Psychiatrists in Venice, FL

Photo of Mateland Keith, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mateland Keith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34292
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner that specializes in psychiatric and mental health concerns. I closely work with my clients to create hope, health and healing through a holistic mental wellness approach. My goal is to engage with the client to identify and treat the underlying cause(s) to their symptoms through tailored interventions. I have the experience to treat an array of mental health issues and disorders while providing a patient-centered experience for all ages. Call Today - (941) 269-2301 extension 66101
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner that specializes in psychiatric and mental health concerns. I closely work with my clients to create hope, health and healing through a holistic mental wellness approach. My goal is to engage with the client to identify and treat the underlying cause(s) to their symptoms through tailored interventions. I have the experience to treat an array of mental health issues and disorders while providing a patient-centered experience for all ages. Call Today - (941) 269-2301 extension 66101
(941) 269-2301 x66101 View (941) 269-2301 x66101
Photo of Carolyn Harkness, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carolyn Harkness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
Hello, I'm Carolyn Are you finding it hard to cope with changes in your life? Have you been putting your mental health on a back burner? I founded my practice, UpLiftt Mental Wellness, because I am extremely passionate about improving mental wellness to achieve the best possible quality of life. I often see the correlation of neglecting mental health and the negative effects on ones self care and relationships with others. I have a diverse background in psychiatric mental health to treat acute and chronic concerns with a specialty with women's mental health.
Hello, I'm Carolyn Are you finding it hard to cope with changes in your life? Have you been putting your mental health on a back burner? I founded my practice, UpLiftt Mental Wellness, because I am extremely passionate about improving mental wellness to achieve the best possible quality of life. I often see the correlation of neglecting mental health and the negative effects on ones self care and relationships with others. I have a diverse background in psychiatric mental health to treat acute and chronic concerns with a specialty with women's mental health.
(607) 360-5993 View (607) 360-5993
Photo of Sean Paul - Nowpsych, MD, Psychiatrist
Nowpsych
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
I see children, teenagers and adults with all types of mental health conditions. I have a private practice and have next day openings. I can see patients virtually or in office. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, addictions and trauma. Typical issues include struggle with school, behavioral issues at home or interpersonal relationships. I am the consultant psychiatrist for an inpatient substance abuse program for teenagers with comorbid mental health issues. I am the psychiatric consultant for All Star Children's Foundation where I work with children that have experienced trauma.
I see children, teenagers and adults with all types of mental health conditions. I have a private practice and have next day openings. I can see patients virtually or in office. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, addictions and trauma. Typical issues include struggle with school, behavioral issues at home or interpersonal relationships. I am the consultant psychiatrist for an inpatient substance abuse program for teenagers with comorbid mental health issues. I am the psychiatric consultant for All Star Children's Foundation where I work with children that have experienced trauma.
(941) 909-3443 View (941) 909-3443
Photo of Dr. Michelle Knapp, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Michelle Knapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly 20 years of experience in general and addiction psychiatry. Most of my clinical expertise was developed in New York City and San Francisco treating children, adolescents, and adults with an extremely wide array of problems. I also served as the Director of the New York University Nurse Practitioner program. Authenticity and non-judgment drive my practice. I believe that people change at different paces and that is part of being human. Ideally, we change from the inside out.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly 20 years of experience in general and addiction psychiatry. Most of my clinical expertise was developed in New York City and San Francisco treating children, adolescents, and adults with an extremely wide array of problems. I also served as the Director of the New York University Nurse Practitioner program. Authenticity and non-judgment drive my practice. I believe that people change at different paces and that is part of being human. Ideally, we change from the inside out.
(929) 265-2660 View (929) 265-2660
Photo of Martin J. DeSantis, DO, Psychiatrist
Martin J. DeSantis
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
Dr. DeSantis is a board certified psychiatrist in both general and geriatric psychiatry. He is originally from Reading, PA. He graduated from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (Erie, PA) in 2006. His medical internship was at Memorial Hospital in York, PA in 2006-07. His psychiatric residency was from 2007-10 at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine (Stratford, NJ). His geriatric fellowship was in 2010-11 at Rowan University’s New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging (Stratford, NJ).
Dr. DeSantis is a board certified psychiatrist in both general and geriatric psychiatry. He is originally from Reading, PA. He graduated from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (Erie, PA) in 2006. His medical internship was at Memorial Hospital in York, PA in 2006-07. His psychiatric residency was from 2007-10 at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine (Stratford, NJ). His geriatric fellowship was in 2010-11 at Rowan University’s New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging (Stratford, NJ).
(941) 346-6465 View (941) 346-6465
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34284
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) 290-8750 View (321) 290-8750
Photo of Safir Azam Md, MD, Psychiatrist
Safir Azam Md
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285  (Online Only)
My Goal is Pharmacological Precision so as to target symptoms in the first trial rather than trails and errors that result in side effects and costs of treatment . My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London Hospital UK.I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the UF. I like to utilize my training and expertise in helping patients with their symptoms .
My Goal is Pharmacological Precision so as to target symptoms in the first trial rather than trails and errors that result in side effects and costs of treatment . My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London Hospital UK.I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the UF. I like to utilize my training and expertise in helping patients with their symptoms .
(305) 434-2148 View (305) 434-2148
Photo of Stephanie Katz Lirio, MD, Psychiatrist
Stephanie Katz Lirio
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
I am board-certified in both adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, with over 10 years' experience. In addition to treating ADHD, mood, and anxiety disorders in children, teenagers, and adults, I have expertise in managing eating disorders as well as co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions.
I am board-certified in both adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, with over 10 years' experience. In addition to treating ADHD, mood, and anxiety disorders in children, teenagers, and adults, I have expertise in managing eating disorders as well as co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions.
(941) 202-5951 View (941) 202-5951
Photo of Tiffany Lynn Yelton - T & S Psychiatric Consulants, LLC, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
T & S Psychiatric Consulants, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34284
My theoretical foundational approach when it comes to providing patient care is based on a collaborative-practice approach AND a person-centered approach. Current psychiatric practice is one that is guided by evidence-based care, but with person centered care each patient has experiences in their lives that may affect the approach to treatment we may choose, this may be conflicting with current evidence. This approach may not always be easy, and I may have to integrate and adapt my approach. I hope this will help with building rapport and a lasting relationship with my patients.
My theoretical foundational approach when it comes to providing patient care is based on a collaborative-practice approach AND a person-centered approach. Current psychiatric practice is one that is guided by evidence-based care, but with person centered care each patient has experiences in their lives that may affect the approach to treatment we may choose, this may be conflicting with current evidence. This approach may not always be easy, and I may have to integrate and adapt my approach. I hope this will help with building rapport and a lasting relationship with my patients.
(941) 344-3861 View (941) 344-3861
Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34291
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) 248-5519 View (321) 248-5519
Photo of Barbara Por Srur, MD, Psychiatrist
Barbara Por Srur
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34287
With a dedicated commitment spanning 35 years in the Sarasota/Bradenton area, my unwavering mission is to deliver superlative care to children, adults, and seniors. Guided by the principle of judicious medication use, I advocate for the minimal necessary dosage, ensuring treatment aligns precisely with clinical needs. My overarching objective is to facilitate the return to and sustained maintenance of each individual's optimal level of functioning. Emphasizing a holistic approach, I integrate medications with therapy, fostering the potential for supervised tapering or discontinuation when feasible.
With a dedicated commitment spanning 35 years in the Sarasota/Bradenton area, my unwavering mission is to deliver superlative care to children, adults, and seniors. Guided by the principle of judicious medication use, I advocate for the minimal necessary dosage, ensuring treatment aligns precisely with clinical needs. My overarching objective is to facilitate the return to and sustained maintenance of each individual's optimal level of functioning. Emphasizing a holistic approach, I integrate medications with therapy, fostering the potential for supervised tapering or discontinuation when feasible.
(941) 318-7126 View (941) 318-7126
Photo of Rachel Morgan Williams, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Morgan Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34291
Hi! My name is Rachel Morgan Williams, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Elite DNA Behavioral Health - Sarasota, with more than 16 years of psychiatric experience. My goal as a provider is to work with you to achieve optimal mental health functioning in all areas of your life. I see patients of all ages across the lifespans, including children, adults and seniors. I attended Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing, and have a Bachelors and Masters of Nursing. Services are available in-person in Sarasota and Telehealth across Florida.
Hi! My name is Rachel Morgan Williams, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Elite DNA Behavioral Health - Sarasota, with more than 16 years of psychiatric experience. My goal as a provider is to work with you to achieve optimal mental health functioning in all areas of your life. I see patients of all ages across the lifespans, including children, adults and seniors. I attended Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing, and have a Bachelors and Masters of Nursing. Services are available in-person in Sarasota and Telehealth across Florida.
(941) 231-7275 View (941) 231-7275

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286  (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) 257-2429 View (321) 257-2429
Photo of Peta Bezek, PMHNP , APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Peta Bezek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , APRN, BC
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34287  (Online Only)
Holistic approach to healthcare. Peta Gay Bezek APRN, PMHNP-BC is a Post Master's Certificate achiever from University of Massachusetts-Amherst where she obtained her Board Certification while enrolled in the DNP program and a Graduate of Walden University Master's of Science in Nursing Program where a Family Nurse Practitioner certification was obtained. They also worked for The Charlotte Behavioral Healthcare Outpatient Clinic for almost 7 years of her tenure while under supervision of Medical Director and Child and Adolescent Board Certified Psychiatrist. Training and Preceptorship also included Telehealth and Remote practice.
Holistic approach to healthcare. Peta Gay Bezek APRN, PMHNP-BC is a Post Master's Certificate achiever from University of Massachusetts-Amherst where she obtained her Board Certification while enrolled in the DNP program and a Graduate of Walden University Master's of Science in Nursing Program where a Family Nurse Practitioner certification was obtained. They also worked for The Charlotte Behavioral Healthcare Outpatient Clinic for almost 7 years of her tenure while under supervision of Medical Director and Child and Adolescent Board Certified Psychiatrist. Training and Preceptorship also included Telehealth and Remote practice.
(941) 265-1256 View (941) 265-1256
Photo of Laura Bernal, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laura Bernal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Venice, FL 34275
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, or PTSD? I can help. I believe in providing personalized, patient-centered care to address your symptoms. When you work with me, I will provide a comprehensive evaluation with a diagnosis and evidence-based medication management to treat your symptoms and improve your mental health. I also speak Spanish.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, or PTSD? I can help. I believe in providing personalized, patient-centered care to address your symptoms. When you work with me, I will provide a comprehensive evaluation with a diagnosis and evidence-based medication management to treat your symptoms and improve your mental health. I also speak Spanish.
(954) 833-4224 View (954) 833-4224

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Kayleen Bechara, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kayleen Bechara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33618
Are you feeling overwhelmed with symptoms of depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD? I can help. At Monumental Health Partners, we believe in working together with you to address your symptoms. Your appointment will include a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, a diagnosis, and a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms. Make an appointment with me today. I also speak Spanish.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with symptoms of depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD? I can help. At Monumental Health Partners, we believe in working together with you to address your symptoms. Your appointment will include a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, a diagnosis, and a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms. Make an appointment with me today. I also speak Spanish.
(954) 388-7034 View (954) 388-7034
Photo of La Tanya Wallace, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
La Tanya Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Riverview, FL 33578
Welcome! Are you experiencing life’s transitions, self-esteem, or relationship struggles which leave you feeling lost and overwhelmed? Do you find yourself yearning for clarity, a renewed sense of purpose, and meaningful connections? In these moments, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. With holistic support and guidance, it is possible to find balance and regain control over your life. Together, we can explore the path to healing and growth, illuminating a way forward to a brighter, more fulfilling future. Consider a Mental Emotional Release Session - Yes, You Can Heal Now!
Welcome! Are you experiencing life’s transitions, self-esteem, or relationship struggles which leave you feeling lost and overwhelmed? Do you find yourself yearning for clarity, a renewed sense of purpose, and meaningful connections? In these moments, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. With holistic support and guidance, it is possible to find balance and regain control over your life. Together, we can explore the path to healing and growth, illuminating a way forward to a brighter, more fulfilling future. Consider a Mental Emotional Release Session - Yes, You Can Heal Now!
(619) 473-7437 View (619) 473-7437
Winmind Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lutz, FL 33559
After completing medical school at Texas A&M, I pursued diverse training to strengthen my understanding of mental health across all age groups and conditions. I trained in general psychiatry in Texas, followed by a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry in Utah, and another fellowship in addiction psychiatry in Florida. This extensive training allows me to effectively support patients whether I encounter them in a community mental health clinic, the VA, or a private practice. I believe that understanding mental health goes beyond a diagnosis—it involves appreciating each person's unique lived experiences.
After completing medical school at Texas A&M, I pursued diverse training to strengthen my understanding of mental health across all age groups and conditions. I trained in general psychiatry in Texas, followed by a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry in Utah, and another fellowship in addiction psychiatry in Florida. This extensive training allows me to effectively support patients whether I encounter them in a community mental health clinic, the VA, or a private practice. I believe that understanding mental health goes beyond a diagnosis—it involves appreciating each person's unique lived experiences.
(813) 680-2728 View (813) 680-2728
Photo of Michelle Dion, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Dion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34117  (Online Only)
Hi! I have only been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for 1.5 years however I have 27 years of nursing experience in multiple areas.
Hi! I have only been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for 1.5 years however I have 27 years of nursing experience in multiple areas.
(239) 933-6716 View (239) 933-6716
Photo of Teresa Hug, MSN, PMHNP-C, ACNP-c, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Teresa Hug
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, ACNP-c
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Teresa Hug. I am dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and acute care practitioner. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, depression, excessive worrying, panic, and dealing with life stressors. Life stressors can include relationships, divorce, raising children, jobs, school, or coping with a chronic illness. In today's world, it is easy to struggle in our minds and feel we have no control of our thoughts but there's a way for you to regain control. I offer remote computerized testing for ADHD evaluation and genetic testing for response of medication.
Hello, my name is Teresa Hug. I am dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and acute care practitioner. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, depression, excessive worrying, panic, and dealing with life stressors. Life stressors can include relationships, divorce, raising children, jobs, school, or coping with a chronic illness. In today's world, it is easy to struggle in our minds and feel we have no control of our thoughts but there's a way for you to regain control. I offer remote computerized testing for ADHD evaluation and genetic testing for response of medication.
(727) 205-5111 View (727) 205-5111

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Venice, FL

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Venice, FL who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
92% ADHD
83% Bipolar Disorder
75% Eating Disorders
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Medication Management

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
80% Medicare
70% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Venice, FL see their clients

92% In Person and Online
8% Online Only

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Venice?

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.