Psychiatrists in Lake County, FL
![Photo of Cindy M Jean-Pierre - Solace Virtual Psychiatric Care, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2aa3ab0e-d8e9-47fc-bb97-01791706fe4a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Solace Virtual Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clermont, FL 34714
Not accepting new clients
The purpose and intent of my practice, Solace Virtual Psychiatric Care, is to use my knowledge and skill set to inspire you to begin building your most optimal life. At Solace, we strive to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for learning and practicing the tools to respond to life’s challenges.
The purpose and intent of my practice, Solace Virtual Psychiatric Care, is to use my knowledge and skill set to inspire you to begin building your most optimal life. At Solace, we strive to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for learning and practicing the tools to respond to life’s challenges.
![Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d77d9e77-9508-4a14-8370-4a70896d2769/2/320x400.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.
![Photo of Edeline Dardignac - Optimum Care Clinic, MSN, APRN, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3aa9f3da-2418-41c7-afe2-075a6185a184/1/320x400.jpeg)
Optimum Care Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP
Verified Verified
Montverde, FL 34756
Clients can expect customized treatment tailored to meet their specific mental health condition. Collaborative care, promoting always a safe, comfortable environment that empowers clients to share without hesitation or reservation. My goal is to assist every client to achieve optimum results, tangible goals, which vary among clients.
Clients can expect customized treatment tailored to meet their specific mental health condition. Collaborative care, promoting always a safe, comfortable environment that empowers clients to share without hesitation or reservation. My goal is to assist every client to achieve optimum results, tangible goals, which vary among clients.
![Photo of Janet Walker, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e931e884-8763-4cbf-b971-69d7f7b8f00f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Janet works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Janet believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Janet works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Janet believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
![Photo of Gravil Joseph - Alina Community Center at Mount Dora LlC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be59b877-f89e-4b42-ae93-6a24f05c34a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alina Community Center at Mount Dora LlC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Mount Dora, FL 32757
Alina Community Center is committed to providing exceptional patient care to anyone who needs Mental Health or Family Medical Services. We are Licensed & Certified by The State of Florida Agency for Health Care Administration. Alina Community Center ensures that all residents of Florida receive a high standard quality of care by showing compassion and respect and holding every member of our team to an even higher standard of expertise. Our goal is to understand and meet the healthcare needs of both current residents and the growing population of Florida while staying true to our mission
Alina Community Center is committed to providing exceptional patient care to anyone who needs Mental Health or Family Medical Services. We are Licensed & Certified by The State of Florida Agency for Health Care Administration. Alina Community Center ensures that all residents of Florida receive a high standard quality of care by showing compassion and respect and holding every member of our team to an even higher standard of expertise. Our goal is to understand and meet the healthcare needs of both current residents and the growing population of Florida while staying true to our mission
![Photo of Julie Davisson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a65925d-0778-494e-89ef-fbf588366da7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Davisson is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in that capacity since 2020. She started in nursing in 2007 after receiving her BSN from George Mason University in Fairfax, Va. Julie returned to earn her Master of Science in nursing from Marymount University in Arlington, VA in 2013. After working several years as a family nurse practitioner, she became most interested in helping patients suffering from psychiatric illnesses. In 2020, she earned a post-graduate certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Shenandoah University in Winchester, Va.
Julie Davisson is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in that capacity since 2020. She started in nursing in 2007 after receiving her BSN from George Mason University in Fairfax, Va. Julie returned to earn her Master of Science in nursing from Marymount University in Arlington, VA in 2013. After working several years as a family nurse practitioner, she became most interested in helping patients suffering from psychiatric illnesses. In 2020, she earned a post-graduate certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Shenandoah University in Winchester, Va.
![Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30bbe3e0-ac98-4f6c-ac94-dcabbc44bd8b/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.
![Photo of Erika Cortes - Verdant Health LLC, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af0b071f-023e-42af-800d-7c871cdd92cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Verdant Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Clermont, FL 34712 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My name is Erika Cortes, I am a bilingual nurse practitioner who specializes in psychiatric mental health and can provide same day telehealth consultation, late nights and weekends. Visit my website to make a free 15 minute 'meet and great'. I have practiced in family health, hospital setting, geriatric rehab and other medical specialties. I have a master’s degree as a family nurse practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner masters.
My name is Erika Cortes, I am a bilingual nurse practitioner who specializes in psychiatric mental health and can provide same day telehealth consultation, late nights and weekends. Visit my website to make a free 15 minute 'meet and great'. I have practiced in family health, hospital setting, geriatric rehab and other medical specialties. I have a master’s degree as a family nurse practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner masters.
![Photo of Dr. Sharon A Walker, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94900629-4c78-413b-93b3-5057b77f903d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sharon A Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Clermont, FL 34711
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, it will be my goal to provide my clients with integrative care of the mind, body, and spirit and to advocate for clients who struggle to be heard and understood, and to manage their treatment with empathy and compassion.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, it will be my goal to provide my clients with integrative care of the mind, body, and spirit and to advocate for clients who struggle to be heard and understood, and to manage their treatment with empathy and compassion.
![Photo of Tysam Beckett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c636d2e7-a0b2-42e3-8594-5e21312cf77c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tysam Beckett is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing. She is credentialed as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) "“ Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Tysam can provide assessment, diagnosis and medication for mental health conditions or substance use disorders. Tysam believes in providing a holistic, evidence-based treatment plan for her patients.
Tysam Beckett is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing. She is credentialed as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) "“ Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Tysam can provide assessment, diagnosis and medication for mental health conditions or substance use disorders. Tysam believes in providing a holistic, evidence-based treatment plan for her patients.
![Photo of Yvonka S Williams - Psych Mind Solutions , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6e1b799-f8e1-4b3a-8324-6ced519b52f9/2/320x400.png)
Psych Mind Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eustis, FL 32726
Meet Yvonka Williams! She is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She has several years of experience treating mental health conditions. She specializes in depression, anxiety, weight management, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more. She can help you find the right medication that works for YOU! She provides medication management, emotional support, and interpersonal therapy. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care.
Meet Yvonka Williams! She is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She has several years of experience treating mental health conditions. She specializes in depression, anxiety, weight management, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more. She can help you find the right medication that works for YOU! She provides medication management, emotional support, and interpersonal therapy. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care.
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![Photo of Keisha Gordon-Primus, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11dbfaab-98e2-4214-b72b-e83b07e0104a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Keisha Gordon-Primus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eustis, FL 32726 (Online Only)
Hello, I am a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) serving adults who are struggling with mental anguish. I see clients 18 years of age and older for psychotropic medication management and brief interpersonal therapy. I do not believe in prescribing or treating in a "one size fits all" fashion. I value input and feedback from my patients, educating them on the intricacies of the mental health system and advocating for their recovery from a patient-centered approach. I am comfortable working with patients from all backgrounds.
Hello, I am a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) serving adults who are struggling with mental anguish. I see clients 18 years of age and older for psychotropic medication management and brief interpersonal therapy. I do not believe in prescribing or treating in a "one size fits all" fashion. I value input and feedback from my patients, educating them on the intricacies of the mental health system and advocating for their recovery from a patient-centered approach. I am comfortable working with patients from all backgrounds.
![Photo of Roberto Gouthman, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9adc962f-5d44-450f-8d04-b0a0f587d0e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist, I am not only focused on treatment but also on prevention and education. I believe in empowering patients with knowledge about their conditions and involving them actively in their treatment plans. This collaborative approach builds trust and encourages patients to take an active role in their mental health journey. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with diverse populations, from children and adolescents to adults and the elderly. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the various ways mental health issues manifest across different life stages and cultural contexts.
As a psychiatrist, I am not only focused on treatment but also on prevention and education. I believe in empowering patients with knowledge about their conditions and involving them actively in their treatment plans. This collaborative approach builds trust and encourages patients to take an active role in their mental health journey. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with diverse populations, from children and adolescents to adults and the elderly. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the various ways mental health issues manifest across different life stages and cultural contexts.
![Photo of Valentine Anyiam, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90bae3e9-17e8-4ced-b35d-7a1f8206f7a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Valentine Anyiam, MD Valentine Anyiam is a Psychiatrist in Florida who has been practicing since 2018. Valentine believes in a treatment philosophy that strives for complete resolution of a patients symptoms. In his spare time, Valentine enjoys rock climbing, basketball, martial arts, watching movies, learning languages, and reading.
Valentine Anyiam, MD Valentine Anyiam is a Psychiatrist in Florida who has been practicing since 2018. Valentine believes in a treatment philosophy that strives for complete resolution of a patients symptoms. In his spare time, Valentine enjoys rock climbing, basketball, martial arts, watching movies, learning languages, and reading.
![Photo of Veona P Sinanon, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/241a3ec2-44c9-4fda-ae22-d8b549700a6d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veona P Sinanon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lady Lake, FL 32159 (Online Only)
When envisioning my ideal client, I see someone who is courageous and committed to their journey of mental health and well-being. My ideal client recognizes the importance of seeking support and is ready to engage in the therapeutic process with openness and honesty. Their issues may vary, ranging from anxiety and depression to more complex psychiatric conditions. However, what sets them apart is their willingness to confront these challenges head-on and work towards positive change.
When envisioning my ideal client, I see someone who is courageous and committed to their journey of mental health and well-being. My ideal client recognizes the importance of seeking support and is ready to engage in the therapeutic process with openness and honesty. Their issues may vary, ranging from anxiety and depression to more complex psychiatric conditions. However, what sets them apart is their willingness to confront these challenges head-on and work towards positive change.
![Photo of Stacy Felix, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9aa3c32e-0241-439c-9ad2-42199f61cd71/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have an extensive history working with veterans and, as a provider my goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of the patients, their families and communities I serve. I strive to build a therapeutic relationship and provide holistic care of the mind, body, and spirit for those who have entrusted me with their care. It's an honor and privilege to serve the needs of those who may be struggling. I will walk with you on your journey and devote myself to helping you achieve optimal results.
I have an extensive history working with veterans and, as a provider my goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of the patients, their families and communities I serve. I strive to build a therapeutic relationship and provide holistic care of the mind, body, and spirit for those who have entrusted me with their care. It's an honor and privilege to serve the needs of those who may be struggling. I will walk with you on your journey and devote myself to helping you achieve optimal results.
![Photo of Kris Haukoos, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44905e28-629f-4114-8dc5-96fc5a6e7296/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kris Haukoos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
50 Endorsed
Mount Dora, FL 32757 (Online Only)
I love working with clients in various stages of their life. Our mental health needs change depending on where we are in life and sometimes you can feel like you've lost your way. I see children, teens, college students, and adults. Additionally, I provide care for expectant and postpartum mothers. I am experienced in the treatment of depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and behavioral issues like oppositional defiant disorder.
I love working with clients in various stages of their life. Our mental health needs change depending on where we are in life and sometimes you can feel like you've lost your way. I see children, teens, college students, and adults. Additionally, I provide care for expectant and postpartum mothers. I am experienced in the treatment of depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and behavioral issues like oppositional defiant disorder.
![Photo of Natasha Vernon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a6f093b-826b-44ac-9e4a-9fc74fca5e4b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natasha Vernon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Dora, FL 32757
She has over 10 years of nursing experience in various specialties within the medical field. Throughout her career, she has treated a variety of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, and other psychiatric disorders. She is truly passionate about providing care for people suffering with mental illness.
She has over 10 years of nursing experience in various specialties within the medical field. Throughout her career, she has treated a variety of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, and other psychiatric disorders. She is truly passionate about providing care for people suffering with mental illness.
![Photo of Amy Bockelkamp, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69cfcffc-89ac-4a5d-974d-fdd70126e32c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Bockelkamp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clermont, FL 34711
NP Care Clinic specializes in diagnosing and managing psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar II, ADHD, and binge eating disorder. Our focus areas include mental health for organ transplant patient recipient families, infertility (for both men and women), fibromyalgia, rheumatology, and college-age populations.
NP Care Clinic specializes in diagnosing and managing psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar II, ADHD, and binge eating disorder. Our focus areas include mental health for organ transplant patient recipient families, infertility (for both men and women), fibromyalgia, rheumatology, and college-age populations.
![Photo of Kelly Spence, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63007ce1-a1df-444d-8428-11c7ce88855f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Graduated UTSW and completed internal medicine/psychiatry residency at KUMC. Double boarded in internal medicine and psychiatry.
Graduated UTSW and completed internal medicine/psychiatry residency at KUMC. Double boarded in internal medicine and psychiatry.
See more therapy options for Lake County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lake County, FL
40+
Average cost per session
$187
Psychiatrists in Lake County, FL who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
91% | Anxiety |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | ADHD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
90% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
88% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Lake County, FL see their clients
81% | In Person and Online | |
19% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lake County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.