Psychiatrists in West Palm Beach, FL

Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
West Palm Beach, FL 33407
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
(561) 349-4114 View (561) 349-4114
Photo of Dr. Natasha Walker - NEW Psychiatry & Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
NEW Psychiatry & Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
17 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Natasha Walker, DNP is a distinguished double-board certified Nurse Practitioner holding a Doctoral Degree in Nursing Practice. Dr. Walker is dually licensed in the state of Florida as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner. At NEW Psychiatry & Wellness Center, our vision is to emerge as a beacon of hope and a trailblazer in mental health care, renowned for the unwavering dedication to quality, innovation, and accessibility. We envision a future where mental health takes precedence, and superior care is within everyone’s reach!
Dr. Natasha Walker, DNP is a distinguished double-board certified Nurse Practitioner holding a Doctoral Degree in Nursing Practice. Dr. Walker is dually licensed in the state of Florida as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner. At NEW Psychiatry & Wellness Center, our vision is to emerge as a beacon of hope and a trailblazer in mental health care, renowned for the unwavering dedication to quality, innovation, and accessibility. We envision a future where mental health takes precedence, and superior care is within everyone’s reach!
(561) 783-7786 View (561) 783-7786
Photo of Daniel Pietras, Psychiatrist, MD
Daniel Pietras
Psychiatrist, MD
West Palm Beach, FL 33407
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist offering evaluation and treatment of a broad range of mental conditions, with particular focus on bipolar and unipolar depressive disorders, psychotic disorders, and trauma and stressor-related disorders. Taking a compassionate biopsychosocial approach to each patient I encounter, in a setting of honesty and mutual respect, permits me to discover your needs and aspirations, and empower you with the necessary tools to understand your condition, recover function, succeed in treatment, and achieve a balanced life.
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist offering evaluation and treatment of a broad range of mental conditions, with particular focus on bipolar and unipolar depressive disorders, psychotic disorders, and trauma and stressor-related disorders. Taking a compassionate biopsychosocial approach to each patient I encounter, in a setting of honesty and mutual respect, permits me to discover your needs and aspirations, and empower you with the necessary tools to understand your condition, recover function, succeed in treatment, and achieve a balanced life.
(561) 285-3623 View (561) 285-3623
Photo of Phoebe Yeung, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Phoebe Yeung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Mental health influences every part of life, from your relationships and work, to your physical health and sense of self. You may be struggling with overwhelming thoughts, intense emotions, or feeling disconnected, making it difficult to move through each day. But mental wellness isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about thriving and building a life where you feel engaged and in control.
Mental health influences every part of life, from your relationships and work, to your physical health and sense of self. You may be struggling with overwhelming thoughts, intense emotions, or feeling disconnected, making it difficult to move through each day. But mental wellness isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about thriving and building a life where you feel engaged and in control.
(561) 810-3691 View (561) 810-3691
Photo of Kristin Hicks, Psychiatrist, MD
Kristin Hicks
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Welcome! I practice holistic psychiatry which can be defined as an approach that addresses the psychological, familial, societal, biological and spiritual dimensions of health and illness. Rather than merely treating a symptom I will work with you to uncover the root cause of that symptom so that you can achieve inner balance. For example, nervous system dysregulation due to unresolved trauma is a root cause of mental illness for many people. Others may need to make changes to their diet and lifestyle. How lonely or connected we feel is another powerful determinant of health.
Welcome! I practice holistic psychiatry which can be defined as an approach that addresses the psychological, familial, societal, biological and spiritual dimensions of health and illness. Rather than merely treating a symptom I will work with you to uncover the root cause of that symptom so that you can achieve inner balance. For example, nervous system dysregulation due to unresolved trauma is a root cause of mental illness for many people. Others may need to make changes to their diet and lifestyle. How lonely or connected we feel is another powerful determinant of health.
(954) 737-1457 View (954) 737-1457
Photo of Sarah Youssef - Psychiatric Care Florida, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Psychiatric Care Florida
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
At Psychiatric Care Florida, we understand that some things are beyond our control. However, we strongly believe in taking charge of our destiny by improving our responses to hardship. We believe that serenity emerges in the wake of chaos and we welcome the opportunity to help you reach your goals. We provide thorough evaluations, medication management, therapy as well interventional psychiatric treatment modalities such as TMS. We take great joy and pride in the care we provide and we are fully committed to your wellbeing. Please see our website for further details of our services and for booking options.
At Psychiatric Care Florida, we understand that some things are beyond our control. However, we strongly believe in taking charge of our destiny by improving our responses to hardship. We believe that serenity emerges in the wake of chaos and we welcome the opportunity to help you reach your goals. We provide thorough evaluations, medication management, therapy as well interventional psychiatric treatment modalities such as TMS. We take great joy and pride in the care we provide and we are fully committed to your wellbeing. Please see our website for further details of our services and for booking options.
(561) 783-3580 View (561) 783-3580
Photo of Mark DeLuca, Psychiatrist, MD
Mark DeLuca
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
I specialize in General and Forensic Psychiatry, I am part of an exceptional team, which operates three state-of-the-art offices offering an individualized treatment approach using psychotherapy, psychopharmacology and repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) treatment. All general psychiatric conditions can be treated to include; depression, bipolar, anxiety, obsessive compulsive and personality disorders. Substance abuse issues are also treated in an office-based setting with a significant success rate at maintaining sobriety through our treatment approach.
I specialize in General and Forensic Psychiatry, I am part of an exceptional team, which operates three state-of-the-art offices offering an individualized treatment approach using psychotherapy, psychopharmacology and repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) treatment. All general psychiatric conditions can be treated to include; depression, bipolar, anxiety, obsessive compulsive and personality disorders. Substance abuse issues are also treated in an office-based setting with a significant success rate at maintaining sobriety through our treatment approach.
(561) 299-3079 View (561) 299-3079
Photo of Lenzetta Nichola Rolle, Psychiatrist, DO
Lenzetta Nichola Rolle
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
I’m a caring and compassionate psychiatrist who believes in honoring the uniqueness of each person’s story. My approach is holistic—addressing the whole individual, not just symptoms—with a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. I often incorporate lab work to check for underlying health factors and encourage lifestyle changes like regular exercise, nourishing food, meaningful relationships, and activities that bring joy and connection. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorder or life transitions, I’m here to walk with you on a path toward healing, freedom, and overall wellness.
I’m a caring and compassionate psychiatrist who believes in honoring the uniqueness of each person’s story. My approach is holistic—addressing the whole individual, not just symptoms—with a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. I often incorporate lab work to check for underlying health factors and encourage lifestyle changes like regular exercise, nourishing food, meaningful relationships, and activities that bring joy and connection. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorder or life transitions, I’m here to walk with you on a path toward healing, freedom, and overall wellness.
(561) 589-1500 View (561) 589-1500
Photo of Nayda Gonzalez Kubski, Psychiatrist, MD
Nayda Gonzalez Kubski
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
My abilities and interests are in the rapid resolution of emotional difficulties in adults. Since training at Hillside Hospital of Long Island Jewish-Albert Einstein Medical School, I have used current developments in short term interpersonal psychotherapy with proven psychopharmacology and genetic testing. A single treating professional is aware of all your information, without gaps nor flawed untimely communication. People improve rapidly, develop strengths and strategies enabling them to achieve their highest level of functioning. Warm, directive, style without a computer nor keyboard between you and the doctor.
My abilities and interests are in the rapid resolution of emotional difficulties in adults. Since training at Hillside Hospital of Long Island Jewish-Albert Einstein Medical School, I have used current developments in short term interpersonal psychotherapy with proven psychopharmacology and genetic testing. A single treating professional is aware of all your information, without gaps nor flawed untimely communication. People improve rapidly, develop strengths and strategies enabling them to achieve their highest level of functioning. Warm, directive, style without a computer nor keyboard between you and the doctor.
(561) 899-6843 View (561) 899-6843
Photo of Jamie Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Jamie Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dually board-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in acute and chronic care patient management. My passion for mental wellness started during the isolation period of Covid 19. That isolation affected everyone in different ways but it especially affected individuals' mental health which further exacerbated many chronic and debilitating illnesses. I have a deep understanding of how the mind and body relate. You will never find optimal wellness until every aspect of your mind, body, and spirit is working together.
I am a dually board-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in acute and chronic care patient management. My passion for mental wellness started during the isolation period of Covid 19. That isolation affected everyone in different ways but it especially affected individuals' mental health which further exacerbated many chronic and debilitating illnesses. I have a deep understanding of how the mind and body relate. You will never find optimal wellness until every aspect of your mind, body, and spirit is working together.
(561) 269-3467 View (561) 269-3467
Photo of Dahiana Rafailovitc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
Dahiana Rafailovitc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33409
My profession has allowed me to work with diverse populations, including young adults, college students, individuals facing substance use challenges, and older adults. I am dedicated to providing client-centered care, tailoring my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or substance use. I collaborate closely with my clients to promote personal growth, resilience, and overall well-being
My profession has allowed me to work with diverse populations, including young adults, college students, individuals facing substance use challenges, and older adults. I am dedicated to providing client-centered care, tailoring my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or substance use. I collaborate closely with my clients to promote personal growth, resilience, and overall well-being
(561) 816-6276 View (561) 816-6276
Photo of Dr. Womesh Sahadeo, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Womesh Sahadeo
Psychiatrist, MD
West Palm Beach, FL 33407
I served as a psychiatrist for over 25 years as a medical director for multiple facilities in Palm Beach County serving clients with anxiety/panic disorder, medication assistant program (suboxone)/ addiction treatment, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, attention deficit disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, developmental disorder (autism) for child/adolescent, adults, and geriatrics population. I provide optimal medication management and continued care.
I served as a psychiatrist for over 25 years as a medical director for multiple facilities in Palm Beach County serving clients with anxiety/panic disorder, medication assistant program (suboxone)/ addiction treatment, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, attention deficit disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, developmental disorder (autism) for child/adolescent, adults, and geriatrics population. I provide optimal medication management and continued care.
(561) 658-4568 View (561) 658-4568
Photo of Roseline Raphael, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Roseline Raphael
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
West Palm Beach, FL 33407
Dr. Roseline Raphael, DNP, seasoned healthcare professional, holds dual degrees as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. With an extensive career spanning nearly 15 years, she brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the field of healthcare. She has experience treating patients with Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders and Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Dr. Roseline Raphael, DNP, seasoned healthcare professional, holds dual degrees as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. With an extensive career spanning nearly 15 years, she brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the field of healthcare. She has experience treating patients with Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders and Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
(561) 277-0512 View (561) 277-0512
Photo of Shannon Munz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Shannon Munz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
West Palm Beach, FL 33409
Navigating life’s challenges is rarely straightforward, and I’m here to help. My work focuses on empowering individuals from all walks of life to regain stability and resilience amid life’s transitions—whether personal, social, or professional. Often, daily stresses can build quietly over time, eventually impacting overall well-being. My goal is to address these challenges early on, helping you find clarity and direction before they become overwhelming. I work collaboratively with patients to design personalized treatment plans that that enhance decision-making, enabling you to achieve a fulfilling and balanced life.
Navigating life’s challenges is rarely straightforward, and I’m here to help. My work focuses on empowering individuals from all walks of life to regain stability and resilience amid life’s transitions—whether personal, social, or professional. Often, daily stresses can build quietly over time, eventually impacting overall well-being. My goal is to address these challenges early on, helping you find clarity and direction before they become overwhelming. I work collaboratively with patients to design personalized treatment plans that that enhance decision-making, enabling you to achieve a fulfilling and balanced life.
(561) 816-5523 View (561) 816-5523
Photo of M. Asim Nisar, Psychiatrist, MD
M. Asim Nisar
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33407
Triple Board Certified Psychiatrist - Adult , Consultation, Addiction Medicine. I offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, emphasizing modern interventions -Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for non-pharmacological treatment. My focus is on treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Substance Abuse, Personality Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders. My practice integrates cutting-edge clinical research, particularly focused on Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar and Dementia.
Triple Board Certified Psychiatrist - Adult , Consultation, Addiction Medicine. I offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, emphasizing modern interventions -Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for non-pharmacological treatment. My focus is on treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Substance Abuse, Personality Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders. My practice integrates cutting-edge clinical research, particularly focused on Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar and Dementia.
(863) 261-8354 View (863) 261-8354
Photo of Lyssa Brooks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Lyssa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
West Palm Beach, FL 33407
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
(561) 823-5857 View (561) 823-5857
Photo of Marie Marlene Jean - Nearla Integrated Healthcare Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Nearla Integrated Healthcare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , MSN, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
At Nearla Integrated Healthcare Services, LLC your health is our priority!!! We can take care of your physical illness. Just dial our number and we will see you right away. Please visit our website: www.nearlaintegrated.com
At Nearla Integrated Healthcare Services, LLC your health is our priority!!! We can take care of your physical illness. Just dial our number and we will see you right away. Please visit our website: www.nearlaintegrated.com
(772) 227-1471 View (772) 227-1471
Photo of Nadine Clarke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Nadine Clarke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to my practice. Are you struggling with anxiety, sadness, lack of motivation, difficulty focusing, or constant worrying? My name is Nadine, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida and Iowa who specializes in treatment for insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD. I have helped many clients and am available to partner with you. Make the first move and schedule an appointment today!
Welcome to my practice. Are you struggling with anxiety, sadness, lack of motivation, difficulty focusing, or constant worrying? My name is Nadine, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida and Iowa who specializes in treatment for insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD. I have helped many clients and am available to partner with you. Make the first move and schedule an appointment today!
(855) 930-1112 View (855) 930-1112
Photo of Mary E. Stone-Duffy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Mary E. Stone-Duffy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
Have your past experiences with mental health clinicians felt impersonal and hurried? Feeling safe and comfortable with your provider is very important to the success of your treatment. At humanistic psychiatry, Dr. Mary Stone-Duffy takes the time to get to know you in a comfortable, private office. She aims to build trust, provide emotional support, and actively engage with patients to understand their unique needs and concerns. She treats a range of mental disorders, with a special interest in PTSD.
Have your past experiences with mental health clinicians felt impersonal and hurried? Feeling safe and comfortable with your provider is very important to the success of your treatment. At humanistic psychiatry, Dr. Mary Stone-Duffy takes the time to get to know you in a comfortable, private office. She aims to build trust, provide emotional support, and actively engage with patients to understand their unique needs and concerns. She treats a range of mental disorders, with a special interest in PTSD.
(561) 816-4113 View (561) 816-4113
Photo of Jennifer Caschetta, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jennifer Caschetta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
West Palm Beach, FL 33407
As a compassionate and patient-centered Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I believe in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to improving the mental health and overall well-being of my patients. By fostering a supportive and non-judgmental environment, I aim to empower individuals to achieve their mental health goals and lead fulfilling lives.
As a compassionate and patient-centered Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I believe in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to improving the mental health and overall well-being of my patients. By fostering a supportive and non-judgmental environment, I aim to empower individuals to achieve their mental health goals and lead fulfilling lives.
(561) 269-0263 View (561) 269-0263

See more therapy options for West Palm Beach

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in West Palm Beach, FL

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in West Palm Beach, FL who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
85% Bipolar Disorder
80% ADHD
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
68% Trauma and PTSD
62% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% Cigna and Evernorth
93% Aetna
81% Optum

How Psychiatrists in West Palm Beach, FL see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in West Palm Beach?

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.