Psychiatrists in Florida

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Photo of Dr. Jordan Meyers, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jordan Meyers
Psychiatrist, MD
Jacksonville, FL 32202
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
(904) 320-1605 View (904) 320-1605
Photo of Ingrid Suazo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrHA, MSN, PMHNP
Ingrid Suazo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrHA, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Coral Springs, FL 33065
Ingrid Suazo is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has an extensive 10-year involvement working with severely mentally ill individuals. Her great passion is bringing out the fullest potential, and guiding healing to clients across the life span.
Ingrid Suazo is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has an extensive 10-year involvement working with severely mentally ill individuals. Her great passion is bringing out the fullest potential, and guiding healing to clients across the life span.
(754) 212-9962 View (754) 212-9962
Photo of Sunny Sia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Sunny Sia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Brandon, FL 33510
"Your privacy is our priority" at Holistic Medical Care Clinic Psychiatry. I endeavour to help my clients manage their stressors, mood or anxiety disorders, or lack of focus/attention through medication management. I evaluate each patient holistically with an agreed upon treatment care at the end of the session. I prescribe appropriate medication or supplements based on patient's preference and depth of disorder.
"Your privacy is our priority" at Holistic Medical Care Clinic Psychiatry. I endeavour to help my clients manage their stressors, mood or anxiety disorders, or lack of focus/attention through medication management. I evaluate each patient holistically with an agreed upon treatment care at the end of the session. I prescribe appropriate medication or supplements based on patient's preference and depth of disorder.
(813) 532-3610 View (813) 532-3610
Photo of Sheila Rojas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, APRN
Sheila Rojas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, APRN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I work with individuals ages 5 and older who seek support, and practical solutions to improve their mental well-being. Whether you’re dealing with persistent worry, mood swings, or life transitions, my goal is to help you regain control.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I work with individuals ages 5 and older who seek support, and practical solutions to improve their mental well-being. Whether you’re dealing with persistent worry, mood swings, or life transitions, my goal is to help you regain control.
(855) 533-4039 View (855) 533-4039
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Pembroke Pines, FL 33026
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They may have a variety of diagnoses, but what they share in common is that they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and recognize that 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 seeks a provider who is empathetic and listens, guiding their care based on evidence while tailoring it to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They may have a variety of diagnoses, but what they share in common is that they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and recognize that 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 seeks a provider who is empathetic and listens, guiding their care based on evidence while tailoring it to their individual needs.
(754) 285-0999 View (754) 285-0999
Photo of Victor Hong - Neuropsychiatric Institute, Psychiatrist, MD
Neuropsychiatric Institute
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33607
The Neuropsychiatric Institute provides Outpatient Behavioral Health Services for Adults, Families, Children and Adolescents. We believe that as long as you have your problems under control, then you do not need our assistance. However, if the problems have control over you, then you should seek help. Our approach is an eclectic, common sense approach. "Whatever works, works." Although we do utilize medications, our approach is to keep them to a minimum. There is no magic pill to solve problems.
The Neuropsychiatric Institute provides Outpatient Behavioral Health Services for Adults, Families, Children and Adolescents. We believe that as long as you have your problems under control, then you do not need our assistance. However, if the problems have control over you, then you should seek help. Our approach is an eclectic, common sense approach. "Whatever works, works." Although we do utilize medications, our approach is to keep them to a minimum. There is no magic pill to solve problems.
(727) 761-4865 View (727) 761-4865
Photo of Ugonna Duru, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Ugonna Duru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, FNP-BC, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33625
If you or someone you know are struggling with ADHD and trying to navigate the management and treatment. I have ample experience treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. ADHD can be lifelong, but witnessing the transformative impact of appropriate treatment and compassionate care has been nothing short of inspiring and rewarding. With my nursing background, I believe in treating the person as a whole, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being. We are in Tampa.
If you or someone you know are struggling with ADHD and trying to navigate the management and treatment. I have ample experience treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. ADHD can be lifelong, but witnessing the transformative impact of appropriate treatment and compassionate care has been nothing short of inspiring and rewarding. With my nursing background, I believe in treating the person as a whole, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being. We are in Tampa.
(813) 214-6656 View (813) 214-6656
Photo of Evelyn Hamman - Lievy Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN-ED
Lievy Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN-ED
5 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Evelyn Hamman and I am the founder of Lievy Psychiatry, LLC. I am a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I'm offering tele-psychiatric behavioral health services for ages 10-60. I treat depression, anxiety, panic disorders, sleep disorders, ADHD/ADD, bipolar, schizophrenia, and more. I am bilingual in English and Spanish. Now offering Genesight testing! Now offering student preceptorship. Now serving District of Columbia!
My name is Evelyn Hamman and I am the founder of Lievy Psychiatry, LLC. I am a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I'm offering tele-psychiatric behavioral health services for ages 10-60. I treat depression, anxiety, panic disorders, sleep disorders, ADHD/ADD, bipolar, schizophrenia, and more. I am bilingual in English and Spanish. Now offering Genesight testing! Now offering student preceptorship. Now serving District of Columbia!
(727) 758-7796 View (727) 758-7796
Photo of Irene Brassard - Transformation Psychiatry and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Veteran
Transformation Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Veteran
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Florida! Are you feeling forgetful, unable to concentrate or easily distracted? Are you finding it hard to get out of bed, lack motivation, feel tearful or sad? Do you find it hard to fall asleep or wake up multiple times during the night making you feel uber tired the next day? Have you experienced trauma that sends your anxiety through the roof? Then it might be time to seek help. Remember, it's okay not to be okay. I will respond to your email within 48 hours. If you don't see an email from me, please don't forget to check your SPAM folder.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Florida! Are you feeling forgetful, unable to concentrate or easily distracted? Are you finding it hard to get out of bed, lack motivation, feel tearful or sad? Do you find it hard to fall asleep or wake up multiple times during the night making you feel uber tired the next day? Have you experienced trauma that sends your anxiety through the roof? Then it might be time to seek help. Remember, it's okay not to be okay. I will respond to your email within 48 hours. If you don't see an email from me, please don't forget to check your SPAM folder.
(727) 855-8536 View (727) 855-8536
Photo of Heidi Mattison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Heidi Mattison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lutz, FL 33558
I am devoted to providing effective, affordable health care to those in need.
I am devoted to providing effective, affordable health care to those in need.
(813) 567-8387 View (813) 567-8387
Photo of Philip Atanmo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Philip Atanmo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life.
(352) 832-8468 View (352) 832-8468
Photo of Jennifer J. Gould, Psychiatrist, MD
Jennifer J. Gould
Psychiatrist, MD
Saint Petersburg, FL 33705
I have been practicing psychiatry for more than 20 years and am Board Certified in both Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. My practice focuses on the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. I am passionate about helping people and take a holistic approach to the care I deliver. I take time with the individuals and families I work with and seek to understand their struggles in the context of current life circumstances and past experiences. I work with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, mood instability/bipolar disorder, eating issues, ADHD, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
I have been practicing psychiatry for more than 20 years and am Board Certified in both Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. My practice focuses on the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. I am passionate about helping people and take a holistic approach to the care I deliver. I take time with the individuals and families I work with and seek to understand their struggles in the context of current life circumstances and past experiences. I work with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, mood instability/bipolar disorder, eating issues, ADHD, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
(727) 493-3610 View (727) 493-3610
Photo of Rahonie Evans, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rahonie Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice licensed to practice in Florida. As a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with over thirteen years of experience, I am empowered to take a holistic and individualized approach to every client, knowing that mental health can affect multiple areas of one's life. So, if you are feeling overwhelmed and seeking to live a well-balanced life, you have come to the right place.
I am a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice licensed to practice in Florida. As a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with over thirteen years of experience, I am empowered to take a holistic and individualized approach to every client, knowing that mental health can affect multiple areas of one's life. So, if you are feeling overwhelmed and seeking to live a well-balanced life, you have come to the right place.
(904) 326-8914 View (904) 326-8914
Photo of Dr. Swarnalata Debbarma, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Swarnalata Debbarma
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Debbarma is double board certified in General Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Debbarma is also certified in mindfulness therapy. Prior to joining Talkiatry, she was working as an attending psychiatrist and teaching faculty in an academic hospital. She has experience managing diverse patients, ranging from chronic severe mental illness, dual diagnosis patients, crisis management and high functioning outpatients population.
Dr. Debbarma is double board certified in General Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Debbarma is also certified in mindfulness therapy. Prior to joining Talkiatry, she was working as an attending psychiatrist and teaching faculty in an academic hospital. She has experience managing diverse patients, ranging from chronic severe mental illness, dual diagnosis patients, crisis management and high functioning outpatients population.
(904) 831-1305 View (904) 831-1305
Photo of Yeniell Diaz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, AGNP-C
Yeniell Diaz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, AGNP-C
Online Only
Mental health clients often struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and the effects of stress, burnout, or past trauma. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental space to be heard and understood, along with clarity about their experiences and structured support such as emotional tools, medication, and consistent care. These individuals value a collaborative approach and aim to feel more in control, improve relationships, and live with greater peace, joy, and purpose. Despite feeling stuck, they hold hope for change and want a provider who believes in them and offers real, actionable support.
Mental health clients often struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and the effects of stress, burnout, or past trauma. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental space to be heard and understood, along with clarity about their experiences and structured support such as emotional tools, medication, and consistent care. These individuals value a collaborative approach and aim to feel more in control, improve relationships, and live with greater peace, joy, and purpose. Despite feeling stuck, they hold hope for change and want a provider who believes in them and offers real, actionable support.
(786) 841-8505 View (786) 841-8505
Photo of Cyndia Milord-Giordani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Cyndia Milord-Giordani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of sadness? As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I’m here to walk with you through life’s challenges and guide you toward healing and clarity. I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health concerns. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and grounded in evidence-based care.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of sadness? As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I’m here to walk with you through life’s challenges and guide you toward healing and clarity. I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health concerns. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and grounded in evidence-based care.
(321) 587-3133 View (321) 587-3133
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
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!
(352) 747-9464 View (352) 747-9464
Photo of Trevon J. Friar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Trevon J. Friar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Riverview, FL 33569
Trevon Friar, PHMNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner in Florida, based in the Tampa Bay area. Combining his expertise in evaluation and treatment, he founded Pivoting Minds Psychiatry. He provides comprehensive psychiatric services in Riverview, Florida and throughout the state of Florida, via telemedicine. Through extensive coursework, clinical rotations, and clinical practice, he has received specialized training and years of preparation in psychiatry for adolescents, adult and geriatric patients. He is skilled at using assessment-based and treatment-focused approaches to enhance mental clarity.
Trevon Friar, PHMNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner in Florida, based in the Tampa Bay area. Combining his expertise in evaluation and treatment, he founded Pivoting Minds Psychiatry. He provides comprehensive psychiatric services in Riverview, Florida and throughout the state of Florida, via telemedicine. Through extensive coursework, clinical rotations, and clinical practice, he has received specialized training and years of preparation in psychiatry for adolescents, adult and geriatric patients. He is skilled at using assessment-based and treatment-focused approaches to enhance mental clarity.
(813) 328-5754 View (813) 328-5754
Photo of Daniel B Wright - Daniel B Wright DNP LLC., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MSA
Daniel B Wright DNP LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MSA
Online Only
Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga
Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga
(850) 331-0104 View (850) 331-0104
Photo of Mryan Murphy - A New Hope Psychiatric Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
A New Hope Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Our ideal clients are individuals grappling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mood disorders. They seek relief from symptoms impacting daily life, relationships, and well-being. They require compassionate, personalized psychiatric care via telehealth, fitting into their busy schedules. Seeking understanding, support, and effective treatment, they aim for stability, symptom management, hope, and resilience. They desire expert care respecting their unique needs, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives with A New Hope Psychiatric Services.
Our ideal clients are individuals grappling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mood disorders. They seek relief from symptoms impacting daily life, relationships, and well-being. They require compassionate, personalized psychiatric care via telehealth, fitting into their busy schedules. Seeking understanding, support, and effective treatment, they aim for stability, symptom management, hope, and resilience. They desire expert care respecting their unique needs, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives with A New Hope Psychiatric Services.
(321) 384-8749 View (321) 384-8749

See more therapy options for Florida

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Average cost per session

$176

Psychiatrists in Florida who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
93% Depression
81% Bipolar Disorder
79% ADHD
72% Trauma and PTSD
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
70% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
93% Cigna and Evernorth
78% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Florida see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Florida?

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.