Psychiatrists in Temple Terrace, FL
![Photo of Michael Okeke - Genesis Wellness Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eecc41c-ba84-4af6-b45c-f7e6e7e5533a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mental illness presents unique challenges in our lives, impacting relationships at work and home, performance in school and promotions at work. I specialize in accessing and treating a wide spectrum of mental illness from autism to schizophrenia. I will listen attentively to understand the root of the illness and together, we will formulate a plan that will work for you. I am here to hold your hand and guide you along the way to be better and enjoy life to the fullest.
Mental illness presents unique challenges in our lives, impacting relationships at work and home, performance in school and promotions at work. I specialize in accessing and treating a wide spectrum of mental illness from autism to schizophrenia. I will listen attentively to understand the root of the illness and together, we will formulate a plan that will work for you. I am here to hold your hand and guide you along the way to be better and enjoy life to the fullest.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Chloe Griffith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f14ed241-5ff1-4ee3-9c85-ea4148be6a55/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33610 (Online Only)
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
![Photo of Rosanie Estima, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/552fd4cd-5fdf-479c-9dff-59d659aff1b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rosanie Estima
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33610 (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience in mental health, Rosanie Estima believes treating not just the symptoms but the person as a whole, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She promotes an environment where clients feel understood and supported. She believes in empowering knowledge and fostering a collaborative approach to mental health. Her broad exposure has equipped her with a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health, enabling her to tailor her approach to the unique needs of each individual.
With over a decade of experience in mental health, Rosanie Estima believes treating not just the symptoms but the person as a whole, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She promotes an environment where clients feel understood and supported. She believes in empowering knowledge and fostering a collaborative approach to mental health. Her broad exposure has equipped her with a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health, enabling her to tailor her approach to the unique needs of each individual.
![Photo of Junon Dunbar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/699ba1b2-ca8e-4463-95a8-58de671953ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am excited to announce that I am now offering a weight loss program at my clinic. Book your free consultation with me to see if you are eligible for your semaglutide shots! It’s about time we talked about mental illness — the experience, not the theory. You are not “crazy” or “disordered,” but you do have a disease, and like any other, it takes its toll. If you need help treating the effects, then contact me because I personally understand your struggles.
I am excited to announce that I am now offering a weight loss program at my clinic. Book your free consultation with me to see if you are eligible for your semaglutide shots! It’s about time we talked about mental illness — the experience, not the theory. You are not “crazy” or “disordered,” but you do have a disease, and like any other, it takes its toll. If you need help treating the effects, then contact me because I personally understand your struggles.
![Photo of Meshandra Williams, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90655ef1-1bb3-44f6-bebf-947a4b140981/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meshandra Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33605
I am here to help establish a rapport to better understand and help the patient to understand their mental illness, then help them understand the best treatment options to treat their disorder.
I am here to help establish a rapport to better understand and help the patient to understand their mental illness, then help them understand the best treatment options to treat their disorder.
![Photo of Stephanie Sweeny - Women's Mental Health Specialist, PMHNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6d7c24c-5065-4c81-95a9-4e0459782f3e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33617 (Online Only)
Women’s Mental Health Specialists was founded to provide a safe, compassionate space where women can address their mental health needs with care that understands the unique challenges they face. The team at Women’s Mental Health Specialists, consisting of midwives with advanced mental health degrees, is dedicated to offering comprehensive, holistic care that attends to both the physical and emotional well-being of women.
Women’s Mental Health Specialists was founded to provide a safe, compassionate space where women can address their mental health needs with care that understands the unique challenges they face. The team at Women’s Mental Health Specialists, consisting of midwives with advanced mental health degrees, is dedicated to offering comprehensive, holistic care that attends to both the physical and emotional well-being of women.
![Photo of Shamira Lewis, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ad22f3f-4c11-44d8-97a8-df2a6914d7a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shamira Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33605 (Online Only)
I am a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I pride myself in providing evidence-based and quality patient care. Building a rapport with my patients is essential and aids in creating an individualized treatment plan for each patient. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Personality disorders, Schizophrenia, and Bipolar disorder. Contact me today to get started on your journey with improving your mental health.
I am a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I pride myself in providing evidence-based and quality patient care. Building a rapport with my patients is essential and aids in creating an individualized treatment plan for each patient. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Personality disorders, Schizophrenia, and Bipolar disorder. Contact me today to get started on your journey with improving your mental health.
![Photo of Grace-Ann Sutherland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52510a1c-c07f-48a6-a9e9-136cc38126b5/1/320x400.png)
Grace-Ann Sutherland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33605 (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website! As a PMHNP, I am dedicated to creating a compassionate, judgment-free space where you feel heard and understood. My holistic approach focuses on both mind and body to foster healing and growth. With a blend of evidence-based practices and personalized care, I strive to empower you on your journey toward mental wellness. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, stress, complex life transitions, or difficult relationships, I am here to support you every step of the way. Let's work together to unlock your potential and achieve your deserved peace.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! As a PMHNP, I am dedicated to creating a compassionate, judgment-free space where you feel heard and understood. My holistic approach focuses on both mind and body to foster healing and growth. With a blend of evidence-based practices and personalized care, I strive to empower you on your journey toward mental wellness. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, stress, complex life transitions, or difficult relationships, I am here to support you every step of the way. Let's work together to unlock your potential and achieve your deserved peace.
![Photo of Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma | Mercie Health, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de1f065c-04e7-4179-a407-821243b45344/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma | Mercie Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33617
Have you ever wondered why your anxiety doesn't seem to be getting better? Everyone literally does not fit in the same box of medications. I take detailed history and come up with a treatment plan if needed to better meet your mental health needs. I just need you to trust the process. My comprehensive approach to patient care, which ! My name is Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I welcome all local and virtual patients to my wellness practice to address the real issue affecting your mental health and we can both address any challenges related to your mental.
Have you ever wondered why your anxiety doesn't seem to be getting better? Everyone literally does not fit in the same box of medications. I take detailed history and come up with a treatment plan if needed to better meet your mental health needs. I just need you to trust the process. My comprehensive approach to patient care, which ! My name is Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I welcome all local and virtual patients to my wellness practice to address the real issue affecting your mental health and we can both address any challenges related to your mental.
![Photo of Ugonna Duru, MSN, FNP-C, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81a4c589-7638-4846-8838-52f5a77690dd/3/320x400.png)
Ugonna Duru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33617 (Online Only)
My Ideal clients are individuals who are struggling with ADHD and trying to navigate the management and coping with ADHD. I have ample experience treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. ADHD can be lifelong, but witnessing the transformative impact of appropriate treatment and compassionate care has been nothing short of inspiring and rewarding. With my nursing background, I believe in treating the person as a whole, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
My Ideal clients are individuals who are struggling with ADHD and trying to navigate the management and coping with ADHD. I have ample experience treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. ADHD can be lifelong, but witnessing the transformative impact of appropriate treatment and compassionate care has been nothing short of inspiring and rewarding. With my nursing background, I believe in treating the person as a whole, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
![Photo of Tracey Rzepka, MS, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f1d1382-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tracey Rzepka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33610
Tracey Rzepka is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychopharmacology. She provides management of psychiatric medications along with some therapy. She is great with clients on multiple medications and is able to get clients on the right medication or remodel them as needed or even wean clients off medication if desired. She has a background in general medicine and offers holistic care addressing the body, mind and spirit providing personal, compassionate care. Her visits are longer than most psychiatrists providing more time for counseling and support. Follow up visits are 30 minutes.
Tracey Rzepka is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychopharmacology. She provides management of psychiatric medications along with some therapy. She is great with clients on multiple medications and is able to get clients on the right medication or remodel them as needed or even wean clients off medication if desired. She has a background in general medicine and offers holistic care addressing the body, mind and spirit providing personal, compassionate care. Her visits are longer than most psychiatrists providing more time for counseling and support. Follow up visits are 30 minutes.
Life has its challenges at every stage, from early childhood onwards. Problems can arise at school or work, in relationships, and in our pursuit of recreation. Despite our best efforts there are times when it helps to have an objective opinion to help clarify our issues and our solutions.
Life has its challenges at every stage, from early childhood onwards. Problems can arise at school or work, in relationships, and in our pursuit of recreation. Despite our best efforts there are times when it helps to have an objective opinion to help clarify our issues and our solutions.
![Photo of Safir Azam Telepsychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6244db5-0f47-4a0b-a0ae-c287ee92b6ed/1/320x400.png)
My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.
My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.
![Photo of Julianne Kay Fountain - Lifespan Psychiatry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7af19716-f72e-45c7-993c-9336e5f5f166/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a vast array of knowledge and experience that lends to my ability to treat many conditions. I can prescribe medications to manage Eating Disorders, PTSD, complicated grief, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and insomnia.
I have a vast array of knowledge and experience that lends to my ability to treat many conditions. I can prescribe medications to manage Eating Disorders, PTSD, complicated grief, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and insomnia.
![Photo of Jasmine Graves, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e50d84f7-50a4-4d37-8c00-23b3426ddbcb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jasmine Graves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33617 (Online Only)
Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or grief triggered by life’s pressures, such as work stress, family issues, relationship problems, career doubts, or past traumas? Do you often feel weighed down by emotions and life circumstances, making it hard to manage day-to-day tasks? If so, finding a supportive and empathetic therapeutic space could help you process these feelings and experiences without fear of judgment. I provide personalized, evidence-based approaches designed to meet your specific needs. Are you interested in exploring how we can work together to navigate these challenges? Book you consultation today!
Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or grief triggered by life’s pressures, such as work stress, family issues, relationship problems, career doubts, or past traumas? Do you often feel weighed down by emotions and life circumstances, making it hard to manage day-to-day tasks? If so, finding a supportive and empathetic therapeutic space could help you process these feelings and experiences without fear of judgment. I provide personalized, evidence-based approaches designed to meet your specific needs. Are you interested in exploring how we can work together to navigate these challenges? Book you consultation today!
![Photo of Donita Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7d8b4dc-5152-4585-b78f-816f39a0a0dc/1/320x400.png)
Hello... My name is Donita Jones. I have been in the field of psychiatry for the lat 6 years. I enjoy helping those achieve their goals for optimal mental health. My approach is patient-centred care and empathy. My approach to providing mental healthcare is a holistic based approach that is individualised to promote overall mental health wellbeing. My communication style allows me to listen to the patient so they can feel comfortable to express their needs. The patient and I work together as a team to set realistic goals.
Hello... My name is Donita Jones. I have been in the field of psychiatry for the lat 6 years. I enjoy helping those achieve their goals for optimal mental health. My approach is patient-centred care and empathy. My approach to providing mental healthcare is a holistic based approach that is individualised to promote overall mental health wellbeing. My communication style allows me to listen to the patient so they can feel comfortable to express their needs. The patient and I work together as a team to set realistic goals.
![Photo of Victor Hong - Neuropsychiatric Institute, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2006421-2d30-4c47-a33e-9053d5621dc5/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Neuropsychiatric Institute provides Outpatient Behavioral Health Services for Adults, Families, Children and Adolescents. We believe that as long as you have your problems under control, then you do not need our assistance. However, if the problems have control over you, then you should seek help. Our approach is an eclectic, common sense approach. "Whatever works, works." Although we do utilize medications, our approach is to keep them to a minimum. There is no magic pill to solve problems.
The Neuropsychiatric Institute provides Outpatient Behavioral Health Services for Adults, Families, Children and Adolescents. We believe that as long as you have your problems under control, then you do not need our assistance. However, if the problems have control over you, then you should seek help. Our approach is an eclectic, common sense approach. "Whatever works, works." Although we do utilize medications, our approach is to keep them to a minimum. There is no magic pill to solve problems.
![Photo of Melissa Nicholas - Win Life Psychiatric Care , DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82f4c6bd-6618-4c7d-a2a9-34de987e6d74/1/320x400.jpeg)
Win Life Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33610
Do you struggle with feeling low, disconnected from yourself and others? Have a hard time concentrating or put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. Dr. Nicholas believes it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
Do you struggle with feeling low, disconnected from yourself and others? Have a hard time concentrating or put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. Dr. Nicholas believes it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
![Photo of Dr. Simone M Clement-Joseph - Wholesome Healing Services, LLC, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75de33d0-8a15-483a-8e85-d63b34d80340/2/320x400.jpeg)
Wholesome Healing Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33610 (Online Only)
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a comprehensive service. I listen to your concerns and customize a treatment plan that is specific to your individual needs.
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a comprehensive service. I listen to your concerns and customize a treatment plan that is specific to your individual needs.
![Photo of De-Shaunah Dixon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d139351f-275d-42c3-a1c4-df7101727bf4/1/320x400.png)
Hey there! My name is De-Shaunah Dixon, and I am a doctoral-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am open, non-judgmental, and bring to you many years of experience in treating various mental health disorders. 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 well-being. I strive to create a supportive, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for my sessions with patients.
Hey there! My name is De-Shaunah Dixon, and I am a doctoral-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am open, non-judgmental, and bring to you many years of experience in treating various mental health disorders. 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 well-being. I strive to create a supportive, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for my sessions with patients.
See more therapy options for Temple Terrace
Nearby Searches for Temple Terrace
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Temple Terrace, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Temple Terrace, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Chronic Pain |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Grief |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Temple Terrace, FL see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Temple Terrace?
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.