Psychiatrists in 32257
![Photo of Zishan Majeed, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00a8aeb3-ae87-4d00-ae96-136f7822a13f/2/320x400.png)
Zishan Majeed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257 (Online Only)
Zishan Majeed is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in the state of Florida. Zishan has experience working with adults who are experiencing chronic anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, eating disorders, OCD, parenting difficulties, low self-esteem, and more. Zishan offers medication management services in English, Hindi, and Urdu.
Zishan Majeed is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in the state of Florida. Zishan has experience working with adults who are experiencing chronic anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, eating disorders, OCD, parenting difficulties, low self-esteem, and more. Zishan offers medication management services in English, Hindi, and Urdu.
![Photo of Donita Jones, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c43a6a9-1066-4167-9dbf-ce3e40f9ab39/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donita Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32257
Thank you for looking at my profile! I have been providing mental health services to the community since 2018 but also have training and experience in family medicine, pediatrics, case management, OBGYN, emergency intervention, critical care, progressive care, IV therapy and TMS which gives me a well-rounded approach to managing a whole person. Our office utilizes an integrated approach in a non-judgmental environment and would be happy to assist on your journey!
Thank you for looking at my profile! I have been providing mental health services to the community since 2018 but also have training and experience in family medicine, pediatrics, case management, OBGYN, emergency intervention, critical care, progressive care, IV therapy and TMS which gives me a well-rounded approach to managing a whole person. Our office utilizes an integrated approach in a non-judgmental environment and would be happy to assist on your journey!
![Photo of Jennifer Richie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2be8952-6059-4f2b-8316-0df95cdb9132/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Richie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257 (Online Only)
Dr. Jennifer Richie, DNP is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). She is passionate about providing quality compassionate and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. Jennifer possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by her natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Her background includes child and adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, and addiction medicine.
Dr. Jennifer Richie, DNP is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). She is passionate about providing quality compassionate and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. Jennifer possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by her natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Her background includes child and adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, and addiction medicine.
![Photo of Anton Georgiev, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17b2ef6d-9ae8-49fe-a56f-50583107cb98/1/320x400.png)
Anton Georgiev
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257 (Online Only)
Anton Georgiev is a culturally diverse, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) focused on a holistic treatment approach. Anton began his psychiatric career in 2013 working for River Point Behavioral Health and Memorial Hospital, both major inpatient psychiatric facilities in Jacksonville, Florida. Since 2019 Anton has been gaining experience as an outpatient psychiatric resident, while retaining his inpatient nurse duties. His experience includes the emergency stabilization psychiatric unit, addiction unit, geriatric psychiatry, and adolescence psychiatry. In addition to direct inpatient and outpatie
Anton Georgiev is a culturally diverse, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) focused on a holistic treatment approach. Anton began his psychiatric career in 2013 working for River Point Behavioral Health and Memorial Hospital, both major inpatient psychiatric facilities in Jacksonville, Florida. Since 2019 Anton has been gaining experience as an outpatient psychiatric resident, while retaining his inpatient nurse duties. His experience includes the emergency stabilization psychiatric unit, addiction unit, geriatric psychiatry, and adolescence psychiatry. In addition to direct inpatient and outpatie
![Photo of Jennifer Richie, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c68ed70-839a-46ad-a908-c5fca9eb9177/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Richie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257 (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Jennifer Richie, DNP, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). My journey includes earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from Chamberlain University, a graduate degree from Georgetown University, and an undergraduate degree from Drexel University. With a background in child and adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, and addiction medicine, I'm committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to both adolescents and adults.
I'm Dr. Jennifer Richie, DNP, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). My journey includes earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from Chamberlain University, a graduate degree from Georgetown University, and an undergraduate degree from Drexel University. With a background in child and adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, and addiction medicine, I'm committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to both adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Kevin Atwell, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85c5c672-9b61-4ba0-9615-91d8b35b3d3d/1/320x400.png)
Kevin Atwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257 (Online Only)
Kevin Atwell is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has a vast array of experience treating mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and insomnia issues. Kevin also had a variety of experiences prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse and nurse practitioner, such as being a youth counselor for adolescents with autism, an advocate for homeless women, and a direct support professional for men with developmental disabilities.
Kevin Atwell is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has a vast array of experience treating mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and insomnia issues. Kevin also had a variety of experiences prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse and nurse practitioner, such as being a youth counselor for adolescents with autism, an advocate for homeless women, and a direct support professional for men with developmental disabilities.
![Photo of Amanda Alexander - Altitude Health, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a599766-2417-4100-b8c4-21f01eb1e042/1/320x400.jpeg)
Altitude Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257
At Altitude Health, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services that prioritize your well-being. Our mission is to offer personalized care plans and innovative treatment options to help you overcome mental health challenges and achieve a higher level of wellness. With our same-day appointments, customized plans, enhanced diagnostics, and continuum-of-care approach, Altitude Health is the leading choice for those seeking exceptional mental health care in Jacksonville, FL.
At Altitude Health, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services that prioritize your well-being. Our mission is to offer personalized care plans and innovative treatment options to help you overcome mental health challenges and achieve a higher level of wellness. With our same-day appointments, customized plans, enhanced diagnostics, and continuum-of-care approach, Altitude Health is the leading choice for those seeking exceptional mental health care in Jacksonville, FL.
![Photo of Satyen Madkaiker MD, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4aa8edb9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist and I treat Depression, Anxiety, Psychosis & Schizophrenia, PTSD, Addiction & Substance abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Memory Disturbances.
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist and I treat Depression, Anxiety, Psychosis & Schizophrenia, PTSD, Addiction & Substance abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Memory Disturbances.
![Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45ab409e-7320-4152-9a99-235a65ede24d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available the same day or the next day. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing in our network of clinics and online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans, including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available the same day or the next day. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing in our network of clinics and online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans, including Medicare.
![Photo of Julouse Etienne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f6318a9-06df-42ca-ab55-52db51e6fafd/1/320x400.png)
Julouse Etienne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257 (Online Only)
Julouse Etienne is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in the state of Florida. She has experience working with individuals who have various mental health concerns including ADHD, depression, anxiety and self-esteem issues. Julouse also provides spiritual support if the patient requires it.
Julouse Etienne is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in the state of Florida. She has experience working with individuals who have various mental health concerns including ADHD, depression, anxiety and self-esteem issues. Julouse also provides spiritual support if the patient requires it.
![Photo of Emmanuel Appiadu, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33890f36-58e1-4aca-9f93-95b500044de5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emmanuel Appiadu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32257
I’m an experienced Dual Certified Mental Health & Family Medicine Provider. I have an extensive history in treating Children, Adults and Geriatric population. I treat clients with ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, Eating Disorders, Conduct/Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Personality Disorders, & those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder etc. My work history includes Criminal Justice, Department of Children & Family, Group Homes, Substances Use & Addiction. I am a Certified Addiction Provider with over 10 years experience in treating patients with Suboxone, Sublocade & Vivitrol.
I’m an experienced Dual Certified Mental Health & Family Medicine Provider. I have an extensive history in treating Children, Adults and Geriatric population. I treat clients with ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, Eating Disorders, Conduct/Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Personality Disorders, & those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder etc. My work history includes Criminal Justice, Department of Children & Family, Group Homes, Substances Use & Addiction. I am a Certified Addiction Provider with over 10 years experience in treating patients with Suboxone, Sublocade & Vivitrol.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Amiel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4120aba-c5f6-4f4b-9cf5-6a57b99b2a42/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Amiel provides psychiatric services to both adolescents (16+) and adults. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a highly personalized approach tailored to clients' individual needs to help attain the personal growth they’re striving for. Dr. Amiel and his psychiatric team offer medication management services alone or in collaboration with the agency's psychotherapy services.
Dr. Amiel provides psychiatric services to both adolescents (16+) and adults. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a highly personalized approach tailored to clients' individual needs to help attain the personal growth they’re striving for. Dr. Amiel and his psychiatric team offer medication management services alone or in collaboration with the agency's psychotherapy services.
![Photo of Melissa Jane Boyle, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18c5ae5a-eece-4b36-8bd1-c655d61f7f5d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Jane Boyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32257
Life is challenging. Occasionally we need additional support and guidance to navigate our personal path. I provide psychiatric evaluations, tailored medication management plans, and supportive psychotherapy. Please reach out if you are struggling-I have both in-person and HIPAA compliant telehealth appointments available for your specific needs and goals.
Life is challenging. Occasionally we need additional support and guidance to navigate our personal path. I provide psychiatric evaluations, tailored medication management plans, and supportive psychotherapy. Please reach out if you are struggling-I have both in-person and HIPAA compliant telehealth appointments available for your specific needs and goals.
![Photo of Lidia Firulescu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6aab2a4-5dd4-45b0-837a-9aab8b5e58d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a passionate psychiatrist, I find joy in working with diverse patients and treating a variety of conditions. I prioritize taking the time to thoroughly understand each patient as a whole, in order to provide the most appropriate care tailored to their individual needs. I am fluent in English and Romanian, and conversational in Spanish, which helps me connect with a wide range of patients. One of my strengths is being an active listener, and I take a collaborative approach with my patients. I believe that a combination of therapy and medication is often the most effective approach, and I prescribe medications in moderation.
As a passionate psychiatrist, I find joy in working with diverse patients and treating a variety of conditions. I prioritize taking the time to thoroughly understand each patient as a whole, in order to provide the most appropriate care tailored to their individual needs. I am fluent in English and Romanian, and conversational in Spanish, which helps me connect with a wide range of patients. One of my strengths is being an active listener, and I take a collaborative approach with my patients. I believe that a combination of therapy and medication is often the most effective approach, and I prescribe medications in moderation.
![Photo of Melinda Braswell, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b283220c-ce41-43b8-99fa-78b146bbe3b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melinda Braswell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32257
Are you feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or lost your zest for life? Do you feel alone with nowhere else to turn? Are your problems adversely affecting your personal relationships or job success? If this sounds like you, it’s time to get help. Let’s work together to recapture the joy and happiness you desire.
Are you feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or lost your zest for life? Do you feel alone with nowhere else to turn? Are your problems adversely affecting your personal relationships or job success? If this sounds like you, it’s time to get help. Let’s work together to recapture the joy and happiness you desire.
See more therapy options for 32257
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 32257
10+
Average cost per session
$125
Psychiatrists in 32257 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
73% | ADHD |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
60% | Stress |
Average years in practice
19 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Aetna |
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
71% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 32257 see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 32257?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.