Psychiatrists in Palm Beach, FL
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Online Psychiatrist in Palm Beach, Florida, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e385fad-1007-4d69-9f33-bdf8bcba5860/1/320x400.jpeg)
Online Psychiatrist in Palm Beach, Florida
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Beach, FL 33480 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Carter A. Pottash, MD, DLFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b06ff56f-e3fb-4602-8d5b-cba546e20f64/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Pottash is a psychopharmacologist/psychiatrist in Palm Beach, just across the bridge from downtown West Palm Beach. The author/co-author of over 120 research publications, he is Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at New York University and a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. Trained at Yale for medical school and residency, he treats all psychiatric conditions, but his special interests are in depression, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, ADD/ADHD, and dual diagnosis substance abuse. Treatment begins with an evaluation of at least 60 minutes, taking a fresh look at diagnosis and treatment and considering tests to rule out medical causes.
Dr. Pottash is a psychopharmacologist/psychiatrist in Palm Beach, just across the bridge from downtown West Palm Beach. The author/co-author of over 120 research publications, he is Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at New York University and a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. Trained at Yale for medical school and residency, he treats all psychiatric conditions, but his special interests are in depression, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, ADD/ADHD, and dual diagnosis substance abuse. Treatment begins with an evaluation of at least 60 minutes, taking a fresh look at diagnosis and treatment and considering tests to rule out medical causes.
![Photo of Louis T Joseph, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b91b23c5-bcb1-4be2-be28-038f8311ff0e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Opensea.institute for appointments. Perhaps you might ask yourself if you’ve reached a precipice— a point in your life where you know need to make a change. Perhaps, you’re realizing that living your life without an appreciable feeling of balance and fulfillment is no longer something you’re willing to do? At Open Sea Institute, Dr. Joseph offers clients the opportunity to co-create the changes they are seeking in their lives. When you partner with Dr. Joseph, you will develop a clear vision of your truest potential while learning how to work through and remove the steady stream of obstacles that we all must encounter in our lives.
Opensea.institute for appointments. Perhaps you might ask yourself if you’ve reached a precipice— a point in your life where you know need to make a change. Perhaps, you’re realizing that living your life without an appreciable feeling of balance and fulfillment is no longer something you’re willing to do? At Open Sea Institute, Dr. Joseph offers clients the opportunity to co-create the changes they are seeking in their lives. When you partner with Dr. Joseph, you will develop a clear vision of your truest potential while learning how to work through and remove the steady stream of obstacles that we all must encounter in our lives.
![Photo of Rebecca Ukaegbu - The Psychiatry MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af807afe-84ac-4e20-a771-0535ec80a0a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide holistic patient care that integrates wellness, mindfulness, nutrition, and exercise with psychiatric management. I understand the challenges individuals face during life's pivotal moments – grappling with transitions, relationships, identity, trauma, culture, race, societal pressures, work demands, and family complexities. Recognizing the overwhelming nature of these struggles, individuals often find themselves lost and hesitant to seek support. I endeavor to establish a nurturing environment where you can openly share your burdens without fear, fostering a safe space for introspection and healing.
I provide holistic patient care that integrates wellness, mindfulness, nutrition, and exercise with psychiatric management. I understand the challenges individuals face during life's pivotal moments – grappling with transitions, relationships, identity, trauma, culture, race, societal pressures, work demands, and family complexities. Recognizing the overwhelming nature of these struggles, individuals often find themselves lost and hesitant to seek support. I endeavor to establish a nurturing environment where you can openly share your burdens without fear, fostering a safe space for introspection and healing.
![Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74ed9c02-65b9-4806-9fa6-3650f624e29d/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Palm Beach, FL 33480 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for same day telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Virtual Psychiatric Care offers affordable tele-psych services. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out of pocket rates-. Now Accepting Medicare, Optum, and Cigna (Evernorth) Insurance.
Accepting new patients for same day telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Virtual Psychiatric Care offers affordable tele-psych services. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out of pocket rates-. Now Accepting Medicare, Optum, and Cigna (Evernorth) Insurance.
![Photo of John Christian Umhau - AlcoholRecoveryMedicine.com, MD, MPH, CPE, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c23ff50-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Why not use evidence-based treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)? If you have lost control over how much you drink, get help from an expert. If psychological or will-power based treatment methods have not worked, the Sinclair Method and medications like naltrexone or baclofen may be critical for your recovery. As a specialist in Addiction Medicine, my evidenced based medical program is affordable, practical, and accessible. Go to AlcoholRecoveryMedicine.com for more information and learn how thousands of people have found freedom from alcohol.
Why not use evidence-based treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)? If you have lost control over how much you drink, get help from an expert. If psychological or will-power based treatment methods have not worked, the Sinclair Method and medications like naltrexone or baclofen may be critical for your recovery. As a specialist in Addiction Medicine, my evidenced based medical program is affordable, practical, and accessible. Go to AlcoholRecoveryMedicine.com for more information and learn how thousands of people have found freedom from alcohol.
![Photo of Mark DeLuca, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c59165d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in General and Forensic Psychiatry, I am part of an exceptional team, which operates three state-of-the-art offices offering an individualized treatment approach using psychotherapy, psychopharmacology and repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) treatment. All general psychiatric conditions can be treated to include; depression, bipolar, anxiety, obsessive compulsive and personality disorders. Substance abuse issues are also treated in an office-based setting with a significant success rate at maintaining sobriety through our treatment approach.
I specialize in General and Forensic Psychiatry, I am part of an exceptional team, which operates three state-of-the-art offices offering an individualized treatment approach using psychotherapy, psychopharmacology and repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) treatment. All general psychiatric conditions can be treated to include; depression, bipolar, anxiety, obsessive compulsive and personality disorders. Substance abuse issues are also treated in an office-based setting with a significant success rate at maintaining sobriety through our treatment approach.
![Photo of Edward Zawadzki, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c08c513-25d6-43ba-9de2-2b5cf3928055/2/320x400.jpeg)
It's difficult to keep a free mind. Suffering with psychiatric symptoms makes this even more difficult. The goal of my personalized, intimate practice is to reduce symptoms that are causing you problems. The ideal patient in this practice would be one who is motivated to make choices that will better their lives and reduce symptoms that are problematic, distressing, or even simply annoying or embarrassing. I treat a wide variety of disorders, including anxiety disorders, panic, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, OCD, dementia, post-traumatic stress, and addiction behaviors.
It's difficult to keep a free mind. Suffering with psychiatric symptoms makes this even more difficult. The goal of my personalized, intimate practice is to reduce symptoms that are causing you problems. The ideal patient in this practice would be one who is motivated to make choices that will better their lives and reduce symptoms that are problematic, distressing, or even simply annoying or embarrassing. I treat a wide variety of disorders, including anxiety disorders, panic, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, OCD, dementia, post-traumatic stress, and addiction behaviors.
![Photo of Samantha Saltz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4825f570-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Saltz, MD is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who provides individualized, tailored treatment to each of her patients and believes in a team approach to medicine. She uses a dynamic style involving medication management, therapy and, when necessary, a medical workup. She consults with other providers, family members and, for children, schools, to ensure that each patient is treated to the fullest extent.
Samantha Saltz, MD is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who provides individualized, tailored treatment to each of her patients and believes in a team approach to medicine. She uses a dynamic style involving medication management, therapy and, when necessary, a medical workup. She consults with other providers, family members and, for children, schools, to ensure that each patient is treated to the fullest extent.
![Photo of Heidi Erickson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d6f5931-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Premier Psychiatric Care geared to the private pay patient needing the choice, flexibility, and confidentiality not found in today's behavioral health care world. Care is provided in a holistic context that encompasses the use of both conventional and complementary modalities. I currently provide services (Virtually only ) in South Florida and both in office and virtual visits in Oklahoma.
Premier Psychiatric Care geared to the private pay patient needing the choice, flexibility, and confidentiality not found in today's behavioral health care world. Care is provided in a holistic context that encompasses the use of both conventional and complementary modalities. I currently provide services (Virtually only ) in South Florida and both in office and virtual visits in Oklahoma.
![Photo of Silvia Bernardi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eadb592-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Silvia Bernardi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Beach, FL 33480
Waitlist for new clients
As a psychiatrist and neuroscientist, I believe in treating both the brain and the mind.
As a psychiatrist and neuroscientist, I believe in treating both the brain and the mind.
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![Photo of Margie Francis, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9109a561-404b-44aa-b7ec-1c444a3373f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margie Francis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Palm Beach, FL 33480 (Online Only)
I provide a holistic approach to my clients. I provide medication management, psychiatric evaluation, and supportive therapy.
I provide a holistic approach to my clients. I provide medication management, psychiatric evaluation, and supportive therapy.
![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
Palm Beach, FL 33480 (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 Sravan Narapureddy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c59072a-0c6a-4120-be8d-b7748183dea0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients and many commercial insurances. Welcome to my practice, where I believe in the power of truly listening to my patients. I take the time to understand your unique story and experiences and combine this personalized understanding with my expertise in the biological and psychological aspects of psychiatric illness to provide accurate diagnoses and tailored treatments. Treatment modalities may include medications, psychotherapy, lifestyle modification and transcranial magnetic stimulation. My commitment is to offer compassionate and individualized care to support your journey towards mental wellness.
Accepting new patients and many commercial insurances. Welcome to my practice, where I believe in the power of truly listening to my patients. I take the time to understand your unique story and experiences and combine this personalized understanding with my expertise in the biological and psychological aspects of psychiatric illness to provide accurate diagnoses and tailored treatments. Treatment modalities may include medications, psychotherapy, lifestyle modification and transcranial magnetic stimulation. My commitment is to offer compassionate and individualized care to support your journey towards mental wellness.
![Photo of Amanda Darling - Psychiatric Specialty Center - TMS Clinic, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42973520-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatric Specialty Center is a mental health practice in West Palm Beach, Florida. We offer Medication Management and Psychotherapy both In-Person and Telehealth. We also offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) which is a FDA approved, medication free treatment for patients who have depression. This is a cutting-edge treatment that can offer you relief from your suffering even if medications have not worked.
Psychiatric Specialty Center is a mental health practice in West Palm Beach, Florida. We offer Medication Management and Psychotherapy both In-Person and Telehealth. We also offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) which is a FDA approved, medication free treatment for patients who have depression. This is a cutting-edge treatment that can offer you relief from your suffering even if medications have not worked.
![Photo of Andrew Rucker, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad285b7c-f0cb-417c-99b7-426429e71932/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Andrew Rucker, a Psychiatrist, is dedicated to providing the best possible care. He has been practicing medicine since 2017. He focuses on the mental health needs of children, adolescents, and college-age. Along with these goals, he strives to provide care in a comfortable and relaxing environment.
Dr. Andrew Rucker, a Psychiatrist, is dedicated to providing the best possible care. He has been practicing medicine since 2017. He focuses on the mental health needs of children, adolescents, and college-age. Along with these goals, he strives to provide care in a comfortable and relaxing environment.
![Photo of Justin Nepa - Refresh Psychiatry and Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cffb657-735c-41ca-981c-ea8a8be35c4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We strive to provide the highest quality evidence-based, compassionate care through a combination of medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients/families overcome their most difficult challenges and achieve their greatest goals to lead their most joyful, fulfilling lives.
The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We strive to provide the highest quality evidence-based, compassionate care through a combination of medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients/families overcome their most difficult challenges and achieve their greatest goals to lead their most joyful, fulfilling lives.
![Photo of Natalie Doyleygreen - Natalie Doyleygreen, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47a230d2-4a7d-42d9-95cb-f2f2704fa9cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Doyleygreen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Beach, FL 33480 (Online Only)
Natalie is a compassionate, patient and attentive Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who works with individuals ages 18- seniors. Her enthusiasm, extensive training and experience has prepared her for her role in Psychiatry. Natalie utilizes evidence -based care in psychiatry to provide the best care possible so that each individual can attain their goal with medication management and or psychotherapy with each session. She respects each individual's culture and is mindful that culture sensitivity is essential to mental wellness. She is a great listener and wants to make her clients feel safe.
Natalie is a compassionate, patient and attentive Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who works with individuals ages 18- seniors. Her enthusiasm, extensive training and experience has prepared her for her role in Psychiatry. Natalie utilizes evidence -based care in psychiatry to provide the best care possible so that each individual can attain their goal with medication management and or psychotherapy with each session. She respects each individual's culture and is mindful that culture sensitivity is essential to mental wellness. She is a great listener and wants to make her clients feel safe.
![Photo of Sean Paul - Nowpsych, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/521b9fe9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I see children, teenagers and adults with all types of mental health conditions. I have a private practice and have next day openings. I can see patients virtually or in office. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, addictions and trauma. Typical issues include struggle with school, behavioral issues at home or interpersonal relationships. I am the consultant psychiatrist for an inpatient substance abuse program for teenagers with comorbid mental health issues. I am the psychiatric consultant for All Star Children's Foundation where I work with children that have experienced trauma.
I see children, teenagers and adults with all types of mental health conditions. I have a private practice and have next day openings. I can see patients virtually or in office. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, addictions and trauma. Typical issues include struggle with school, behavioral issues at home or interpersonal relationships. I am the consultant psychiatrist for an inpatient substance abuse program for teenagers with comorbid mental health issues. I am the psychiatric consultant for All Star Children's Foundation where I work with children that have experienced trauma.
![Photo of Dr. Sean Paul, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/522171e4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a medical doctor (MD) psychiatrist and see children and teenagers, and adults with all types of mental health conditions. I can see patients virtually (for patients anywhere in Colorado or Florida) or in my office in Sarasota Florida. I specialize in autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, behavioral issues and trauma. Typical issues include struggle with school, behavioral issues at home or interpersonal relationships. Feel free to google my practice: NowPsych Sean Paul, MD for more information
I am a medical doctor (MD) psychiatrist and see children and teenagers, and adults with all types of mental health conditions. I can see patients virtually (for patients anywhere in Colorado or Florida) or in my office in Sarasota Florida. I specialize in autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, behavioral issues and trauma. Typical issues include struggle with school, behavioral issues at home or interpersonal relationships. Feel free to google my practice: NowPsych Sean Paul, MD for more information
See more therapy options for Palm Beach
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Palm Beach, FL
30+
Average cost per session
$297
Psychiatrists in Palm Beach, FL who prioritize treating:
88% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | ADHD |
69% | Sleep or Insomnia |
69% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Optum |
93% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Palm Beach, FL see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
56% | Female | |
44% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Palm Beach?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.