Psychiatrists in Largo, FL
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.
Balance & Boundaries Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, FL 33771 (Online Only)
We listen, we care & we guide. We’re dedicated to your mental wellness journey. With us, you’ll always feel listened to, without judgement, as we craft a care plan that fits your life. Our team believes in empowering you to set healthy boundaries, ensuring you thrive. There is a need for boundaries in every type of relationship, whether personal, business, parents, or just day to day interactions. Without balance and boundaries life becomes much more difficult to juggle. Mental Health & wellness is an extremely important self-care and learning ways to make life less challenging. Join us, and let’s walk the path to balance together.
We listen, we care & we guide. We’re dedicated to your mental wellness journey. With us, you’ll always feel listened to, without judgement, as we craft a care plan that fits your life. Our team believes in empowering you to set healthy boundaries, ensuring you thrive. There is a need for boundaries in every type of relationship, whether personal, business, parents, or just day to day interactions. Without balance and boundaries life becomes much more difficult to juggle. Mental Health & wellness is an extremely important self-care and learning ways to make life less challenging. Join us, and let’s walk the path to balance together.
Anton Dragonetti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Largo, FL 33778 (Online Only)
I listen to the individual’s needs and consider myself part of a team when working with clients. Our mission is to bridge the gap between patients and mental health services in the state of Florida through telehealth services. Anton Dragonetti believes in using evidence-based treatment modalities. He takes the time to complete prior authorizations so clients have access to the newest medications needed. He strives to look at each individual as a whole person and focuses on holistic treatment, which includes medication management, nutrition, exercise, and sleep hygiene practices.
I listen to the individual’s needs and consider myself part of a team when working with clients. Our mission is to bridge the gap between patients and mental health services in the state of Florida through telehealth services. Anton Dragonetti believes in using evidence-based treatment modalities. He takes the time to complete prior authorizations so clients have access to the newest medications needed. He strives to look at each individual as a whole person and focuses on holistic treatment, which includes medication management, nutrition, exercise, and sleep hygiene practices.
Betts Mental Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, FL 33770
Now taking on new clients! I am highly trained in treating clients from ages 6-65 with psychotherapy and pharmaceutical management. Are you feeling angry or anxious? Unmanageable feelings or moods? Severe stress, trauma, or depression? Are you finding it difficult to focus or finish your work? You're not alone! More than ever, people are experiencing feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, and uncertainty about how to handle their relationships, careers, and overall life. Ignoring your wants and neglecting yourself can have long-term negative effects on your body and psyche. We think that leading a better life shouldn't be that difficult.
Now taking on new clients! I am highly trained in treating clients from ages 6-65 with psychotherapy and pharmaceutical management. Are you feeling angry or anxious? Unmanageable feelings or moods? Severe stress, trauma, or depression? Are you finding it difficult to focus or finish your work? You're not alone! More than ever, people are experiencing feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, and uncertainty about how to handle their relationships, careers, and overall life. Ignoring your wants and neglecting yourself can have long-term negative effects on your body and psyche. We think that leading a better life shouldn't be that difficult.
Dr. Zaidi is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with additional qualifications in Addiction Psychiatry. He completed his Psychiatric Training at MHC - New York Medical College and Training in Addiction Psychiatry at NSUH - New York University School of Medicine. He provides Psychiatric and Addiction Treatment at Operation PAR Detox Facility and Windmoor Hospital. He provided his psychiatric services as a Medical Director at Bay Pines VA Hospital, Boley Centers, Palms of Pasadena Hospital, St. Pete General Hospital and North Side Hospital. Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Tammy Kurecki, ARNP is a new addition to our team.
Dr. Zaidi is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with additional qualifications in Addiction Psychiatry. He completed his Psychiatric Training at MHC - New York Medical College and Training in Addiction Psychiatry at NSUH - New York University School of Medicine. He provides Psychiatric and Addiction Treatment at Operation PAR Detox Facility and Windmoor Hospital. He provided his psychiatric services as a Medical Director at Bay Pines VA Hospital, Boley Centers, Palms of Pasadena Hospital, St. Pete General Hospital and North Side Hospital. Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Tammy Kurecki, ARNP is a new addition to our team.
Medication not working? Want to avoid medication side effects? Counseling hasn't resolved your issues? Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA cleared treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD and more that safely targets areas of your brain responsible for mood so you can get on with your life! For most patients, symptoms decrease or go away completely after 6 weeks of treatment. Covered by most insurances and Medicare. Complimentary consults and benefits investigations. Dr. Rizzo is a psychiatrist with a wealth of TMS experience who personally oversees all our TMS patients.
Medication not working? Want to avoid medication side effects? Counseling hasn't resolved your issues? Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA cleared treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD and more that safely targets areas of your brain responsible for mood so you can get on with your life! For most patients, symptoms decrease or go away completely after 6 weeks of treatment. Covered by most insurances and Medicare. Complimentary consults and benefits investigations. Dr. Rizzo is a psychiatrist with a wealth of TMS experience who personally oversees all our TMS patients.
Susan Carol Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP-, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, FL 33773
Susan is a Board Certified PMHNP with 29 years in the field of psychiatry. With 11 years in the Psychiatric ER at BayCare Hospital and previous work with the FACT team for those with chronic, severe mental health issues, she helped all types of people with all types of problems. She also worked in addictions at Fairwinds Treatment Center and now has a private practice in Safety Harbor, Florida. If you are looking for a calm provider, where your thoughts matter, you are not rushed, and you are given the latest science backed information and alternatives, you will love this provider.
Susan is a Board Certified PMHNP with 29 years in the field of psychiatry. With 11 years in the Psychiatric ER at BayCare Hospital and previous work with the FACT team for those with chronic, severe mental health issues, she helped all types of people with all types of problems. She also worked in addictions at Fairwinds Treatment Center and now has a private practice in Safety Harbor, Florida. If you are looking for a calm provider, where your thoughts matter, you are not rushed, and you are given the latest science backed information and alternatives, you will love this provider.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Monique Cuthbertson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33710
Have you ever felt misunderstood? Maybe unheard? What about, as though your needs were simply not being met? I am provider that is happy to listen and guide you through difficult times, and/or assist in maintaining your level of stability with medication and talk therapy. I believe in helping my clients reach their goals, where it is possible, so they can maintain their quality of life or improve it. I take your concerns seriously. I believe in holistic treatment and empowering you to take a great part in your own wellness. If you are ready to put in work, I am ready to stand by and guide you through the process.
Have you ever felt misunderstood? Maybe unheard? What about, as though your needs were simply not being met? I am provider that is happy to listen and guide you through difficult times, and/or assist in maintaining your level of stability with medication and talk therapy. I believe in helping my clients reach their goals, where it is possible, so they can maintain their quality of life or improve it. I take your concerns seriously. I believe in holistic treatment and empowering you to take a great part in your own wellness. If you are ready to put in work, I am ready to stand by and guide you through the process.
Lyssa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
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.
Valentina Cimolai Md
Psychiatrist, NY, FL, CA, VA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33756 (Online Only)
Are you wondering what else you can do for your mental health? At Bloom Psychiatry And Wellness, we go above and beyond. We are attentive listeners and caring clinicians. You will have exclusive access to concierge psychiatric care: flexible, discreet, effective and simple-to-access tailored care from the comfort of your home.
Are you wondering what else you can do for your mental health? At Bloom Psychiatry And Wellness, we go above and beyond. We are attentive listeners and caring clinicians. You will have exclusive access to concierge psychiatric care: flexible, discreet, effective and simple-to-access tailored care from the comfort of your home.
I have been a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for 15 years. I specialize in providing psychiatric medication intervention for a variety of Mental Health Conditions such as depression, anxiety, psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, substance disorders and many others.
I have been a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for 15 years. I specialize in providing psychiatric medication intervention for a variety of Mental Health Conditions such as depression, anxiety, psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, substance disorders and many others.
Harmony Mental Health & Wellness Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33713 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through the ANCC with a multi-state license. My philosophy centers on holistic care, addressing immediate crises and the entire person. I am dedicated to educating others on the vital importance of mental health, equating it with physical health in its significance. I believe everyone has the potential to lead a fulfilling life, regardless of their circumstances, choices, or past experiences. Our mission is to make quality mental health care accessible to all. Our clients benefit from a variety of evidence-based approaches, including CBT and DBT
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through the ANCC with a multi-state license. My philosophy centers on holistic care, addressing immediate crises and the entire person. I am dedicated to educating others on the vital importance of mental health, equating it with physical health in its significance. I believe everyone has the potential to lead a fulfilling life, regardless of their circumstances, choices, or past experiences. Our mission is to make quality mental health care accessible to all. Our clients benefit from a variety of evidence-based approaches, including CBT and DBT
Blossoming Wellbeing Telepsychiatry company that understands the barriers people face every day in accessing health care. Through the use of technology, patients are able to access care from anywhere without taking time off work, traveling long distances, or on vacation. Healthcare at your fingertips through our secure online patient portal with the convenient, 24-hour access to your personal health information, upload documents/pictures, schedule appointments, and email your provider directly. Patients will be able to see and speak to their provider through Healow Televisits.
Blossoming Wellbeing Telepsychiatry company that understands the barriers people face every day in accessing health care. Through the use of technology, patients are able to access care from anywhere without taking time off work, traveling long distances, or on vacation. Healthcare at your fingertips through our secure online patient portal with the convenient, 24-hour access to your personal health information, upload documents/pictures, schedule appointments, and email your provider directly. Patients will be able to see and speak to their provider through Healow Televisits.
Teresa Hug
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, ACNP-c
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
In today's world, it is easy to struggle in our minds and feel we have no control of our thoughts but there's a way for you to regain control. Hello, my name is Teresa Hug. I am dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and acute care practitioner. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, depression, excessive worrying, and dealing with life stressors. Life stressors can include relationships, divorce, raising children, jobs, school, or coping with a chronic illness. Learning new skills and strategies to cope with stressors can help manage your emotional reactions.
In today's world, it is easy to struggle in our minds and feel we have no control of our thoughts but there's a way for you to regain control. Hello, my name is Teresa Hug. I am dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and acute care practitioner. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, depression, excessive worrying, and dealing with life stressors. Life stressors can include relationships, divorce, raising children, jobs, school, or coping with a chronic illness. Learning new skills and strategies to cope with stressors can help manage your emotional reactions.
I am a board certified in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and treatment for children, adolescents, and young adults. Working at the top hospitals, I have gained invaluable experience and expertise in understanding and managing complex psychiatric conditions effectively. My professional journey spans over a decade, during which I have provided care to a diverse range of patients. I have experience on managing various mental health disorders including anxiety, mood dysregulation, ADHD, trauma, tics, psychosis, and behavioral concerns.
I am a board certified in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and treatment for children, adolescents, and young adults. Working at the top hospitals, I have gained invaluable experience and expertise in understanding and managing complex psychiatric conditions effectively. My professional journey spans over a decade, during which I have provided care to a diverse range of patients. I have experience on managing various mental health disorders including anxiety, mood dysregulation, ADHD, trauma, tics, psychosis, and behavioral concerns.
Dr Lopez is in the house!!!
As the founder of the Brain Enhancement Institute, it is my life's purpose to provide the highest quality professional mental, behavioral and addiction recovery treatment to the residents of our community.
I am so proud of the group of experienced and qualified mental health professionals with whom I have been affiliated for the past 20 years. I am certain that we offer the most comprehensive and sophisticated array of mental health services in our area.
Dr Lopez is in the house!!!
As the founder of the Brain Enhancement Institute, it is my life's purpose to provide the highest quality professional mental, behavioral and addiction recovery treatment to the residents of our community.
I am so proud of the group of experienced and qualified mental health professionals with whom I have been affiliated for the past 20 years. I am certain that we offer the most comprehensive and sophisticated array of mental health services in our area.
Sheila Barthelemy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN , MPH
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
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.
Tracey A Sanderbeck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Seminole, FL 33772 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (APRN) trained to diagnose and prescribe medication for patients with mental health issues. Prior to becoming a Psychiatric APRN I was an Emergency Department RN, working in local ERs for 30+years. I have worked for Bardmoor ER & Morton Plant psychiatric ER & inpatient pediatric psychiatric unit, St. Petersburg General ER, & Northside Hospital & Heart Institute ER. I also have experience working with Veterans and worked at Bay Pines VA ER & inpatient psychiatric unit for 5 yrs. I am currently a Sexual Assault Examiner with The Suncoast Center S.A.V.E team.
I am a board certified psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (APRN) trained to diagnose and prescribe medication for patients with mental health issues. Prior to becoming a Psychiatric APRN I was an Emergency Department RN, working in local ERs for 30+years. I have worked for Bardmoor ER & Morton Plant psychiatric ER & inpatient pediatric psychiatric unit, St. Petersburg General ER, & Northside Hospital & Heart Institute ER. I also have experience working with Veterans and worked at Bay Pines VA ER & inpatient psychiatric unit for 5 yrs. I am currently a Sexual Assault Examiner with The Suncoast Center S.A.V.E team.
See more therapy options for Largo
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Largo, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Largo, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
89% | Medication Management |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Stress |
67% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Largo, FL see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Largo?
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.