Psychiatrists in Melbourne, FL
![Photo of Lisa Sweeney - Balanced Wellbeing, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/079fdc4c-b51c-4fb9-b1b1-f5397fb80aef/2/320x400.png)
Whether you’re looking for trauma therapy, addiction treatment, or mental health work, Balanced Wellbeing exists to bring healing to dysfunctional behaviors and their root causes. Regardless of the past, there is hope for you or a loved one. Our knowledgeable staff provides individually tailored care to each person's needs and goals. We accept all insurances, making it convenient for your patients to access our services. Additionally, we offer self-pay options for those without insurance coverage.
Whether you’re looking for trauma therapy, addiction treatment, or mental health work, Balanced Wellbeing exists to bring healing to dysfunctional behaviors and their root causes. Regardless of the past, there is hope for you or a loved one. Our knowledgeable staff provides individually tailored care to each person's needs and goals. We accept all insurances, making it convenient for your patients to access our services. Additionally, we offer self-pay options for those without insurance coverage.
![Photo of Theresa Lupe, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a69a0c65-8275-45cd-a805-e2040f2185d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Theresa Lupe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32935 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed in Florida since 2018. I have experience in treatment and medication management for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood disorders. I believe in treating my clients as the whole person, not a diagnosis. Together we will make a plan specialized for you and your needs. Please visit the office website or call the office directly for more information on booking your evaluation.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed in Florida since 2018. I have experience in treatment and medication management for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood disorders. I believe in treating my clients as the whole person, not a diagnosis. Together we will make a plan specialized for you and your needs. Please visit the office website or call the office directly for more information on booking your evaluation.
![Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bf5bb42-98d7-4804-80b8-eedb8f1c4039/1/320x400.png)
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Tamara Edelstein-Snider, APRN, PMHMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92a3c502-275d-42d6-92a6-0248aebe4c10/1/320x400.png)
Tamara Edelstein-Snider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHMP
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32940
I work with clients of all needs and provide primary care, weight loss, and psychiatric medication services.
I work with clients of all needs and provide primary care, weight loss, and psychiatric medication services.
![Photo of Jennifer Weldon, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6225d492-184f-4153-9b05-8eca43b596fb/1/320x400.png)
Jennifer Weldon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32940 (Online Only)
I specialize in integrative medicine which entails finding the root of the illness and treating it with lifestyle changes, healthy diet, exercise, Bio-identical hormone replacements, supplements, and medications that fix the problem instead of bandaiding the symptoms.
I specialize in integrative medicine which entails finding the root of the illness and treating it with lifestyle changes, healthy diet, exercise, Bio-identical hormone replacements, supplements, and medications that fix the problem instead of bandaiding the symptoms.
![Photo of Katie Ray, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d703b8a-c298-429f-b6bf-46230b2e0a54/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Ray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Katie, a board-certified family nurse practitioner. My journey began in the hospital, where I cared for patients with traumatic brain injuries and various neurological events, including seizures and strokes. I also gained valuable experience in pediatrics through years of dedicated service at a children's hospital. My passion lies in assisting individuals through a blend of holistic practices and modern medicine. I thrive on crafting personalized treatment plans and collaborating as a cohesive team.
Hello, I'm Katie, a board-certified family nurse practitioner. My journey began in the hospital, where I cared for patients with traumatic brain injuries and various neurological events, including seizures and strokes. I also gained valuable experience in pediatrics through years of dedicated service at a children's hospital. My passion lies in assisting individuals through a blend of holistic practices and modern medicine. I thrive on crafting personalized treatment plans and collaborating as a cohesive team.
![Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58aff836-8650-4ca5-adbf-d0f04df0d06e/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52cf39ec-86f1-4e37-913c-3c8084b7fd20/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Nola Trossman, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd4b3bc0-33e9-467e-a269-b9a6e2436591/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nola Trossman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32940
Nola is a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in Viera Florida. She has an empathetic, compassionate approach when diagnosing and treating. Her specialities include chronic disease, hypertension, diabetes, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, insomnia, borderline personality disorder. Nola offers a judgement free environment where patients can safely express their needs and concerns for living a happy, healthy lifestyle. Knowing that everyone is an individual Nola uses a personalized treatment plan including FDA-approved medication & evidence-based therapy,
Nola is a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in Viera Florida. She has an empathetic, compassionate approach when diagnosing and treating. Her specialities include chronic disease, hypertension, diabetes, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, insomnia, borderline personality disorder. Nola offers a judgement free environment where patients can safely express their needs and concerns for living a happy, healthy lifestyle. Knowing that everyone is an individual Nola uses a personalized treatment plan including FDA-approved medication & evidence-based therapy,
![Photo of Harry W Carroll, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40509a20-efc6-4fcb-b93d-ea90793f0bb6/1/320x400.png)
Harry W Carroll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32935
My goal is to build a therapeutic relationship with the patient and ensure patients are comfortable and free of judgment. I believe in reliable, prompt, evidence based, and affordable mental health care focused on individualized patient needs. Visit my website for more information.
My goal is to build a therapeutic relationship with the patient and ensure patients are comfortable and free of judgment. I believe in reliable, prompt, evidence based, and affordable mental health care focused on individualized patient needs. Visit my website for more information.
![Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9be940a-7018-4f92-9dfa-60cca9fb9ae0/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
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![Photo of Sheila Barthelemy, PMHNP-B, APRN, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e4fc53d-de06-4960-bc74-1ba8f5a3c325/1/320x400.png)
Sheila Barthelemy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN, MPH
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901
Do you seek to understand your emotions, manage stress, and build resilience? Do you face anxiety or depression, seeking tools to navigate life's challenges? You crave a safe space to express yourself, fostering self-awareness and empowerment. Your goal is holistic well-being, aiming for inner peace and a fulfilling life. You want to thrive, not just survive, embracing your journey with courage and compassion.
Do you seek to understand your emotions, manage stress, and build resilience? Do you face anxiety or depression, seeking tools to navigate life's challenges? You crave a safe space to express yourself, fostering self-awareness and empowerment. Your goal is holistic well-being, aiming for inner peace and a fulfilling life. You want to thrive, not just survive, embracing your journey with courage and compassion.
![Photo of Nicole Schultz, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3efc7f95-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Schultz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32935
As an experienced board certified PMHNP, I bring a unique and holistic perspective that accounts for the whole person. I have extensive experience specializing in treatment and medication management for depression, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, PTSD/trauma, postpartum depression/anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders. During our initial evaluation, I provide a comprehensive assessment of mental health and wellness, looking at each contributing part. By listening carefully to what your goals are for treatment, I will create a tailored and customized plan for your specific needs to seek to restore that balance.
As an experienced board certified PMHNP, I bring a unique and holistic perspective that accounts for the whole person. I have extensive experience specializing in treatment and medication management for depression, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, PTSD/trauma, postpartum depression/anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders. During our initial evaluation, I provide a comprehensive assessment of mental health and wellness, looking at each contributing part. By listening carefully to what your goals are for treatment, I will create a tailored and customized plan for your specific needs to seek to restore that balance.
![Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401d5862-e291-436e-9e2d-185783cf4d82/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Lyssa Brooks, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6ee3a40-e8de-4dfd-b37e-85ef9ca46b86/1/320x400.png)
Lyssa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
![Photo of Jennifer Schneider Weldon, MSW MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6db65b7-2820-45b7-be9f-f7fa8b7ca3d6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Schneider Weldon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32940 (Online Only)
Hi there, I am originally from Michigan and moved to Brevard County, FL in 1997. I have a BA in Communications from Michigan State University and a Masters in Social Work from the University of Michigan. I worked for Candle Lighters of Brevard, when I first moved to town. worked Labor Delivery/Mother Baby at Wuesthof Melbourne for five years, during which time I went back to University of Central Florida to achieve my MSN/ Family Nurse Practitioner.
Hi there, I am originally from Michigan and moved to Brevard County, FL in 1997. I have a BA in Communications from Michigan State University and a Masters in Social Work from the University of Michigan. I worked for Candle Lighters of Brevard, when I first moved to town. worked Labor Delivery/Mother Baby at Wuesthof Melbourne for five years, during which time I went back to University of Central Florida to achieve my MSN/ Family Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Katie Ray, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ab7c8ab-20e3-495f-89d0-ae10fc01650c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Ray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Katie, a board-certified family nurse practitioner. My journey began in the hospital, where I cared for patients with traumatic brain injuries and various neurological events, including seizures and strokes. I also gained valuable experience in pediatrics through years of dedicated service at a children's hospital. My passion lies in assisting individuals through a blend of holistic practices and modern medicine. I thrive on crafting personalized treatment plans and collaborating as a cohesive team.
Hello, I'm Katie, a board-certified family nurse practitioner. My journey began in the hospital, where I cared for patients with traumatic brain injuries and various neurological events, including seizures and strokes. I also gained valuable experience in pediatrics through years of dedicated service at a children's hospital. My passion lies in assisting individuals through a blend of holistic practices and modern medicine. I thrive on crafting personalized treatment plans and collaborating as a cohesive team.
![Photo of Siddharth Arora - Care Clinic, DO, MS, DABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4539237d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
![Photo of Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c60e617e-958e-4b04-95aa-e314f64b9f68/2/320x400.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 Tonya Succio, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/138bfa50-7aeb-4275-816a-4cbfa9f5facb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Currently Accepting New Patients! I know from experience the decision to get treatment for a mental health struggle is sometimes difficult and I start every session with a new patient using a simple strategy: Listen first. My goal is to use the information I receive listening closely to formulate a treatment plan that will help us choose the medications that have the best chance of helping you get healthy and stay healthy over time. During our first session we will discuss: Relevant symptoms, potential underlying diagnostic processes, and short and long term goals related to mental treatment options.
Currently Accepting New Patients! I know from experience the decision to get treatment for a mental health struggle is sometimes difficult and I start every session with a new patient using a simple strategy: Listen first. My goal is to use the information I receive listening closely to formulate a treatment plan that will help us choose the medications that have the best chance of helping you get healthy and stay healthy over time. During our first session we will discuss: Relevant symptoms, potential underlying diagnostic processes, and short and long term goals related to mental treatment options.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Melbourne, FL
30+
Average cost per session
$199
Psychiatrists in Melbourne, FL who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
87% | ADHD |
81% | Trauma and PTSD |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
65% | Medication Management |
58% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
85% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Melbourne, FL see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
21% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Melbourne?
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.