Psychiatrists in Saint Augustine, FL
![Photo of Sabrina Caceres, DO, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c33cfb0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Serving the psychiatric needs of children, adolescents and adults in St. Augustine and surrounding areas. Dr. Caceres provides comprehensive treatment specializing in ADHD, Anxiety and Depression and a variety of psychiatric diagnosis. Her method is to utilize evidence based medicine tailored to you as an individual. The need for medications or other services is assessed through a detailed medical, psychiatric and social evaluation. Evaluation is then followed by a collaborative discussion of treatment options.
Serving the psychiatric needs of children, adolescents and adults in St. Augustine and surrounding areas. Dr. Caceres provides comprehensive treatment specializing in ADHD, Anxiety and Depression and a variety of psychiatric diagnosis. Her method is to utilize evidence based medicine tailored to you as an individual. The need for medications or other services is assessed through a detailed medical, psychiatric and social evaluation. Evaluation is then followed by a collaborative discussion of treatment options.
![Photo of Saira Saqib, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfcaedcd-b045-4de9-b26e-857ac4e4ed10/3/320x400.jpeg)
Currently Tele-Medicine appointments with prompt appointments. Treatment for PTSD, Unipolar and Bipolar Depression, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Eating Disorders, OCD, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bariatric Surgery Pre- Surgical Evaluations, Spinal Cord Stimulation Evaluation, Couples Therapy, Substance Abuse and much more. Online groups to come soon. Call 904-296-3113. How much is the deductible for a patient even if they see me five times a year on cash, it might be still cheaper than their deductible. The convenience of having quality psychiatric care is priceless.
Currently Tele-Medicine appointments with prompt appointments. Treatment for PTSD, Unipolar and Bipolar Depression, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Eating Disorders, OCD, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bariatric Surgery Pre- Surgical Evaluations, Spinal Cord Stimulation Evaluation, Couples Therapy, Substance Abuse and much more. Online groups to come soon. Call 904-296-3113. How much is the deductible for a patient even if they see me five times a year on cash, it might be still cheaper than their deductible. The convenience of having quality psychiatric care is priceless.
![Photo of Maryann Del Cid, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f68a89ed-3b19-44d4-8247-b6c16fbe3e4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maryann Del Cid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Augustine, FL 32086 (Online Only)
Maryann's approach to care is patient-centered and collaborative. She works alongside individuals and families to develop effective treatment plans that address their specific needs. The field of mental health is constantly evolving. She is dedicated to lifelong learning to provide her clients with up to date and evidence-based care.
Maryann's approach to care is patient-centered and collaborative. She works alongside individuals and families to develop effective treatment plans that address their specific needs. The field of mental health is constantly evolving. She is dedicated to lifelong learning to provide her clients with up to date and evidence-based care.
![Photo of Jorge Andres Diaz - Summit Pediatric Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7a7efaa-775f-439b-9fee-965e46d94c0f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting private insurance Aetna and United Health Care (coming soon) via Headway. Accepting New Patients AND No Long Wait Time! Jorge A. Diaz, M.D is an experienced Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist seeing ages 4 to 24. If you're worried about your child's mental health, Dr. Diaz can provide an empathetic evaluation and evidence-based treatment to alleviate and prevent any worsening on symptoms. "As a father myself I like to answer any important question a parent might have about their child's current condition and to provide the best support. I believe in an individual care plan tailored to each patient".
Now accepting private insurance Aetna and United Health Care (coming soon) via Headway. Accepting New Patients AND No Long Wait Time! Jorge A. Diaz, M.D is an experienced Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist seeing ages 4 to 24. If you're worried about your child's mental health, Dr. Diaz can provide an empathetic evaluation and evidence-based treatment to alleviate and prevent any worsening on symptoms. "As a father myself I like to answer any important question a parent might have about their child's current condition and to provide the best support. I believe in an individual care plan tailored to each patient".
![Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e2c4542-6823-4d20-9b69-fb4438862a61/1/320x400.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 Patricia Gilliano, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d31a15ac-4af2-4bc6-89d4-1eca93fb2819/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Gilliano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Augustine, FL 32084
Hi! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in Florida. I have been in healthcare for over 25 years as a clinical nurse and executive leader. I have worked with many clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, Post COVID issues, grief, suffering, or self-image issues.
Hi! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in Florida. I have been in healthcare for over 25 years as a clinical nurse and executive leader. I have worked with many clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, Post COVID issues, grief, suffering, or self-image issues.
![Photo of Dr. Kamal Albright, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e95241a-6a54-47f9-aab3-61679d46c92b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a psychiatrist who specializes in providing integrative care to foster inner discovery and facilitate tangible change for all of my patients. To me, this means utilizing evidence-based psychotherapeutic methods with medication management as appropriate for achieving personal goals and inner wellness. My integrative knowledge base ensures that each patient’s physical, mental, and spiritual factors are considered holistically in their healing journey. I strive to make sessions collaborative, effective, meaningful, and empowering, for all of my clients. I also supervise psychiatry physicians in training at Orange Park HCA Hospital.
I’m a psychiatrist who specializes in providing integrative care to foster inner discovery and facilitate tangible change for all of my patients. To me, this means utilizing evidence-based psychotherapeutic methods with medication management as appropriate for achieving personal goals and inner wellness. My integrative knowledge base ensures that each patient’s physical, mental, and spiritual factors are considered holistically in their healing journey. I strive to make sessions collaborative, effective, meaningful, and empowering, for all of my clients. I also supervise psychiatry physicians in training at Orange Park HCA Hospital.
![Photo of Patricia Gilliano - Magnolia Behavioral Wellness, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe097b95-cc96-471c-a12a-8c026374e795/3/320x400.jpeg)
Magnolia Behavioral Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Saint Augustine, FL 32084
I like to spend time getting to know a client. Listening is important to me. My focus is to help ensure we can get you to be your best self through optimizing ways in your daily life to find solutions. I look at sleep, nutrition, and movement, then talk about stressors and goals. Together we can come up with a plan to best fit your needs and get you to where you want to go. I use a combination of holistic approaches, medicine, and lifestyle changes to complement what you feel most comfortable doing and then work to get you there.
I like to spend time getting to know a client. Listening is important to me. My focus is to help ensure we can get you to be your best self through optimizing ways in your daily life to find solutions. I look at sleep, nutrition, and movement, then talk about stressors and goals. Together we can come up with a plan to best fit your needs and get you to where you want to go. I use a combination of holistic approaches, medicine, and lifestyle changes to complement what you feel most comfortable doing and then work to get you there.
![Photo of Gretchen Dettlinger, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb925026-8348-4fa8-9557-4c0390942ead/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gretchen Dettlinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Augustine, FL 32092
Gretchen believes that effective mental health care extends beyond traditional methods, integrating physical, emotional, and social well-being to foster comprehensive recovery and growth. Her practice is rooted in the conviction that each patient’s journey is unique, and she is committed to creating tailored treatment plans that respect and respond to individual needs.
Gretchen believes that effective mental health care extends beyond traditional methods, integrating physical, emotional, and social well-being to foster comprehensive recovery and growth. Her practice is rooted in the conviction that each patient’s journey is unique, and she is committed to creating tailored treatment plans that respect and respond to individual needs.
![Photo of Heather Luing - Florida Center for TMS, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ff008bb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Florida Center for TMS is a specialized psychiatry clinic that specializes in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as well as other advanced psychiatric treatments. Dr. Luing and Dr. Broder are board certified psychiatrists offering this FDA approved treatment to patients in St Johns, Duval, Clay, Putnam, and Flagler counties. TMS is approved by the FDA for treatment resistant depression and is covered by all major insurance including Medicare for this indication. TMS is also used for off label indications including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, and cognitive enhancement for an affordable cash pay rate.
Florida Center for TMS is a specialized psychiatry clinic that specializes in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as well as other advanced psychiatric treatments. Dr. Luing and Dr. Broder are board certified psychiatrists offering this FDA approved treatment to patients in St Johns, Duval, Clay, Putnam, and Flagler counties. TMS is approved by the FDA for treatment resistant depression and is covered by all major insurance including Medicare for this indication. TMS is also used for off label indications including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, and cognitive enhancement for an affordable cash pay rate.
![Photo of Dr. Deanna J Seymour - Seymour Behavioral Health Solutions, APRN, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/260f6549-b811-43e8-b9d9-b94b743d39e5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seymour Behavioral Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Saint Augustine, FL 32092
I can help in many ways; first by providing an in depth psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and treatment recommendations including integrative therapies and medication management strategies. I also provide a specialized form of therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, the evidence-based treatment for disorders of emotional dysregulation. I can help with anxiety disorders using the Mastery of Anxiety and Panic exposure strategies, which bring lifelong relief from these disorders. I'm also trained and adept at DBT-PE, the DBT informed evidence-based treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
I can help in many ways; first by providing an in depth psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and treatment recommendations including integrative therapies and medication management strategies. I also provide a specialized form of therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, the evidence-based treatment for disorders of emotional dysregulation. I can help with anxiety disorders using the Mastery of Anxiety and Panic exposure strategies, which bring lifelong relief from these disorders. I'm also trained and adept at DBT-PE, the DBT informed evidence-based treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
15 Second Videos
Saira Saqib
Dinar Sajan
Patricia Gilliano
Magnolia Behavioral Wellness
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
![Photo of Lindsey Burd, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00187dc4-f5cd-464b-b560-e75f2fe12451/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Burd
Psychiatric Nurse, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Saint Augustine, FL 32095 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Over 10 years experience providing patient-centered mental health care to ages 6 years to 65 years. I work with you to offer holistic treatment, meaning you are treated as more than a diagnosis. Your lifestyle, unique challenges, and strengths are always considered. I work with patients to offer collaborative and integrative mental health care, with your needs and goals as part of the treatment plan. I offer personalized psychiatric care from the comfort of your own home via telepsychiatry.
Over 10 years experience providing patient-centered mental health care to ages 6 years to 65 years. I work with you to offer holistic treatment, meaning you are treated as more than a diagnosis. Your lifestyle, unique challenges, and strengths are always considered. I work with patients to offer collaborative and integrative mental health care, with your needs and goals as part of the treatment plan. I offer personalized psychiatric care from the comfort of your own home via telepsychiatry.
![Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e1b3693-cc4b-4969-aea9-5d307453a76c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Saint Augustine, FL 32084 (Online Only)
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 Dr. Charmi Balsara, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15bfcacc-f249-43f2-abf9-003ea5124865/2/320x400.jpeg)
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, Burnout, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Suicidal Thoughts, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Postpartum Care, Self-Esteem Concerns, Women's Issues, Life Transitions, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Coping Skills Development, Dual Diagnosis.
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, Burnout, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Suicidal Thoughts, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Postpartum Care, Self-Esteem Concerns, Women's Issues, Life Transitions, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Coping Skills Development, Dual Diagnosis.
![Photo of Jacqueline Henschke, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62d8f583-2346-4f7c-bb9f-5ad8d9962a6e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Henschke is board certified in adult and child and adolescent psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Georgetown University. Dr. Henschke attended medical school at Tulane University School of Medicine. Following medical school she completed a 1 year internship in pediatrics at Miami Children’s Hospital. She completed her psychiatry residency at George Washington University and her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Stanford University.
Dr. Henschke is board certified in adult and child and adolescent psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Georgetown University. Dr. Henschke attended medical school at Tulane University School of Medicine. Following medical school she completed a 1 year internship in pediatrics at Miami Children’s Hospital. She completed her psychiatry residency at George Washington University and her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Stanford University.
![Photo of Todd Broder - Florida Center for TMS, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c843d511-52a5-483f-9137-2ed831b307da/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now Offering Medication Management and therapy! We are specialists in depression and anxiety. Stop just existing and start living! Our cutting edge treatments can help. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine (Spravato) are safe, FDA cleared treatments used to treat depression and covered by insurance. Contact us to learn more information or visit our website www.floridacenterfortms.com. Providing TMS in STA since 2017. Let our board certified, nationally known psychiatrists and well trained psychiatric NP/PA find treatment options for you. Three convenient locations: St Augustine, Ponte Vedra and downtown Orlando.
Now Offering Medication Management and therapy! We are specialists in depression and anxiety. Stop just existing and start living! Our cutting edge treatments can help. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine (Spravato) are safe, FDA cleared treatments used to treat depression and covered by insurance. Contact us to learn more information or visit our website www.floridacenterfortms.com. Providing TMS in STA since 2017. Let our board certified, nationally known psychiatrists and well trained psychiatric NP/PA find treatment options for you. Three convenient locations: St Augustine, Ponte Vedra and downtown Orlando.
![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 Riaz Ahmed, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/461b3e01-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are a new psychiatric clinic committed to helping the St. Johns community. Located just out side Nocatee and twenty minutes from St. Augustine on Phillips Highway (US1). If you are looking for caring, compassionate and ethical psychiatrist who deals with counseling and medication management, we can provide the care you need on a schedule that fits yours--no need to miss work or school. Give us a call. 904-834-8042.
We are a new psychiatric clinic committed to helping the St. Johns community. Located just out side Nocatee and twenty minutes from St. Augustine on Phillips Highway (US1). If you are looking for caring, compassionate and ethical psychiatrist who deals with counseling and medication management, we can provide the care you need on a schedule that fits yours--no need to miss work or school. Give us a call. 904-834-8042.
![Photo of Imtiaz Rasul - Jacksonville Psychiatric Association, Inc., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b348ea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacksonville Psychiatric Association, Inc.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Saint Augustine, FL 32092
New Child-Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist in Jacksonville, FL. Same day appointments are available. Dr. Imtiaz Rasul is specialized both in Child-Adolescent and Adult psychiatry. We are located just across from The Avenues mall. We are devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services and delivering excellent high quality health care.
New Child-Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist in Jacksonville, FL. Same day appointments are available. Dr. Imtiaz Rasul is specialized both in Child-Adolescent and Adult psychiatry. We are located just across from The Avenues mall. We are devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services and delivering excellent high quality health care.
![Photo of Christina Leigh Cannon, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/547628c6-f620-46f8-b20f-3c8e40679c61/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Leigh Cannon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
Saint Augustine, FL 32092 (Online Only)
I can help with your psychiatric medication management by working together with you to find the regimen that works best for you as an individual. I provide a relaxed, friendly, supportive care model that includes a holistic problem-solving approach to your medication needs and life struggles
I can help with your psychiatric medication management by working together with you to find the regimen that works best for you as an individual. I provide a relaxed, friendly, supportive care model that includes a holistic problem-solving approach to your medication needs and life struggles
See more therapy options for Saint Augustine
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Saint Augustine, FL
30+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Saint Augustine, FL who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
83% | ADHD |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Medication Management |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
85% | Aetna |
77% | Cigna and Evernorth |
69% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Saint Augustine, FL see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Saint Augustine?
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.