Psychiatrists in Orlando, FL
![Photo of Theresa Webster, CRNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a22ccff-8a5a-421d-aeb0-c91da60be0d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Theresa Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32808 (Online Only)
Are you tired of your mental illness defining you? You may be unsure of the way forward, feeling anxious, fearful, angry, and hopelessness. You might not know how your mental illness overcame you. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to stop masking your suffering but instead break through it. You are ready to know stability. Most of all, you are ready to live your best life. Clients come to me looking for a provider who understands there is not one pathway to becoming overwhelmed by mental illness and the journey to wellness is not one size fits all.
Are you tired of your mental illness defining you? You may be unsure of the way forward, feeling anxious, fearful, angry, and hopelessness. You might not know how your mental illness overcame you. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to stop masking your suffering but instead break through it. You are ready to know stability. Most of all, you are ready to live your best life. Clients come to me looking for a provider who understands there is not one pathway to becoming overwhelmed by mental illness and the journey to wellness is not one size fits all.
![Photo of Mary Kathryn Parham, FNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf4f3ba1-d8c3-4269-8874-3cd145180f6d/1/320x400.png)
Mary Kathryn Parham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803 (Online Only)
I’m a dual-board certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner operating a private practice seeing patients via secure online video visits as a modern era house call. Trained in primary care at the University of South Carolina and in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University, my board certifications are in family medicine and in general child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. My approach is to observe and listen with curiosity and optimism to the individual seeking mental health care, so that we may then have a conversation and learn how to best collaborate to secure all the good that is possible.
I’m a dual-board certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner operating a private practice seeing patients via secure online video visits as a modern era house call. Trained in primary care at the University of South Carolina and in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University, my board certifications are in family medicine and in general child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. My approach is to observe and listen with curiosity and optimism to the individual seeking mental health care, so that we may then have a conversation and learn how to best collaborate to secure all the good that is possible.
![Photo of Paul Okoronkwo - Freedom Psychiatry Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5d68d83-8d2f-406b-8faa-3a7b332533c2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Freedom Psychiatry Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32809 (Online Only)
Are you feeling depressed, worthless, and hopeless about your future? Do you have anxiety or panic attacks? Do you have trouble concentrating better on your tasks? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance at your job, and at school, and at home. We treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic attack, bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently accepting new patients. Please, check out what others are saying about us at: provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Are you feeling depressed, worthless, and hopeless about your future? Do you have anxiety or panic attacks? Do you have trouble concentrating better on your tasks? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance at your job, and at school, and at home. We treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic attack, bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently accepting new patients. Please, check out what others are saying about us at: provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
![Photo of Mryan Murphy - A New Hope Psychiatric Services LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b48bb2a-f904-4f8c-9c4c-b68f8dff61e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
A New Hope Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801 (Online Only)
Our ideal clients are individuals grappling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mood disorders. They seek relief from symptoms impacting daily life, relationships, and well-being. They require compassionate, personalized psychiatric care via telehealth, fitting into their busy schedules. Seeking understanding, support, and effective treatment, they aim for stability, symptom management, hope, and resilience. They desire expert care respecting their unique needs, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives with A New Hope Psychiatric Services.
Our ideal clients are individuals grappling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mood disorders. They seek relief from symptoms impacting daily life, relationships, and well-being. They require compassionate, personalized psychiatric care via telehealth, fitting into their busy schedules. Seeking understanding, support, and effective treatment, they aim for stability, symptom management, hope, and resilience. They desire expert care respecting their unique needs, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives with A New Hope Psychiatric Services.
![Photo of Dr. Charmi Balsara, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e86a8dc-e68d-4ab6-98e5-7ec0ac90b372/2/320x400.jpeg)
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, Burnout, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Suicidal Thoughts, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Postpartum Care, Self-Esteem Concerns, Women's Issues, Life Transitions, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Coping Skills Development, Dual Diagnosis.
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, Burnout, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Suicidal Thoughts, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Postpartum Care, Self-Esteem Concerns, Women's Issues, Life Transitions, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Coping Skills Development, Dual Diagnosis.
![Photo of Xiaoyin (Anne) Ream, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51e76317-086f-41df-8412-69c5db3822a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anne (Xiaoyin) Ream is a Family Nurse Practitioner and soon to be Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2015. She has been with Lifestance Health, formerly known as Orlando Behavioral Health since 2017. She graduated from the University of South Florida (USF) with a master's degree in family practice. She is also a graduate of the University of Tampa (Tampa, FL) and Rowan University (Glassboro, NJ) with bachelor's degrees in nursing and biological sciences respectively. Anne believes in empowering her clients to achieve maximal emotional strength.
Anne (Xiaoyin) Ream is a Family Nurse Practitioner and soon to be Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2015. She has been with Lifestance Health, formerly known as Orlando Behavioral Health since 2017. She graduated from the University of South Florida (USF) with a master's degree in family practice. She is also a graduate of the University of Tampa (Tampa, FL) and Rowan University (Glassboro, NJ) with bachelor's degrees in nursing and biological sciences respectively. Anne believes in empowering her clients to achieve maximal emotional strength.
![Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, LPN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80390306-cb97-4437-ab6c-6c906999e384/1/320x400.jpeg)
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live a fruitful and healthy life.
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live a fruitful and healthy life.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b247c28-7093-4107-8797-05e435b34cf7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Robin Belcher-Howard, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0caa9ea6-54cb-47fb-aa83-8480ce1f4114/3/320x400.jpeg)
Robin Belcher-Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801 (Online Only)
Robin Belcher-Howard is a dual certified Nurse Practitioner (APRN) in Psychiatry and Family Nurse Practitioner. She specializes in Psychiatry and is licensed in the state of Florida, Georgia, Wyoming and Washington. Robin received her Master's degree in Nursing from Albany State University and Post Master’s in Psych Mental Health from Valdosta State University. She is committed to providing excellent care to patients of all ages 6 and up by being a patient advocate offering skills in medication administration and care implementation.
Robin Belcher-Howard is a dual certified Nurse Practitioner (APRN) in Psychiatry and Family Nurse Practitioner. She specializes in Psychiatry and is licensed in the state of Florida, Georgia, Wyoming and Washington. Robin received her Master's degree in Nursing from Albany State University and Post Master’s in Psych Mental Health from Valdosta State University. She is committed to providing excellent care to patients of all ages 6 and up by being a patient advocate offering skills in medication administration and care implementation.
![Photo of Xiaoyin (Anne) Wang Ream, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7185ccd4-6a04-4025-bb89-aecec5230294/1/320x400.jpeg)
Xiaoyin (Anne) Wang Ream
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32817
Life isn’t always easy. Are you feeling depressed? Anxious? I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner esteemed for my warmth, compassion, and unwavering dedication. I have over 9 years of experience as a nurse practitioner and over 7 years of psychiatric expertise providing care to both outpatient and nursing home populations. Emphasizing a holistic and collaborative approach, I go beyond medication management to ensure comprehensive care for my patients.
Life isn’t always easy. Are you feeling depressed? Anxious? I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner esteemed for my warmth, compassion, and unwavering dedication. I have over 9 years of experience as a nurse practitioner and over 7 years of psychiatric expertise providing care to both outpatient and nursing home populations. Emphasizing a holistic and collaborative approach, I go beyond medication management to ensure comprehensive care for my patients.
![Photo of Gardine Jacques, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dab0e547-5b7d-4798-ab91-b2c60fc36ece/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gardine Jacques holds two national board certifications with the American Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and adult nurse practitioner (ANP). Dr. Jacques completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Florida International University. She received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice, and her master's in nursing at the University of South Florida. She received her Postmaster at Valdosta State University. Dr. Jacques is experienced in cognitive behavior therapy, acceptance, and commitment therapy, mindfulness cognitive behavior therapy, strength-based therapy, and trauma care.
Dr. Gardine Jacques holds two national board certifications with the American Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and adult nurse practitioner (ANP). Dr. Jacques completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Florida International University. She received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice, and her master's in nursing at the University of South Florida. She received her Postmaster at Valdosta State University. Dr. Jacques is experienced in cognitive behavior therapy, acceptance, and commitment therapy, mindfulness cognitive behavior therapy, strength-based therapy, and trauma care.
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![Photo of Kevin Buford, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6cfd1b0-5324-4f07-9fbe-8383529238d1/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Buford enjoys helping people to live life as their authentic selves and move past mental road blocks so that they can live their best lives. He is a staunch advocate for holistic psychological, emotional, social and physical wellness beyond just medication management. Motivational interviewing, CBT, and supportive therapy are provided as needed. Dr. Buford looks forward to partnering with you or a loved one to navigate the current difficulties for a more optimal tomorrow.
Dr. Buford enjoys helping people to live life as their authentic selves and move past mental road blocks so that they can live their best lives. He is a staunch advocate for holistic psychological, emotional, social and physical wellness beyond just medication management. Motivational interviewing, CBT, and supportive therapy are provided as needed. Dr. Buford looks forward to partnering with you or a loved one to navigate the current difficulties for a more optimal tomorrow.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6913bf1-d5df-4ea2-a92a-695dde7baee4/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Indhira Almonte - Sunshine Premier Wellness Center, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eda38eb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Positive mental health occurs when every aspect of one’s life is in balance. It incorporates emotional and physical health. This balance requires learning the necessary skills to cope with stress and react appropriately to life’s uncertainties. At Sunshine Premier Wellness Center, we are dedicated to helping adults, teens, and kids overcome the challenges of mental health conditions and move forward toward their goals. We offer psychiatric and psychological evaluations, neuropsychological testing, medication management, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) services.
Positive mental health occurs when every aspect of one’s life is in balance. It incorporates emotional and physical health. This balance requires learning the necessary skills to cope with stress and react appropriately to life’s uncertainties. At Sunshine Premier Wellness Center, we are dedicated to helping adults, teens, and kids overcome the challenges of mental health conditions and move forward toward their goals. We offer psychiatric and psychological evaluations, neuropsychological testing, medication management, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) services.
![Photo of Michael Lo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27ca0d54-14d6-4c49-a174-52d268438dd5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Lo APRN is a double board-certified nurse practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. Michael believes that client is motivated to get better, and client realizes the areas where they want to improve on, either through self-discovery or through therapy sessions. Client is open minded to pharmacotherapy, together with LMHC to achieve the optimal result for client’s mental health. Client can follow up with Michael on their pharmacotherapy to discuss any necessary changes to the plan of care during the visit to formulate a care plan that is suitable for the client.
Michael Lo APRN is a double board-certified nurse practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. Michael believes that client is motivated to get better, and client realizes the areas where they want to improve on, either through self-discovery or through therapy sessions. Client is open minded to pharmacotherapy, together with LMHC to achieve the optimal result for client’s mental health. Client can follow up with Michael on their pharmacotherapy to discuss any necessary changes to the plan of care during the visit to formulate a care plan that is suitable for the client.
![Photo of Amanda McCormack, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e10b906-57c1-42d3-af18-3329663091aa/1/320x400.png)
Amanda McCormack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32804
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive, and individualized mental health care. My mission is to support your journey toward wellness by addressing your mental health needs with evidence-based treatments, empathy, and a deep commitment to your overall well-being.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive, and individualized mental health care. My mission is to support your journey toward wellness by addressing your mental health needs with evidence-based treatments, empathy, and a deep commitment to your overall well-being.
![Photo of Patrick Sassoon, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/516d7a74-62cf-4718-b6bd-534b9bece2f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
![Photo of Suemi Shirai Oliveira, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16dc1b7f-a37b-4532-a672-b1cea60eb14f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Suemi Shirai Oliveira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32839 (Online Only)
Everyone has a story to tell, maybe your life is an open book or maybe you never shared it. As unique as you are, so is my approach in caring for your psychiatric needs. I am compassionate, respectful and nonjudgmental.
Everyone has a story to tell, maybe your life is an open book or maybe you never shared it. As unique as you are, so is my approach in caring for your psychiatric needs. I am compassionate, respectful and nonjudgmental.
![Photo of Sandy Nguyen, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdbb7a0c-c4eb-4ea0-ad15-4cc684d77201/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sandy Nguyen is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from the University of South Alabama, in Mobile, AL with a Master's of Science in Nursing. Sandy believes in providing quality, and patient-centered care. She has a strong passion for helping others struggling with mental health issues. She is a good listener, and is compassionate. She has over 13 years of mental health clinical nursing experience. She specializes in adult treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar disorders, and Schizophrenia.
Sandy Nguyen is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from the University of South Alabama, in Mobile, AL with a Master's of Science in Nursing. Sandy believes in providing quality, and patient-centered care. She has a strong passion for helping others struggling with mental health issues. She is a good listener, and is compassionate. She has over 13 years of mental health clinical nursing experience. She specializes in adult treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar disorders, and Schizophrenia.
![Photo of Lyssa Brooks, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b21d3883-3bac-403b-a517-8e359f673956/2/320x400.png)
Lyssa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32832
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
See more therapy options for Orlando
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Orlando, FL
300+
Average cost per session
$199
Psychiatrists in Orlando, FL who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
97% | Depression |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | Aetna |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Orlando, FL see their clients
51% | In Person and Online | |
49% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Orlando?
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.