Psychiatrists in Montverde, FL
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.
Are you feeling down or out of energy? Finding it hard to enjoy life? Always on edge or nervous? Maybe you’re overwhelmed to the point you can’t eat, sleep, or get things finished. Perhaps you’re feeling lonely and isolated? I can help. I’m Dr. Sidawi, and I’m a University of Florida trained, board certified psychiatrist who will spend the time necessary to make sure you feel your problems are understood. I provide my patients concierge levels of access by answering all calls and messages personally, and strive to maintain privacy by protecting your mental health information from automatically being shared with insurance bureaus.
Are you feeling down or out of energy? Finding it hard to enjoy life? Always on edge or nervous? Maybe you’re overwhelmed to the point you can’t eat, sleep, or get things finished. Perhaps you’re feeling lonely and isolated? I can help. I’m Dr. Sidawi, and I’m a University of Florida trained, board certified psychiatrist who will spend the time necessary to make sure you feel your problems are understood. I provide my patients concierge levels of access by answering all calls and messages personally, and strive to maintain privacy by protecting your mental health information from automatically being shared with insurance bureaus.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
Jake Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Minneola, FL 34715
The ideal client is someone motivated to learn how to tackle their mental health issues in a holistic approach. They may have difficulty navigating life transitions, dealing with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit issues. They are looking for an integrative approach to their mental health care, one that includes medications, supplements, and coaching. They want a comprehensive approach that may additional testings to fully understand the root of their issues.
The ideal client is someone motivated to learn how to tackle their mental health issues in a holistic approach. They may have difficulty navigating life transitions, dealing with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit issues. They are looking for an integrative approach to their mental health care, one that includes medications, supplements, and coaching. They want a comprehensive approach that may additional testings to fully understand the root of their issues.
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.
Kris Haukoos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
48 Endorsed
Clermont, FL 34711 (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.
Willem M Limage
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Verified Verified
Winter Garden, FL 34787 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and hold a Master’s degree in nursing from Florida International University (FIU).
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and hold a Master’s degree in nursing from Florida International University (FIU).
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
Good Shepherd Psychiatric & Medical Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clermont, FL 34711 (Online Only)
At Good Shepherd Psychiatric & Medical Center, we believe health is not just the absence of disease, but a state of immense vitality. Our mission is to help you feel better, live longer, and become the best possible you! We tailor a unique approach to best serve each needs and goals. Our clinicians are Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Family Nurse Practitioners and License Clinical Social Workers. Our services are designed for individuals who prefer to receive psychiatric care, Primary Medical Care, and Counseling services in Assisted Living Facilities, Nursing Home Facilities, or via telehealth.
At Good Shepherd Psychiatric & Medical Center, we believe health is not just the absence of disease, but a state of immense vitality. Our mission is to help you feel better, live longer, and become the best possible you! We tailor a unique approach to best serve each needs and goals. Our clinicians are Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Family Nurse Practitioners and License Clinical Social Workers. Our services are designed for individuals who prefer to receive psychiatric care, Primary Medical Care, and Counseling services in Assisted Living Facilities, Nursing Home Facilities, or via telehealth.
Transformation Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Veteran
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Garden, FL 34787
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Florida! Are you feeling forgetful, unable to concentrate or easily distracted? Are you finding it hard to get out of bed, lack motivation, feel tearful or sad? Do you find it hard to fall asleep or wake up multiple times during the night making you feel uber tired the next day? Have you experienced trauma that sends your anxiety through the roof? Then it might be time to seek help. Remember, it's okay not to be okay. I will respond to your email within 48 hours. If you don't see an email from me, please don't forget to check your SPAM folder.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Florida! Are you feeling forgetful, unable to concentrate or easily distracted? Are you finding it hard to get out of bed, lack motivation, feel tearful or sad? Do you find it hard to fall asleep or wake up multiple times during the night making you feel uber tired the next day? Have you experienced trauma that sends your anxiety through the roof? Then it might be time to seek help. Remember, it's okay not to be okay. I will respond to your email within 48 hours. If you don't see an email from me, please don't forget to check your SPAM folder.
Elecia Trowers is a Board-Certified Adult, Child, and, Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Science Nursing Degree at The University of South Florida in 2016, she then went on to completing her Master of Science Nursing Degree at The University of Alabama Birmingham in 2019. She completed her psychiatric internship at Florida Behavioral Medicine, Lakeland Regional Health, and, Yantra Psychiatric Services. Elecia's professional background includes surgical transplant nursing, cardio thoracic nursing, she is also a proud nurse leader and continues to practice cardio thoracic nursing at the bedside.
Elecia Trowers is a Board-Certified Adult, Child, and, Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Science Nursing Degree at The University of South Florida in 2016, she then went on to completing her Master of Science Nursing Degree at The University of Alabama Birmingham in 2019. She completed her psychiatric internship at Florida Behavioral Medicine, Lakeland Regional Health, and, Yantra Psychiatric Services. Elecia's professional background includes surgical transplant nursing, cardio thoracic nursing, she is also a proud nurse leader and continues to practice cardio thoracic nursing at the bedside.
Dr. Sherin Parvez is an experienced psychiatrist who specializes in adult mental health diagnosis & treatment. She is up to date with the current cutting edge advancements in the medical field of Psychiatry. She seamlessly combines her training & experience into her practice. Dr. Parvez has more than 10 years of experience in the medical field, which includes her work in Internal Medicine, ObGyn, NeuroPsych, and General Psychiatry. She finished her residency at the University of Missouri, School of Medicine, Columbia.
Dr. Sherin Parvez is an experienced psychiatrist who specializes in adult mental health diagnosis & treatment. She is up to date with the current cutting edge advancements in the medical field of Psychiatry. She seamlessly combines her training & experience into her practice. Dr. Parvez has more than 10 years of experience in the medical field, which includes her work in Internal Medicine, ObGyn, NeuroPsych, and General Psychiatry. She finished her residency at the University of Missouri, School of Medicine, Columbia.
Dr. Sharon A Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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.
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.
Dr. Sarah Blizzard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Clermont, FL 34711
I am a nurse practitioner who is board certified in both family practice and psychiatric mental health. I have been in practice for 28 years as both a registered nurse and a nurse practitioner. I have extensive experience in psychiatric mental health, emergency medicine. I specialize in treating patients with anxiety, depression, substance abuse/dependence, OCD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and more. My philosophy of care is to treat every patient as if they were my family. Although I specialize in medication management, I also believe in the "whole person" approach to psychiatry, body, mind, and spirit.
I am a nurse practitioner who is board certified in both family practice and psychiatric mental health. I have been in practice for 28 years as both a registered nurse and a nurse practitioner. I have extensive experience in psychiatric mental health, emergency medicine. I specialize in treating patients with anxiety, depression, substance abuse/dependence, OCD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and more. My philosophy of care is to treat every patient as if they were my family. Although I specialize in medication management, I also believe in the "whole person" approach to psychiatry, body, mind, and spirit.
Facing mental health challenges or looking for ongoing care? Need an evaluation or seeking a second opinion? We’re here to collaborate with you in crafting a personalized plan to address your unique needs. We often keep appointment spots saved for same-day or next-day appointments, and you can meet with your provider through convenient telehealth services.
Facing mental health challenges or looking for ongoing care? Need an evaluation or seeking a second opinion? We’re here to collaborate with you in crafting a personalized plan to address your unique needs. We often keep appointment spots saved for same-day or next-day appointments, and you can meet with your provider through convenient telehealth services.
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.
A board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, Ms. Carolann Brooks is humble and caring. She is currently employed at Life Stance Health Celebration, FL location. Patients visit her for a variety of concerns involving mood disorders, anxiety, adhd, psychiatry consultations, and medication management. Ms. Brooks earned her bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida. She pursued her master's degree in counselor education from Florida Polytechnic University and another master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University.
A board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, Ms. Carolann Brooks is humble and caring. She is currently employed at Life Stance Health Celebration, FL location. Patients visit her for a variety of concerns involving mood disorders, anxiety, adhd, psychiatry consultations, and medication management. Ms. Brooks earned her bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida. She pursued her master's degree in counselor education from Florida Polytechnic University and another master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University.
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.
I have an extensive history working with individuals who struggle with substance abuse, mood disorders and trauma. As a prescriber of psychiatric medications, I understand that it is critical that we start low and go slow. You are the decision maker and I'm your expert advisor. I promise to give you the time you need to fully discuss your concerns and ask all your questions. Only through understanding your unique situation can I provide you with the care you deserve.
I have an extensive history working with individuals who struggle with substance abuse, mood disorders and trauma. As a prescriber of psychiatric medications, I understand that it is critical that we start low and go slow. You are the decision maker and I'm your expert advisor. I promise to give you the time you need to fully discuss your concerns and ask all your questions. Only through understanding your unique situation can I provide you with the care you deserve.
See more therapy options for Montverde
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Montverde, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Montverde, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BHS | Behavioral Health Systems |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in Montverde, FL see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Montverde?
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.