Psychiatrists in 33411
Mary E. Stone-Duffy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
Have your past experiences with mental health clinicians felt impersonal and hurried? Feeling safe and comfortable with your provider is very important to the success of your treatment. Mary Stone-Duffy takes the time to get to know you in a comfortable, private office. You will be asked about your treatment preferences and she will collaborate with you on solutions. Mary Stone-Duffy's practice is grounded in caring and compassion and she takes a genuine interest in your health and well-being.
Have your past experiences with mental health clinicians felt impersonal and hurried? Feeling safe and comfortable with your provider is very important to the success of your treatment. Mary Stone-Duffy takes the time to get to know you in a comfortable, private office. You will be asked about your treatment preferences and she will collaborate with you on solutions. Mary Stone-Duffy's practice is grounded in caring and compassion and she takes a genuine interest in your health and well-being.
Luminous Mind Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
My approach is client-centered. Holistic, and individualized. My treatment philosophy is anchored on the fact that, to provide adequate treatment, one must address not only the biological and psychological factors contributing to one's distress, but also the socio-economic factors that so often are contributing factors. The well-being of the client is paramount. Sustained relief depends on an infrastructure that covers all areas that contribute to the crisis.My approach is client-centered. Holistic, and individualized.
My approach is client-centered. Holistic, and individualized. My treatment philosophy is anchored on the fact that, to provide adequate treatment, one must address not only the biological and psychological factors contributing to one's distress, but also the socio-economic factors that so often are contributing factors. The well-being of the client is paramount. Sustained relief depends on an infrastructure that covers all areas that contribute to the crisis.My approach is client-centered. Holistic, and individualized.
Dr. Carol L. Milliken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, CFTP, CCRN
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (Online Only)
At Mae Mental Wellness, my goal is to work collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that will result in improved mental wellness. I am a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with diverse expertise. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and am board certified in psychiatric mental health advanced practice nursing, family trauma therapy, emergency, and critical care nursing. I am also a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt who stands at the forefront of advanced nursing practice and quality improvement in mental health care.
At Mae Mental Wellness, my goal is to work collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that will result in improved mental wellness. I am a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with diverse expertise. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and am board certified in psychiatric mental health advanced practice nursing, family trauma therapy, emergency, and critical care nursing. I am also a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt who stands at the forefront of advanced nursing practice and quality improvement in mental health care.
Jamie Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (Online Only)
I am a dually board-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in acute and chronic care patient management. My passion for mental wellness started during the isolation period of Covid 19. That isolation affected everyone in different ways but it especially affected individuals' mental health which further exacerbated many chronic and debilitating illnesses. I have a deep understanding of how the mind and body relate. You will never find optimal wellness until every aspect of your mind, body, and spirit is working together.
I am a dually board-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in acute and chronic care patient management. My passion for mental wellness started during the isolation period of Covid 19. That isolation affected everyone in different ways but it especially affected individuals' mental health which further exacerbated many chronic and debilitating illnesses. I have a deep understanding of how the mind and body relate. You will never find optimal wellness until every aspect of your mind, body, and spirit is working together.
Turning Point Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
I am located in Florida and can see patients in person and via telehealth. I have been in the mental health field for a few years, and I have worked with the general population in the outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am located in Florida and can see patients in person and via telehealth. I have been in the mental health field for a few years, and I have worked with the general population in the outpatient and inpatient settings.
Louise Aurélien Buie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411
Welcome to Elite Mindful Health as you embark on your healing journey! Our main provider, Dr. Aurélien-Buie is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of nursing experience. She is one of the most compassionate and caring persons that you will ever meet. She aims at providing holistic client-centered care.
Welcome to Elite Mindful Health as you embark on your healing journey! Our main provider, Dr. Aurélien-Buie is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of nursing experience. She is one of the most compassionate and caring persons that you will ever meet. She aims at providing holistic client-centered care.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Nadine Clarke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. Are you struggling with fatigue, sadness, lack of motivation, difficulty focusing, or constant worrying? My name is Nadine; I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who specializes in treatment for insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I have helped many clients over the years and I am available to partner with you. Schedule an appointment today!
Welcome to my practice. Are you struggling with fatigue, sadness, lack of motivation, difficulty focusing, or constant worrying? My name is Nadine; I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who specializes in treatment for insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I have helped many clients over the years and I am available to partner with you. Schedule an appointment today!
Michael Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
Welcome to my practice, Allegiant Psychiatry LLC! I hold a national board certification in psychiatry through the ANCC and have worked in psychiatry for over 15 years. My passion for psychiatry is based on my strong and genuine interest in helping others who are struggling, and as a provider, my patients ALWAYS come first before anything else. I firmly believe in, and place emphasis on assisting my patients achieve “mental wellness” rather than focusing on “mental illness” for them to lead a happier, productive life filled with meaning and purpose. I believe all of my patients are strong, resilient and possess the power to heal!
Welcome to my practice, Allegiant Psychiatry LLC! I hold a national board certification in psychiatry through the ANCC and have worked in psychiatry for over 15 years. My passion for psychiatry is based on my strong and genuine interest in helping others who are struggling, and as a provider, my patients ALWAYS come first before anything else. I firmly believe in, and place emphasis on assisting my patients achieve “mental wellness” rather than focusing on “mental illness” for them to lead a happier, productive life filled with meaning and purpose. I believe all of my patients are strong, resilient and possess the power to heal!
Erin Lutchkus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (Online Only)
At Mae Mental Wellness, my goal is build a trusting relationship with each of my patients via telepsychiatry. My goal is to provide high quality medication managment services to enhance mental wellness.
At Mae Mental Wellness, my goal is build a trusting relationship with each of my patients via telepsychiatry. My goal is to provide high quality medication managment services to enhance mental wellness.
Jennifer Maxine Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
Welcome to my Practice! I am Nationally Board-Certified by ANCC and AANP in Psychiatry/Mental Health and Family/Primary Care. In my eight years of experience, I’ve truly seen lives transformed. I believe when it comes to mental health there is not a “one size fits all solution” and that looking at the patients whole picture- not just mentally and physically- but also what is going on in their lives and what they have been through is essential to helping them move toward a meaningful life. I appreciate the challenges my clients have faced and recognize their resilience, I want them to know that I am here for them and there is hope.
Welcome to my Practice! I am Nationally Board-Certified by ANCC and AANP in Psychiatry/Mental Health and Family/Primary Care. In my eight years of experience, I’ve truly seen lives transformed. I believe when it comes to mental health there is not a “one size fits all solution” and that looking at the patients whole picture- not just mentally and physically- but also what is going on in their lives and what they have been through is essential to helping them move toward a meaningful life. I appreciate the challenges my clients have faced and recognize their resilience, I want them to know that I am here for them and there is hope.
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I specialize in General and Forensic Psychiatry, I am part of an exceptional team, which operates three state-of-the-art offices offering an individualized treatment approach using psychotherapy, psychopharmacology and repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) treatment. All general psychiatric conditions can be treated to include; depression, bipolar, anxiety, obsessive compulsive and personality disorders. Substance abuse issues are also treated in an office-based setting with a significant success rate at maintaining sobriety through our treatment approach.
I specialize in General and Forensic Psychiatry, I am part of an exceptional team, which operates three state-of-the-art offices offering an individualized treatment approach using psychotherapy, psychopharmacology and repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) treatment. All general psychiatric conditions can be treated to include; depression, bipolar, anxiety, obsessive compulsive and personality disorders. Substance abuse issues are also treated in an office-based setting with a significant success rate at maintaining sobriety through our treatment approach.
A Brighter Day Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGNPC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
I understand that these are very trying times. I would like to provide a safe, all-inclusive environment for all of my patients in order to develop the provider/patient relationship all while improving mental health-related issues by goal-setting and medication management. My ideal patient would seek a provider that would look at medication as just one tool to manage their mental health. They would be open to really digging deep to explore what might be the root cause of why they are feeling the way they are, all while managing symptoms with medication and therapy. My ideal patient takes an active approach in their treatment plan.
I understand that these are very trying times. I would like to provide a safe, all-inclusive environment for all of my patients in order to develop the provider/patient relationship all while improving mental health-related issues by goal-setting and medication management. My ideal patient would seek a provider that would look at medication as just one tool to manage their mental health. They would be open to really digging deep to explore what might be the root cause of why they are feeling the way they are, all while managing symptoms with medication and therapy. My ideal patient takes an active approach in their treatment plan.
Nearla Integrated Healthcare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
At Nearla Integrated Healthcare Services, LLC your health is our priority!!! We can take care of your physical illness. Just dial our number and we will see you right away. Please visit our website: www.nearlaintegrated.com
At Nearla Integrated Healthcare Services, LLC your health is our priority!!! We can take care of your physical illness. Just dial our number and we will see you right away. Please visit our website: www.nearlaintegrated.com
Michelle DeSantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , PMHNPBC, FNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with your mental health and self-medicating with substances? Welcome to my telepsychiatry practice, led by a dual-certified nurse practitioner with extensive experience in providing compassionate and effective care. My primary focus is to help individuals achieve mental health and wellness, particularly those dealing with dual diagnoses. I understand the unique challenges that come with managing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, and I am dedicated to providing comprehensive, personalized treatment.
Are you struggling with your mental health and self-medicating with substances? Welcome to my telepsychiatry practice, led by a dual-certified nurse practitioner with extensive experience in providing compassionate and effective care. My primary focus is to help individuals achieve mental health and wellness, particularly those dealing with dual diagnoses. I understand the unique challenges that come with managing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, and I am dedicated to providing comprehensive, personalized treatment.
Henry J. Owens is a highly skilled physician assistant based in Clearwater, Florida. With a strong background in various medical fields, Henry has developed expertise in treating chronic kidney disease, asthma, and bronchitis. Additionally, he has a notable proficiency in weight loss management, helping patients achieve and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Henry is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to all his patients, ensuring their health and well-being are always prioritized.
Henry J. Owens is a highly skilled physician assistant based in Clearwater, Florida. With a strong background in various medical fields, Henry has developed expertise in treating chronic kidney disease, asthma, and bronchitis. Additionally, he has a notable proficiency in weight loss management, helping patients achieve and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Henry is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to all his patients, ensuring their health and well-being are always prioritized.
Rachel Christian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC); I bring over 20 years of quality care of nursing with the benefit of specialized education in psychiatry and medication management. I am non judgmental and treat all my patients with respect. I empower my patients to be able to manage their mental health, either through medication alone, with therapy or with different modalities, including diet and exercise. I feel it is essential to form a partnership based in trust and compassion and always with the patient’s wishes and goals in mind.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC); I bring over 20 years of quality care of nursing with the benefit of specialized education in psychiatry and medication management. I am non judgmental and treat all my patients with respect. I empower my patients to be able to manage their mental health, either through medication alone, with therapy or with different modalities, including diet and exercise. I feel it is essential to form a partnership based in trust and compassion and always with the patient’s wishes and goals in mind.
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 (Online Only)
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Dr. Carol Milliken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, CFTP, CCRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (Online Only)
At Mae Mental Wellness, my goal is to work collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that will result in improved mental wellness. I am a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with diverse expertise. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and am board certified in psychiatric mental health advanced practice nursing, family trauma therapy, emergency, and critical care nursing. I am also a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt who stands at the forefront of advanced nursing practice and quality improvement in mental health care.
At Mae Mental Wellness, my goal is to work collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that will result in improved mental wellness. I am a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with diverse expertise. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and am board certified in psychiatric mental health advanced practice nursing, family trauma therapy, emergency, and critical care nursing. I am also a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt who stands at the forefront of advanced nursing practice and quality improvement in mental health care.
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.
See more therapy options for 33411
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 33411
40+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in 33411 who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | Medication Management |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
98% | Aetna |
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in 33411 see their clients
68% | In Person and Online | |
32% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
32% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 33411?
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.