Psychiatrists in Weston, FL

Photo of Patrick Sassoon, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Weston, FL 33326
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(954) 833-7614 View (954) 833-7614
Photo of Maria C De Pombo, Psychiatrist, MD
Maria C De Pombo
Psychiatrist, MD
Weston, FL 33331
Dr De Pombo is a Board -Certified Psychiatrist & geriatric psychiatrist (BE) with over 7 years of experience in treating adults with a range of mental health conditions with a focus on anxiety, depression, panic disorder and ADHD. In addition, she has a strong passion for helping older adults to navigate mental health challenges including dementia. She pays special attention to medication management to ensure a comprehensive care tailored to unique health circumstances and integrates a compassionate patient centered approach working closely with her patients to ensure support in every step of their treatment.
Dr De Pombo is a Board -Certified Psychiatrist & geriatric psychiatrist (BE) with over 7 years of experience in treating adults with a range of mental health conditions with a focus on anxiety, depression, panic disorder and ADHD. In addition, she has a strong passion for helping older adults to navigate mental health challenges including dementia. She pays special attention to medication management to ensure a comprehensive care tailored to unique health circumstances and integrates a compassionate patient centered approach working closely with her patients to ensure support in every step of their treatment.
(954) 737-5432 View (954) 737-5432
Photo of Luis A Marchany, Psychiatrist, MD
Luis A Marchany
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33331
Hablo Espanol - I will provide care and expert guidance every step of the way during your recovery process. I provide Individualized Treatment for Most Mental Health illnesses. It all starts with a Diagnostic Evaluation / Interview, after this I complete specific treatment plan and follow up closely with 24/7 Doctor Access Via Phone / TXT / email / Tele-Medicine .
Hablo Espanol - I will provide care and expert guidance every step of the way during your recovery process. I provide Individualized Treatment for Most Mental Health illnesses. It all starts with a Diagnostic Evaluation / Interview, after this I complete specific treatment plan and follow up closely with 24/7 Doctor Access Via Phone / TXT / email / Tele-Medicine .
(954) 751-4269 View (954) 751-4269
Photo of Moramed Desroches, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, MSN, PMHNP
Moramed Desroches
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, MSN, PMHNP
29 Endorsed
Online Only
As an experienced psychiatric provider, I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and stress-related challenges. My holistic approach blends therapy, medication management, and evidence-based techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and EMDR to foster lasting emotional resilience. Whether you're struggling with racing thoughts, mood swings, or focus issues, I create a supportive, judgment-free space where we work together to improve your mental well-being.
As an experienced psychiatric provider, I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and stress-related challenges. My holistic approach blends therapy, medication management, and evidence-based techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and EMDR to foster lasting emotional resilience. Whether you're struggling with racing thoughts, mood swings, or focus issues, I create a supportive, judgment-free space where we work together to improve your mental well-being.
(954) 738-8413 View (954) 738-8413
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care , Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Online Only
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!
(213) 354-8347 View (213) 354-8347
Photo of Kimberly Clayton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kimberly Clayton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Kimberly Clayton has worked in the medical field for more than 20 years. Subacute care, long-term care, case management, nursing clinical director, and wound care management are all part of Kimberly's medical experience. Dr. Clayton returned to school to obtain her PMHNP credentials after seeing the necessity for additional specialized training in mental health. By applying a comprehensive approach to all facets of healthcare, Kimberly is dedicated to providing patients with high-quality care and enhancing their quality of life. She is looking forward to meeting you and assisting you in overcoming the stress caused by mental health
Kimberly Clayton has worked in the medical field for more than 20 years. Subacute care, long-term care, case management, nursing clinical director, and wound care management are all part of Kimberly's medical experience. Dr. Clayton returned to school to obtain her PMHNP credentials after seeing the necessity for additional specialized training in mental health. By applying a comprehensive approach to all facets of healthcare, Kimberly is dedicated to providing patients with high-quality care and enhancing their quality of life. She is looking forward to meeting you and assisting you in overcoming the stress caused by mental health
(904) 774-2719 View (904) 774-2719
Photo of Dr. Holly Betterly, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Holly Betterly
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33326
Dr. Holly Betterly MD is a physician and a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to helping you overcome OCD, depression, & anxiety through exceptional evidence-based psychiatric care. Her thorough psychiatric evaluations get to the root of the problem, resulting in a precise diagnosis that guides treatment. She takes the time to delve into the biological, psychological, and social factors that have molded you into who you are today. This helps her to develop a treatment plan that is personalized to you as a unique individual, taking into account your goals and preferences.
Dr. Holly Betterly MD is a physician and a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to helping you overcome OCD, depression, & anxiety through exceptional evidence-based psychiatric care. Her thorough psychiatric evaluations get to the root of the problem, resulting in a precise diagnosis that guides treatment. She takes the time to delve into the biological, psychological, and social factors that have molded you into who you are today. This helps her to develop a treatment plan that is personalized to you as a unique individual, taking into account your goals and preferences.
(954) 852-4348 View (954) 852-4348
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care , Psychiatrist
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
(954) 637-7476 View (954) 637-7476
Photo of Amira El Kholy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Amira El Kholy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client navigates anxiety, depression, and ADHD in today's fast-paced world. They seek a comprehensive approach combining medication management with evidence-based therapies like CBT. In our digital age, they value both virtual and in-person supportive communities to share experiences and learn coping strategies. Cost-conscious and time-strapped, they appreciate flexible options, including telehealth. Their goal is to thrive, not just function, in a rapidly changing society. They aim to effectively manage stress, enhance social skills across digital and physical spaces, and unlock new opportunities.
My ideal client navigates anxiety, depression, and ADHD in today's fast-paced world. They seek a comprehensive approach combining medication management with evidence-based therapies like CBT. In our digital age, they value both virtual and in-person supportive communities to share experiences and learn coping strategies. Cost-conscious and time-strapped, they appreciate flexible options, including telehealth. Their goal is to thrive, not just function, in a rapidly changing society. They aim to effectively manage stress, enhance social skills across digital and physical spaces, and unlock new opportunities.
(954) 758-7965 View (954) 758-7965
Photo of Dr. Shalini Katyal, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Shalini Katyal
Psychiatrist, MD
Weston, FL 33331
Still searching for lasting relief, even after seeing multiple therapists or psychiatrists? Do you feel like each "med management" visit simply adds another prescription without truly addressing your struggles? You're not alone—and there is a better way. I offer a unique and personalized approach that blends psychotherapy with thoughtful medication management. I take the time to truly understand my patients and never rush through a "15-minute med check." With this integrative method, many patients begin to notice meaningful progress within just a few sessions.
Still searching for lasting relief, even after seeing multiple therapists or psychiatrists? Do you feel like each "med management" visit simply adds another prescription without truly addressing your struggles? You're not alone—and there is a better way. I offer a unique and personalized approach that blends psychotherapy with thoughtful medication management. I take the time to truly understand my patients and never rush through a "15-minute med check." With this integrative method, many patients begin to notice meaningful progress within just a few sessions.
(954) 874-8695 View (954) 874-8695
Photo of Renzo Rodriguez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Renzo Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Weston, FL 33331
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or ADHD. They seek understanding, effective treatment, and a safe space to heal. Their goal is to achieve emotional balance, build resilience, and improve their overall quality of life through compassionate and personalized care.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or ADHD. They seek understanding, effective treatment, and a safe space to heal. Their goal is to achieve emotional balance, build resilience, and improve their overall quality of life through compassionate and personalized care.
(561) 223-8870 View (561) 223-8870
Photo of Sarah Zizzo-Hill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Sarah Zizzo-Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33331
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Nursing Practice. I have extensive experience in psychiatric health, family health and pediatric care. I received her post graduate degree from the University of North Florida, graduate degree and masters degree from South University. I am known for my patient-centered approach, I focuses on empowering patients through education and preventive care. I believe in fostering long-term relationships with patients and has a passion for working with diverse populations.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Nursing Practice. I have extensive experience in psychiatric health, family health and pediatric care. I received her post graduate degree from the University of North Florida, graduate degree and masters degree from South University. I am known for my patient-centered approach, I focuses on empowering patients through education and preventive care. I believe in fostering long-term relationships with patients and has a passion for working with diverse populations.
(954) 787-2369 View (954) 787-2369
Photo of Dr. Linda R Pierre-Paul - Novva Care LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Novva Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, my name is Linda. Do you ever feel like you’re struggling just to stay afloat? Does it all seem almost unbearable at times? I want you to know that you’re not alone. I am here to support you during those dark times. For the last 10 years, I have been helping individuals from different walks of life find hope.
Hi, my name is Linda. Do you ever feel like you’re struggling just to stay afloat? Does it all seem almost unbearable at times? I want you to know that you’re not alone. I am here to support you during those dark times. For the last 10 years, I have been helping individuals from different walks of life find hope.
(954) 280-2232 View (954) 280-2232
Photo of Davonna Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Davonna Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Are you a high-achieving professional, entrepreneur, or caregiver carrying more than you let on? Do you appear "fine" on the outside while feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or emotionally disconnected on the inside? You're not alone—and you don’t have to keep carrying it alone either. I provide expert psychiatric care that honors your privacy, your pace, and your lived experience. I am a bilingual dual certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner offering discreet, telehealth-based medication management and therapeutic support for adults facing anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, and life transitions.
Are you a high-achieving professional, entrepreneur, or caregiver carrying more than you let on? Do you appear "fine" on the outside while feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or emotionally disconnected on the inside? You're not alone—and you don’t have to keep carrying it alone either. I provide expert psychiatric care that honors your privacy, your pace, and your lived experience. I am a bilingual dual certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner offering discreet, telehealth-based medication management and therapeutic support for adults facing anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, and life transitions.
(480) 500-1241 View (480) 500-1241
Photo of Melana Rabinovich, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Melana Rabinovich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Weston, FL 33331
Hello, my name is Melana, I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I recognize our mind is deeply interconnected with our overall well-being. The state of our mental wellness affects our body, and vice versa. I enjoy working with clients to help them find stability of symptoms so that they can enjoy their lives and live each day to the fullest. My practice philosophy is guided through an evidence-based and client centered approach, and my goal is to meet clients wherever they are at in their mental health journey.
Hello, my name is Melana, I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I recognize our mind is deeply interconnected with our overall well-being. The state of our mental wellness affects our body, and vice versa. I enjoy working with clients to help them find stability of symptoms so that they can enjoy their lives and live each day to the fullest. My practice philosophy is guided through an evidence-based and client centered approach, and my goal is to meet clients wherever they are at in their mental health journey.
(561) 786-7703 View (561) 786-7703
Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
Weston, FL 33326
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.
(954) 751-4453 View (954) 751-4453
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Weston, FL 33326
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(954) 314-2968 View (954) 314-2968
Photo of Priti M Kothari, Psychiatrist, MD, PA
Priti M Kothari
Psychiatrist, MD, PA
Weston, FL 33331
I've dedicated my practice to treating individuals with a wide range of psychiatric illness. My specialties in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults utilizes the application of the bio-psycho-social model. After completing training in Adult Psychiatry, I pursued a fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. I am available to provide medication management. In addition, I have recently become the medical director for Dr Kahlil Shillingford's Bariatric Surgery Practice. My duties include providing clinical supervision to office and hospital staff and performing performance improvement studies.
I've dedicated my practice to treating individuals with a wide range of psychiatric illness. My specialties in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults utilizes the application of the bio-psycho-social model. After completing training in Adult Psychiatry, I pursued a fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. I am available to provide medication management. In addition, I have recently become the medical director for Dr Kahlil Shillingford's Bariatric Surgery Practice. My duties include providing clinical supervision to office and hospital staff and performing performance improvement studies.
(561) 556-7430 View (561) 556-7430
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Weston, FL 33326
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(954) 800-2642 View (954) 800-2642
Photo of Lyssa Brooks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Lyssa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Weston, FL 33326
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.
(954) 505-8465 View (954) 505-8465

See more therapy options for Weston

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Weston, FL

30+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Weston, FL who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
95% Depression
84% ADHD
84% Bipolar Disorder
79% Medication Management
76% Trauma and PTSD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
71% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Weston, FL see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Weston?

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.