Psychiatrists in Ormond Beach, FL
![Photo of Marcia Oliver, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/437ac7d4-9779-4d87-9f0d-0172cfbf594a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marcia Oliver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Ormond Beach, FL 32176 (Online Only)
Get crystal clear about your symptoms and how they are affecting your life. I support ambitious adults with ADHD and other mental health conditions, who are frustrated with feeling stuck & scattered in their professional & personal lives. I've worked with 100s of clients who show up hating themselves because their brain keeps getting in the way of their ambitions, and they end up feeling like a failure. After working with me, my clients are able to replace self-doubt and stress, with enhanced focus and confidence, empowering them to pursue and accomplish their life goals and make the impact they've always wanted to make!
Get crystal clear about your symptoms and how they are affecting your life. I support ambitious adults with ADHD and other mental health conditions, who are frustrated with feeling stuck & scattered in their professional & personal lives. I've worked with 100s of clients who show up hating themselves because their brain keeps getting in the way of their ambitions, and they end up feeling like a failure. After working with me, my clients are able to replace self-doubt and stress, with enhanced focus and confidence, empowering them to pursue and accomplish their life goals and make the impact they've always wanted to make!
![Photo of Julie Baker - Florida Counseling Network, MEd, CAP, CGAC, CET, SAP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5087d49a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Florida Counseling Network
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MEd, CAP, CGAC, CET, SAP
Verified Verified
Ormond Beach, FL 32174
Florida Counseling Network, LLC (FCN) is a rapidly growing agency providing a service delivery system in which behavioral health care is coordinated with medical care. We offer a wide array of on-site services, including evaluation and medication management, individual counseling, group counseling, and case-management. We also provide linkage to on-site cardiology, nephrology, and dental services.
Florida Counseling Network, LLC (FCN) is a rapidly growing agency providing a service delivery system in which behavioral health care is coordinated with medical care. We offer a wide array of on-site services, including evaluation and medication management, individual counseling, group counseling, and case-management. We also provide linkage to on-site cardiology, nephrology, and dental services.
![Photo of Tarek Aly, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f74e9f7-6b27-4f7e-9676-f19394deee62/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe medicine and mental health can be both evidence-based and practical. It’s easy to look around and get frustrated with the “medicine first” mentality- a quick fix to treating the complexities of psychiatric diagnoses. I take a conservative but evidence- based approach to medication management with the belief that the path to better mental health and functioning is a mosaic- a multidisciplinary approach including lifestyle changes, therapy, and pharmacological management when appropriate. Please visit mosaicpsychiatry.com for more info -
I believe medicine and mental health can be both evidence-based and practical. It’s easy to look around and get frustrated with the “medicine first” mentality- a quick fix to treating the complexities of psychiatric diagnoses. I take a conservative but evidence- based approach to medication management with the belief that the path to better mental health and functioning is a mosaic- a multidisciplinary approach including lifestyle changes, therapy, and pharmacological management when appropriate. Please visit mosaicpsychiatry.com for more info -
![Photo of Tolu Oduyejo-Williams - HavenNexus Family Psychiatry, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f051d99-7db3-44af-91ea-fffed353cef0/1/320x400.png)
HavenNexus Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ormond Beach, FL 32175
At HavenNexus Family Psychiatry, we utilize an integrative and personalized approach to assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients across the lifespan with medication management, starting from age 6 to adulthood. Each patient's treatment plan is individualized as there is no one size fits all. We are open 7 days a week to accommodate patient's needs and motivate patients to play an active role in their journey towards mental wellness.
At HavenNexus Family Psychiatry, we utilize an integrative and personalized approach to assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients across the lifespan with medication management, starting from age 6 to adulthood. Each patient's treatment plan is individualized as there is no one size fits all. We are open 7 days a week to accommodate patient's needs and motivate patients to play an active role in their journey towards mental wellness.
![Photo of Dr. Jared T. Ritter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1f94b1a-d1dd-452c-852e-cd556665b66c/1/320x400.png)
My patients start with a goal for their brain health. This is one of the most important steps in getting a bearing and discovering the best path forward. How is your brain? What's it doing well? What could be improved? Is there anything that you would like to change in terms of how you think, feel, or behave? After completing a new patient evaluation, we will work together to develop a plan of care that is based upon your brain health goal. The brain is complex, and finding a solution to improve its functioning and your quality of life is a journey you don't have to go at alone.
My patients start with a goal for their brain health. This is one of the most important steps in getting a bearing and discovering the best path forward. How is your brain? What's it doing well? What could be improved? Is there anything that you would like to change in terms of how you think, feel, or behave? After completing a new patient evaluation, we will work together to develop a plan of care that is based upon your brain health goal. The brain is complex, and finding a solution to improve its functioning and your quality of life is a journey you don't have to go at alone.
![Photo of Rhonda Richardson - Sunshine Psychiatric Care, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f102488e-5c34-4030-80c4-a819c2598d52/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sunshine Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ormond Beach, FL 32174 (Online Only)
My name is Rhonda, I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing individualized care through a holistic and person-centered approach. I believe each person is unique and aim to preserve that uniqueness by formulating a treatment plan that best fits the individual. I pride myself in providing my patients with a treatment approach that is warm and compassionate, with a goal of delivering individualized, holistic, and evidence-based psychiatric care for clients in Florida who are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, down, or with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD.
My name is Rhonda, I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing individualized care through a holistic and person-centered approach. I believe each person is unique and aim to preserve that uniqueness by formulating a treatment plan that best fits the individual. I pride myself in providing my patients with a treatment approach that is warm and compassionate, with a goal of delivering individualized, holistic, and evidence-based psychiatric care for clients in Florida who are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, down, or with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD.
![Photo of Dr. Kevin Joseph - Insight Psychiatric Services PA, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/764ec70d-c0f5-4151-ad47-f4092ce1311b/1/320x400.png)
Insight Psychiatric Services PA
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ormond Beach, FL 32176 (Online Only)
Insight Psychiatric Services, PA, offers high-quality mental health care that patients can rely on. Experienced board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Kevin Joseph, DNP, PMHNP-BC, provides time-limited therapy and medication management virtually throughout the state of Florida.
Insight Psychiatric Services, PA, offers high-quality mental health care that patients can rely on. Experienced board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Kevin Joseph, DNP, PMHNP-BC, provides time-limited therapy and medication management virtually throughout the state of Florida.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Charmi Balsara, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5195fcf-36a0-4c3a-9304-d30582e39472/2/320x400.jpeg)
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, Burnout, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Suicidal Thoughts, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Postpartum Care, Self-Esteem Concerns, Women's Issues, Life Transitions, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Coping Skills Development, Dual Diagnosis.
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, Burnout, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Suicidal Thoughts, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Postpartum Care, Self-Esteem Concerns, Women's Issues, Life Transitions, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Coping Skills Development, Dual Diagnosis.
![Photo of Safir Azam Md Telpsychiatry Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e0152ca-1ab8-4028-b349-e5972ae8e920/3/320x400.png)
Safir Azam Md Telpsychiatry Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Daytona Beach, FL 32115 (Online Only)
In my care will mean you have direct access to me 24/7 (except when I am asleep). I beleive in seamless communication and excellence in providing treatment . I completed my Residency trainings at Royal London Hospital UK , SUNY Downstate Medical Center Brooklyn NY , and a fellowship year at UF. Please make sure you are choosing the best educated doctor for your care bc Psychiatry Physicians have the most extensive training to treat Anxiety, ADHD depressed. Mood , PMS, Bipolar, Sleep issues &most Psychiatric conditions. I believe in the Science of medications and the Arts of Psychotherapy. I believe in enhancing the productivity.
In my care will mean you have direct access to me 24/7 (except when I am asleep). I beleive in seamless communication and excellence in providing treatment . I completed my Residency trainings at Royal London Hospital UK , SUNY Downstate Medical Center Brooklyn NY , and a fellowship year at UF. Please make sure you are choosing the best educated doctor for your care bc Psychiatry Physicians have the most extensive training to treat Anxiety, ADHD depressed. Mood , PMS, Bipolar, Sleep issues &most Psychiatric conditions. I believe in the Science of medications and the Arts of Psychotherapy. I believe in enhancing the productivity.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with many years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient practice settings. I have completed a fellowship in child & adolescent psychiatry and also have experience in consultations and ongoing continuum care. I offer telepsychiatry appointments and am experienced in a variety of mental health conditions.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with many years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient practice settings. I have completed a fellowship in child & adolescent psychiatry and also have experience in consultations and ongoing continuum care. I offer telepsychiatry appointments and am experienced in a variety of mental health conditions.
![Photo of Cindy S Wright, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/400c6ede-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Wright has been practicing psychiatry for over 25 years. Her patients appreciate the time, attention and expertise that she provides each of her patients. Dr. Wright has had many years of experience working in Family Medicine and Psychiatry and treats the whole person and not just the symptoms. She believes that patients should have a role in their treatment plan. NOW SCHEDULING VIDEO CONFERENCE SESSIONS
Dr. Wright has been practicing psychiatry for over 25 years. Her patients appreciate the time, attention and expertise that she provides each of her patients. Dr. Wright has had many years of experience working in Family Medicine and Psychiatry and treats the whole person and not just the symptoms. She believes that patients should have a role in their treatment plan. NOW SCHEDULING VIDEO CONFERENCE SESSIONS
![Photo of Yadira Nogueras Rosado, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f330556d-9863-4725-9bc5-0a7712eccb4e/2/320x400.png)
I am Dr. Yadira Nogueras-Rosado, and it is a pleasure to connect with you. I received my medical degree and psychiatry residency at Puerto Rico.
I am Dr. Yadira Nogueras-Rosado, and it is a pleasure to connect with you. I received my medical degree and psychiatry residency at Puerto Rico.
![Photo of Abisoye Somorin - Evencare Psychiatric and Wellness, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bcba904-7bd1-431d-84b2-a9caf6bd9c1c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Evencare Psychiatric and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
How would you feel if your constant mood swings and anxiety suddenly disappear? Are you finding it difficult to maintain relationship because of unstable mood. How would you love to finally be able to focus and get task done? Dr Abi Somorin is accepting new patients. He is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric provider with wide experience both inpatient and outpatient treating mood disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD and PTSD, Dr 'Abi' got his doctorate from the Florida State University and he has more than a decade experience in psychiatry.
How would you feel if your constant mood swings and anxiety suddenly disappear? Are you finding it difficult to maintain relationship because of unstable mood. How would you love to finally be able to focus and get task done? Dr Abi Somorin is accepting new patients. He is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric provider with wide experience both inpatient and outpatient treating mood disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD and PTSD, Dr 'Abi' got his doctorate from the Florida State University and he has more than a decade experience in psychiatry.
![Photo of Kim Kroeger-Bushell, MS, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/918f1c8e-0127-4660-baab-fa034ef64c7e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Kroeger-Bushell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Daytona Beach Shores, FL 32118
This is where hope and resilience meets HEALING. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. I implement a blend of integrative and holistic approaches to find the best treatment for a brighter future. Services I provide are: Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, monitoring of treatment progress, psychoeducation on medications and their effects, consultations with therapists.
This is where hope and resilience meets HEALING. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. I implement a blend of integrative and holistic approaches to find the best treatment for a brighter future. Services I provide are: Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, monitoring of treatment progress, psychoeducation on medications and their effects, consultations with therapists.
![Photo of Marvalee Allison, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e00fd7a-a376-4f35-bdab-5645b9bfac80/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marvalee Allison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daytona Beach, FL 32114 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Marvalee Allison. I am Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida. I provide tele-psychiatry services for patients 18 years old and above.I have worked in inpatient psychiatric facilities, substance abuse centers, Long Term Care, and outpatient psychiatric centers. My experiences include but are not limited to Women's Health psychiatric disorders, suicidal ideations, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance abuse, PTSD , Dementia with behavioral disturbances, TBI, and ADHD.
Hello, my name is Marvalee Allison. I am Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida. I provide tele-psychiatry services for patients 18 years old and above.I have worked in inpatient psychiatric facilities, substance abuse centers, Long Term Care, and outpatient psychiatric centers. My experiences include but are not limited to Women's Health psychiatric disorders, suicidal ideations, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance abuse, PTSD , Dementia with behavioral disturbances, TBI, and ADHD.
![Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a2eb113-9788-4c2e-b3eb-dae989afc9a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Daytona Beach, FL 32117 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
![Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Lysa Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry , DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8129c07b-e66b-4a01-9bc4-339fd459647b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
![Photo of Brandi Starks, MSN, PMHNP, CLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49c2f5b6-a289-4836-b759-bace18ecc586/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brandi Starks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Are you a woman that typically has it all together, but recently you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. The joys of life have been wiped out by anxiety and depression. Maybe you are a mother who is struggling to manage your new normal and you feel disconnected from your baby and family? Possibly you have trauma surrounding your birth experience. Perhaps you’re a father who can’t seem to control your mood swings, and you’ve found yourself constantly on “edge”. Maybe a parent struggling and seeking help for a child that has ADHD and behavioral issues.
Are you a woman that typically has it all together, but recently you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. The joys of life have been wiped out by anxiety and depression. Maybe you are a mother who is struggling to manage your new normal and you feel disconnected from your baby and family? Possibly you have trauma surrounding your birth experience. Perhaps you’re a father who can’t seem to control your mood swings, and you’ve found yourself constantly on “edge”. Maybe a parent struggling and seeking help for a child that has ADHD and behavioral issues.
![Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b7234d5-46a0-4752-ba9e-14d4266cf94a/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Daytona Beach, FL 32114 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations, talk therapy, and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Virtual Psychiatric Care offers affordable personalized services to everyone. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting Medicare and insurances
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations, talk therapy, and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Virtual Psychiatric Care offers affordable personalized services to everyone. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting Medicare and insurances
![Photo of Riaz Rahman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46aa9838-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dual boarded physician in psychiatry and internal medicine. I have broad experience both in internal medicine and psychiatry. I do inpatient and office-based psychiatry. My expertise are Addiction Medicine, Attention Deficit disorder, geriatric psychiatry, depression, anxiety disorders and bipolar disorder. I have Hospital privileges in majority of Houston and Ford Bend County hospitals, where I perform consultation liaison psychiatry.
I am a dual boarded physician in psychiatry and internal medicine. I have broad experience both in internal medicine and psychiatry. I do inpatient and office-based psychiatry. My expertise are Addiction Medicine, Attention Deficit disorder, geriatric psychiatry, depression, anxiety disorders and bipolar disorder. I have Hospital privileges in majority of Houston and Ford Bend County hospitals, where I perform consultation liaison psychiatry.
See more therapy options for Ormond Beach
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ormond Beach, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Ormond Beach, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Medication Management |
43% | Child |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Ormond Beach, FL see their clients
57% | Online Only | |
43% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ormond Beach?
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.