Psychiatrists in Volusia County, FL

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Photo of Dr. Burhan Riaz, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Burhan Riaz
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Hi! To request a consultation, FL clients can reach me at LevelUpPsych.com. NY clients can find me on ZocDoc.com. I'm an integrative psychiatrist dedicated to treating you as a whole person—mind, brain, body, and soul. My approach blends holistic methods, like nutritional supplementation and mind-body practices, with traditional psychiatric treatments such as medication and counseling. I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges like anxiety, ADHD, OCD, depression, bipolar disorders, and PTSD/trauma.
Hi! To request a consultation, FL clients can reach me at LevelUpPsych.com. NY clients can find me on ZocDoc.com. I'm an integrative psychiatrist dedicated to treating you as a whole person—mind, brain, body, and soul. My approach blends holistic methods, like nutritional supplementation and mind-body practices, with traditional psychiatric treatments such as medication and counseling. I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges like anxiety, ADHD, OCD, depression, bipolar disorders, and PTSD/trauma.
(386) 384-9359 View (386) 384-9359
Photo of Malia Kent, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Malia Kent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I am a passionate, strong and caring provider who embodies a wealth of experience. My clients will be in a comfortable, non-judgmental environment to discuss concerns that are important to them and together we can achieve personal goals. I have an open-mind and offer active listening with compassionate care. With 16 years of health care experience, I provide confident and competent treatment. I started out as a paramedic. Then advanced my career to nursing, gaining my Bachelor’s degree. I graduated from Frontier Nursing University with my Master’s in nursing. I am currently studying for my doctorate in nursing practice.
I am a passionate, strong and caring provider who embodies a wealth of experience. My clients will be in a comfortable, non-judgmental environment to discuss concerns that are important to them and together we can achieve personal goals. I have an open-mind and offer active listening with compassionate care. With 16 years of health care experience, I provide confident and competent treatment. I started out as a paramedic. Then advanced my career to nursing, gaining my Bachelor’s degree. I graduated from Frontier Nursing University with my Master’s in nursing. I am currently studying for my doctorate in nursing practice.
(386) 384-8828 View (386) 384-8828
Photo of Lyndsey Evans, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lyndsey Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Ormond Beach, FL 32174
Hello! My name is Lyndsey and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of healthcare experience. My diverse background includes critical care, emergency medicine, and women's health, all of which have shaped my integrated and compassionate approach to mental health care.
Hello! My name is Lyndsey and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of healthcare experience. My diverse background includes critical care, emergency medicine, and women's health, all of which have shaped my integrated and compassionate approach to mental health care.
(386) 356-4411 View (386) 356-4411
Photo of Stacey LaRoche, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-Ed, APRN, PMHNPBC
Stacey LaRoche
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-Ed, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you doing your best to hold everything together, but inside, feel overwhelmed, unmotivated, or emotionally stuck? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, irritability, or other symptoms? Often, high-functioning on the outside, my clients sometimes feel disconnected, exhausted, or unsure of how to cope on the inside. They’re seeking clarity, calm, and a sense of balance they haven’t felt in a long time. Most of all, they want to feel better for themselves, their relationships, and overall quality of life.
Are you doing your best to hold everything together, but inside, feel overwhelmed, unmotivated, or emotionally stuck? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, irritability, or other symptoms? Often, high-functioning on the outside, my clients sometimes feel disconnected, exhausted, or unsure of how to cope on the inside. They’re seeking clarity, calm, and a sense of balance they haven’t felt in a long time. Most of all, they want to feel better for themselves, their relationships, and overall quality of life.
(386) 465-2678 View (386) 465-2678
Photo of Sendy Paul Pascal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sendy Paul Pascal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Deland, FL 32724
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Florida. Receiving my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Myers Florida and my Master of Science from Maryville University of Saint Louis, graduating Magna Cum Laude. I have almost ten years of experience, specifically in Acute Care, Hospice, and now specializing in Behavioral Health Care. My treatment approaches focus on educating and empowering clients about their mental health needs and giving hope, as knowledge is power. In turn, the goal is to help clients have a better quality of life.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Florida. Receiving my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Myers Florida and my Master of Science from Maryville University of Saint Louis, graduating Magna Cum Laude. I have almost ten years of experience, specifically in Acute Care, Hospice, and now specializing in Behavioral Health Care. My treatment approaches focus on educating and empowering clients about their mental health needs and giving hope, as knowledge is power. In turn, the goal is to help clients have a better quality of life.
(386) 433-9753 View (386) 433-9753
Photo of Dr. Abisoye Somorin - Evencare Psychiatry and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Evencare Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
2 Endorsed
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
How would you feel if your constant mood swings and anxiety suddenly disappear? Are you finding it difficult to maintain relationship because of unstable mood. How would you love to finally be able to focus and get task done? Dr Abi Somorin is accepting new patients. He is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric provider with wide experience both inpatient and outpatient treating mood disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD and PTSD, Dr 'Abi' got his doctorate from the Florida State University and he has more than a decade experience in psychiatry.
How would you feel if your constant mood swings and anxiety suddenly disappear? Are you finding it difficult to maintain relationship because of unstable mood. How would you love to finally be able to focus and get task done? Dr Abi Somorin is accepting new patients. He is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric provider with wide experience both inpatient and outpatient treating mood disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD and PTSD, Dr 'Abi' got his doctorate from the Florida State University and he has more than a decade experience in psychiatry.
(386) 854-4406 View (386) 854-4406
Photo of Marline Toussaint, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Marline Toussaint
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Orange City, FL 32763
Hello there. Welcome and nice to meet you. My name is Marline, I am a co-founder of Patient's Choice Medical and Mental Healthcare. I'm a double board certified Nurse Practitioner, with specialties in Family/Primary-Care and Psychiatric-Mental health. What does that mean?
Hello there. Welcome and nice to meet you. My name is Marline, I am a co-founder of Patient's Choice Medical and Mental Healthcare. I'm a double board certified Nurse Practitioner, with specialties in Family/Primary-Care and Psychiatric-Mental health. What does that mean?
(321) 316-5081 View (321) 316-5081
Florida Counseling Network
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MEd, CAP, CGAC, CET, SAP
Ormond Beach, FL 32174
Florida Counseling Network, LLC (FCN) is a rapidly growing agency providing a service delivery system in which behavioral health care is coordinated with medical care. We offer a wide array of on-site services, including evaluation and medication management, individual counseling, group counseling, and case-management. We also provide linkage to on-site cardiology, nephrology, and dental services.
Florida Counseling Network, LLC (FCN) is a rapidly growing agency providing a service delivery system in which behavioral health care is coordinated with medical care. We offer a wide array of on-site services, including evaluation and medication management, individual counseling, group counseling, and case-management. We also provide linkage to on-site cardiology, nephrology, and dental services.
(386) 222-6678 View (386) 222-6678
Photo of Riaz Rahman, Psychiatrist, MD
Riaz Rahman
Psychiatrist, MD
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Dr. Riaz Rahman is a Board certified physician in Internal Medicine and Psychiatry and has a combined 24 years of experience practicing in both fields. Taking care of all ages and all spheres of mental illness including anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, substance abuse, post traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, gender identity disorders etc. Dr. Rahman graduated from Dow medical university with honors, where he received his medical degree. after completing his two residencies, he served in directorship roles at various institutions, hospitals, and long term care facilities.
Dr. Riaz Rahman is a Board certified physician in Internal Medicine and Psychiatry and has a combined 24 years of experience practicing in both fields. Taking care of all ages and all spheres of mental illness including anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, substance abuse, post traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, gender identity disorders etc. Dr. Rahman graduated from Dow medical university with honors, where he received his medical degree. after completing his two residencies, he served in directorship roles at various institutions, hospitals, and long term care facilities.
(321) 445-1725 View (321) 445-1725
Photo of Salvador Leo Cevallos - Stillpoint Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, PMHNP
Stillpoint Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
South Daytona, FL 32119
At Stillpoint Psychiatry, we are committed to providing compassionate, reliable, and individualized mental health care to help you or your loved ones thrive. With expertise spanning children, adolescents, and adults, our practice offers a safe space for healing, growth, and hope.
At Stillpoint Psychiatry, we are committed to providing compassionate, reliable, and individualized mental health care to help you or your loved ones thrive. With expertise spanning children, adolescents, and adults, our practice offers a safe space for healing, growth, and hope.
(386) 957-3905 View (386) 957-3905
Photo of Marcia Oliver, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Marcia Oliver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
ADHD Isn’t a Flaw. It’s a Different Operating System. Get crystal clear about how your symptoms are impacting your life. I help ambitious adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, break free from feeling frustrated, stuck & scattered in their professional & personal lives. After working with me, my clients replace self-doubt and stress, with enhanced focus and confidence, empowering them to pursue and accomplish their life goals, and make the impact they've always wanted to make!
ADHD Isn’t a Flaw. It’s a Different Operating System. Get crystal clear about how your symptoms are impacting your life. I help ambitious adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, break free from feeling frustrated, stuck & scattered in their professional & personal lives. After working with me, my clients replace self-doubt and stress, with enhanced focus and confidence, empowering them to pursue and accomplish their life goals, and make the impact they've always wanted to make!
(386) 433-8449 View (386) 433-8449
Photo of Morgan Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Morgan Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Orange City, FL 32763
It's okay if you’ve been holding it together for so long that you’re not even sure how you’re really doing anymore.. I see that and more importantly, I see you. Life has a way of throwing us off course—whether it’s a major transition, a new diagnosis, burnout, or emotional pain that’s been quietly building for years. You might feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of your next step. You are not sure where to start, but you know that you want to feel balanced and grounded, reconnect with your strengths, and start moving forward. I’m here to walk with you through that process—with care, compassion, and a plan that fits your life.
It's okay if you’ve been holding it together for so long that you’re not even sure how you’re really doing anymore.. I see that and more importantly, I see you. Life has a way of throwing us off course—whether it’s a major transition, a new diagnosis, burnout, or emotional pain that’s been quietly building for years. You might feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of your next step. You are not sure where to start, but you know that you want to feel balanced and grounded, reconnect with your strengths, and start moving forward. I’m here to walk with you through that process—with care, compassion, and a plan that fits your life.
(386) 465-4456 View (386) 465-4456
Photo of Matthew Lebron, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Matthew Lebron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a passionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to empowering you on your mental wellness journey. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, recognizing mental health as an integral part of overall well-being. Through compassion, shared decision-making, and respect, I will work with you to create a safe, non-judgmental space that facilitates the resolution of your concerns.
As a passionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to empowering you on your mental wellness journey. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, recognizing mental health as an integral part of overall well-being. Through compassion, shared decision-making, and respect, I will work with you to create a safe, non-judgmental space that facilitates the resolution of your concerns.
(386) 766-7781 View (386) 766-7781
Photo of Vanessa Ivette Balous, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vanessa Ivette Balous
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Orange City, FL 32763
Therapy provides a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore complex emotions and personal challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Through tailored tools and strategies, clients can develop healthy coping mechanisms, enhance resilience, and foster a deeper understanding of themselves, ultimately promoting emotional balance and growth.
Therapy provides a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore complex emotions and personal challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Through tailored tools and strategies, clients can develop healthy coping mechanisms, enhance resilience, and foster a deeper understanding of themselves, ultimately promoting emotional balance and growth.
(386) 284-4639 View (386) 284-4639
Photo of Sarah Mundy-Russell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Sarah Mundy-Russell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Ormond Beach, FL 32174
Sarah Mundy-Russell aims to provide quality mental health care. After working as an RN in a behavioral health department and working through PMHNP school at Nova Southeastern University, she developed a passion for helping those on mental health journeys and gained respect for those on that journey. She specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and postpartum issues.
Sarah Mundy-Russell aims to provide quality mental health care. After working as an RN in a behavioral health department and working through PMHNP school at Nova Southeastern University, she developed a passion for helping those on mental health journeys and gained respect for those on that journey. She specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and postpartum issues.
(386) 766-4586 View (386) 766-4586
Photo of Kim Kroeger-Bushell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Kim Kroeger-Bushell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Port Orange, FL 32127
Specializing in Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Grief. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, individualized care to those seeking mental health support. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and insomnia, helping my clients navigate their emotional well-being through a personalized, holistic approach. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Mental health care is not one-size-fits-all, and I work closely with each client to develop a tailored treatment plan.
Specializing in Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Grief. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, individualized care to those seeking mental health support. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and insomnia, helping my clients navigate their emotional well-being through a personalized, holistic approach. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Mental health care is not one-size-fits-all, and I work closely with each client to develop a tailored treatment plan.
(386) 223-1877 View (386) 223-1877
Photo of Megan James, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Megan James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169
Our practice is Behavior Functional Focus Clinic. We are companions in healing, champions of mental wellness. My ideal client seeks relief from mental distress, craving validation and understanding. They aspire to reclaim agency, cultivate resilience, and nurture meaningful connections. They want a compassionate ally to help them understand themselves and develop coping skills. Motivated by self-discovery, they seek to live authentically, unburdened by mental illness. Together, we embark on a journey toward healing and growth.
Our practice is Behavior Functional Focus Clinic. We are companions in healing, champions of mental wellness. My ideal client seeks relief from mental distress, craving validation and understanding. They aspire to reclaim agency, cultivate resilience, and nurture meaningful connections. They want a compassionate ally to help them understand themselves and develop coping skills. Motivated by self-discovery, they seek to live authentically, unburdened by mental illness. Together, we embark on a journey toward healing and growth.
(386) 388-3420 View (386) 388-3420
Photo of Jamilah Tulloch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jamilah Tulloch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
When you become my patient, I will complete a full psychiatric evaluation. Medications will be prescribed and managed. Holistic individualized care will be provided. Resources and references will be provided.
When you become my patient, I will complete a full psychiatric evaluation. Medications will be prescribed and managed. Holistic individualized care will be provided. Resources and references will be provided.
(386) 387-5730 View (386) 387-5730
Photo of Tarek Aly, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Tarek Aly
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Online Only
I believe medicine and mental health can be both evidence-based and practical. It’s easy to look around and get frustrated with the “medicine first” mentality- a quick fix to treating the complexities of psychiatric diagnoses. I take a conservative but evidence- based approach to medication management with the belief that the path to better mental health and functioning is a mosaic- a multidisciplinary approach including lifestyle changes, therapy, and pharmacological management when appropriate. Please visit mosaicpsychiatry.com for more info -
I believe medicine and mental health can be both evidence-based and practical. It’s easy to look around and get frustrated with the “medicine first” mentality- a quick fix to treating the complexities of psychiatric diagnoses. I take a conservative but evidence- based approach to medication management with the belief that the path to better mental health and functioning is a mosaic- a multidisciplinary approach including lifestyle changes, therapy, and pharmacological management when appropriate. Please visit mosaicpsychiatry.com for more info -
(407) 906-3755 View (407) 906-3755
Photo of Joel David Ortega, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Joel David Ortega
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Debary, FL 32713
Are you stressed and overwhelmed, or are you suffering from concentration issues? As a nationally board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide personalized care that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I offer specialized treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and mood disorders. My approach combines traditional psychiatric treatments with holistic therapies to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness.
Are you stressed and overwhelmed, or are you suffering from concentration issues? As a nationally board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide personalized care that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I offer specialized treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and mood disorders. My approach combines traditional psychiatric treatments with holistic therapies to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness.
(386) 766-4207 View (386) 766-4207

See more therapy options for Volusia County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Volusia County, FL

70+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Volusia County, FL who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
93% Depression
87% Bipolar Disorder
81% ADHD
69% Trauma and PTSD
68% Medication Management
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
61% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Volusia County, FL see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Volusia County?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.