Psychiatrists in Brandon, FL
![Photo of Jennifer Milam, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9640d5a-30d0-4b89-892f-c9418a1d9a05/2/320x400.png)
Jennifer has over 8 years of mental health nursing experience. While working on an inpatient psychiatric unit she saw the need in the community for more mental health providers so she decided to further her education. She is a compassionate, understanding provider who enjoys taking the time to get to know her patients. Jennifer attended South Florida State College for her nursing degree and the University of South Florida for her bachelor's degree. She obtained her master's degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and is board certified as a psychiatric nurse practitioner.
Jennifer has over 8 years of mental health nursing experience. While working on an inpatient psychiatric unit she saw the need in the community for more mental health providers so she decided to further her education. She is a compassionate, understanding provider who enjoys taking the time to get to know her patients. Jennifer attended South Florida State College for her nursing degree and the University of South Florida for her bachelor's degree. She obtained her master's degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and is board certified as a psychiatric nurse practitioner.
![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
Brandon, FL 33511
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 Jamie Lee Durchin, MSPAS, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1be4bd67-08f5-4b08-8162-49754524661d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie Lee Durchin
Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
I am physician assistant with specialty certification in psychiatry and prescribing privileges. I have over 17 years experience performing psychiatric evaluations and providing medication management to adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations.
I am physician assistant with specialty certification in psychiatry and prescribing privileges. I have over 17 years experience performing psychiatric evaluations and providing medication management to adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations.
![Photo of Robert Wilkins, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd438232-6eaa-4d24-86f6-f7d90504a09e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Robert Wilkins sees patients of age eighteen and up at Lifestance. He provides some limited therapy for mood and anxiety disorders. He treats depression, anxiety, psychotic conditions, substance abuse, and ADHD. There is a special interest in the treatment of PTSD. Dr. Wilkins obtained his medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina, and then completed his residency in Psychiatry at the University of Colorado. He spent many years at the Veterans Administration before coming to Lifestance.
Dr. Robert Wilkins sees patients of age eighteen and up at Lifestance. He provides some limited therapy for mood and anxiety disorders. He treats depression, anxiety, psychotic conditions, substance abuse, and ADHD. There is a special interest in the treatment of PTSD. Dr. Wilkins obtained his medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina, and then completed his residency in Psychiatry at the University of Colorado. He spent many years at the Veterans Administration before coming to Lifestance.
![Photo of Dr. Melissa Nicholas, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05cb57e9-22b6-4fbf-b0a7-85537b821e4d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Melissa Nicholas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
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 Pamela Sanders, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58a18e9e-a41d-4434-8d32-d7ebe825e8a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pamela works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Pamela believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Pamela works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Pamela believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
![Photo of Lovany L Pierre - Eden Psychiatry Health , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e644863f-fd37-4463-922a-12e17b074938/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lovany is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) currently working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Eden Psychiatry Health– a widely recognized organization providing remote comprehensive and compassionate psychiatric care. She has extensive knowledge and skills in psychiatric care and her role involves diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, prescribing medications, and providing therapeutic interventions.
Lovany is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) currently working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Eden Psychiatry Health– a widely recognized organization providing remote comprehensive and compassionate psychiatric care. She has extensive knowledge and skills in psychiatric care and her role involves diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, prescribing medications, and providing therapeutic interventions.
![Photo of Gundu Anupama Reddy - Online Psychiatrist in Hillsborough, Florida, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e289fe6-8454-4105-bfc5-01527920e47d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Online Psychiatrist in Hillsborough, Florida
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33508 (Online Only)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine she pursued additional research in HIV psychiatry . As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU psychoanalytic institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help enhance quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine she pursued additional research in HIV psychiatry . As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU psychoanalytic institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help enhance quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
![Photo of Melissa Morgan, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25112bf6-d5f6-42c0-96b2-54093c099ab7/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you have been struggling to find balance with your mental health. If you feel like the treatments / medications you are currently taking are not working, please let me help you. You DO NOT have to walk this road alone. If you are looking for a provider that will ensure a safe, judgement free environment, that offers realistic, effective treatment solutions you are in the right place. Together, we can work to explore your challenges, and set goals to help you function at your best. I especially enjoy working with medical professionals, veterans, and first responders, who experience unique challenges related to their occupation.
If you have been struggling to find balance with your mental health. If you feel like the treatments / medications you are currently taking are not working, please let me help you. You DO NOT have to walk this road alone. If you are looking for a provider that will ensure a safe, judgement free environment, that offers realistic, effective treatment solutions you are in the right place. Together, we can work to explore your challenges, and set goals to help you function at your best. I especially enjoy working with medical professionals, veterans, and first responders, who experience unique challenges related to their occupation.
![Photo of Tanika S Williams, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ba34311-d8e7-4534-9461-ebee6d9a81c0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tanika S Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511 (Online Only)
As a clinician, I understand what patient - centered means and my goal is to help each patient achieve their personal health care goal through my guidance and expertise. I believe open communication is particularly important and listening to the patients' needs is imperative when developing a trusting and therapeutic patient- provider relationship.
As a clinician, I understand what patient - centered means and my goal is to help each patient achieve their personal health care goal through my guidance and expertise. I believe open communication is particularly important and listening to the patients' needs is imperative when developing a trusting and therapeutic patient- provider relationship.
![Photo of Sunny Sia, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/484cbaac-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"Your privacy is our priority" at Holistic Medical Care Clinic Psychiatry. I endeavour to help my clients manage their stressors, mood or anxiety disorders, or lack of focus/attention through medication management. I evaluate each patient holistically with an agreed upon treatment care at the end of the session. I prescribe appropriate medication or supplements based on patient's preference and depth of disorder.
"Your privacy is our priority" at Holistic Medical Care Clinic Psychiatry. I endeavour to help my clients manage their stressors, mood or anxiety disorders, or lack of focus/attention through medication management. I evaluate each patient holistically with an agreed upon treatment care at the end of the session. I prescribe appropriate medication or supplements based on patient's preference and depth of disorder.
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At Learning to Achieve Wellness we work to meet each client's needs individually though the offering of a variety of services and specialties by well qualified processionals. If you have not found the services that you need reach out us, we will work to meet your goals!
At Learning to Achieve Wellness we work to meet each client's needs individually though the offering of a variety of services and specialties by well qualified processionals. If you have not found the services that you need reach out us, we will work to meet your goals!
![Photo of Christopher J Miller, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/612ef988-5ae5-4703-8c0a-2c8ff4676d23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher J Miller
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
I specialize in providing diagnostic mental health evaluations and medication management for patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and other behavioral disorders in adults, children, and adolescents. Through my previous work in internal medicine, I have worked with and provided compassionate care to chronically ill patients with complex conditions. Behavioral health problems often occur with other medical conditions, and I am especially sensitive to patients’ needs for mental health support when combined with other illnesses. I also oversee Ketamine assisted therapy and TMS treatments.
I specialize in providing diagnostic mental health evaluations and medication management for patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and other behavioral disorders in adults, children, and adolescents. Through my previous work in internal medicine, I have worked with and provided compassionate care to chronically ill patients with complex conditions. Behavioral health problems often occur with other medical conditions, and I am especially sensitive to patients’ needs for mental health support when combined with other illnesses. I also oversee Ketamine assisted therapy and TMS treatments.
![Photo of Camille Turner-Snagg, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1f6c0bb-b8d3-4636-9d64-a1cda81603b9/2/320x400.jpeg)
For the past 14 years, I have worked in settings where my therapeutic communication skills impacted client wellbeing. While starting my career as a psychiatric nurse’s aide, I began to see value in growing my skills with each client I encountered. I have a knack for identifying with others and a passion for mental health.
For the past 14 years, I have worked in settings where my therapeutic communication skills impacted client wellbeing. While starting my career as a psychiatric nurse’s aide, I began to see value in growing my skills with each client I encountered. I have a knack for identifying with others and a passion for mental health.
![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
Brandon, FL 33511 (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 Sandtrail Feet, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f045ea70-261d-4915-99f7-1a2d5a85e8b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sandtrail Feet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
Assured Mental & Physical Health promotes finding a healthy balance of mental and physical wellness to all individuals by providing accessible and quality mental healthcare. Feeling depressed, stressed, anxious, or experiencing other moods? We LISTEN to our clients and work with them to achieve their goals and find that healthy balance of mental and physical health. Helping you find that balance is my number one goal. We will work together and develop a plan to navigate through this journey.
Assured Mental & Physical Health promotes finding a healthy balance of mental and physical wellness to all individuals by providing accessible and quality mental healthcare. Feeling depressed, stressed, anxious, or experiencing other moods? We LISTEN to our clients and work with them to achieve their goals and find that healthy balance of mental and physical health. Helping you find that balance is my number one goal. We will work together and develop a plan to navigate through this journey.
![Photo of Dr. Melissa Nicholas, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c1a03ae-c00e-4c44-bb0d-caceafd75a40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Melissa Nicholas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
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 Troy P Noonan - Troy Noonan - Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry, MD, PA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de94c171-4189-4d0e-af0b-b96168b5b1c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Troy Noonan - Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, PA
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
I work with a diverse range of clients seeking help for various mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or ADHD. You may be struggling with daily functioning, relationships, or overall well-being, or you may be the parent of a child struggling in school and peer relationships. I aim to provide you with a path towards healing, improved mental health, and a better quality of life. Over my 20 years of experience, I've helped countless individuals achieve these goals, and I'm committed to continuing this work.
I work with a diverse range of clients seeking help for various mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or ADHD. You may be struggling with daily functioning, relationships, or overall well-being, or you may be the parent of a child struggling in school and peer relationships. I aim to provide you with a path towards healing, improved mental health, and a better quality of life. Over my 20 years of experience, I've helped countless individuals achieve these goals, and I'm committed to continuing this work.
![Photo of Debbie Mock, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdb83e6e-494b-4645-9503-921693a17f9d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Debbie Mock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511 (Online Only)
Do you love yourself? Have you lost that desire for your very own existence? Do you feel like you are carrying around a ton of bricks. lost interest in your favorite things, lacking energy, nervous all the time, and self-medicating with drugs or alcohol? Does the sound of the alarm clock turn your stomach? Are you struggling to obtain a full night's sleep? Can't stop your thoughts from racing? If this sounds like something you are going through, we can help you focus on getting your life back on track and learning to fall in love with yourself again.
Do you love yourself? Have you lost that desire for your very own existence? Do you feel like you are carrying around a ton of bricks. lost interest in your favorite things, lacking energy, nervous all the time, and self-medicating with drugs or alcohol? Does the sound of the alarm clock turn your stomach? Are you struggling to obtain a full night's sleep? Can't stop your thoughts from racing? If this sounds like something you are going through, we can help you focus on getting your life back on track and learning to fall in love with yourself again.
![Photo of Shannon Pereira, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b33c86f0-6117-464e-b312-c407a6e66fe9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate and compassionate about the care for addiction, medicine, and all mental health and I know they go hand-in-hand and I will treat you safely with medication and motivation. I am dedicated to treating the entire person, and not just the one or two concerns that might lead you to be seeking help.
I am passionate and compassionate about the care for addiction, medicine, and all mental health and I know they go hand-in-hand and I will treat you safely with medication and motivation. I am dedicated to treating the entire person, and not just the one or two concerns that might lead you to be seeking help.
See more therapy options for Brandon
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Brandon, FL
50+
Average cost per session
$155
Psychiatrists in Brandon, FL who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
84% | ADHD |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
98% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
80% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Brandon, FL see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Brandon?
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.