Psychiatrists in Venice, FL

Photo of Carolyn Harkness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Carolyn Harkness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
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, Psychiatrist, MD
Nowpsych
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Venice, FL 34284
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(321) 290-8750 View (321) 290-8750
Photo of Briane Olson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, FL, WY
Briane Olson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, FL, WY
Online Only
Do you ever feel like just a number or wonder if your medication provider is really listening to you? I understand how discouraging it can be to face complex mental health challenges and how important it is to feel like there’s hope.
Do you ever feel like just a number or wonder if your medication provider is really listening to you? I understand how discouraging it can be to face complex mental health challenges and how important it is to feel like there’s hope.
(941) 269-6512 View (941) 269-6512
Photo of Dr. Michelle Knapp, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Michelle Knapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
3 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 Stephanie Katz Lirio, Psychiatrist, MD
Stephanie Katz Lirio
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am board-certified in both adult & 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 eating disorders as well as interventional psychiatry (TMS and esketamine) for treatment-resistant depression.
I am board-certified in both adult & 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 eating disorders as well as interventional psychiatry (TMS and esketamine) for treatment-resistant depression.
(941) 202-5951 View (941) 202-5951
Photo of Rachel Morgan Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Rachel Morgan Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO, ABPN
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO, ABPN
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.
(941) 239-4054 View (941) 239-4054
Photo of Tiffany Lynn Yelton - T & S Psychiatric Consulants, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
T & S Psychiatric Consulants, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
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 Adil Mohammad - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(321) 248-5519 View (321) 248-5519

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Irene Mazur, Psychiatrist, MD
Irene Mazur
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Irene Mazur graduated with honors from the Ternopol Medical School in Ternopol, Ukraine, in 1992. After her move to the US, she completed a Psychiatry Residency program and a Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in in UMDNJ, Piscataway, NJ. Her area of expertise include: autism, aggression, developmental delay, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. In 2023, Dr. Mazur had received well-deserved recognition and was acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Psychiatry.
Dr. Irene Mazur graduated with honors from the Ternopol Medical School in Ternopol, Ukraine, in 1992. After her move to the US, she completed a Psychiatry Residency program and a Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in in UMDNJ, Piscataway, NJ. Her area of expertise include: autism, aggression, developmental delay, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. In 2023, Dr. Mazur had received well-deserved recognition and was acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Psychiatry.
(551) 239-8069 View (551) 239-8069
Photo of Kaitlin Hicks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kaitlin Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Sarasota, FL 34233
My ideal client is likely struggling with specific pain points that are preventing them from achieving their desired outcomes. These could include: A lack of clarity or direction in goals, feeling overwhelmed with too many choices and not enough guidance or struggling to find a trustworthy professional who understands their needs. They ultimately want peace of mind, success and confidence in their decisions. They want to work with someone who not only has the expertise but also genuinely cares about their success. Someone who helps them move from where they are to where they want to be.
My ideal client is likely struggling with specific pain points that are preventing them from achieving their desired outcomes. These could include: A lack of clarity or direction in goals, feeling overwhelmed with too many choices and not enough guidance or struggling to find a trustworthy professional who understands their needs. They ultimately want peace of mind, success and confidence in their decisions. They want to work with someone who not only has the expertise but also genuinely cares about their success. Someone who helps them move from where they are to where they want to be.
(941) 299-7598 View (941) 299-7598
Photo of Jenny Kosman, Psychiatrist, MD
Jenny Kosman
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
I am a board certified psychiatrist, in private practice, who treats adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I specialize in management of mood/ anxiety disorders, PTSD/ trauma, postpartum depression/psychosis, dementia, and helping people through stress associated with life transitions and complicated medical illnesses. I am a believer in building strong, trusting, and supportive relationships by blending conservative medication management with psychotherapy. I create a personalized approach and treatment plan by devoting sufficient time to learn about each person, his/her emotional/ physical conditions, and life situations. I strive to make the journey to healing as smooth and comfortable as possible.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, in private practice, who treats adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I specialize in management of mood/ anxiety disorders, PTSD/ trauma, postpartum depression/psychosis, dementia, and helping people through stress associated with life transitions and complicated medical illnesses. I am a believer in building strong, trusting, and supportive relationships by blending conservative medication management with psychotherapy. I create a personalized approach and treatment plan by devoting sufficient time to learn about each person, his/her emotional/ physical conditions, and life situations. I strive to make the journey to healing as smooth and comfortable as possible.
(941) 888-3032 View (941) 888-3032
Photo of Kimberly Danielle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Kimberly Danielle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Online Only
Hi! I’m Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C — double board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with advanced training in integrative and functional medicine. My approach combines conventional psychiatric care with evidence-based integrative strategies to support both mental and physical health. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mood and cognitive concerns, with a focus on understanding and addressing root causes.
Hi! I’m Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C — double board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with advanced training in integrative and functional medicine. My approach combines conventional psychiatric care with evidence-based integrative strategies to support both mental and physical health. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mood and cognitive concerns, with a focus on understanding and addressing root causes.
(561) 295-8038 View (561) 295-8038
Carol T Sanden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, CS, BC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am an adult mental health nurse practitioner with 30+ years experience in practice, seeing adults, age 18yrs and up for diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders, therapy and medication management. My expertise is in adult ADD, mood disorders, stress management, helping each person find their 'truths' and assist them to set and reach goals to be their personal 'best'. I have worked for years in addiction treatment, codependency, and 'ACOA' issues, as well as PTSD, gender related issues and anxiety in its many presentations.I am on many insurance panels including Medicare, BC/BS, Aetna, United and others
I am an adult mental health nurse practitioner with 30+ years experience in practice, seeing adults, age 18yrs and up for diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders, therapy and medication management. My expertise is in adult ADD, mood disorders, stress management, helping each person find their 'truths' and assist them to set and reach goals to be their personal 'best'. I have worked for years in addiction treatment, codependency, and 'ACOA' issues, as well as PTSD, gender related issues and anxiety in its many presentations.I am on many insurance panels including Medicare, BC/BS, Aetna, United and others
(941) 999-2598 View (941) 999-2598
Photo of Mark D'agostino, Psychiatrist, MD, MS, MSc
Mark D'agostino
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, MSc
Sarasota, FL 34233
Dr. D'Agostino is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), and has a subspeciality Board Certification in Addiction Medicine; he is a Suboxone provider, and treats a variety of substance use disorders with medication assisted treatment (MAT) and therapy (as needed). He specializes in the treatment of adults and late-adolescents, with expertise in medication management and therapy for conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, opioid and alcohol use disorder.
Dr. D'Agostino is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), and has a subspeciality Board Certification in Addiction Medicine; he is a Suboxone provider, and treats a variety of substance use disorders with medication assisted treatment (MAT) and therapy (as needed). He specializes in the treatment of adults and late-adolescents, with expertise in medication management and therapy for conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, opioid and alcohol use disorder.
(833) 735-0559 View (833) 735-0559
Photo of Lilyana Dobreva, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lilyana Dobreva
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Bradenton, FL 34202
Lilyana Dobreva is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. She is passionate about providing integrative psychiatric care by addressing environmental toxins, thyroid health, micronutrients, and inflammation. She is offering sensitive testing and medical grade supplements to correct imbalances. Lilyana screens for ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and other mental health disorders, and treats with mindfulness of patient' preferences.
Lilyana Dobreva is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. She is passionate about providing integrative psychiatric care by addressing environmental toxins, thyroid health, micronutrients, and inflammation. She is offering sensitive testing and medical grade supplements to correct imbalances. Lilyana screens for ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and other mental health disorders, and treats with mindfulness of patient' preferences.
(941) 336-6409 View (941) 336-6409
Photo of Alexis Goss, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Alexis Goss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! Taking the step to seek help can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and finding the right provider is essential. I am skilled in helping clients achieve improved well-being and overcome life’s challenges. I offer medication management and supportive therapy in a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can openly share your concerns and work toward meaningful progress
Hello! Taking the step to seek help can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and finding the right provider is essential. I am skilled in helping clients achieve improved well-being and overcome life’s challenges. I offer medication management and supportive therapy in a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can openly share your concerns and work toward meaningful progress
(727) 606-8500 View (727) 606-8500
Photo of Peta Bezek, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , APRN, BC
Peta Bezek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , APRN, BC
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 Bruce Welch, Psychiatrist, MD
Bruce Welch
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Welch is a graduate of medical school with five postdoctoral years of formal training in psychiatry, more than the usual, board-certified psychiatrist. He has additional, specialized training in diagnostics and has been asked to testify in a number of high profile court cases in recognition of his training and background. As a medical doctor and psychiatrist who provides sophisticated psychotherapy, Dr. Welch provides the highest level of diagnostic skills and medication expertise to patients who he comes to know quite well. A patient's privacy is considered to be extremely important and is carefully protected.
Dr. Welch is a graduate of medical school with five postdoctoral years of formal training in psychiatry, more than the usual, board-certified psychiatrist. He has additional, specialized training in diagnostics and has been asked to testify in a number of high profile court cases in recognition of his training and background. As a medical doctor and psychiatrist who provides sophisticated psychotherapy, Dr. Welch provides the highest level of diagnostic skills and medication expertise to patients who he comes to know quite well. A patient's privacy is considered to be extremely important and is carefully protected.
(727) 232-4439 View (727) 232-4439

See more therapy options for Venice

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Venice, FL

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Venice, FL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
90% Anxiety
90% ADHD
90% Bipolar Disorder
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
70% Trauma and PTSD
70% Medication Management

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
86% Aetna
71% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Venice, FL see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% 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.