Psychiatrists in Hilliard, FL
![Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86abfd15-2afb-4eb2-abd4-5d195482debc/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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Shanique Ampiah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64429fe6-2092-452c-944d-48ff042fb7df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ampiah is an Adult & Pediatric Psychiatrist who believes in the power of early intervention and its ability to change the trajectory of psychiatric illness. Dr. Ampiah provides comprehensive, compassionate care and works to align with her patients and their families to achieve the best overall outcome while employing a biopsychosocial model guided by empiric data. She also focuses on behavioral intervention foremost with medications only when indicated. She will work alongside your child's treatment team to ensure full collaboration.
Dr. Ampiah is an Adult & Pediatric Psychiatrist who believes in the power of early intervention and its ability to change the trajectory of psychiatric illness. Dr. Ampiah provides comprehensive, compassionate care and works to align with her patients and their families to achieve the best overall outcome while employing a biopsychosocial model guided by empiric data. She also focuses on behavioral intervention foremost with medications only when indicated. She will work alongside your child's treatment team to ensure full collaboration.
![Photo of Meena Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29c49a27-5219-4f9a-b74e-a0e9dd755b75/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Meena Shah is a board-eligible psychiatrist and has been practicing for over 16 years. She specializes in child and adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Shah's practice focuses on medication management in conjunction with supportive and emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. Shah believes in the importance of building a therapeutic relationship with her patients and families to help them achieve emotional their goals. Dr. Shah has extensive experience with the child and adolescent population and worked with foster care programs as well as juvenile residential facility programs.
Dr. Meena Shah is a board-eligible psychiatrist and has been practicing for over 16 years. She specializes in child and adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Shah's practice focuses on medication management in conjunction with supportive and emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. Shah believes in the importance of building a therapeutic relationship with her patients and families to help them achieve emotional their goals. Dr. Shah has extensive experience with the child and adolescent population and worked with foster care programs as well as juvenile residential facility programs.
![Photo of Kimberly Clayton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a5dbd4c-e57f-43b6-936b-2d389a4ce246/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Clayton has worked in the medical field for more than 20 years. Subacute care, long-term care, case management, nursing clinical director, and wound care management are all part of Kimberly's medical experience. Dr. Clayton returned to school to obtain her PMHNP credentials after seeing the necessity for additional specialized training in mental health. By applying a comprehensive approach to all facets of healthcare, Kimberly is dedicated to providing patients with high-quality care and enhancing their quality of life. She is looking forward to meeting you and assisting you in overcoming the stress caused by mental health
Kimberly Clayton has worked in the medical field for more than 20 years. Subacute care, long-term care, case management, nursing clinical director, and wound care management are all part of Kimberly's medical experience. Dr. Clayton returned to school to obtain her PMHNP credentials after seeing the necessity for additional specialized training in mental health. By applying a comprehensive approach to all facets of healthcare, Kimberly is dedicated to providing patients with high-quality care and enhancing their quality of life. She is looking forward to meeting you and assisting you in overcoming the stress caused by mental health
![Photo of Kristina Schnitzer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4daff2ec-eca1-485c-aea6-c4b7618340af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kristina Schnitzer is board-certified in Psychiatry and obtained her MPH from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. She has been practicing for over 7 years. Dr. Schnitzer's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, she offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Schnitzer may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Kristina Schnitzer is board-certified in Psychiatry and obtained her MPH from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. She has been practicing for over 7 years. Dr. Schnitzer's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, she offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Schnitzer may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
![Photo of Sujal Kotadia, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4563da3-52f3-4b47-8757-5a71c773f2f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kotadia is a board-certified psychiatrist who completed his psychiatry residency training program at Nassau University Medical Center in Long Island, NY. After completing training, he has been practicing outpatient psychiatry and specializes in the evaluation and management of major psychiatric disorders including depression, and anxiety. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Kotadia may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Kotadia is a board-certified psychiatrist who completed his psychiatry residency training program at Nassau University Medical Center in Long Island, NY. After completing training, he has been practicing outpatient psychiatry and specializes in the evaluation and management of major psychiatric disorders including depression, and anxiety. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Kotadia may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
![Photo of Chelsie Toler B., PMHNPBC, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d2db9ab-d490-4a63-99a5-c27b9faa3b46/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsie Toler B.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Blessed to be a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing comprehensive compassionate holistic care to those facing mental health challenges. I work with all individuals throughout the life span. With an extensive background in emergency and behavioral nursing, advanced training in psychiatry, and a heavy reliance on evidence-based care, I bring a unique blend of clinical expertise and empathy to patient experiences. An understanding therapeutic environment while promoting active listening and other skills is one way to empower and foster a growing and trusting journey together.
Blessed to be a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing comprehensive compassionate holistic care to those facing mental health challenges. I work with all individuals throughout the life span. With an extensive background in emergency and behavioral nursing, advanced training in psychiatry, and a heavy reliance on evidence-based care, I bring a unique blend of clinical expertise and empathy to patient experiences. An understanding therapeutic environment while promoting active listening and other skills is one way to empower and foster a growing and trusting journey together.
![Photo of Erin Delaney, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44af9256-f01c-45bb-b090-3d8f1b5d6ec0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Delaney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alachua, FL 32615
I work with adult women who would like to work collaboratively with their Psychiatric provider in managing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and/or attention issues and are looking for a warm and personalized approach to their mental health treatment. I can manage many psychiatric medications through pregnancy and postpartum if that is part of their plan and focus on tailoring each treatment plan to the individual.
I work with adult women who would like to work collaboratively with their Psychiatric provider in managing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and/or attention issues and are looking for a warm and personalized approach to their mental health treatment. I can manage many psychiatric medications through pregnancy and postpartum if that is part of their plan and focus on tailoring each treatment plan to the individual.
![Photo of Nilsa De Jesus Rosario, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cc98a35-822b-4956-ac38-ff2215fa111f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. De Jesus is a bilingual psychiatrist, fluent in English and Spanish. She is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. De Jesus provides medication management services in combination with supportive therapy during 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. De Jesus received her medical degree from the Universidad Central del Caribe School of Medicine in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. She completed her Adult Psychiatry residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, FL.
Dr. De Jesus is a bilingual psychiatrist, fluent in English and Spanish. She is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. De Jesus provides medication management services in combination with supportive therapy during 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. De Jesus received her medical degree from the Universidad Central del Caribe School of Medicine in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. She completed her Adult Psychiatry residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, FL.
![Photo of Anastasia Ruiz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a73b5417-97de-43cf-b682-f28f09d0d075/1/320x400.jpeg)
Doctor Ruiz is a board-certified psychiatrist physician who specializes in psychiatric diagnosis and treatment in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, ADHD, and pregnancy related psychiatric conditions. Dr. Ruiz received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry, graduating from the Honors College with Magna Cum Laude. She later completed four-years of medical school at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and an additional four-years of psychiatric residency training.
Doctor Ruiz is a board-certified psychiatrist physician who specializes in psychiatric diagnosis and treatment in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, ADHD, and pregnancy related psychiatric conditions. Dr. Ruiz received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry, graduating from the Honors College with Magna Cum Laude. She later completed four-years of medical school at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and an additional four-years of psychiatric residency training.
![Photo of Noleidy Barreto, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c39325-19e5-4ca4-bc5e-9bd38dcce746/3/320x400.jpeg)
Noleidy Barreto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216 (Online Only)
I am a Doctorate Nurse Practitioner and Board-Certified Psychiatry Mental Health in Florida. I provide a comprehensive holistic care approach and develop and implement effective treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. With an assertive and compassionate approach, I am devoted to promoting healing and improving the mental health and well-being that you deserve.
I am a Doctorate Nurse Practitioner and Board-Certified Psychiatry Mental Health in Florida. I provide a comprehensive holistic care approach and develop and implement effective treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. With an assertive and compassionate approach, I am devoted to promoting healing and improving the mental health and well-being that you deserve.
![Photo of Charles Maddix, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e42895cf-37f2-4473-8392-dce3f1dbcfd2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charles Maddix
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32207
Meet Charles – a board-certified Family Psychiatric NP and a devoted former Navy Corpsman. With 20+ potent years of medical experience, Charles is an alumnus of Saint Louis University holding a Master’s in Nursing. He has championed different branches of medical sciences, including Oncology, ICU, and community mental health. Charles has marked his expertise in treating individuals across all ages, from 5 to adults. Applying a holistic approach, he addresses a diversity of mental health issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, trauma, and more.
Meet Charles – a board-certified Family Psychiatric NP and a devoted former Navy Corpsman. With 20+ potent years of medical experience, Charles is an alumnus of Saint Louis University holding a Master’s in Nursing. He has championed different branches of medical sciences, including Oncology, ICU, and community mental health. Charles has marked his expertise in treating individuals across all ages, from 5 to adults. Applying a holistic approach, he addresses a diversity of mental health issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, trauma, and more.
![Photo of Dr. Marie M Weber, MSN DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c0c93f9-a640-4da6-9c50-1da3a634fd31/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marie M Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange Park, FL 32065 (Online Only)
Patients are the most important aspect of my practice. I strive to create an environment where they feel genuinely heard and understood. My goal is to ensure that my patients know that their concerns are valid and that they matter.
Patients are the most important aspect of my practice. I strive to create an environment where they feel genuinely heard and understood. My goal is to ensure that my patients know that their concerns are valid and that they matter.
![Photo of Gira Borad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b4c3df7-4d4f-48f6-b853-084cbf9b9323/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Borad is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and has specialized in Addiction Psychiatry. She finished her residency from WVU campus of Charleston, WV and finished Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship from UPMC/Western Psychiatry Institute. She has previously worked as an Assistant Professor at WVU of Charleston, where she was involved in working with residents in inpatient and outpatient settings, provided psychiatric consult services to hospitalized patients, and was part of the Outpatient Comprehensive Opioid treatment program. She has interest in treating patients with mood , anxiety and psychotic disorders.
Dr. Borad is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and has specialized in Addiction Psychiatry. She finished her residency from WVU campus of Charleston, WV and finished Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship from UPMC/Western Psychiatry Institute. She has previously worked as an Assistant Professor at WVU of Charleston, where she was involved in working with residents in inpatient and outpatient settings, provided psychiatric consult services to hospitalized patients, and was part of the Outpatient Comprehensive Opioid treatment program. She has interest in treating patients with mood , anxiety and psychotic disorders.
![Photo of Denise Ann Dutchak, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0f71510-02e9-48d8-b6f1-1172bf9a4bbd/1/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to Adult Psychiatry, Dr. Dutchak is board certified in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, and board certified in Forensics. She is also board certified in Acupuncture through the AAMA. Sharing the vision of MAPS Integrated Wellness, she blends psychotropic medication with functional medicine and other holistic treatments in her practice. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with loved ones and ballroom dancing. She practices in an integrated team that includes three Psychologists, a dietitian, a personal trainer, and art therapist.
In addition to Adult Psychiatry, Dr. Dutchak is board certified in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, and board certified in Forensics. She is also board certified in Acupuncture through the AAMA. Sharing the vision of MAPS Integrated Wellness, she blends psychotropic medication with functional medicine and other holistic treatments in her practice. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with loved ones and ballroom dancing. She practices in an integrated team that includes three Psychologists, a dietitian, a personal trainer, and art therapist.
![Photo of James Tully, MSN , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c495476-d17c-4e4e-bf63-908a369d6566/2/320x400.jpeg)
James Tully
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32225
Mr. Tully graduated from Jacksonville University with a Masters in Nursing and is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He currently works full time at an outpatient office, treating adults with mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, thought disorders, abuse, trauma, and behavioral issues.
Mr. Tully graduated from Jacksonville University with a Masters in Nursing and is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He currently works full time at an outpatient office, treating adults with mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, thought disorders, abuse, trauma, and behavioral issues.
![Photo of Cindy S Wright, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/400c6ede-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Wright has been practicing psychiatry for over 25 years. Her patients appreciate the time, attention and expertise that she provides each of her patients. Dr. Wright has had many years of experience working in Family Medicine and Psychiatry and treats the whole person and not just the symptoms. She believes that patients should have a role in their treatment plan. NOW SCHEDULING VIDEO CONFERENCE SESSIONS
Dr. Wright has been practicing psychiatry for over 25 years. Her patients appreciate the time, attention and expertise that she provides each of her patients. Dr. Wright has had many years of experience working in Family Medicine and Psychiatry and treats the whole person and not just the symptoms. She believes that patients should have a role in their treatment plan. NOW SCHEDULING VIDEO CONFERENCE SESSIONS
![Photo of Margaret Anne Curran - Telepsychiatric Bridge Services, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4add0548-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Telepsychiatric Bridge Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Be seen this week! Exceptional reviews, check me out on Google. Come to our office to be seen and meet our therapy dogs. Want to receive mental health treatment and medication management from the comfort and convenience of your own home or office? I see patients in office or over a HIPAA compliant telepsychiatry service, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I e-prescribe to the pharmacy of your choice.
Be seen this week! Exceptional reviews, check me out on Google. Come to our office to be seen and meet our therapy dogs. Want to receive mental health treatment and medication management from the comfort and convenience of your own home or office? I see patients in office or over a HIPAA compliant telepsychiatry service, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I e-prescribe to the pharmacy of your choice.
![Photo of Alicia Allen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49bd99a9-e47f-4403-8cfd-335c6259c7a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32258 (Online Only)
Hello! I am Alicia Allen a dual certified Adult-Gerontology and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.... Are you feeling off balance? Maladjusted? Looking to achieve mental and emotional stability? Together we can cultivate hope, a sense of belonging, healing and growth in challenging conditions.
Hello! I am Alicia Allen a dual certified Adult-Gerontology and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.... Are you feeling off balance? Maladjusted? Looking to achieve mental and emotional stability? Together we can cultivate hope, a sense of belonging, healing and growth in challenging conditions.
![Photo of Lyssa Brooks, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2eb3ab9b-1e38-40d1-81f9-291acb437eb6/1/320x400.png)
Lyssa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32246
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.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Hilliard, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hilliard, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Chronic Pain |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Wellpoint | Amerigroup |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Hilliard, FL see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hilliard?
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.