Psychiatrists in Miami, FL
GTL Medical & Research Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, IMG, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33173
GTL, through his practitioner Dulien Contreras—a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a medical degree and residency in Family Medicine from Cuba—brings a distinctive blend of expertise and empathy. With a focus on managing conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD, his approach is centered on offering personalized, compassionate care in a supportive environment. He is dedicated to collaborating with you to reach your wellness goals and enhance your overall quality of life.
GTL, through his practitioner Dulien Contreras—a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a medical degree and residency in Family Medicine from Cuba—brings a distinctive blend of expertise and empathy. With a focus on managing conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD, his approach is centered on offering personalized, compassionate care in a supportive environment. He is dedicated to collaborating with you to reach your wellness goals and enhance your overall quality of life.
Biena Grace Andulan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner- BC based in Florida. I received my Masters from Walden University in Minnesota. In my practice, I focus on assessing mental health conditions, prescribing medications, managing chronic diseases, and providing mental health education and coping strategies, and psychotherapy.
Hi! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner- BC based in Florida. I received my Masters from Walden University in Minnesota. In my practice, I focus on assessing mental health conditions, prescribing medications, managing chronic diseases, and providing mental health education and coping strategies, and psychotherapy.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Dianelys Rodriguez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
Dianelys Rodriguez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Laura Pinero, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Laura speaks both English and Spanish fluently. This linguistic proficiency, coupled with her innate empathy, has been instrumental in her ability to connect with and provide comprehensive care to patients from various cultural backgrounds. Her dedication, empathy, and commitment to cultural competence make her a valued healthcare provider in the vibrant and diverse city of Miami.
Laura Pinero, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Laura speaks both English and Spanish fluently. This linguistic proficiency, coupled with her innate empathy, has been instrumental in her ability to connect with and provide comprehensive care to patients from various cultural backgrounds. Her dedication, empathy, and commitment to cultural competence make her a valued healthcare provider in the vibrant and diverse city of Miami.
Echo Meadows Psychiatric and Psychological Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33179
Your recovery is our commitment at Echo Meadows. We are dedicated to providing patient-centered care, which means we believe in seeing patients as individuals, and not just what they are going through currently. We firmly believe in holistic care, and that when mind, body, and soul are in alignment, true wellness can happen.
Your recovery is our commitment at Echo Meadows. We are dedicated to providing patient-centered care, which means we believe in seeing patients as individuals, and not just what they are going through currently. We firmly believe in holistic care, and that when mind, body, and soul are in alignment, true wellness can happen.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Dianelys Rodriguez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
Dianelys Rodriguez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Dianelys Rodriguez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
Dianelys Rodriguez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
Sharlynn Cares Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33127 (Online Only)
Sharlynn Cares is committed to providing mental healthcare services to the youth in our communities who are most vulnerable to confronting emotional challenges. We take a holistic approach to mental wellness that can help fill the gaps in our healthcare system. A simple pill is not the only solution to psychological or emotional distress. Depression, in particular, is a treatable disease, and I whole-heartedly believe that a more faith-based and holistic approach is needed in today's society. Sharlynn Cares is here to help protect our communities’ youth.
Sharlynn Cares is committed to providing mental healthcare services to the youth in our communities who are most vulnerable to confronting emotional challenges. We take a holistic approach to mental wellness that can help fill the gaps in our healthcare system. A simple pill is not the only solution to psychological or emotional distress. Depression, in particular, is a treatable disease, and I whole-heartedly believe that a more faith-based and holistic approach is needed in today's society. Sharlynn Cares is here to help protect our communities’ youth.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Each and every individual is unique and has had their own collective experience to shape the person that they have become. Also, each and every individual has variances in how they might respond to standard or novel treatments. Decades of experience in post-residency training and thousands of patients of all ages later have shaped my treatment approach. That would be one that is extremely methodical. You can be assured that every step along the way will be executed to the highest professional standards. I will work tirelessly to see that you are returned to your baseline functioning and won't stop trying until that is attained.
Each and every individual is unique and has had their own collective experience to shape the person that they have become. Also, each and every individual has variances in how they might respond to standard or novel treatments. Decades of experience in post-residency training and thousands of patients of all ages later have shaped my treatment approach. That would be one that is extremely methodical. You can be assured that every step along the way will be executed to the highest professional standards. I will work tirelessly to see that you are returned to your baseline functioning and won't stop trying until that is attained.
Dee Bortner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33186 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone seeking support for Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or Bipolar Disorders. They need compassionate guidance to navigate their challenges and build healthier coping strategies. Their goals are to gain control of their mental health, boost self-esteem, and create a balanced, fulfilling life. They want to better understand and manage their symptoms, enhancing their overall well-being. They seek a therapist who offers personalized care, empowers them with evidence-based strategies, and respects their unique experiences.
My ideal client is someone seeking support for Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or Bipolar Disorders. They need compassionate guidance to navigate their challenges and build healthier coping strategies. Their goals are to gain control of their mental health, boost self-esteem, and create a balanced, fulfilling life. They want to better understand and manage their symptoms, enhancing their overall well-being. They seek a therapist who offers personalized care, empowers them with evidence-based strategies, and respects their unique experiences.
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Lorenzo Medical Services, INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33196
In my opinion all clients are ideal, but my main objective is to help any one who needs it. I am here to help someone who demonstrates the courage to acknowledge their struggles and the willingness to embark on a journey of healing and growth. Ultimately, my ideal client seeks a trusted ally and advocate who can accompany them on their journey towards healing, offering expertise, empathy, and unwavering support along the way. Together, we work collaboratively to navigate the ups and downs, celebrate progress, and overcome obstacles, with the shared goal of fostering lasting positive change and well-being.
In my opinion all clients are ideal, but my main objective is to help any one who needs it. I am here to help someone who demonstrates the courage to acknowledge their struggles and the willingness to embark on a journey of healing and growth. Ultimately, my ideal client seeks a trusted ally and advocate who can accompany them on their journey towards healing, offering expertise, empathy, and unwavering support along the way. Together, we work collaboratively to navigate the ups and downs, celebrate progress, and overcome obstacles, with the shared goal of fostering lasting positive change and well-being.
Jacqueline Ustache
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33133 (Online Only)
Dr. Jackie Ustache is a highly skilled and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Outside of her medical practice, she enjoys Jet Skiing, Kayaking, CrossFit, Painting, and spending time with her family. In addition to her clinical practice, she actively participates in medical research and stays updated with the latest advancements in her field. Her treatment approach is to identify the factors contributing to the problems you are seeking help for and to work with you in solving them.
Dr. Jackie Ustache is a highly skilled and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Outside of her medical practice, she enjoys Jet Skiing, Kayaking, CrossFit, Painting, and spending time with her family. In addition to her clinical practice, she actively participates in medical research and stays updated with the latest advancements in her field. Her treatment approach is to identify the factors contributing to the problems you are seeking help for and to work with you in solving them.
Nadine Clarke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33186 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, seeking effective, personalized support. They need a compassionate, understanding approach to help manage their symptoms and improve their daily functioning. Their goal is to achieve emotional stability, better coping skills, and a more fulfilling life. They want a therapist who listens, provides practical strategies, and empowers them to overcome challenges. Ultimately, they seek relief from their struggles and a path toward long-term well-being and personal growth.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, seeking effective, personalized support. They need a compassionate, understanding approach to help manage their symptoms and improve their daily functioning. Their goal is to achieve emotional stability, better coping skills, and a more fulfilling life. They want a therapist who listens, provides practical strategies, and empowers them to overcome challenges. Ultimately, they seek relief from their struggles and a path toward long-term well-being and personal growth.
Vivian Lockett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Have you been feeling anxious, unhappy, and overwhelmed? Have you been in therapy, and considering adding or changing medications to improve your symptoms? I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who focuses on the whole person, with a foundation in Christian principles. I do not prescribe controlled substances, and I am happy to help you find alternative options as it relates to medication management. My goal is to help you manage conditions including help depression, mood disorder, and anxiety, to name a few keeping the whole person in mind, individualizing a personalized plan based on medical history,
Have you been feeling anxious, unhappy, and overwhelmed? Have you been in therapy, and considering adding or changing medications to improve your symptoms? I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who focuses on the whole person, with a foundation in Christian principles. I do not prescribe controlled substances, and I am happy to help you find alternative options as it relates to medication management. My goal is to help you manage conditions including help depression, mood disorder, and anxiety, to name a few keeping the whole person in mind, individualizing a personalized plan based on medical history,
Sendy Jean Baptiste
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Hi, I am a med management provider who resides in Florida. My main focus is to help anyone who is strugling with life and having a hard time maintaining balance in their life.
Hi, I am a med management provider who resides in Florida. My main focus is to help anyone who is strugling with life and having a hard time maintaining balance in their life.
Envision Mindcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Issues, Stress Management, Burnout, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), Psychosis, Suicidal Ideation, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Issues, Postpartum Support, Self-Esteem Issues, Women's Concerns, Life Changes, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Challenges, Coping Skills, Dual Diagnosis.
Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Issues, Stress Management, Burnout, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), Psychosis, Suicidal Ideation, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Issues, Postpartum Support, Self-Esteem Issues, Women's Concerns, Life Changes, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Challenges, Coping Skills, Dual Diagnosis.
Monica Estupinan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137 (Online Only)
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and the founder of Psych M.E. LLC. With a background in nursing and specialized training in mental health, I provide comprehensive outpatient care for individuals struggling with various psychiatric conditions.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and the founder of Psych M.E. LLC. With a background in nursing and specialized training in mental health, I provide comprehensive outpatient care for individuals struggling with various psychiatric conditions.
See more therapy options for Miami
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Miami, FL
500+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in Miami, FL who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | ADHD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | Aetna |
84% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Miami, FL see their clients
55% | Online Only | |
45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Miami?
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.