Psychiatrists in Palm Coast, FL
![Photo of Dr. Charmi Balsara, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e68ff09-0a37-41df-8d80-36a5cbb4d4cd/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 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
Palm Coast, FL 32137 (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 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
Palm Coast, FL 32137
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 Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70c00bf4-df3f-451e-b3cd-d2fa7592b3a6/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Deshaunah Dixon, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19e6deb7-1fdc-460c-a70e-ea5df85698ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deshaunah Dixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32137
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgmental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgmental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
![Photo of Henry Owens, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b24de314-f1ab-49ad-ba53-f28470c1fa16/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist Medical Director of Craft Behavioral Health LLC and Clinical Assistant Professor Department of Psychiatry Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. We treat Patients in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. Most insurances accepted as well as cash patients. Treating all Psychiatric conditions and addiction. We accept Children, Adolescents, Adults and Senior Adults. If you are new patient you can click on "website" icon at top left corner. It will take you to appointment site. We also offer Medical Marijuana Treatment for eligible patients as well.
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist Medical Director of Craft Behavioral Health LLC and Clinical Assistant Professor Department of Psychiatry Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. We treat Patients in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. Most insurances accepted as well as cash patients. Treating all Psychiatric conditions and addiction. We accept Children, Adolescents, Adults and Senior Adults. If you are new patient you can click on "website" icon at top left corner. It will take you to appointment site. We also offer Medical Marijuana Treatment for eligible patients as well.
![Photo of De-Shaunah Dixon, DNP, APRN, PMMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7c326dc-b6f1-4f13-bb1a-c2b13409b7fa/2/320x400.jpeg)
De-Shaunah Dixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32137 (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgmental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgmental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
![Photo of Todd Broder - Florida Center for TMS, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c843d511-52a5-483f-9137-2ed831b307da/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now Offering Medication Management and therapy! We are specialists in depression and anxiety. Stop just existing and start living! Our cutting edge treatments can help. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine (Spravato) are safe, FDA cleared treatments used to treat depression and covered by insurance. Contact us to learn more information or visit our website www.floridacenterfortms.com. Providing TMS in STA since 2017. Let our board certified, nationally known psychiatrists and well trained psychiatric NP/PA find treatment options for you. Three convenient locations: St Augustine, Ponte Vedra and downtown Orlando.
Now Offering Medication Management and therapy! We are specialists in depression and anxiety. Stop just existing and start living! Our cutting edge treatments can help. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine (Spravato) are safe, FDA cleared treatments used to treat depression and covered by insurance. Contact us to learn more information or visit our website www.floridacenterfortms.com. Providing TMS in STA since 2017. Let our board certified, nationally known psychiatrists and well trained psychiatric NP/PA find treatment options for you. Three convenient locations: St Augustine, Ponte Vedra and downtown Orlando.
![Photo of Heather Luing - Florida Center for TMS, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ff008bb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Florida Center for TMS is a specialized psychiatry clinic that specializes in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as well as other advanced psychiatric treatments. Dr. Luing and Dr. Broder are board certified psychiatrists offering this FDA approved treatment to patients in St Johns, Duval, Clay, Putnam, and Flagler counties. TMS is approved by the FDA for treatment resistant depression and is covered by all major insurance including Medicare for this indication. TMS is also used for off label indications including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, and cognitive enhancement for an affordable cash pay rate.
Florida Center for TMS is a specialized psychiatry clinic that specializes in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as well as other advanced psychiatric treatments. Dr. Luing and Dr. Broder are board certified psychiatrists offering this FDA approved treatment to patients in St Johns, Duval, Clay, Putnam, and Flagler counties. TMS is approved by the FDA for treatment resistant depression and is covered by all major insurance including Medicare for this indication. TMS is also used for off label indications including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, and cognitive enhancement for an affordable cash pay rate.
15 Second Videos
HavenNexus Family Psychiatry
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Insight Psychiatric Services PA
![Photo of Roxanne C. Swistock, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19d2c631-f241-4cfd-8620-9e8f25e18dec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Roxanne C. Swistock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32135 (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Roxy. I have been an adult nurse practitioner for 10 years and I reside in Central PA. I have a passion for authenticity and connecting with my patients on a personal level. Throughout my practice experiences, I have found the best outcomes for patients are provided when we, the providers, understand the patient's needs and desires as they relate to reaching our treatment goals. By helping patients reach their healthcare goals, physically, mentally, emotionally, and aesthetically, I hope to add an extra touch of caring and compassion to your healthcare experience.
Hello, I’m Roxy. I have been an adult nurse practitioner for 10 years and I reside in Central PA. I have a passion for authenticity and connecting with my patients on a personal level. Throughout my practice experiences, I have found the best outcomes for patients are provided when we, the providers, understand the patient's needs and desires as they relate to reaching our treatment goals. By helping patients reach their healthcare goals, physically, mentally, emotionally, and aesthetically, I hope to add an extra touch of caring and compassion to your healthcare experience.
![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
Palm Coast, FL 32137 (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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Maria E Pizarro, APRN, MSN, cPhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b7f655d-0f9f-4517-98c5-6dc6e334d03c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am here to assist you in your life's journey by listening and providing emotional support and reassurance. It is my goal to provide the best care possible in the treatment of mental, emotional, and spiritual issues. Together we will achieve your goals of stability and functionality in society. LGBTQ plus community are welcome!
I am here to assist you in your life's journey by listening and providing emotional support and reassurance. It is my goal to provide the best care possible in the treatment of mental, emotional, and spiritual issues. Together we will achieve your goals of stability and functionality in society. LGBTQ plus community are welcome!
![Photo of Nathan Schneider - Prestige Total Health, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8be64e4f-e7a6-4176-a967-d54909b657d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Prestige Total Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Winter Garden, FL 34787 (Online Only)
Same-day appointments may be available. Please visit our website to book an appointment: www.prestigetotalhealth.org or call us at (321) 248-5387. All visits are conducted 100% through video, offering you enhanced privacy and convenience.
Same-day appointments may be available. Please visit our website to book an appointment: www.prestigetotalhealth.org or call us at (321) 248-5387. All visits are conducted 100% through video, offering you enhanced privacy and convenience.
![Photo of Siddharth Arora - Care Clinic, DO, MS, DABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4539237d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
![Photo of Wendy Butler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/237a7c86-398e-481b-a5d5-ae37edeca03a/1/320x400.png)
Wendy Butler is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from University of South Alabama with a Master's in Nursing practice. Wendy believes in team Approach: a model where patient needs are addressed through multiple care settings. Her main areas of focus include but not limited to depression, anxiety and ADHD. In her spare time, Wendy Butler enjoys spending time with her three children and traveling.
Wendy Butler is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from University of South Alabama with a Master's in Nursing practice. Wendy believes in team Approach: a model where patient needs are addressed through multiple care settings. Her main areas of focus include but not limited to depression, anxiety and ADHD. In her spare time, Wendy Butler enjoys spending time with her three children and traveling.
![Photo of Bryan Morales, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64e57881-3893-491c-8f67-3d919ab503a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Morales is dedicated to the bio-psycho-sociocultural model. This has been reflected in Dr. Morales’ pursuit of treating patients suffering from diverse medical and psychiatric conditions, respective psychological mindedness, and varied socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. As an individual, Dr. Morales is fascinated by the human mind, its mechanisms to pursue goals, and the cyclical patterns seen in maladaptation and suffering. He believes in understanding patients’ experiences and developing comprehensive treatment plans towards reconciliation.
Dr. Morales is dedicated to the bio-psycho-sociocultural model. This has been reflected in Dr. Morales’ pursuit of treating patients suffering from diverse medical and psychiatric conditions, respective psychological mindedness, and varied socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. As an individual, Dr. Morales is fascinated by the human mind, its mechanisms to pursue goals, and the cyclical patterns seen in maladaptation and suffering. He believes in understanding patients’ experiences and developing comprehensive treatment plans towards reconciliation.
![Photo of Sylvia Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/458a37e3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Johnson is dual Board Certified in Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and has extensive experience treating mental health conditions. She served as a Psychiatrist in the Army for 9 years and is the former Chief of Behavioral Health at Fort Hood where she supervised over 300 Psychiatrists, Psychologists & Therapists. Currently, Dr. Johnson is an Affiliate Professor of Psychiatry at UCF College of Medicine training the next generation of doctors and the former Associate Program Director of the UCF/HCA Psychiatry Residency Program.
Dr. Johnson is dual Board Certified in Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and has extensive experience treating mental health conditions. She served as a Psychiatrist in the Army for 9 years and is the former Chief of Behavioral Health at Fort Hood where she supervised over 300 Psychiatrists, Psychologists & Therapists. Currently, Dr. Johnson is an Affiliate Professor of Psychiatry at UCF College of Medicine training the next generation of doctors and the former Associate Program Director of the UCF/HCA Psychiatry Residency Program.
![Photo of Sheila Barthelemy, PMHNP-B, APRN , MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/766dce47-a645-493c-a840-0ee2346c2dae/2/320x400.png)
Sheila Barthelemy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN , MPH
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32832
Do you seek to understand your emotions, manage stress, and build resilience? Do you face anxiety or depression, seeking tools to navigate life's challenges? You crave a safe space to express yourself, fostering self-awareness and empowerment. Your goal is holistic well-being, aiming for inner peace and a fulfilling life. You want to thrive, not just survive, embracing your journey with courage and compassion.
Do you seek to understand your emotions, manage stress, and build resilience? Do you face anxiety or depression, seeking tools to navigate life's challenges? You crave a safe space to express yourself, fostering self-awareness and empowerment. Your goal is holistic well-being, aiming for inner peace and a fulfilling life. You want to thrive, not just survive, embracing your journey with courage and compassion.
See more therapy options for Palm Coast
Nearby Searches for Palm Coast
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Palm Coast, FL
10+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Palm Coast, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
85% | ADHD |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Medication Management |
62% | Eating Disorders |
54% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
75% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Palm Coast, FL see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
58% | Female | |
42% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Palm Coast?
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.