Psychiatrists in Polk County, FL
![Photo of N. Nicole Richardson, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/904a890d-9b4b-4b91-ad1e-7da769879c70/1/320x400.png)
N. Nicole Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Winter Haven, FL 33880
Telepsychiatry and in-person visits available in Florida. Telepsychiatry only in Ohio. We offer same-week appointments for screening/diagnosis, medication management, labwork, and psychotherapy.
Telepsychiatry and in-person visits available in Florida. Telepsychiatry only in Ohio. We offer same-week appointments for screening/diagnosis, medication management, labwork, and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Mark Weisman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6cb8783-5671-4db2-a1e2-6e038b57bd06/1/320x400.jpeg)
LifeStance in Brandon, FL provides counseling and therapy online or in person. Also, psychiatry and medication management are available by video. The choice is yours. We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy and marriage counseling. We accept most insurances and serve all ages. Call or book online today!.
LifeStance in Brandon, FL provides counseling and therapy online or in person. Also, psychiatry and medication management are available by video. The choice is yours. We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy and marriage counseling. We accept most insurances and serve all ages. Call or book online today!.
![Photo of Curtis William Cassidy - Cassidy Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f722798a-fdec-400d-a67c-0bb4b10b6283/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassidy Psychiatry is committed to putting patients first. We believe that the very best psychiatrists and mental health providers spend more time with their patients. Our patients have direct access to the focused care needed to heal and live better. At Cassidy Psychiatry the entire patient experience is geared toward making you feel welcomed and at ease. After one visit, you will see the Cassidy Psychiatry difference and experience that sets us apart.
Cassidy Psychiatry is committed to putting patients first. We believe that the very best psychiatrists and mental health providers spend more time with their patients. Our patients have direct access to the focused care needed to heal and live better. At Cassidy Psychiatry the entire patient experience is geared toward making you feel welcomed and at ease. After one visit, you will see the Cassidy Psychiatry difference and experience that sets us apart.
We are two psychiatrists and child psychiatrists: Isaac George Isaac, MD and George Isaac, MD, who provide psychiatric evaluations and treatment for children and adults, including senior citizens. We understand the need for excellent psychiatric evaluations, so the problems could be understood well and effective treatment could be provided from the get go, rather than rushed inadequate evaluations resulting in improper understanding resulting in confused treatment and months or years of wasted time and un-necessary suffering.
We are two psychiatrists and child psychiatrists: Isaac George Isaac, MD and George Isaac, MD, who provide psychiatric evaluations and treatment for children and adults, including senior citizens. We understand the need for excellent psychiatric evaluations, so the problems could be understood well and effective treatment could be provided from the get go, rather than rushed inadequate evaluations resulting in improper understanding resulting in confused treatment and months or years of wasted time and un-necessary suffering.
![Photo of Gene Wiggs, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/013e05a3-c9d2-453c-b904-edf381d0ec6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gene Wiggs is a Psychiatrist in Florida who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Wiggs provides medication for anxiety, depression, and other psychiatric disorders. In his spare time, Dr. Wiggs enjoys documentary films, comedies, historical dramas, and tennis.
Dr. Gene Wiggs is a Psychiatrist in Florida who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Wiggs provides medication for anxiety, depression, and other psychiatric disorders. In his spare time, Dr. Wiggs enjoys documentary films, comedies, historical dramas, and tennis.
![Photo of Twyla Shanette Newman - Lives Matter Mental Health Services LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d71a260-f846-4362-b6b5-4cc194ad85db/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lives Matter Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33801 (Online Only)
Twyla has a unique ability to connect with her patients. She is kind, compassionate, and nonjudgmental. This allows her to build a trusting rapport with those she gives care. She actively listens to her patients and collaborates with them for best quality outcomes. Twyla is on a mission to alleviate symptoms that's causing you emotional distress such as depressed mood, anxiety, disturbed sleep patterns. decreased energy, impaired focus and concentration. She also help manage hallucinations and symptoms of PTSD, OCD, ADHD and many more.
Twyla has a unique ability to connect with her patients. She is kind, compassionate, and nonjudgmental. This allows her to build a trusting rapport with those she gives care. She actively listens to her patients and collaborates with them for best quality outcomes. Twyla is on a mission to alleviate symptoms that's causing you emotional distress such as depressed mood, anxiety, disturbed sleep patterns. decreased energy, impaired focus and concentration. She also help manage hallucinations and symptoms of PTSD, OCD, ADHD and many more.
![Photo of Yalanda Holmes, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9074825f-62dd-4cf0-8205-fb83a9db0f4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yalanda Holmes is a very empathetic and compassionate nurse practitioner. She has excellent communication skills and is very professional. Also, she enjoys advocating for patients and is adept at considering potential barriers to treatment and comorbid health concerns. Yalanda has passionately provided over 21 years of nursing care in many different specialties. Her professional background includes providing nursing care to dedicated veterans at the James A. Haley VA Hospital in Tampa, FL. She has worked as a Public Health Nurse for the Florida Department of Health and the Polk County Public Schools.
Yalanda Holmes is a very empathetic and compassionate nurse practitioner. She has excellent communication skills and is very professional. Also, she enjoys advocating for patients and is adept at considering potential barriers to treatment and comorbid health concerns. Yalanda has passionately provided over 21 years of nursing care in many different specialties. Her professional background includes providing nursing care to dedicated veterans at the James A. Haley VA Hospital in Tampa, FL. She has worked as a Public Health Nurse for the Florida Department of Health and the Polk County Public Schools.
![Photo of Kelly C Wombles, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2490c6c8-d029-49b8-bde4-f5d0a4518294/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly C Wombles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
Auburndale, FL 33823
I want you to live your best life, but there may be times when that feels challenging and may require the assistance of medication. Don't let fear, anxiety, or depression hold you back from living the life you want. Let me focus on the right medication treatment plan to help with these issues.
I want you to live your best life, but there may be times when that feels challenging and may require the assistance of medication. Don't let fear, anxiety, or depression hold you back from living the life you want. Let me focus on the right medication treatment plan to help with these issues.
![Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0d5509e-47c6-48b3-b838-59037e5bb83c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing 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 within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing 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 Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e90275b0-5332-4ef9-80f6-d173338cc5fc/2/320x400.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 Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ce8b93e-68b9-4ecb-9a55-eaf2f9a09607/2/320x400.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.
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![Photo of Jason W Floyd, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f548655-08e5-4b16-a7fb-24ab877acc35/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jason W Floyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auburndale, FL 33823
Compassionate and Empathetic Adult and Child Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Board certified, who provides evidence-based Psychiatric solutions for patients seeking to balance and normalize their mental health. Patients may be seeking help with Depression, Anxiety, Adjusting to Situational Stressors, ADHD, Bipolar D/O, recent trauma or mental health issues related to substance abuse, and others. (Not Addiction Medicine trained) Patients with the above conditions will be provided the time, care, compassion, and treatment necessary to return to a more balanced and normal state of mental health.
Compassionate and Empathetic Adult and Child Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Board certified, who provides evidence-based Psychiatric solutions for patients seeking to balance and normalize their mental health. Patients may be seeking help with Depression, Anxiety, Adjusting to Situational Stressors, ADHD, Bipolar D/O, recent trauma or mental health issues related to substance abuse, and others. (Not Addiction Medicine trained) Patients with the above conditions will be provided the time, care, compassion, and treatment necessary to return to a more balanced and normal state of mental health.
![Photo of Kelli Lewis-Foltin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51072411-7663-4a6a-b4b0-414d60b5e104/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelli Lewis-Foltin is a dual certified Adult Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Practitioner and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2004. She graduated from the University of South Florida, Tampa, FL with a master's degree in science in nursing in 2004. Kelli uses Evidence-based treatments that have been proven effective through outcome evaluations or informed by research and evaluation. She strives to provide quality care, maximize client safety, and exceed client's expectations.
Kelli Lewis-Foltin is a dual certified Adult Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Practitioner and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2004. She graduated from the University of South Florida, Tampa, FL with a master's degree in science in nursing in 2004. Kelli uses Evidence-based treatments that have been proven effective through outcome evaluations or informed by research and evaluation. She strives to provide quality care, maximize client safety, and exceed client's expectations.
![Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a51b4cd2-e5d8-4801-afec-7817567387ad/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 Marcus L Robinson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cfab9cc-352e-4e3f-9b3d-65ef3aa997d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marcus L Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33811 (Online Only)
Same week appointments available. Have you been struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, issues with body image, severe mood fluctuations or perceptual disturbances and find that life has been increasingly difficult to cope with? Have you tried to seek advice from family members, friends and spiritual counselors, to no avail? You can overcome these struggles, with the right tools and I am here to help, using an unbiased approach. I draw from a few traditional therapeutic techniques, in combination with medication management, to create a treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
Same week appointments available. Have you been struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, issues with body image, severe mood fluctuations or perceptual disturbances and find that life has been increasingly difficult to cope with? Have you tried to seek advice from family members, friends and spiritual counselors, to no avail? You can overcome these struggles, with the right tools and I am here to help, using an unbiased approach. I draw from a few traditional therapeutic techniques, in combination with medication management, to create a treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
![Photo of Kristen Leigh Heristchi, MPH, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b3ead3b-3ff5-4d20-87cc-21f8d5055a72/2/320x400.png)
Kristen Leigh Heristchi
Physician Assistant, MPH, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33801
My goal in life is to achieve and maintain inner peace and happiness. After 21 years of practice, I have learned that most of my patients have that same goal. Unfortunately, depression, anxiety, and trauma can sometimes stand in our way, blindside us, and throw us off course.
My goal in life is to achieve and maintain inner peace and happiness. After 21 years of practice, I have learned that most of my patients have that same goal. Unfortunately, depression, anxiety, and trauma can sometimes stand in our way, blindside us, and throw us off course.
![Photo of Frainy Cruz, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c663f20-00a0-493a-9f3d-9bb518e61777/1/320x400.jpeg)
Medication Management only (Psychiatry). Dr.Cruz, DNP has been caring for individuals with a mental diagnosis from depression, bipolar disorder to schizophrenia among others. She has been in the medical field for 10 years and is double board certified in the state of Florida, specializing in psychiatry. She is fully bilingual (English and Spanish). She takes pride on quality and individualized care.
Medication Management only (Psychiatry). Dr.Cruz, DNP has been caring for individuals with a mental diagnosis from depression, bipolar disorder to schizophrenia among others. She has been in the medical field for 10 years and is double board certified in the state of Florida, specializing in psychiatry. She is fully bilingual (English and Spanish). She takes pride on quality and individualized care.
![Photo of Sharon R Carver, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f4fa772-9360-4351-8521-c372c2eb0b69/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon R Carver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33811
Appointments available within 7 days! If you're struggling with the weight of depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, or substance abuse, and you've sought advice without finding the right answers, know that I'm here for you. I will bring an unbiased approach, blending traditional therapeutic techniques with careful medication management to create a personalized plan just for you. Let's embark on this journey together, overcoming challenges and shaping a path toward a brighter, more fulfilling life.
Appointments available within 7 days! If you're struggling with the weight of depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, or substance abuse, and you've sought advice without finding the right answers, know that I'm here for you. I will bring an unbiased approach, blending traditional therapeutic techniques with careful medication management to create a personalized plan just for you. Let's embark on this journey together, overcoming challenges and shaping a path toward a brighter, more fulfilling life.
By the time most people get to a psychiatrist's office, they have a fairly good idea of what their issues are and they often know what their treatment options are. This begins the exchange between doctor and patient which leads to realistic strategies for this individual to meet their objectives. In this regard, treatment is a bit of a journey, as information about what works and what does not work is integrated into the evolving process of finding satisfaction with oneself and others.
By the time most people get to a psychiatrist's office, they have a fairly good idea of what their issues are and they often know what their treatment options are. This begins the exchange between doctor and patient which leads to realistic strategies for this individual to meet their objectives. In this regard, treatment is a bit of a journey, as information about what works and what does not work is integrated into the evolving process of finding satisfaction with oneself and others.
![Photo of Safir Azam Md, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a96fe74-33ee-477e-99e0-47fcc510a041/1/320x400.png)
Mission : My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.
Mission : My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.
See more therapy options for Polk County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Polk County, FL
50+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Polk County, FL who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
90% | ADHD |
90% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Medication Management |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
79% | Aetna |
77% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Polk County, FL see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
56% | Female | |
44% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Polk County?
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.