Psychiatrists in Naples, FL
![Photo of Shelley Butler, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf131596-cf5d-470c-8439-0d55279cabdc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shelley Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110
Hello! I am a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner treating patients throughout Florida. I comprehensively assess each person's individual needs. I am a compassionate provider, practicing by the Golden Rule. I provide a safe, trusting, caring environment where patients feel heard, understood, and comfortable sharing their experiences without fear of judgement. I work collaboratively with patients and families in developing their personalized treatment plans and providing them with the skills they need to build their best lives. I believe in providing patients with education, coping skills, and personal empowerment to succeed.
Hello! I am a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner treating patients throughout Florida. I comprehensively assess each person's individual needs. I am a compassionate provider, practicing by the Golden Rule. I provide a safe, trusting, caring environment where patients feel heard, understood, and comfortable sharing their experiences without fear of judgement. I work collaboratively with patients and families in developing their personalized treatment plans and providing them with the skills they need to build their best lives. I believe in providing patients with education, coping skills, and personal empowerment to succeed.
![Photo of Dr. Harvey Shapiro, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97a269ea-2802-4728-9b6f-4713328ba0b2/2/320x400.png)
There are times when no matter how hard we try, it is more difficult to face a problem.
There are times when no matter how hard we try, it is more difficult to face a problem.
![Photo of Michelle Dion, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e18243d-4a71-45ca-9c6b-e5d75ab0aa40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Dion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34117 (Online Only)
Hi! I have only been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for 1.5 years however I have 27 years of nursing experience in multiple areas.
Hi! I have only been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for 1.5 years however I have 27 years of nursing experience in multiple areas.
![Photo of Monteena Hackett Lane - Empathy Care, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db85b8af-f7e1-457f-a645-375e78864c6f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Empathy Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34114 (Online Only)
Monteena Lane, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, is a fervent advocate for mental health, dedicated to providing comprehensive care to individuals across the lifespan. With extensive qualifications including a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Monteena excels in education, advocacy, and therapy within her field. She tirelessly champions the destigmatization of mental illness while advocating for evidence-based practices, employing a patient-centered approach to therapy that integrates clinical expertise with the latest research.
Monteena Lane, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, is a fervent advocate for mental health, dedicated to providing comprehensive care to individuals across the lifespan. With extensive qualifications including a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Monteena excels in education, advocacy, and therapy within her field. She tirelessly champions the destigmatization of mental illness while advocating for evidence-based practices, employing a patient-centered approach to therapy that integrates clinical expertise with the latest research.
![Photo of Robert Walter Hamm, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14058fd1-3140-499b-a65b-42bfcbf45219/2/320x400.jpeg)
Through supportive therapy and medication management, I treat mental health disorders. My goal is to help people take back control over their lives, in order to feel more stable, empowered, and satisfied.
Through supportive therapy and medication management, I treat mental health disorders. My goal is to help people take back control over their lives, in order to feel more stable, empowered, and satisfied.
![Photo of Brent Lovett, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ae4ee77-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brent Lovett, MD is board certified in general psychiatry as well as child and adolescent psychiatry and has experience in a variety of clinical settings including private practice, community mental health and military medicine. He specializes in the treatment mood, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health conditions.
Brent Lovett, MD is board certified in general psychiatry as well as child and adolescent psychiatry and has experience in a variety of clinical settings including private practice, community mental health and military medicine. He specializes in the treatment mood, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health conditions.
![Photo of William DeWolf - Advanced Psychiatric Health - Naples, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/924d8b55-4815-4147-b0fc-01bde04e5e08/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. William (Bill) DeWolf is a distinguished psychiatrist who has dedicated his career to helping patients overcome complex mental health conditions by leveraging the latest advances in psychiatric interventions. He specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, substance use disorder, and OCD.
Dr. William (Bill) DeWolf is a distinguished psychiatrist who has dedicated his career to helping patients overcome complex mental health conditions by leveraging the latest advances in psychiatric interventions. He specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, substance use disorder, and OCD.
![Photo of Marcos Moreno, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b55a4c0e-7423-4f4a-8bdb-4fca31bc4c00/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my ideal client is someone who is navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, or trauma and is seeking a compassionate, evidence-based approach to mental health care. They may feel overwhelmed, lost, or stuck and are looking for a partner in their journey toward healing. Their needs include a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions, practical tools to manage their symptoms, and personalized treatment plans that align with their unique goals.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my ideal client is someone who is navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, or trauma and is seeking a compassionate, evidence-based approach to mental health care. They may feel overwhelmed, lost, or stuck and are looking for a partner in their journey toward healing. Their needs include a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions, practical tools to manage their symptoms, and personalized treatment plans that align with their unique goals.
![Photo of Melanie Orben, FNP, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ae7bf6d-ad0d-4739-8798-2b63ce9e7705/1/320x400.png)
I am dual board certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric nurse practitioner. This allows me to look at the whole picture of both mental health and overall wellness. Integrative psychiatry where we do genetic testing and lab work to be able to find the right medications for you, as well as make sure we are not missing anything organic such as thyroid or hormones.
I am dual board certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric nurse practitioner. This allows me to look at the whole picture of both mental health and overall wellness. Integrative psychiatry where we do genetic testing and lab work to be able to find the right medications for you, as well as make sure we are not missing anything organic such as thyroid or hormones.
![Photo of Mary A Ravelo, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1645745-8a23-402d-b73e-888e3c135a3b/2/320x400.png)
My name is Mary A Ravelo MD after more than 25 years doing mostly inpatient and emergency adult and geriatric psychiatrist i decided to do private practice for those that need me the most the elderly with cognitive problems , all types of Dementia and their complications and many other neurological illness that affect our emotions and our life like Parkinson’s disease , while trying to find a balance of improving our minds and health with the least amount of medications while taken care of the body as a whole , i also have high interest in helping elder with parkinson or ant dementia with more effective medications now.
My name is Mary A Ravelo MD after more than 25 years doing mostly inpatient and emergency adult and geriatric psychiatrist i decided to do private practice for those that need me the most the elderly with cognitive problems , all types of Dementia and their complications and many other neurological illness that affect our emotions and our life like Parkinson’s disease , while trying to find a balance of improving our minds and health with the least amount of medications while taken care of the body as a whole , i also have high interest in helping elder with parkinson or ant dementia with more effective medications now.
![Photo of Galia Torres, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae2b4ba8-1aaa-4f03-a1bd-d3848e8a2070/3/320x400.jpeg)
Galia Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34103
Whether genetics, circumstances, or behaviors have destabilized your mental health, we can work together towards wellness. I will help you do so holistically and nonjudgmentally. I offer a combination of testing, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions to help you reach your goals. I value and engage fully with my clients. Our sessions will be empowering, solution-focused, empathetic, and creative.
Whether genetics, circumstances, or behaviors have destabilized your mental health, we can work together towards wellness. I will help you do so holistically and nonjudgmentally. I offer a combination of testing, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions to help you reach your goals. I value and engage fully with my clients. Our sessions will be empowering, solution-focused, empathetic, and creative.
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![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Dr. Gundu Reddy, Online Psychiatrist in Naples, FL, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3317eeff-69bf-47b9-bf7d-09ec40920177/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gundu Reddy, Online Psychiatrist in Naples, FL
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34104 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Emily Williams, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6827c9f-d182-4004-9571-ef8a61f37cb3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Williams is board certified in adult psychiatry, as well as child and adolescent psychiatry, and has experience in private practice and community mental health settings. She uses a whole-person approach to best meet the needs of her patients and help each patient achieve their individual treatment goals. She enjoys working with patients and their families and is committed to providing comprehensive psychiatric care. Dr. Williams is trained in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy and is available to see patients for both in-person and telehealth appointments.
Dr. Williams is board certified in adult psychiatry, as well as child and adolescent psychiatry, and has experience in private practice and community mental health settings. She uses a whole-person approach to best meet the needs of her patients and help each patient achieve their individual treatment goals. She enjoys working with patients and their families and is committed to providing comprehensive psychiatric care. Dr. Williams is trained in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy and is available to see patients for both in-person and telehealth appointments.
![Photo of Aileen Feldman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5de8cdc-5c2d-46dd-be6b-c29d458674aa/1/320x400.png)
I am a seasoned psychiatrist with over 40 years of experience in Psychiatry: With special focus on Women's Health, Geriatric Disorders,OCD, ADHD, Mood Disorder, Anxiety, and Panic Disorder . Renowned my expertise in diagnosis and treatment, I make comprehensive assessments and collaborate closely with patient's therapists to ensure a holistic care.
I am a seasoned psychiatrist with over 40 years of experience in Psychiatry: With special focus on Women's Health, Geriatric Disorders,OCD, ADHD, Mood Disorder, Anxiety, and Panic Disorder . Renowned my expertise in diagnosis and treatment, I make comprehensive assessments and collaborate closely with patient's therapists to ensure a holistic care.
Psychiatry of Naples
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MEd
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34102
Octavia Deuschle, PMHNP is board certified in general psychiatry and has over two decades in mental health. Her experience spans a variety of clinical settings including private practice, community mental health and pharmaceutical research trials. She specializes in the treatment of mood, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health conditions, and retains privileges with Park Royal Hospital. Additionally, Ms. Deuschle has significant experience in treating patients with co-occurring disorders. In her private practice she sees adults, teens and families for medication management and psychotherapy.
Octavia Deuschle, PMHNP is board certified in general psychiatry and has over two decades in mental health. Her experience spans a variety of clinical settings including private practice, community mental health and pharmaceutical research trials. She specializes in the treatment of mood, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health conditions, and retains privileges with Park Royal Hospital. Additionally, Ms. Deuschle has significant experience in treating patients with co-occurring disorders. In her private practice she sees adults, teens and families for medication management and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Jo Ortiz, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12d5c159-7bb2-4100-b9f3-b160cb79be4c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jo Ortiz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34103
Hello and welcome! I'm Jo Ortiz and It's truly a pleasure to meet you. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Phoenix Behavioral Group, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and expert care for those navigating the complexities of mental health. With a commitment to empowering individuals towards improved well-being, I'm here to support your journey with understanding, expertise, and empathy. Serving the vibrant communities of Florida with bilingual services in English and Spanish, I strive to create a space where everyone feels welcome and valued.
Hello and welcome! I'm Jo Ortiz and It's truly a pleasure to meet you. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Phoenix Behavioral Group, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and expert care for those navigating the complexities of mental health. With a commitment to empowering individuals towards improved well-being, I'm here to support your journey with understanding, expertise, and empathy. Serving the vibrant communities of Florida with bilingual services in English and Spanish, I strive to create a space where everyone feels welcome and valued.
![Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3322b97d-3087-498a-9371-5cb752589938/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Nicole A Millich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34104
Specializing in child, adolescent, and young adult mental health care, including full medication management.
Specializing in child, adolescent, and young adult mental health care, including full medication management.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8bea1dc-f08d-42d1-9442-4edf5b622935/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34116
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9f96de2-f659-489b-8130-5ffd7ee323b9/1/320x400.png)
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Naples, FL
50+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Naples, FL who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
86% | ADHD |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Medication Management |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | Aetna |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Naples, FL see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Naples?
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.