Psychiatrists in North Port, FL
T & S Psychiatric Consulants, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Port, FL 34287
My theoretical foundational approach when it comes to providing patient care is based on a collaborative-practice approach AND a person-centered approach. Current psychiatric practice is one that is guided by evidence-based care, but with person centered care each patient has experiences in their lives that may affect the approach to treatment we may choose, this may be conflicting with current evidence. This approach may not always be easy, and I may have to integrate and adapt my approach. I hope this will help with building rapport and a lasting relationship with my patients.
My theoretical foundational approach when it comes to providing patient care is based on a collaborative-practice approach AND a person-centered approach. Current psychiatric practice is one that is guided by evidence-based care, but with person centered care each patient has experiences in their lives that may affect the approach to treatment we may choose, this may be conflicting with current evidence. This approach may not always be easy, and I may have to integrate and adapt my approach. I hope this will help with building rapport and a lasting relationship with my patients.
Peta Bezek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , APRN, BC
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34287 (Online Only)
Holistic approach to healthcare. Peta Gay Bezek APRN, PMHNP-BC is a Post Master's Certificate achiever from University of Massachusetts-Amherst where she obtained her Board Certification while enrolled in the DNP program and a Graduate of Walden University Master's of Science in Nursing Program where a Family Nurse Practitioner certification was obtained. They also worked for The Charlotte Behavioral Healthcare Outpatient Clinic for almost 7 years of her tenure while under supervision of Medical Director and Child and Adolescent Board Certified Psychiatrist. Training and Preceptorship also included Telehealth and Remote practice.
Holistic approach to healthcare. Peta Gay Bezek APRN, PMHNP-BC is a Post Master's Certificate achiever from University of Massachusetts-Amherst where she obtained her Board Certification while enrolled in the DNP program and a Graduate of Walden University Master's of Science in Nursing Program where a Family Nurse Practitioner certification was obtained. They also worked for The Charlotte Behavioral Healthcare Outpatient Clinic for almost 7 years of her tenure while under supervision of Medical Director and Child and Adolescent Board Certified Psychiatrist. Training and Preceptorship also included Telehealth and Remote practice.
Converse Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34288
Mental health challenges comes in multiple forms, trauma, stress, life changes, grief and loss. When we are faced with these issues, the goal is to find the strength and resilience to get through the darkness. There are times when this resilience is easy to find, but when it evades us, we sometimes need a guiding light to help us find our way. If you are feeling lost in the mist of darkness, let us be your light, we can get you through.
Mental health challenges comes in multiple forms, trauma, stress, life changes, grief and loss. When we are faced with these issues, the goal is to find the strength and resilience to get through the darkness. There are times when this resilience is easy to find, but when it evades us, we sometimes need a guiding light to help us find our way. If you are feeling lost in the mist of darkness, let us be your light, we can get you through.
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.
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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Rachel Morgan Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34291
Hi! My name is Rachel Morgan Williams, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Elite DNA Behavioral Health - Sarasota, with more than 16 years of psychiatric experience. My goal as a provider is to work with you to achieve optimal mental health functioning in all areas of your life. I see patients of all ages across the lifespans, including children, adults and seniors. I attended Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing, and have a Bachelors and Masters of Nursing. Services are available in-person in Sarasota and Telehealth across Florida.
Hi! My name is Rachel Morgan Williams, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Elite DNA Behavioral Health - Sarasota, with more than 16 years of psychiatric experience. My goal as a provider is to work with you to achieve optimal mental health functioning in all areas of your life. I see patients of all ages across the lifespans, including children, adults and seniors. I attended Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing, and have a Bachelors and Masters of Nursing. Services are available in-person in Sarasota and Telehealth across Florida.
Curatif Behavioral Health, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Port Charlotte, FL 33981 (Online Only)
Welcome to Curatif Behavioral Health, where your journey to emotional wealth begins. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who is licensed to treat individuals across the lifespan. Our practice treats adults who suffer with many disorders, including mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. Other disorders we treat include pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and ADHD. At Curatif, we work with you so you gain a better understanding of your disorder, along with understanding options for treatment either through medication or psychotherapy.
Welcome to Curatif Behavioral Health, where your journey to emotional wealth begins. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who is licensed to treat individuals across the lifespan. Our practice treats adults who suffer with many disorders, including mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. Other disorders we treat include pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and ADHD. At Curatif, we work with you so you gain a better understanding of your disorder, along with understanding options for treatment either through medication or psychotherapy.
With a dedicated commitment spanning 35 years in the Sarasota/Bradenton area, my unwavering mission is to deliver superlative care to children, adults, and seniors. Guided by the principle of judicious medication use, I advocate for the minimal necessary dosage, ensuring treatment aligns precisely with clinical needs. My overarching objective is to facilitate the return to and sustained maintenance of each individual's optimal level of functioning. Emphasizing a holistic approach, I integrate medications with therapy, fostering the potential for supervised tapering or discontinuation when feasible.
With a dedicated commitment spanning 35 years in the Sarasota/Bradenton area, my unwavering mission is to deliver superlative care to children, adults, and seniors. Guided by the principle of judicious medication use, I advocate for the minimal necessary dosage, ensuring treatment aligns precisely with clinical needs. My overarching objective is to facilitate the return to and sustained maintenance of each individual's optimal level of functioning. Emphasizing a holistic approach, I integrate medications with therapy, fostering the potential for supervised tapering or discontinuation when feasible.
I'm here to help my patients with whatever their mental health needs may be including anxiety, depression, stress, bi-polar, mood disorder, ADHD, focus, trauma, PTSD or other mental health needs.
I'm here to help my patients with whatever their mental health needs may be including anxiety, depression, stress, bi-polar, mood disorder, ADHD, focus, trauma, PTSD or other mental health needs.
Dr. Celeste Boyd is the Founder and CEO of Metamorphosis Psyche. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP), Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) from the University of Miami. She is licensed and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). She Possesses a Master of Arts in Developmental Psychology from Gallaudet University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Florida State University.
Dr. Celeste Boyd is the Founder and CEO of Metamorphosis Psyche. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP), Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) from the University of Miami. She is licensed and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). She Possesses a Master of Arts in Developmental Psychology from Gallaudet University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Florida State University.
Schevon Pierre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Charlotte, FL 33981 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! In Psychiatry, I learned that giving of myself, listening, caring, without judgement, was necessary to facilitate a therapeutic relationship and to help my clients heal. I have a family member who suffers with schizophrenia, so I have personal experience with the struggles of the person who suffers with mental illness. I can also empathize with the heart aches of the family who try to be supportive and often lose hope. I am grateful to be able to do what I love and make a difference in the lives of others.
Accepting New Clients! In Psychiatry, I learned that giving of myself, listening, caring, without judgement, was necessary to facilitate a therapeutic relationship and to help my clients heal. I have a family member who suffers with schizophrenia, so I have personal experience with the struggles of the person who suffers with mental illness. I can also empathize with the heart aches of the family who try to be supportive and often lose hope. I am grateful to be able to do what I love and make a difference in the lives of others.
Faith Based Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
My psychiatric career has exponentially grow in treating individuals as 3 parts beings: a mind, a body and a soul. I would like to share my deep interest and enthusiasm in becoming a part of your faith-based psychiatric care and treatment. Having had 15 plus years of experience in all aspects of psychiatric care I am eager and energetic about teaching, coaching and treating mental health issues throughout the life span. I have had wonderful testimonials about the impact that integrating faith and mental health care has had on individuals. I am eager to contribute my skills and passion to you.
My psychiatric career has exponentially grow in treating individuals as 3 parts beings: a mind, a body and a soul. I would like to share my deep interest and enthusiasm in becoming a part of your faith-based psychiatric care and treatment. Having had 15 plus years of experience in all aspects of psychiatric care I am eager and energetic about teaching, coaching and treating mental health issues throughout the life span. I have had wonderful testimonials about the impact that integrating faith and mental health care has had on individuals. I am eager to contribute my skills and passion to you.
Rebecca Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Port Charlotte, FL 33948 (Online Only)
Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms, improve daily functioning, enhance coping skills, foster self-awareness, and promote long-term mental well-being. With the incorporation of therapy and medication when necessary, individuals are empowered to actively engage in their mental health journey.
Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms, improve daily functioning, enhance coping skills, foster self-awareness, and promote long-term mental well-being. With the incorporation of therapy and medication when necessary, individuals are empowered to actively engage in their mental health journey.
Dr. Tamara Russell is a highly passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of professional experience. She earned a doctorate degree in nursing practice. She is double board certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Her experience in the field is varied and dynamic - she has worked in a variety of mental health settings including community mental health, and private clinics. As a seasoned healthcare professional, her patients can expect a holistic approach that incorporates a range of evidence-based, time-tested treatment modalities.
Dr. Tamara Russell is a highly passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of professional experience. She earned a doctorate degree in nursing practice. She is double board certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Her experience in the field is varied and dynamic - she has worked in a variety of mental health settings including community mental health, and private clinics. As a seasoned healthcare professional, her patients can expect a holistic approach that incorporates a range of evidence-based, time-tested treatment modalities.
As a psychiatric Physician Assistant, I am here to aid my patients who feel medication is needed to assist with the management of their symptoms relating to depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood swings, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar, and sleep difficulties. I currently treat patients ages 18 and up via telehealth services at our Punta Gorda, Florida location. Call or e-mail today and our caring staff will help to get you set-up with an appointment.
As a psychiatric Physician Assistant, I am here to aid my patients who feel medication is needed to assist with the management of their symptoms relating to depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood swings, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar, and sleep difficulties. I currently treat patients ages 18 and up via telehealth services at our Punta Gorda, Florida location. Call or e-mail today and our caring staff will help to get you set-up with an appointment.
Online Psychiatrists
Jason W Floyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auburndale, FL 33823
Compassionate and Empathetic Adult and Child Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Board certified, who provides evidence-based Psychiatric solutions for patients seeking to balance and normalize their mental health. Patients may be seeking help with Depression, Anxiety, Adjusting to Situational Stressors, ADHD, Bipolar D/O, recent trauma or mental health issues related to substance abuse, and others. (Not Addiction Medicine trained) Patients with the above conditions will be provided the time, care, compassion, and treatment necessary to return to a more balanced and normal state of mental health.
Compassionate and Empathetic Adult and Child Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Board certified, who provides evidence-based Psychiatric solutions for patients seeking to balance and normalize their mental health. Patients may be seeking help with Depression, Anxiety, Adjusting to Situational Stressors, ADHD, Bipolar D/O, recent trauma or mental health issues related to substance abuse, and others. (Not Addiction Medicine trained) Patients with the above conditions will be provided the time, care, compassion, and treatment necessary to return to a more balanced and normal state of mental health.
I utilize holistic and evidence-based practices to help guide individuals through difficult feelings and situations related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, personality disorders and neurocognitive disorders, such as dementia and Parkinson’s disease. I am passionate about providing high-quality mental health care to those who are suffering.
I utilize holistic and evidence-based practices to help guide individuals through difficult feelings and situations related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, personality disorders and neurocognitive disorders, such as dementia and Parkinson’s disease. I am passionate about providing high-quality mental health care to those who are suffering.
Living with mental illness is just as, if not more, challenging than living with a physical illness. We understand that just because an illness can’t be seen, that doesn’t mean it’s not there. We are empathetic to the suffering and struggles that patients with mental illness experience as even we have multiple family members who have ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD and/or PTSD. Advocating for the proper mental health treatment of our family members and patients is a priority for us as we have witnessed the profound effect successful psychiatric treatment can have on improving one’s quality of life.
Living with mental illness is just as, if not more, challenging than living with a physical illness. We understand that just because an illness can’t be seen, that doesn’t mean it’s not there. We are empathetic to the suffering and struggles that patients with mental illness experience as even we have multiple family members who have ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD and/or PTSD. Advocating for the proper mental health treatment of our family members and patients is a priority for us as we have witnessed the profound effect successful psychiatric treatment can have on improving one’s quality of life.
If you have been struggling to find balance with your mental health. If you feel like the treatments / medications you are currently taking are not working, please let me help you. You DO NOT have to walk this road alone. If you are looking for a provider that will ensure a safe, judgement free environment, that offers realistic, effective treatment solutions you are in the right place. Together, we can work to explore your challenges, and set goals to help you function at your best. I especially enjoy working with medical professionals, veterans, and first responders, who experience unique challenges related to their occupation.
If you have been struggling to find balance with your mental health. If you feel like the treatments / medications you are currently taking are not working, please let me help you. You DO NOT have to walk this road alone. If you are looking for a provider that will ensure a safe, judgement free environment, that offers realistic, effective treatment solutions you are in the right place. Together, we can work to explore your challenges, and set goals to help you function at your best. I especially enjoy working with medical professionals, veterans, and first responders, who experience unique challenges related to their occupation.
Life can be difficult. Are you feeling down? Having trouble sleeping? Is it difficult to focus and complete tasks? Are you lonely? Do you feel like a failure? Are your racing thoughts keeping you up at night? Are you sick of the side effects your medications are giving you? Does your provider genuinely care about you and spend enough time with you? Does your Doctor's office pick up the phone or return your calls? Do you feel like you need expert guidance on your current situation? Are you curious if there is better care out there?
Life can be difficult. Are you feeling down? Having trouble sleeping? Is it difficult to focus and complete tasks? Are you lonely? Do you feel like a failure? Are your racing thoughts keeping you up at night? Are you sick of the side effects your medications are giving you? Does your provider genuinely care about you and spend enough time with you? Does your Doctor's office pick up the phone or return your calls? Do you feel like you need expert guidance on your current situation? Are you curious if there is better care out there?
See more therapy options for North Port
Nearby Searches for North Port
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in North Port, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in North Port, FL who prioritize treating:
80% | Depression |
80% | Anxiety |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Grief |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Emotional Disturbance |
80% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | Medicare |
60% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in North Port, FL see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in North Port?
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.