services is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner led clinic focused on treating various Psychiatric conditions to include Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Various types of Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorders as well as Binge Eating Disorders.
(813) 993-0315 View (813) 993-0315
Photo of Amol Chaugule, MD, Psychiatrist
Amol Chaugule
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33606
CURRENTLY PROVIDING TELEPSYCHIATRY SERVICES IN TEXAS AND FLORIDA. Whether your challenge is depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or problems dealing with your feelings, it can feel overwhelming to try and deal with all of this by yourself. Not wanting to face your pain is normal and it's sometimes just too scary to do it on your own. Together we can help you face your problems in a supportive and safe space. I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist with a deep interest in psychotherapy and expertise in prescribing medications. Having expertise in psychotherapy helps me prescribe medications only if needed and in a conservative
CURRENTLY PROVIDING TELEPSYCHIATRY SERVICES IN TEXAS AND FLORIDA. Whether your challenge is depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or problems dealing with your feelings, it can feel overwhelming to try and deal with all of this by yourself. Not wanting to face your pain is normal and it's sometimes just too scary to do it on your own. Together we can help you face your problems in a supportive and safe space. I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist with a deep interest in psychotherapy and expertise in prescribing medications. Having expertise in psychotherapy helps me prescribe medications only if needed and in a conservative
(813) 210-9962 View (813) 210-9962
Photo of Tonya Rezmer, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tonya Rezmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33647  (Online Only)
Tonya is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2018. She received her bachelor’s degree and Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Michigan-Flint. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, Addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Tonya is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2018. She received her bachelor’s degree and Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Michigan-Flint. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, Addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
(813) 437-1646 View (813) 437-1646
Photo of Deborah Diaz, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deborah Diaz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33647  (Online Only)
Welcome. My name is Debbie. I am dual board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from South University and Wilkes University respectively. I have been practicing for 4 years. I am bilingual in Spanish. I have 28 years of experience as a care giver to my special needs son. My approach is to meet your personal unique needs in a compassionate, empathetic, non-judgmental manner. During our sessions, my goal is to create a safe space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make the changes to reach your personal goals My focus is to do a thorough assessment, dia
Welcome. My name is Debbie. I am dual board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from South University and Wilkes University respectively. I have been practicing for 4 years. I am bilingual in Spanish. I have 28 years of experience as a care giver to my special needs son. My approach is to meet your personal unique needs in a compassionate, empathetic, non-judgmental manner. During our sessions, my goal is to create a safe space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make the changes to reach your personal goals My focus is to do a thorough assessment, dia
(813) 548-3999 View (813) 548-3999
Photo of Yulanda Renee King - Hope Psychiatric Consultants, Yulanda, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hope Psychiatric Consultants
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Yulanda, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33602
From the moment I enrolled in Jacksonville State University where I eventually earned both my master’s and Doctorate of Nursing with a specialty in Adult Gerontology Acute Care to my travels to the University of Texas where I earned my specialty in Primary Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As the proud owner of Hope Psychiatric Consultants. The “Hope” in Hope Psychiatric Consultants happily stands for “Handing Out Positive Energy.” I ideated and implemented this telehealth psych platform to give those in need the medical attention and listening ear they need for their mental health.
From the moment I enrolled in Jacksonville State University where I eventually earned both my master’s and Doctorate of Nursing with a specialty in Adult Gerontology Acute Care to my travels to the University of Texas where I earned my specialty in Primary Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As the proud owner of Hope Psychiatric Consultants. The “Hope” in Hope Psychiatric Consultants happily stands for “Handing Out Positive Energy.” I ideated and implemented this telehealth psych platform to give those in need the medical attention and listening ear they need for their mental health.
(334) 454-3099 View (334) 454-3099
Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33604  (Online Only)
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
(321) 257-3145 View (321) 257-3145
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Tampa, FL

300+

Average cost per session

$195

Psychiatrists in Tampa, FL who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
94% Depression
82% Bipolar Disorder
79% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Medication Management

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Cigna and Evernorth
91% Aetna
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Tampa, FL see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Tampa?

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.