Psychiatrists in Palm Beach County, FL

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Photo of Sarah Youssef - Psychiatric Care Florida, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Psychiatric Care Florida
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
At Psychiatric Care Florida, we understand that some things are beyond our control. However, we strongly believe in taking charge of our destiny by improving our responses to hardship. We believe that serenity emerges in the wake of chaos and we welcome the opportunity to help you reach your goals. We provide thorough evaluations, medication management, therapy as well interventional psychiatric treatment modalities such as TMS. We take great joy and pride in the care we provide and we are fully committed to your wellbeing. Please see our website for further details of our services and for booking options.
At Psychiatric Care Florida, we understand that some things are beyond our control. However, we strongly believe in taking charge of our destiny by improving our responses to hardship. We believe that serenity emerges in the wake of chaos and we welcome the opportunity to help you reach your goals. We provide thorough evaluations, medication management, therapy as well interventional psychiatric treatment modalities such as TMS. We take great joy and pride in the care we provide and we are fully committed to your wellbeing. Please see our website for further details of our services and for booking options.
(561) 783-3580 View (561) 783-3580
Photo of Sydney Rosen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sydney Rosen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Delray Beach, FL 33483  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer medication, diagnosis and evaluation, and other treatment options such as talk therapy. You can look forward to seeing actual progress in your mental health goals. Whether it's making sure your meds are working right, dealing with any side effects, or just feeling better overall. I treat a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, insomnia, ADHD, eating disorders, and women’s mental health, with a particular focus on the perinatal period.
Welcome to my practice! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer medication, diagnosis and evaluation, and other treatment options such as talk therapy. You can look forward to seeing actual progress in your mental health goals. Whether it's making sure your meds are working right, dealing with any side effects, or just feeling better overall. I treat a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, insomnia, ADHD, eating disorders, and women’s mental health, with a particular focus on the perinatal period.
(561) 250-0214 View (561) 250-0214
Photo of Steven R Scanlan, MD, Psychiatrist
Steven R Scanlan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Outpatient Detox - I specialize in the personal and direct treatments for the detoxification of opiates, alcohol and benzodiazepines. I am in recovery and it is important to me that I take a one on one approach throughout the entire process with the patient. I am also available 24/7 during the detoxification period by personal cell phone.
Outpatient Detox - I specialize in the personal and direct treatments for the detoxification of opiates, alcohol and benzodiazepines. I am in recovery and it is important to me that I take a one on one approach throughout the entire process with the patient. I am also available 24/7 during the detoxification period by personal cell phone.
(561) 287-3634 View (561) 287-3634
Photo of Eimy Barranco, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eimy Barranco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Hi, I’m Eimy Barranco, a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at MyPsychiatrist. Originally from Cuba, I’m passionate about mental health and dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals from all walks of life. I understand the unique challenges faced by people from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, and I’m here to support you in your journey to wellness.
Hi, I’m Eimy Barranco, a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at MyPsychiatrist. Originally from Cuba, I’m passionate about mental health and dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals from all walks of life. I understand the unique challenges faced by people from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, and I’m here to support you in your journey to wellness.
(954) 737-6808 View (954) 737-6808
Photo of Dr. Maryam Nouhi, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Maryam Nouhi
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Delray Beach, FL 33483  (Online Only)
* AT THIS TIME ONLY DOING TELEPSYCHIATRY SESSIONS* Dr. Maryam Nouhi is the founder of Valor Mental Health. She has been practicing psychiatry for 8 years in inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Maryam Nouhi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South East Florida. She graduated Cum Laude Honors from the University of Florida in 2008 with a B.S. in Nutrition and Minor in International Studies. She graduated from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2014 with a Doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine. She completed Psychiatry Residency at Largo Medical Center in 2018.
* AT THIS TIME ONLY DOING TELEPSYCHIATRY SESSIONS* Dr. Maryam Nouhi is the founder of Valor Mental Health. She has been practicing psychiatry for 8 years in inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Maryam Nouhi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South East Florida. She graduated Cum Laude Honors from the University of Florida in 2008 with a B.S. in Nutrition and Minor in International Studies. She graduated from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2014 with a Doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine. She completed Psychiatry Residency at Largo Medical Center in 2018.
(561) 270-0294 View (561) 270-0294
Photo of Aaron Porzio-Diaz - Mindful Behavioral Health, PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mindful Behavioral Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have experience treating adolescents and young adults. We are happy to announce that we will begin seeing those aged 14 and older, including adults, for psychiatric management! I specialize in treatment of the following mental health diagnosis: Depression, Gender Dysphoria, Body Dysmorphia, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Trauma, Personality Disorders and Psychosis. Please note, we do not treat active eating disorders or substance abuse at this time.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have experience treating adolescents and young adults. We are happy to announce that we will begin seeing those aged 14 and older, including adults, for psychiatric management! I specialize in treatment of the following mental health diagnosis: Depression, Gender Dysphoria, Body Dysmorphia, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Trauma, Personality Disorders and Psychosis. Please note, we do not treat active eating disorders or substance abuse at this time.
(561) 782-8041 View (561) 782-8041
Photo of Martine Senatus, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Martine Senatus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Springs, FL 33406
We are here for you! Life can have many changes and learning to cope with those changes can be challenging. At VIP, we have the knowledge, training, and skill to help you overcome. We offer virtual, online, and in office appointments! NEW patients are welcome! We write Prescriptions! Medication management! Same Day and Next Day Appts Available! We accept many insurances and cash/credit pay! Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD Management & Treatment. Call us at 561-909-8555
We are here for you! Life can have many changes and learning to cope with those changes can be challenging. At VIP, we have the knowledge, training, and skill to help you overcome. We offer virtual, online, and in office appointments! NEW patients are welcome! We write Prescriptions! Medication management! Same Day and Next Day Appts Available! We accept many insurances and cash/credit pay! Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD Management & Treatment. Call us at 561-909-8555
(561) 763-9713 View (561) 763-9713
Photo of Barnell Phillips III, MD, Psychiatrist
Barnell Phillips III
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. My training allows me to approach mental health problems in a unique and comprehensive way that is rooted in listening to a person's life story. This lifecycle approach integrated with the assessment of how current circumstances, family history and genetics impact a patient's presentation has allowed me to successfully help patients of all ages overcome mental health challenges.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. My training allows me to approach mental health problems in a unique and comprehensive way that is rooted in listening to a person's life story. This lifecycle approach integrated with the assessment of how current circumstances, family history and genetics impact a patient's presentation has allowed me to successfully help patients of all ages overcome mental health challenges.
(561) 220-2565 View (561) 220-2565
Photo of Teri P Saveanu, MD, Psychiatrist
Teri P Saveanu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist with a specialty in psychoanalytic psychotherapy and I have more than 20 years of experience. I am currently in my 4th year at the Florida Psychoanalytic Institute studying to become a psychoanalyst. Many people who find themselves in repetitive unhealthy situations often with symptoms of depression or anxiety can benefit from either psychotherapy or medication and often the combination. I can treat those problems but the decision of how is a collaboration between the patient and the therapist.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist with a specialty in psychoanalytic psychotherapy and I have more than 20 years of experience. I am currently in my 4th year at the Florida Psychoanalytic Institute studying to become a psychoanalyst. Many people who find themselves in repetitive unhealthy situations often with symptoms of depression or anxiety can benefit from either psychotherapy or medication and often the combination. I can treat those problems but the decision of how is a collaboration between the patient and the therapist.
(786) 590-0652 View (786) 590-0652
Photo of Esther Camilus, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Esther Camilus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lake Worth, FL 33461
Esther Camilus has a great passion for helping others. She began her nursing career in 2004 working at JFK Medical Center as a Nurse Associate. During this time, she obtained her RN from Palm Beach State College. Over two decades of working as an RN with mental health patients, she has developed a strong passion for mental health. She decided to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University to obtain her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree in 2021. Esther has devoted her life to helping others both locally and abroad. She goes to Haiti every year on a mission trip with other healthcare providers.
Esther Camilus has a great passion for helping others. She began her nursing career in 2004 working at JFK Medical Center as a Nurse Associate. During this time, she obtained her RN from Palm Beach State College. Over two decades of working as an RN with mental health patients, she has developed a strong passion for mental health. She decided to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University to obtain her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree in 2021. Esther has devoted her life to helping others both locally and abroad. She goes to Haiti every year on a mission trip with other healthcare providers.
(561) 763-9105 View (561) 763-9105
Photo of Mark DeLuca, MD, Psychiatrist
Mark DeLuca
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I specialize in General and Forensic Psychiatry, I am part of an exceptional team, which operates three state-of-the-art offices offering an individualized treatment approach using psychotherapy, psychopharmacology and repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) treatment. All general psychiatric conditions can be treated to include; depression, bipolar, anxiety, obsessive compulsive and personality disorders. Substance abuse issues are also treated in an office-based setting with a significant success rate at maintaining sobriety through our treatment approach.
I specialize in General and Forensic Psychiatry, I am part of an exceptional team, which operates three state-of-the-art offices offering an individualized treatment approach using psychotherapy, psychopharmacology and repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) treatment. All general psychiatric conditions can be treated to include; depression, bipolar, anxiety, obsessive compulsive and personality disorders. Substance abuse issues are also treated in an office-based setting with a significant success rate at maintaining sobriety through our treatment approach.
(561) 299-3079 View (561) 299-3079
Photo of Justin Nepa - Refresh Psychiatry and Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Refresh Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We strive to provide the highest quality evidence-based, compassionate care through a combination of medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients/families overcome their most difficult challenges and achieve their greatest goals to lead their most joyful, fulfilling lives.
The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We strive to provide the highest quality evidence-based, compassionate care through a combination of medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients/families overcome their most difficult challenges and achieve their greatest goals to lead their most joyful, fulfilling lives.
(561) 532-1304 View (561) 532-1304
Photo of Hugues Jeanty, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hugues Jeanty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenacres, FL 33463  (Online Only)
Greetings, I'm Hugues Jeanty, a highly knowledgeable and experienced Board Certified Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner specializing in substance use issues and mental health. I completed my studies at St. Thomas University in Miami, Florida. With a deep commitment to assisting individuals in reaching their full health potential, I offer extensive psychiatric care, focusing on the treatment of mental health problems.
Greetings, I'm Hugues Jeanty, a highly knowledgeable and experienced Board Certified Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner specializing in substance use issues and mental health. I completed my studies at St. Thomas University in Miami, Florida. With a deep commitment to assisting individuals in reaching their full health potential, I offer extensive psychiatric care, focusing on the treatment of mental health problems.
(561) 816-3766 View (561) 816-3766
Photo of Jonathan Pope - A Brighter Day Telepsychiatry, MSN, AGNPC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Brighter Day Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGNPC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I understand that these are very trying times. I would like to provide a safe, all-inclusive environment for all of my patients in order to develop the provider/patient relationship all while improving mental health-related issues by goal-setting and medication management. My ideal patient would seek a provider that would look at medication as just one tool to manage their mental health. They would be open to really digging deep to explore what might be the root cause of why they are feeling the way they are, all while managing symptoms with medication and therapy. My ideal patient takes an active approach in their treatment plan.
I understand that these are very trying times. I would like to provide a safe, all-inclusive environment for all of my patients in order to develop the provider/patient relationship all while improving mental health-related issues by goal-setting and medication management. My ideal patient would seek a provider that would look at medication as just one tool to manage their mental health. They would be open to really digging deep to explore what might be the root cause of why they are feeling the way they are, all while managing symptoms with medication and therapy. My ideal patient takes an active approach in their treatment plan.
(561) 448-6561 View (561) 448-6561
Photo of Helia Ibarra-Alos, MD, Psychiatrist
Helia Ibarra-Alos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487
I am an empathic, non-judgmental, easy to engage with, triple-board certified psychiatrist who conducts thorough psychiatric evaluations to assess your needs and figure out together about the best options to achieve your goals with an individualized treatment plan. Evaluations are currently done virtually via telepsychiatry if you are in either state of FL, NM or MO, and can be done in English or Spanish according to your preference.
I am an empathic, non-judgmental, easy to engage with, triple-board certified psychiatrist who conducts thorough psychiatric evaluations to assess your needs and figure out together about the best options to achieve your goals with an individualized treatment plan. Evaluations are currently done virtually via telepsychiatry if you are in either state of FL, NM or MO, and can be done in English or Spanish according to your preference.
(561) 220-1309 View (561) 220-1309
Photo of Acelise Acceus Alexis - El ELYON  Medsych services, PMHNP, FNP, BC, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
El ELYON Medsych services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, BC, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Wellington, FL 33414
I understand the importance of working with people struggling from mental illness as well as working with their families. I understands the ignominy involved with psychiatric disorders and the disease of addiction and the strength it takes to ask for help. The most important aspect of my role is building rapport with my patients so they feel emotionally safe opening up about their need for medication. I provide a safe, comfortable environment for my patients to feel vulnerable and share their struggles. I strive to not only listen but to educate my patients on their diagnoses and the medications they have been prescribed.
I understand the importance of working with people struggling from mental illness as well as working with their families. I understands the ignominy involved with psychiatric disorders and the disease of addiction and the strength it takes to ask for help. The most important aspect of my role is building rapport with my patients so they feel emotionally safe opening up about their need for medication. I provide a safe, comfortable environment for my patients to feel vulnerable and share their struggles. I strive to not only listen but to educate my patients on their diagnoses and the medications they have been prescribed.
(561) 769-3291 View (561) 769-3291
Photo of Henry Owens, PA, Physician Assistant
Henry Owens
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411  (Online Only)
Henry J. Owens is a highly skilled physician assistant based in Clearwater, Florida. With a strong background in various medical fields, Henry has developed expertise in treating chronic kidney disease, asthma, and bronchitis. Additionally, he has a notable proficiency in weight loss management, helping patients achieve and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Henry is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to all his patients, ensuring their health and well-being are always prioritized.
Henry J. Owens is a highly skilled physician assistant based in Clearwater, Florida. With a strong background in various medical fields, Henry has developed expertise in treating chronic kidney disease, asthma, and bronchitis. Additionally, he has a notable proficiency in weight loss management, helping patients achieve and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Henry is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to all his patients, ensuring their health and well-being are always prioritized.
(561) 934-3101 View (561) 934-3101
Photo of Lashon Simpson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lashon Simpson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
I’m a Psychiatric Provider that listens, shows compassion, and empathizes. I look forward to helping you rebuild your mental health by providing both pharmacological and holistic treatment plans. Rather you have ADHD, Depression, anxiety and/or insomnia, help is just a call away. We treat each client from a personal perspective and provide individualized psychiatric treatment plans that helps to rebuild your mental health.
I’m a Psychiatric Provider that listens, shows compassion, and empathizes. I look forward to helping you rebuild your mental health by providing both pharmacological and holistic treatment plans. Rather you have ADHD, Depression, anxiety and/or insomnia, help is just a call away. We treat each client from a personal perspective and provide individualized psychiatric treatment plans that helps to rebuild your mental health.
(561) 264-1421 View (561) 264-1421
Photo of Melana Rabinovich - Great Mind Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Great Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486
At Great Mind Psychiatry we offer a holistic approach that not only treats the symptoms of mental illness but also nurtures the whole person- their mind, body, and spirit. Our practice philosophy is centered on you, the individual. We approach mental health care with a mission to help you uncover the root causes of your challenges and concerns.
At Great Mind Psychiatry we offer a holistic approach that not only treats the symptoms of mental illness but also nurtures the whole person- their mind, body, and spirit. Our practice philosophy is centered on you, the individual. We approach mental health care with a mission to help you uncover the root causes of your challenges and concerns.
(561) 823-1846 View (561) 823-1846
Photo of Phara Camille Metellus - Turning Point Health Services, DNP, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Turning Point Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
I am located in Florida and can see patients in person and via telehealth. I have been in the mental health field for a few years, and I have worked with the general population in the outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am located in Florida and can see patients in person and via telehealth. I have been in the mental health field for a few years, and I have worked with the general population in the outpatient and inpatient settings.
(561) 783-3350 View (561) 783-3350
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See more therapy options for Palm Beach County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Palm Beach County, FL

300+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Palm Beach County, FL who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
95% Depression
80% Bipolar Disorder
75% ADHD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
69% Medication Management
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
91% Aetna
71% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Palm Beach County, FL see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

68% Female
32% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Palm Beach County?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

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.

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.

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.

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.