Psychiatrists in Key Biscayne, FL
Patricia Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
Patricia Rodriguez, PMHNP, is a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a profound passion for helping individuals achieve mental well-being and emotional balance. She is deeply committed to providing the highest level of care and support to her patients. Patricia offers in person and online psychiatry consults for both new and existing patients, providing comprehensive medication management, personalized treatment plans. She firmly believes in a holistic approach to mental health, acknowledging that each individual is unique and requires personalized care.
Patricia Rodriguez, PMHNP, is a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a profound passion for helping individuals achieve mental well-being and emotional balance. She is deeply committed to providing the highest level of care and support to her patients. Patricia offers in person and online psychiatry consults for both new and existing patients, providing comprehensive medication management, personalized treatment plans. She firmly believes in a holistic approach to mental health, acknowledging that each individual is unique and requires personalized care.
![Photo of Patrick Sassoon, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/500ddb5e-2290-4e1d-9d4f-668814f5d018/2/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
![Photo of Dr. Clara Alvarez, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cdf9aa5-b94f-4c04-9c1f-77e503eb2702/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am a triple board-certified psychiatrist with years of clinical experience and medical teaching. I focus on Brain Sciences, emotional regulation, chronic illnesses, positive interventions, empowerment, mind-body healing, and re-programming. I help individuals to achieve their wellness goals, including personal and professional growth. The comprehensive neuropsychiatric assessments are personalized to medical, emotional, situational, and spiritual targets. For more information visit my website at www.claraalvarezmd.com
Hi! I am a triple board-certified psychiatrist with years of clinical experience and medical teaching. I focus on Brain Sciences, emotional regulation, chronic illnesses, positive interventions, empowerment, mind-body healing, and re-programming. I help individuals to achieve their wellness goals, including personal and professional growth. The comprehensive neuropsychiatric assessments are personalized to medical, emotional, situational, and spiritual targets. For more information visit my website at www.claraalvarezmd.com
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Denise Daly-Stennis - For Gods' Glory LLC, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84bad138-9bd3-4594-aeb9-0a44f4373097/1/320x400.jpeg)
For Gods' Glory LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Dr. Denise Daly-Stennis, DNP, PMHNP-BC has been an adult psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past 17 years. Her experience includes telehealth, in and outpatient care, community mental health, corrections, Veteran Administration, and MAT substance abuse treatment: Suboxone and Vivitrol therapy.
Dr. Denise Daly-Stennis, DNP, PMHNP-BC has been an adult psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past 17 years. Her experience includes telehealth, in and outpatient care, community mental health, corrections, Veteran Administration, and MAT substance abuse treatment: Suboxone and Vivitrol therapy.
![Photo of Jessica Pericles, PMHNP , FNP, BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcc87beb-f185-463c-a2da-41b7a10ba92e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Pericles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , FNP, BC, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Jessica is a board-approved nurse practitioner specializing in Family practice and psychiatric mental health. She is currently pursuing Doctor of Science in Nursing (DNP).
Jessica is a board-approved nurse practitioner specializing in Family practice and psychiatric mental health. She is currently pursuing Doctor of Science in Nursing (DNP).
![Photo of Margali Sagaille, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/727b59c1-60dd-4151-b522-dbb45b2c69ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Margali Sagaille, a certified nurse practitioner specializing in health care for adults and seniors. Based in Hollywood, Florida, I bring over three decades of nursing experience and 16 years as a Nurse Practitioner. My focus is treating health issues within long-term care settings through a holistic approach that considers the whole person. My aim is to offer mental health services in a holistic and welcoming environment where individuals can address their mental well-being with therapy, medication guidance, and all-encompassing support.
Hello, I'm Margali Sagaille, a certified nurse practitioner specializing in health care for adults and seniors. Based in Hollywood, Florida, I bring over three decades of nursing experience and 16 years as a Nurse Practitioner. My focus is treating health issues within long-term care settings through a holistic approach that considers the whole person. My aim is to offer mental health services in a holistic and welcoming environment where individuals can address their mental well-being with therapy, medication guidance, and all-encompassing support.
![Photo of Dr. Teron Verma, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d556732-5817-488c-a369-5fbfd7adc272/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Teron Verma is a Psychiatrist with Boston Neurobehavioral Associates (BNBA) with a focus on dealing with various mental health pathologies. He is dedicated on helping his clients deal with the myriad of complexities that come with mental health pathologies, and alleviate stigmas in pursuing care. He provides personalized pharmacotherapy as well as psychotherapy to help his clients deal with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders or any other behavioral disturbances, which the client needs help with during their visit.
Dr. Teron Verma is a Psychiatrist with Boston Neurobehavioral Associates (BNBA) with a focus on dealing with various mental health pathologies. He is dedicated on helping his clients deal with the myriad of complexities that come with mental health pathologies, and alleviate stigmas in pursuing care. He provides personalized pharmacotherapy as well as psychotherapy to help his clients deal with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders or any other behavioral disturbances, which the client needs help with during their visit.
![Photo of Lourdes Velazquez Perez - Envision Mindcare, LLC, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f5264ae-2e40-408b-b150-8e51d3861014/1/320x400.jpeg)
Envision Mindcare, LLC
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.
![Photo of Aviva Zohar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93e6ee76-051b-4e9d-bb47-212f2f99faee/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ready for change? At Thalia Medical, our treatment philosophy balances meeting you where you are and supporting you to get to where you want to be. Our services include medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. We are powered by a balanced approach — curating an individualized, evidence-based program that supports our clients not just medically, but emotionally, physically, and socially as well. We are now offering Telehealth in Delaware & Florida.
Ready for change? At Thalia Medical, our treatment philosophy balances meeting you where you are and supporting you to get to where you want to be. Our services include medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. We are powered by a balanced approach — curating an individualized, evidence-based program that supports our clients not just medically, but emotionally, physically, and socially as well. We are now offering Telehealth in Delaware & Florida.
![Photo of Maria Botero - Envision Mindcare LLC, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, ACNPCAG, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dac3a3b9-d1c1-48b5-baac-90ca62c2058a/2/320x400.png)
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, ACNPCAG
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Maria Botero,APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, ACNPC-AG Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental wellness. With a passion for mental health and a dedication to compassionate care. My mission is to provide comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric care that promotes healing, resilience, and overall well-being. I am dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, striving to create a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, heard, and empowered to seek the help they deserve.
Maria Botero,APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, ACNPC-AG Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental wellness. With a passion for mental health and a dedication to compassionate care. My mission is to provide comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric care that promotes healing, resilience, and overall well-being. I am dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, striving to create a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, heard, and empowered to seek the help they deserve.
![Photo of Elevate Psychiatry Coconut Grove - Elevate Psychiatry Coconut Grove, MD, PA-C, PMNHP, LMHC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e1132f4-3e99-418f-879a-43024644a834/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elevate Psychiatry Coconut Grove
Psychiatrist, MD, PA-C, PMNHP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130
Elevate Psychiatry Coconut Grove provides friendly, affordable psychiatric care near Cocowalk! We offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapy for common mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar, and ADHD. Our patients receive expert, individualized care with dedicated time to spend with your provider. We include telepsychiatry, e-prescriptions, and DNA swab testing in our services. We're proud that our patients have rated Elevate Psychiatry the number one Psychiatrist in Miami on Yelp!
Elevate Psychiatry Coconut Grove provides friendly, affordable psychiatric care near Cocowalk! We offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapy for common mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar, and ADHD. Our patients receive expert, individualized care with dedicated time to spend with your provider. We include telepsychiatry, e-prescriptions, and DNA swab testing in our services. We're proud that our patients have rated Elevate Psychiatry the number one Psychiatrist in Miami on Yelp!
![Photo of Luis M. Gomez - ARC Mental Health, Psych, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9605911-d613-4b94-b744-0f0d55c80471/1/320x400.jpeg)
ARC Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psych, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Miami, FL 33143
I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management for anyone over 16 years of age suffering with symptoms that cause impairment in any aspect of life (e.g., professional, personal, social, self-care). I help my patients manage discomfort due to depression, anxiety, symptoms of bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, attention deficit, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, among others. Therapy begins with an extensive evaluation taking into account the patient's medical/psychiatric history, medical conditions, family history, previous treatment. Together we will establish individualized goals and monitor improvement in symptoms.
I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management for anyone over 16 years of age suffering with symptoms that cause impairment in any aspect of life (e.g., professional, personal, social, self-care). I help my patients manage discomfort due to depression, anxiety, symptoms of bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, attention deficit, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, among others. Therapy begins with an extensive evaluation taking into account the patient's medical/psychiatric history, medical conditions, family history, previous treatment. Together we will establish individualized goals and monitor improvement in symptoms.
![Photo of Jennifer Seay, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04466646-aa79-48ee-b7b3-63ba37cc7df0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I like to know what is going on in your life that is a challenge to you, and help you ease those challenges as comfortably as possible. I am absolutely non-judgmental. I care about each person that I treat and will work with you to find the best treatment care plan for you. My goal is to have you feeling like yourself again. I specialize in a variety of areas such as: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, autism, anger issues, addiction and schizophrenia. Using my extensive experience in this field, we will collaborate to find a treatment plan that's right for your unique needs. Reach out today to book your first consultation!
I like to know what is going on in your life that is a challenge to you, and help you ease those challenges as comfortably as possible. I am absolutely non-judgmental. I care about each person that I treat and will work with you to find the best treatment care plan for you. My goal is to have you feeling like yourself again. I specialize in a variety of areas such as: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, autism, anger issues, addiction and schizophrenia. Using my extensive experience in this field, we will collaborate to find a treatment plan that's right for your unique needs. Reach out today to book your first consultation!
![Photo of Caitlin Gardiner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3824dfab-ccd3-44e7-bf7e-234e41125cf6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Caitlin Gardiner is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry and psychotherapy. Dr. Caitlin Gardiner's practice is based on the biopsychosocial model and believes that the foundation of healing is in psychotherapy and human connection. She is known for incorporating therapy into her medication management practice. Typically she offers 30-minute follow-up visits for medication management with focused therapy based on individual needs.
Dr. Caitlin Gardiner is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry and psychotherapy. Dr. Caitlin Gardiner's practice is based on the biopsychosocial model and believes that the foundation of healing is in psychotherapy and human connection. She is known for incorporating therapy into her medication management practice. Typically she offers 30-minute follow-up visits for medication management with focused therapy based on individual needs.
![Photo of Aaron Padron - Insightful Psychiatry, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b25f557-d73f-4fd0-b586-d20307c7ed93/2/320x400.jpeg)
Appointments Available! We are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments available. www.insightfulpsychiatry.com
Appointments Available! We are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments available. www.insightfulpsychiatry.com
![Photo of Stephanie Pelletier, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7053d39-92f4-4791-86e7-bac111c3bb2e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie is a Psychiatric nurse practitioner, and earned her masters in psychiatric nursing from Boston College. Prior to this, she obtained a bachelors in nursing from University of New England. Stephanie has been working in mental healthcare for over 6 years. The majority with children and teenagers in the hospital setting, at both inpatient units and acute community based programs. Stephanie has worked in some of the top mental health programs in the country at Boston Childrens’ Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and McLean Psychiatric Hospital.
Stephanie is a Psychiatric nurse practitioner, and earned her masters in psychiatric nursing from Boston College. Prior to this, she obtained a bachelors in nursing from University of New England. Stephanie has been working in mental healthcare for over 6 years. The majority with children and teenagers in the hospital setting, at both inpatient units and acute community based programs. Stephanie has worked in some of the top mental health programs in the country at Boston Childrens’ Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and McLean Psychiatric Hospital.
![Photo of Erin-Marie Kernan, NP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f740b53c-caa3-4077-b310-9a03e5e68961/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am dedicated to helping clients manage anxiety, depression, mood, C-PTSD, ADHD, and neurocognitive disorders.
I am dedicated to helping clients manage anxiety, depression, mood, C-PTSD, ADHD, and neurocognitive disorders.
![Photo of Courtney Walter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0a177e4-f9a6-412a-aed6-8af31b916de0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Walter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Welcome to Mindful Harmony! I am a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of nursing experience. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD and other psychiatric issues. I have extensive experience in both psychiatry and emergency medicine which have given me the expertise in treatment and evaluation of patients with medical and psychiatric co-existing conditions.
Welcome to Mindful Harmony! I am a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of nursing experience. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD and other psychiatric issues. I have extensive experience in both psychiatry and emergency medicine which have given me the expertise in treatment and evaluation of patients with medical and psychiatric co-existing conditions.
![Photo of Laura Pinero - Envision Mindcare LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f725aad-7651-4efc-bfea-15e8d510dfdd/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Perry David Githens - Perry Githens APRN llc, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0842040d-4400-45f2-bb27-19075af6b7e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Perry Githens APRN llc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33101 (Online Only)
I embrace a diverse practice that ranges from adolescents through older adults in all ages and areas. I enjoy helping people that have struggled to find a way to peace and happiness. Perry appreciates listening and learning about a person and building a therapeutic relationship. I work with people who have never taken medications that are new to psychiatric treatment and medication management. I specialize in medication management via telehealth, using a secure platform.
I embrace a diverse practice that ranges from adolescents through older adults in all ages and areas. I enjoy helping people that have struggled to find a way to peace and happiness. Perry appreciates listening and learning about a person and building a therapeutic relationship. I work with people who have never taken medications that are new to psychiatric treatment and medication management. I specialize in medication management via telehealth, using a secure platform.
See more therapy options for Key Biscayne
Nearby Searches for Key Biscayne
- Coconut Grove
- Coral Gables
- Cutler Bay
- Doral
- Hialeah
- Kendall
- Miami
- Miami Beach
- North Miami
- Palmetto Bay
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Key Biscayne, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Key Biscayne, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Medication Management |
67% | Anxiety |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Grief |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Key Biscayne, FL see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Key Biscayne?
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.