Psychiatrists in Surfside, FL
I have been practicing psychiatry for more than 25 years believing that patients should be treated in a holistic approach integrating psychotherapy and pharmacological treatment. Fluent in both English and Spanish I focus my practice in a wide range of mental conditions in adults and adolescents.
I have been practicing psychiatry for more than 25 years believing that patients should be treated in a holistic approach integrating psychotherapy and pharmacological treatment. Fluent in both English and Spanish I focus my practice in a wide range of mental conditions in adults and adolescents.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Patricia Gilliano, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d31a15ac-4af2-4bc6-89d4-1eca93fb2819/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in Florida. I have been in healthcare for over 25 years as a clinical nurse and executive leader. I have worked with many clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, Post COVID issues, grief, suffering, or self-image issues.
Hi! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in Florida. I have been in healthcare for over 25 years as a clinical nurse and executive leader. I have worked with many clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, Post COVID issues, grief, suffering, or self-image issues.
![Photo of Shani Alam, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cf26dc2-2c42-4894-9e22-bbfce057a433/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been practicing general adult psychiatry since 1997 and have extensive expertise in evaluating and treating individuals of all ages, as well as treating a wide variety of emotional and mental conditions that range from mood/anxiety disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and eating disorders to consulting with clients about grief, trauma, work stress, relationship problems, adoption, legal cases, disability, and other major life changing events. I utilize biopsychosocial approach to mental illness that takes into account each individual's physical health, environment, and psychological experiences throughout their life.
I have been practicing general adult psychiatry since 1997 and have extensive expertise in evaluating and treating individuals of all ages, as well as treating a wide variety of emotional and mental conditions that range from mood/anxiety disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and eating disorders to consulting with clients about grief, trauma, work stress, relationship problems, adoption, legal cases, disability, and other major life changing events. I utilize biopsychosocial approach to mental illness that takes into account each individual's physical health, environment, and psychological experiences throughout their life.
![Photo of Patrick Sassoon, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b72e42c5-7fd8-43a1-a593-60eb3e1c5448/2/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
![Photo of Chris Lee, PMHNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85cc5c89-2503-4809-8254-f52160e8686b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33127 (Online Only)
Chris Lee PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and specializes in diagnostic evaluation and medication management for patients of all ages. Chris completed his graduate training in psychiatry at New York University and holds undergraduate degrees from the University of Southern California and Miami Dade College. Chris Lee has trained at some of the nation's top mental health facilities including Bellevue Hospital's Psychiatric Emergency Department and St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital in New York City. He is a California native but has called Miami home for 17 years.
Chris Lee PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and specializes in diagnostic evaluation and medication management for patients of all ages. Chris completed his graduate training in psychiatry at New York University and holds undergraduate degrees from the University of Southern California and Miami Dade College. Chris Lee has trained at some of the nation's top mental health facilities including Bellevue Hospital's Psychiatric Emergency Department and St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital in New York City. He is a California native but has called Miami home for 17 years.
![Photo of Jason Lulejian - ExpressPsych, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afe9c39b-f6df-42e1-bc41-e6f86850648b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Same day urgent care style mental health appointments, go to our website to find get seen express!
Same day urgent care style mental health appointments, go to our website to find get seen express!
![Photo of Ilona Moroz - ILona Moroz, IVM Psychiatry, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45cd512e-430f-471a-bc72-dc4c8ebc61be/2/320x400.jpeg)
ILona Moroz, IVM Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33131 (Online Only)
ILona Moroz is a Double Board-Certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certified Clinician and a Certified Life Coach. She graduated from the University of Miami with highest honors and received the Academic Achievements and Clinical Excellence Award. Ilona is a multilingual communicator fluent in English, Ukrainian, Russian and advanced in Spanish and has extensive experience in addressing a wide spectrum of mental health matters and delivers modern, evidence-based psychiatric care tailored to the individual needs of patients of all ages and cultural backgrounds.
ILona Moroz is a Double Board-Certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certified Clinician and a Certified Life Coach. She graduated from the University of Miami with highest honors and received the Academic Achievements and Clinical Excellence Award. Ilona is a multilingual communicator fluent in English, Ukrainian, Russian and advanced in Spanish and has extensive experience in addressing a wide spectrum of mental health matters and delivers modern, evidence-based psychiatric care tailored to the individual needs of patients of all ages and cultural backgrounds.
![Photo of Trisha Berbick-Stewart, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44fd2ebc-23a4-429a-905d-dd867bd48eae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trisha Berbick-Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hollywood, FL 33020 (Online Only)
As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my mission is to offer top-notch, compassionate mental health services to individuals of various ages and populations. My clinical expertise is complemented by my innate ability to establish strong connections with patients and their families. With a rich background of over 17 years in psychiatric nursing, spanning various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and state psychiatric facilities, I have developed a well-rounded skill set. Embracing my passion for people's well-being, I am dedicated to diligently working towards restoring your wellness.
As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my mission is to offer top-notch, compassionate mental health services to individuals of various ages and populations. My clinical expertise is complemented by my innate ability to establish strong connections with patients and their families. With a rich background of over 17 years in psychiatric nursing, spanning various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and state psychiatric facilities, I have developed a well-rounded skill set. Embracing my passion for people's well-being, I am dedicated to diligently working towards restoring your wellness.
![Photo of Maryann Tasong Esapa, ANNP, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/947ffd54-513a-4d4c-b060-b9a9d9db3528/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maryann Tasong Esapa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANNP, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Hialeah, FL 33010 (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner resident in Florida, the “City of Jacksonville”. I have an extensive and diverse clinical background with over 10 years of experience, spending the bulk of my career in Psychiatric nursing caring for individuals with psychiatric and medical emergencies. While working in the community, Psychiatric stabilization units and correctional settings I was inspired to further my career and earned my Masters of Science in Nursing, where I graduated With A Masters of Science PMHNP -BC In 2019.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner resident in Florida, the “City of Jacksonville”. I have an extensive and diverse clinical background with over 10 years of experience, spending the bulk of my career in Psychiatric nursing caring for individuals with psychiatric and medical emergencies. While working in the community, Psychiatric stabilization units and correctional settings I was inspired to further my career and earned my Masters of Science in Nursing, where I graduated With A Masters of Science PMHNP -BC In 2019.
![Photo of Dr. Brian Coringrato, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a257fd-9f9c-42a2-b739-43333a2e9c84/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Brian Coringrato
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the demands of school, work, or life in general? Perhaps you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or the aftereffects of trauma, and you're seeking a way to regain control and find balance. Your goal is to feel understood, supported, and empowered as you work towards mental and emotional well-being. You want a therapeutic relationship where you can grow and heal. With a background in both medicine and psychotherapy, I offer a holistic approach that considers both your mental and physical health.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the demands of school, work, or life in general? Perhaps you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or the aftereffects of trauma, and you're seeking a way to regain control and find balance. Your goal is to feel understood, supported, and empowered as you work towards mental and emotional well-being. You want a therapeutic relationship where you can grow and heal. With a background in both medicine and psychotherapy, I offer a holistic approach that considers both your mental and physical health.
![Photo of Vivian Lockett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ed08ff4-e4fb-4f1d-9ef5-da511e823e08/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vivian Lockett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Have you been feeling anxious, unhappy, and overwhelmed? Have you been in therapy, and considering adding or changing medications to improve your symptoms? I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who focuses on the whole person, with a foundation in Christian principles. I do not prescribe controlled substances, and I am happy to help you find alternative options as it relates to medication management. My goal is to help you manage conditions including help depression, mood disorder, and anxiety, to name a few keeping the whole person in mind, individualizing a personalized plan based on medical history,
Have you been feeling anxious, unhappy, and overwhelmed? Have you been in therapy, and considering adding or changing medications to improve your symptoms? I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who focuses on the whole person, with a foundation in Christian principles. I do not prescribe controlled substances, and I am happy to help you find alternative options as it relates to medication management. My goal is to help you manage conditions including help depression, mood disorder, and anxiety, to name a few keeping the whole person in mind, individualizing a personalized plan based on medical history,
![Photo of Magenta Hall - Healthy Self Mental Wellness, DNP, PMHNP , APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fc7fee6-578e-496a-b0da-af240033a5a9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Healthy Self Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP , APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33181 (Online Only)
I am the founder of Healthy Self Mental Wellness. I am board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. I have over 11 years of experience in the mental health setting. My education includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The Florida State University, a Masters of Science in Nursing, psychiatric nurse practitioner specialization, from The University of South Alabama, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from The University of South Alabama.
I am the founder of Healthy Self Mental Wellness. I am board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. I have over 11 years of experience in the mental health setting. My education includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The Florida State University, a Masters of Science in Nursing, psychiatric nurse practitioner specialization, from The University of South Alabama, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from The University of South Alabama.
![Photo of Martina J Nankivell, MMS, PA-C, CAQ, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caf472a9-971a-4031-b357-7a598ad430e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Martina J Nankivell
Physician Assistant, MMS, PA-C, CAQ
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137 (Online Only)
Initial visits: $150. Follow up visits: $99. We also accept Cigna/Evernorth, Tricare, and Medicare. Appointment times: Mon-Sat 7AM-7PM ET. Book your first visit now at forallmentalhealth.com. See a psychiatric board certified PA within the next 3 days to help get you back to thriving and living your best life now! Martina, at For All Mental Health (FAMh), prescribes medication for anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD, grief, alcohol use disorder and more. Join the FAMh today!
Initial visits: $150. Follow up visits: $99. We also accept Cigna/Evernorth, Tricare, and Medicare. Appointment times: Mon-Sat 7AM-7PM ET. Book your first visit now at forallmentalhealth.com. See a psychiatric board certified PA within the next 3 days to help get you back to thriving and living your best life now! Martina, at For All Mental Health (FAMh), prescribes medication for anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD, grief, alcohol use disorder and more. Join the FAMh today!
![Photo of Anna Binder, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acfbd78d-d596-43cb-80e8-0b5c7c96a745/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the ABPN. I am fully trained in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I received my psychiatry training at University of Maryland and attended Johns Hopkins Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the ABPN. I am fully trained in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I received my psychiatry training at University of Maryland and attended Johns Hopkins Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best.
![Photo of Shannon N Turner-Anderson, APRN, PMHNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e55b96e7-bcb4-4013-94b2-99fb34917eb0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon N Turner-Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130
My name is Shannon Turner-Anderson. I am a Florida Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I hold a Master's Degree in Nursing from Alabama University in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and a Bachelor of Science from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona. Before relocating to Florida, I lived in Windsor, Connecticut. I am married with three daughters, ages seven, seventeen, and twenty-two. I enjoy spending time with my family, attending church on Sundays, and watching track and field and basketball. I am passionate about mental health care.
My name is Shannon Turner-Anderson. I am a Florida Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I hold a Master's Degree in Nursing from Alabama University in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and a Bachelor of Science from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona. Before relocating to Florida, I lived in Windsor, Connecticut. I am married with three daughters, ages seven, seventeen, and twenty-two. I enjoy spending time with my family, attending church on Sundays, and watching track and field and basketball. I am passionate about mental health care.
![Photo of Twyla Shanette Newman - Lives Matter Mental Health Services LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d71a260-f846-4362-b6b5-4cc194ad85db/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lives Matter Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33109 (Online Only)
Twyla has a unique ability to connect with her patients. She is kind, compassionate, and nonjudgmental. This allows her to build a trusting rapport with those she gives care. She actively listens to her patients and collaborates with them for best quality outcomes. Twyla is on a mission to alleviate symptoms that's causing you emotional distress such as depressed mood, anxiety, disturbed sleep patterns. decreased energy, impaired focus and concentration. She also help manage hallucinations and symptoms of PTSD, OCD, ADHD and many more.
Twyla has a unique ability to connect with her patients. She is kind, compassionate, and nonjudgmental. This allows her to build a trusting rapport with those she gives care. She actively listens to her patients and collaborates with them for best quality outcomes. Twyla is on a mission to alleviate symptoms that's causing you emotional distress such as depressed mood, anxiety, disturbed sleep patterns. decreased energy, impaired focus and concentration. She also help manage hallucinations and symptoms of PTSD, OCD, ADHD and many more.
![Photo of Vickki-Ann Samuel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4bd1db-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Obtaining optimal mental health is important for achieving and maintaining one's overall health and well-being. At Reflections of Mental Health restoring your peace of mind is our top priority. For many generations suffering from mental illness has been stigmatized. Due to this, we provide a serene non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable to share your ailments and begin the journey to finding infinite bliss. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with training in Forensic Psychiatry. I specialize in the treatment of depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders, psychosis, dual diagnosis (mental illness along with substance abuse), and legal aspects of mental health.
Obtaining optimal mental health is important for achieving and maintaining one's overall health and well-being. At Reflections of Mental Health restoring your peace of mind is our top priority. For many generations suffering from mental illness has been stigmatized. Due to this, we provide a serene non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable to share your ailments and begin the journey to finding infinite bliss. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with training in Forensic Psychiatry. I specialize in the treatment of depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders, psychosis, dual diagnosis (mental illness along with substance abuse), and legal aspects of mental health.
![Photo of Lashon Simpson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01f30d6a-e804-43ac-b0d8-a88d5cdcee37/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b6106ee-f9fd-43eb-a50c-690f2d331f63/1/320x400.jpeg)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Danielle Porter - Danielle Porter, PMHNP • Porter Psychiatry Llc, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69c4c746-2409-48f0-8dc5-03ccef35322a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Porter, PMHNP • Porter Psychiatry Llc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33109 (Online Only)
Welcome to Porter Psychiatry LLC via Grow Therapy! I’m Danielle Porter, Florida APRN and nationally board certified PMHNP who provides mental health/psychiatric evaluation and medication management via telehealth. If you are in need of an evaluation, diagnosis/confirm prior diagnosis, prescription refill, or wish to make changes to your current treatment, learn of your options, or other services, scan the QR code and schedule your visit today. I look forward to meeting with you.
Welcome to Porter Psychiatry LLC via Grow Therapy! I’m Danielle Porter, Florida APRN and nationally board certified PMHNP who provides mental health/psychiatric evaluation and medication management via telehealth. If you are in need of an evaluation, diagnosis/confirm prior diagnosis, prescription refill, or wish to make changes to your current treatment, learn of your options, or other services, scan the QR code and schedule your visit today. I look forward to meeting with you.
See more therapy options for Surfside
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Surfside, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Surfside, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
31 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Surfside, FL see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Surfside?
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.