Psychiatrists in Jacksonville, FL
![Photo of Shire Padao, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0aeb2e74-7b05-4846-8095-7c2d689ed839/1/320x400.png)
Shire Padao
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32206 (Online Only)
My name is Shire Padao, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to teens and adults.
My name is Shire Padao, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to teens and adults.
![Photo of Robin Belcher, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e76aaaec-aa8d-4a9f-86d7-5eb734558567/1/320x400.jpeg)
Robin Belcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256 (Online Only)
am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner (APRN) in Psychiatry and Family Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in Psychiatry and is licensed in the state of Florida, Georgia, Wyoming, and Washington.
am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner (APRN) in Psychiatry and Family Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in Psychiatry and is licensed in the state of Florida, Georgia, Wyoming, and Washington.
![Photo of Satyen Madkaiker MD, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4aa8edb9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist and I treat Depression, Anxiety, Psychosis & Schizophrenia, PTSD, Addiction & Substance abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Memory Disturbances.
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist and I treat Depression, Anxiety, Psychosis & Schizophrenia, PTSD, Addiction & Substance abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Memory Disturbances.
![Photo of Tiesha B. Henderson, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d5dfd5d-7972-4732-9636-c692c677a844/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiesha B. Henderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32216 (Online Only)
I offer a unique approach to providing Comprehensive Behavioral Healthcare using a Collaborative Care Model making the client the priority. I specialize in individualized medication and psychotherapy that is client-centered. I have over 10 years of experience in behavioral health, treating clients from all walks of life. The goal is to help clients feel better while achieving control of their symptoms instead of their symptoms controlling their lives.
I offer a unique approach to providing Comprehensive Behavioral Healthcare using a Collaborative Care Model making the client the priority. I specialize in individualized medication and psychotherapy that is client-centered. I have over 10 years of experience in behavioral health, treating clients from all walks of life. The goal is to help clients feel better while achieving control of their symptoms instead of their symptoms controlling their lives.
![Photo of Gira Borad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b4c3df7-4d4f-48f6-b853-084cbf9b9323/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Borad is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and has specialized in Addiction Psychiatry. She finished her residency from WVU campus of Charleston, WV and finished Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship from UPMC/Western Psychiatry Institute. She has previously worked as an Assistant Professor at WVU of Charleston, where she was involved in working with residents in inpatient and outpatient settings, provided psychiatric consult services to hospitalized patients, and was part of the Outpatient Comprehensive Opioid treatment program. She has interest in treating patients with mood , anxiety and psychotic disorders.
Dr. Borad is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and has specialized in Addiction Psychiatry. She finished her residency from WVU campus of Charleston, WV and finished Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship from UPMC/Western Psychiatry Institute. She has previously worked as an Assistant Professor at WVU of Charleston, where she was involved in working with residents in inpatient and outpatient settings, provided psychiatric consult services to hospitalized patients, and was part of the Outpatient Comprehensive Opioid treatment program. She has interest in treating patients with mood , anxiety and psychotic disorders.
![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 Bruce Bassi - TelepsychHealth, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86afdbc4-0ad1-4af1-ae0f-cf6c6e32aed4/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We have availability within 1-2 weeks. Our reviews are on our website. Feel free to call or message us to request an ASAP appointment. You might be a bit hesitant about receiving treatment over the internet if you haven’t done it before, and that’s totally understandable. If we can provide you any reassurance, most people end up finding they enjoy virtual visits more than going to an office.
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We have availability within 1-2 weeks. Our reviews are on our website. Feel free to call or message us to request an ASAP appointment. You might be a bit hesitant about receiving treatment over the internet if you haven’t done it before, and that’s totally understandable. If we can provide you any reassurance, most people end up finding they enjoy virtual visits more than going to an office.
![Photo of Melinda Braswell, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b283220c-ce41-43b8-99fa-78b146bbe3b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melinda Braswell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223
Are you feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or lost your zest for life? Do you feel alone with nowhere else to turn? Are your problems adversely affecting your personal relationships or job success? If this sounds like you, it’s time to get help. Let’s work together to recapture the joy and happiness you desire.
Are you feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or lost your zest for life? Do you feel alone with nowhere else to turn? Are your problems adversely affecting your personal relationships or job success? If this sounds like you, it’s time to get help. Let’s work together to recapture the joy and happiness you desire.
![Photo of Rashan Jones, PhD, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f89ae097-16bc-4bf1-872c-2e22e40baad8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rashan Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, CCM
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32217
Complete Dimensions Behavioral Health promote the well-being of the individuals and families in Florida communities by providing accessible, quality mental health and substance abuse/addiction care for children, adolescent ,adults, veterans, and their families, utilizing a service system that emphasizes trust, respect, confidentiality, and compassion. We are commited to quality mental health care that is provided in a collaborative effort with consumers overall health strategies array of medical services. We further committed to philosophy that we exist for the customer.
Complete Dimensions Behavioral Health promote the well-being of the individuals and families in Florida communities by providing accessible, quality mental health and substance abuse/addiction care for children, adolescent ,adults, veterans, and their families, utilizing a service system that emphasizes trust, respect, confidentiality, and compassion. We are commited to quality mental health care that is provided in a collaborative effort with consumers overall health strategies array of medical services. We further committed to philosophy that we exist for the customer.
![Photo of Reaghan Hicks, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6a4cbc4-8112-4e31-a3e6-052b53f6f049/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Reaghan Hicks is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General and Addiction Psychiatry. She completed her undergraduate training at The College of Charleston followed by medical school at The University of South Carolina School of Medicine. Dr. Hicks completed Residency in General Psychiatry at The University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville followed by Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at The Medical University of South Carolina.
Dr. Reaghan Hicks is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General and Addiction Psychiatry. She completed her undergraduate training at The College of Charleston followed by medical school at The University of South Carolina School of Medicine. Dr. Hicks completed Residency in General Psychiatry at The University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville followed by Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at The Medical University of South Carolina.
![Photo of Donita Jones, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c43a6a9-1066-4167-9dbf-ce3e40f9ab39/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donita Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32257
Thank you for looking at my profile! I have been providing mental health services to the community since 2018 but also have training and experience in family medicine, pediatrics, case management, OBGYN, emergency intervention, critical care, progressive care, IV therapy and TMS which gives me a well-rounded approach to managing a whole person. Our office utilizes an integrated approach in a non-judgmental environment and would be happy to assist on your journey!
Thank you for looking at my profile! I have been providing mental health services to the community since 2018 but also have training and experience in family medicine, pediatrics, case management, OBGYN, emergency intervention, critical care, progressive care, IV therapy and TMS which gives me a well-rounded approach to managing a whole person. Our office utilizes an integrated approach in a non-judgmental environment and would be happy to assist on your journey!
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![Photo of Caitlin Gardiner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3824dfab-ccd3-44e7-bf7e-234e41125cf6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Caitlin Gardiner is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry and psychotherapy. Dr. Caitlin Gardiner's practice is based on the biopsychosocial model and believes that the foundation of healing is in psychotherapy and human connection. She is known for incorporating therapy into her medication management practice. Typically she offers 30-minute follow-up visits for medication management with focused therapy based on individual needs.
Dr. Caitlin Gardiner is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry and psychotherapy. Dr. Caitlin Gardiner's practice is based on the biopsychosocial model and believes that the foundation of healing is in psychotherapy and human connection. She is known for incorporating therapy into her medication management practice. Typically she offers 30-minute follow-up visits for medication management with focused therapy based on individual needs.
![Photo of Anastasia Ruiz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a73b5417-97de-43cf-b682-f28f09d0d075/1/320x400.jpeg)
Doctor Ruiz is a board-certified psychiatrist physician who specializes in psychiatric diagnosis and treatment in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, ADHD, and pregnancy related psychiatric conditions. Dr. Ruiz received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry, graduating from the Honors College with Magna Cum Laude. She later completed four-years of medical school at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and an additional four-years of psychiatric residency training.
Doctor Ruiz is a board-certified psychiatrist physician who specializes in psychiatric diagnosis and treatment in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, ADHD, and pregnancy related psychiatric conditions. Dr. Ruiz received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry, graduating from the Honors College with Magna Cum Laude. She later completed four-years of medical school at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and an additional four-years of psychiatric residency training.
![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
Jacksonville, FL 32216 (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 Shelby Goicochea, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89bae7c2-b520-4890-b082-6b01033b86dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Goicochea is Peruvian and speaks Spanish fluently. She is a “triple Gator” having completed her undergraduate and medical degree at the University of Florida (UF) and psychiatric training at UF Jacksonville. She was recognized by the Gold Humanism Honor Society for exemplary service, integrity, clinical excellence and compassion and awarded Resident of the Year for exceptional clinical skills and commitment to patients.
Dr. Goicochea is Peruvian and speaks Spanish fluently. She is a “triple Gator” having completed her undergraduate and medical degree at the University of Florida (UF) and psychiatric training at UF Jacksonville. She was recognized by the Gold Humanism Honor Society for exemplary service, integrity, clinical excellence and compassion and awarded Resident of the Year for exceptional clinical skills and commitment to patients.
![Photo of Laura Finory, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/785bd882-4bc4-4ac2-8e27-2f0b3ab332b5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Laura Ginory is double boarded in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. She has been practicing for over 12 years. Dr. Ginory's practice focuses on medication management, which is offered in conjunction with supportive therapy offered in 30 min visit follow-up visits. However occasionally Dr. Ginory may believe additional therapy is needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Laura Ginory is double boarded in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. She has been practicing for over 12 years. Dr. Ginory's practice focuses on medication management, which is offered in conjunction with supportive therapy offered in 30 min visit follow-up visits. However occasionally Dr. Ginory may believe additional therapy is needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
![Photo of Julie Rodriguez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eeac089-d0a2-4e53-ba9e-f7eaa22e60f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Julie Rodriguez is an ABPN boarded adult psychiatrist with clinical experience of over 15 years. Dr. Rodriguez practice focuses on medication management which is offered in conjunction with supportive therapy. Dr. Rodriguez obtained her medical degree from the Universidad Catholic Madre y Maestra Dominican Republic. She then completed her residency in adult psychiatry at the University of Florida, in Gainesville.
Dr. Julie Rodriguez is an ABPN boarded adult psychiatrist with clinical experience of over 15 years. Dr. Rodriguez practice focuses on medication management which is offered in conjunction with supportive therapy. Dr. Rodriguez obtained her medical degree from the Universidad Catholic Madre y Maestra Dominican Republic. She then completed her residency in adult psychiatry at the University of Florida, in Gainesville.
![Photo of Lizaida Enamorado, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d879e813-993f-40c0-808e-d663e7b89358/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is Lizaida Enamorado, and I am a Bilingual Psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, mood disorders, and more. I also like using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I like to bring a complete and holistic therapeutic approach to improve the functioning of my patients by providing psychotherapeutic interventions, prescribing medications and often collaborating with other healthcare providers as needed to improve my patient's care.
Hi, my name is Lizaida Enamorado, and I am a Bilingual Psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, mood disorders, and more. I also like using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I like to bring a complete and holistic therapeutic approach to improve the functioning of my patients by providing psychotherapeutic interventions, prescribing medications and often collaborating with other healthcare providers as needed to improve my patient's care.
![Photo of Millian Okafor, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbfaa727-8973-46e4-8445-18186cad6c41/2/320x400.jpeg)
Millian Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32210 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm a dedicated healthcare professional with a rich background in nursing education and patient care across various settings. I have extensive, diverse experience working with various age groups. I have held various positions in hospitals in critical care units and worked in private practices in the community as a Nurse Practitioner. Throughout my profession, I have always had a special interest in my patients' mental health, which has enabled me to render holistic and compassionate care to this population.
Welcome! I'm a dedicated healthcare professional with a rich background in nursing education and patient care across various settings. I have extensive, diverse experience working with various age groups. I have held various positions in hospitals in critical care units and worked in private practices in the community as a Nurse Practitioner. Throughout my profession, I have always had a special interest in my patients' mental health, which has enabled me to render holistic and compassionate care to this population.
![Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3b22e6b-3703-4e8a-a77b-86ad0e4a0390/2/320x400.png)
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
See more therapy options for Jacksonville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Jacksonville, FL
200+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Jacksonville, FL who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Medication Management |
70% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Jacksonville, FL see their clients
50% | Online Only | |
50% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
28% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Jacksonville?
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.