Psychiatrists in Gainesville, FL
Innovative holistic team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and therapists collaborating on the cutting edge of evidence based therapeutics, including esketamine, TMS, and neurofeedback. Sarkis Family Psychiatry has eight years of experience with transcranial magnetic stimulation (or TMS, a treatment for depression that does not involve drugs, surgery, or electric shocks), ten years of experience with neurofeedback (biofeedback that focuses on brain activity), and we are a certified esketamine clinic.
Innovative holistic team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and therapists collaborating on the cutting edge of evidence based therapeutics, including esketamine, TMS, and neurofeedback. Sarkis Family Psychiatry has eight years of experience with transcranial magnetic stimulation (or TMS, a treatment for depression that does not involve drugs, surgery, or electric shocks), ten years of experience with neurofeedback (biofeedback that focuses on brain activity), and we are a certified esketamine clinic.
Lisa Goldberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32605
After a decade of working as an NP in neurology, I returned to school to obtain an additional license as a psychiatric NP to better serve my community and help people with their mental health challenges. With a belief that every individual has the potential to live their best authentic life I have a strong commitment to developing caring, non-judgmental relationships with my patients.
After a decade of working as an NP in neurology, I returned to school to obtain an additional license as a psychiatric NP to better serve my community and help people with their mental health challenges. With a belief that every individual has the potential to live their best authentic life I have a strong commitment to developing caring, non-judgmental relationships with my patients.
Reaching out for help can be the most important yet difficult step in the process of healing. From our initial contact our goal is to help you feel welcomed, understood, and supported. Psych Care is a psychiatric and psychological practice serving North Central Florida. We offer research based and highly effective treatment and evaluation, with great attention to confidentiality and responsive scheduling. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes psychiatrists, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioners, and licensed therapists.
Reaching out for help can be the most important yet difficult step in the process of healing. From our initial contact our goal is to help you feel welcomed, understood, and supported. Psych Care is a psychiatric and psychological practice serving North Central Florida. We offer research based and highly effective treatment and evaluation, with great attention to confidentiality and responsive scheduling. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes psychiatrists, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioners, and licensed therapists.
Julie Frisbie-Knudsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32653
Let me share with you why I do what I do. Some of us have had a provider who doesn't listen to you, talked down to you, or was dismissive of what you were going through. That is NOT who I want to be. I strive to provide a safe space where you feel listened to, respected and hopefully encouraged. That is why my initial visits are 90 minutes, so I can get a full picture of who you are and what you are hoping to accomplish. My follow up visits are 30 minutes. Through compassionate listening and helpful medications, we will seek to address your needs and find your help.
Let me share with you why I do what I do. Some of us have had a provider who doesn't listen to you, talked down to you, or was dismissive of what you were going through. That is NOT who I want to be. I strive to provide a safe space where you feel listened to, respected and hopefully encouraged. That is why my initial visits are 90 minutes, so I can get a full picture of who you are and what you are hoping to accomplish. My follow up visits are 30 minutes. Through compassionate listening and helpful medications, we will seek to address your needs and find your help.
Rachelle Lee Sansing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32608
Often our physical, emotional, and relational health are neglected until they demand our attention. Whether engaging with mental health care for the first time or with prior experiences, it is essential that my clients feel their needs and priorities are understood. They should be empowered to develop a deeper understanding of difficult experiences in life as well as to explore solutions. It is my belief that people are most able to thrive when working with someone who can help them create a personalized plan and sees the whole person, in their context, rather than a symptom checklist or problem.
Often our physical, emotional, and relational health are neglected until they demand our attention. Whether engaging with mental health care for the first time or with prior experiences, it is essential that my clients feel their needs and priorities are understood. They should be empowered to develop a deeper understanding of difficult experiences in life as well as to explore solutions. It is my belief that people are most able to thrive when working with someone who can help them create a personalized plan and sees the whole person, in their context, rather than a symptom checklist or problem.
Kimberly Teitelbaum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32653
Not accepting new clients
*** Not currently accepting new patients at this time*** Whether you are considering psychiatric care for the first time or have received mental health services for years, I look forward to gaining a thorough understanding of you, including the desires you have for your life and what wellness means to you.
*** Not currently accepting new patients at this time*** Whether you are considering psychiatric care for the first time or have received mental health services for years, I look forward to gaining a thorough understanding of you, including the desires you have for your life and what wellness means to you.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available the same day or the next day. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing in our network of clinics and online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans, including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available the same day or the next day. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing in our network of clinics and online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans, including Medicare.
I’m a board-certified PMHNP (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), which means I’m an NP with specialized training in psychiatry. I'm licensed to evaluate, diagnose, and treat psychiatric disorders, which includes the prescribing of psychotropic medications. Through the state of FL, I have additional certification allowing me to practice autonomously while under contract with a collaborating physician. I’m coming to Arise Wellness from UF's adult outpatient psychiatric practice, where I had a busy private clinic and also participated in a weekly clinic for patients with severe or treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders.
I’m a board-certified PMHNP (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), which means I’m an NP with specialized training in psychiatry. I'm licensed to evaluate, diagnose, and treat psychiatric disorders, which includes the prescribing of psychotropic medications. Through the state of FL, I have additional certification allowing me to practice autonomously while under contract with a collaborating physician. I’m coming to Arise Wellness from UF's adult outpatient psychiatric practice, where I had a busy private clinic and also participated in a weekly clinic for patients with severe or treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders.
Focused Path Integrative Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32601
Are you a burned out, high-achieving professional ready to feed your own vitality? You may see your strengths but have difficulty embracing your next step, be it a baby step or a leap into the unknown. You want to experience an integrative health and mind-body approach. You are actively dedicated to your own growth and prefer a collaborative approach as you understand the human condition is complex and nuanced and want support in the same manner. You are drawn to depth work, body work and the spiritual journey and are ready to experience vitality, joy and wonder.
Are you a burned out, high-achieving professional ready to feed your own vitality? You may see your strengths but have difficulty embracing your next step, be it a baby step or a leap into the unknown. You want to experience an integrative health and mind-body approach. You are actively dedicated to your own growth and prefer a collaborative approach as you understand the human condition is complex and nuanced and want support in the same manner. You are drawn to depth work, body work and the spiritual journey and are ready to experience vitality, joy and wonder.
Evolution Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32605
Call or text us at 352-575-3600 or go to our website at www.evolutionmentalhealth.com to complete the intake paperwork and schedule an appointment.
Call or text us at 352-575-3600 or go to our website at www.evolutionmentalhealth.com to complete the intake paperwork and schedule an appointment.
Celia Colson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32601
Welcome! I love to work with individuals who feel stuck. Your concerns may range from anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress to navigating life transitions, relationships, or self-esteem issues. Your goal is likely to feel better and to move through life more effectively, with more ease. You want a provider you can trust, who meets you with humanity and warmth, and who you know is dedicated to instigating real change. You want to be heard, to have a mentor in this process, and to receive thorough explanation and education regarding all treatment options.
Welcome! I love to work with individuals who feel stuck. Your concerns may range from anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress to navigating life transitions, relationships, or self-esteem issues. Your goal is likely to feel better and to move through life more effectively, with more ease. You want a provider you can trust, who meets you with humanity and warmth, and who you know is dedicated to instigating real change. You want to be heard, to have a mentor in this process, and to receive thorough explanation and education regarding all treatment options.
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Accepting new patients of all ages with immediate availability in-person and telehealth! We provide highly customized one-on-one psychiatric care. We focus on delivering high-quality, personalized care to patients of all ages and address psychiatric care from a holistic approach. We specialize in ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, depression, OCD, trauma, addiction, PTSD, Bipolar Depression and other mood disorders. Offering MAT and Ketamine treatment.
Accepting new patients of all ages with immediate availability in-person and telehealth! We provide highly customized one-on-one psychiatric care. We focus on delivering high-quality, personalized care to patients of all ages and address psychiatric care from a holistic approach. We specialize in ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, depression, OCD, trauma, addiction, PTSD, Bipolar Depression and other mood disorders. Offering MAT and Ketamine treatment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
I specialize in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD stimulant & non stimulant care (Adderall, concerta, strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management (phentermine, semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (Ambien ,birth control, blood work, Mammography orders, FMLA, Emotional Support Pet Letter ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing (QB Test- neuropsych FDA cleared testing) and much more! NO Benzodiazepines
I specialize in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD stimulant & non stimulant care (Adderall, concerta, strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management (phentermine, semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (Ambien ,birth control, blood work, Mammography orders, FMLA, Emotional Support Pet Letter ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing (QB Test- neuropsych FDA cleared testing) and much more! NO Benzodiazepines
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32606
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32603 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations, talk therapy, and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Offering affordable visit rates. Accepting Medicare, Aetna, Cigna (Evernorth), and Optum/UHC/UBH insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations, talk therapy, and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Offering affordable visit rates. Accepting Medicare, Aetna, Cigna (Evernorth), and Optum/UHC/UBH insurances.
Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32601 (Online Only)
My goals are to help you feel your best, in all areas of your life! Whether you have had mental health struggles before or are seeking mental health support for the first time. I have firsthand experience and knowledge of the options available - from complex medication management to therapy options. Together we can close the gap.
My goals are to help you feel your best, in all areas of your life! Whether you have had mental health struggles before or are seeking mental health support for the first time. I have firsthand experience and knowledge of the options available - from complex medication management to therapy options. Together we can close the gap.
Kimberly Clayton has worked in the medical field for more than 20 years. Subacute care, long-term care, case management, nursing clinical director, and wound care management are all part of Kimberly's medical experience. Dr. Clayton returned to school to obtain her PMHNP credentials after seeing the necessity for additional specialized training in mental health. By applying a comprehensive approach to all facets of healthcare, Kimberly is dedicated to providing patients with high-quality care and enhancing their quality of life. She is looking forward to meeting you and assisting you in overcoming the stress caused by mental health
Kimberly Clayton has worked in the medical field for more than 20 years. Subacute care, long-term care, case management, nursing clinical director, and wound care management are all part of Kimberly's medical experience. Dr. Clayton returned to school to obtain her PMHNP credentials after seeing the necessity for additional specialized training in mental health. By applying a comprehensive approach to all facets of healthcare, Kimberly is dedicated to providing patients with high-quality care and enhancing their quality of life. She is looking forward to meeting you and assisting you in overcoming the stress caused by mental health
Heart 623 Heart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32601
We are currently accepting new clients for telehealth appointments throughout the state of Florida. Call or email us to schedule an appointment. The best of both worlds. Edlyne is a double board-certified Nurse Practitioner who specializes in psychiatry and primary care. She offers an approach that integrates her knowledge of family medicine with expertise in mental health, ensuring her patients receive well-rounded and personalized care that addresses both their physical and mental health needs. She conducts mental health evaluations and prescribes and manages mental health medications.
We are currently accepting new clients for telehealth appointments throughout the state of Florida. Call or email us to schedule an appointment. The best of both worlds. Edlyne is a double board-certified Nurse Practitioner who specializes in psychiatry and primary care. She offers an approach that integrates her knowledge of family medicine with expertise in mental health, ensuring her patients receive well-rounded and personalized care that addresses both their physical and mental health needs. She conducts mental health evaluations and prescribes and manages mental health medications.
I specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD stimulant & non stimulant care (Adderall, concerta, strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management (phentermine, semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (Ambien ,birth control, blood work, Mammography orders, FMLA, Emotional Support Pet Letter ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing (QB Test- neuropsych FDA cleared testing) and much more! NO Benzodiazepines
I specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD stimulant & non stimulant care (Adderall, concerta, strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management (phentermine, semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (Ambien ,birth control, blood work, Mammography orders, FMLA, Emotional Support Pet Letter ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing (QB Test- neuropsych FDA cleared testing) and much more! NO Benzodiazepines
See more therapy options for Gainesville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Gainesville, FL
40+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Gainesville, FL who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
98% | Anxiety |
85% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | ADHD |
73% | Medication Management |
68% | Stress |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
82% | Aetna |
82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Gainesville, FL see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
88% | Female | |
12% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Gainesville?
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.