Psychiatrists in Tampa, FL
![Photo of Samuel Battle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/787a2ab8-3f0d-4a1e-94f3-79299a68ab71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be hard, and the issues of living it can at times overwhelm the mind, emotions or even the body. It is at these times, when we feel fatigued and frustrated, that we need a little help. A person to help us unravel issues that have us in knots and guide us toward solutions for a brighter tomorrow, that person is me. Together, you and I will find a more peaceful, brighter tomorrow for you.
Life can be hard, and the issues of living it can at times overwhelm the mind, emotions or even the body. It is at these times, when we feel fatigued and frustrated, that we need a little help. A person to help us unravel issues that have us in knots and guide us toward solutions for a brighter tomorrow, that person is me. Together, you and I will find a more peaceful, brighter tomorrow for you.
![Photo of Shanique Thompson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2afeec53-89e1-4999-9fcb-f897a0efccc1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I love seeing people grow into their full potential and become the best version of themselves. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with an advanced degree specializing in psychiatry. My main focus is meeting the needs of my clients while promoting mental wellness.
I love seeing people grow into their full potential and become the best version of themselves. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with an advanced degree specializing in psychiatry. My main focus is meeting the needs of my clients while promoting mental wellness.
![Photo of Rodwan Mahfouz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b90e804-e0c3-4cbd-a469-dd2e66975f0c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am accepting new patients in Florida, New York and Michigan via telehealth appointments, and in-person in the Tampa area. Please call our office for more information.
I am accepting new patients in Florida, New York and Michigan via telehealth appointments, and in-person in the Tampa area. Please call our office for more information.
![Photo of Rachael Pavone, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cce8c231-1d31-4b65-bee0-e1a0688919ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Rachael, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I completed my Masters of Science in Nursing at the University of Tampa and pursued my Post Masters Certification at The University of Miami, where I also attended Nursing School. My professional background encompasses addiction medicine and adult psychiatry. My passion lies in offering comprehensive mental health care to individuals and families seeking support for their loved ones. My clinical approach is deeply rooted in empathy and building strong therapeutic relationships with my patients. Those who choose to work with me can expe
Hi there, I'm Rachael, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I completed my Masters of Science in Nursing at the University of Tampa and pursued my Post Masters Certification at The University of Miami, where I also attended Nursing School. My professional background encompasses addiction medicine and adult psychiatry. My passion lies in offering comprehensive mental health care to individuals and families seeking support for their loved ones. My clinical approach is deeply rooted in empathy and building strong therapeutic relationships with my patients. Those who choose to work with me can expe
![Photo of Geidy Rivers, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a928e2fa-a8fe-4402-a6ac-c4e9d3c74c8d/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed and dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a PMHNP, I take the time to get to know my patients and allow them to be included in the decision-making process. I believe in the importance of educating my patients in their treatment options so that they can make informed decisions. I understand and recognize the negative stigma associated with mental health, but I can assure you that it is my objective to alleviate this stigma while making sure that my patients feel comfortable, and able to trust me when it comes to their mental health concerns.
I am a licensed and dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a PMHNP, I take the time to get to know my patients and allow them to be included in the decision-making process. I believe in the importance of educating my patients in their treatment options so that they can make informed decisions. I understand and recognize the negative stigma associated with mental health, but I can assure you that it is my objective to alleviate this stigma while making sure that my patients feel comfortable, and able to trust me when it comes to their mental health concerns.
![Photo of Jasmine Graves, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e50d84f7-50a4-4d37-8c00-23b3426ddbcb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jasmine Graves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33617 (Online Only)
Are you finding yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and or grief due to life stressors like work pressures, family dynamics, relationship challenges, career uncertainties, or past traumas? Do you often feel overwhelmed by your emotions and circumstances, impacting your daily life? If so, you might benefit from a compassionate and understanding therapeutic environment where you can explore your feelings and experiences without judgment. I offer evidence-based interventions tailored to your unique needs. Would you like to discuss how we might work together to address these challenges?
Are you finding yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and or grief due to life stressors like work pressures, family dynamics, relationship challenges, career uncertainties, or past traumas? Do you often feel overwhelmed by your emotions and circumstances, impacting your daily life? If so, you might benefit from a compassionate and understanding therapeutic environment where you can explore your feelings and experiences without judgment. I offer evidence-based interventions tailored to your unique needs. Would you like to discuss how we might work together to address these challenges?
![Photo of Dr. Reham Sadek, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4541c613-b075-48e7-b7f7-f2d21b586a5e/1/320x400.jpeg)
In my practice, I prioritize children, adolescents, and their families' unique needs, fostering a safe and supportive environment for exploration and growth. As a dedicated mental health professional, I am particularly passionate about addressing ADHD and its impact on individuals' lives. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment, recognizing that each client's journey is multifaceted and deserves personalized attention. By combining evidence-based interventions with compassion and empathy, I strive to empower my clients to navigate the challenges of ADHD and other mental health concerns with resilience and confidence.
In my practice, I prioritize children, adolescents, and their families' unique needs, fostering a safe and supportive environment for exploration and growth. As a dedicated mental health professional, I am particularly passionate about addressing ADHD and its impact on individuals' lives. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment, recognizing that each client's journey is multifaceted and deserves personalized attention. By combining evidence-based interventions with compassion and empathy, I strive to empower my clients to navigate the challenges of ADHD and other mental health concerns with resilience and confidence.
![Photo of Caroline Robertson - trucare clinic, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd6be147-7e9d-4ee0-9dc3-25ce0b70f77b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Trucare where we take time to listen and care for your mental health.Caroline Seignon, a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Florida, brings a compassionate and innovative approach to teletherapy, understanding the common struggles individuals face in finding comfort and happiness. With a deep commitment to mental health, Caroline specializes in addressing a spectrum of issues, including anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, and addiction.
Welcome to Trucare where we take time to listen and care for your mental health.Caroline Seignon, a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Florida, brings a compassionate and innovative approach to teletherapy, understanding the common struggles individuals face in finding comfort and happiness. With a deep commitment to mental health, Caroline specializes in addressing a spectrum of issues, including anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, and addiction.
![Photo of Erin Ikenberry, PA-C, CAQ-psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee3d7124-4188-405e-a583-054906156df0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Ikenberry
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33607 (Online Only)
Certified in psychiatry, I am a physician assistant with over 17 years of experience and a graduate of the Cornell Medical College PA program. My dedication lies in providing the best treatment to my patients, specializing in the treatment of multiple psychiatric and substance use disorders. My goal is to foster strong connections with every patient, enabling me to thoroughly understand their issues and effectively target the underlying causes of their disorder.
Certified in psychiatry, I am a physician assistant with over 17 years of experience and a graduate of the Cornell Medical College PA program. My dedication lies in providing the best treatment to my patients, specializing in the treatment of multiple psychiatric and substance use disorders. My goal is to foster strong connections with every patient, enabling me to thoroughly understand their issues and effectively target the underlying causes of their disorder.
![Photo of Ashley Espinoza, PMHNP, APRN, CPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4898ca1f-41b3-4d60-88ee-a8e7ad0a8024/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Espinoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CPN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33625 (Online Only)
Many of my patients are individuals struggling with some sort of undesirable symptom/s related to their mental health and find me to see if medication may be something that can help them. Taking this step can feel vulnerable and talking with a provider can feel intimidating. The work I do comes from an innate passion to empower others to take control of their lives, their mental health, and their quality of life. I partner with my patients to discover and create a plan for their mental health that feels comfortable, doable and sustainable.
Many of my patients are individuals struggling with some sort of undesirable symptom/s related to their mental health and find me to see if medication may be something that can help them. Taking this step can feel vulnerable and talking with a provider can feel intimidating. The work I do comes from an innate passion to empower others to take control of their lives, their mental health, and their quality of life. I partner with my patients to discover and create a plan for their mental health that feels comfortable, doable and sustainable.
![Photo of Christen McNew, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/766b4e37-284d-414c-8f8e-979b8d175be4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christen McNew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33647 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting new patients for medication management! I only provide medication management, no therapy services. Please email me or call to set up an appointment! I have worked with many patients on an outpatient basis, and have treated disorders including Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and ADHD. I enjoy what I do and I look forward to working with you and helping you to be your best self again!
Accepting new patients for medication management! I only provide medication management, no therapy services. Please email me or call to set up an appointment! I have worked with many patients on an outpatient basis, and have treated disorders including Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and ADHD. I enjoy what I do and I look forward to working with you and helping you to be your best self again!
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![Photo of W Nate Upshaw - Tampa Bay Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4779c5d0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Get help and feel better. Are you seeking mental health treatment and don't know where to start? Visit my website and click on "10 Ways to Seek Treatment" for a quick guide to help you get started. www.TampaBayPsychiatry.com. Feel free to contact me with questions after reviewing the guide.
Get help and feel better. Are you seeking mental health treatment and don't know where to start? Visit my website and click on "10 Ways to Seek Treatment" for a quick guide to help you get started. www.TampaBayPsychiatry.com. Feel free to contact me with questions after reviewing the guide.
![Photo of Erica Hand, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86f4c6af-f9a2-4c02-8f2c-a2cc231800dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Hand
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33607 (Online Only)
My ideal client is YOU! You with all of your flaws, imperfections, and quirks. If you're reading this you were meant to be here. You've made a promise to change and you want to but haven't...that's ok. If you want to be better then I want to support you. I am a mother to two teenage boys, a wife, a sister, and a friend. I understand the struggle of trying to balance it all and falling short. I enjoy helping my clients gain skills and success as they navigate through the transitions of life. Your treatment plan may include a combination of exercise, sleep, nutrition, &/or medication. -Schedule your consultation at WELLITI.COM
My ideal client is YOU! You with all of your flaws, imperfections, and quirks. If you're reading this you were meant to be here. You've made a promise to change and you want to but haven't...that's ok. If you want to be better then I want to support you. I am a mother to two teenage boys, a wife, a sister, and a friend. I understand the struggle of trying to balance it all and falling short. I enjoy helping my clients gain skills and success as they navigate through the transitions of life. Your treatment plan may include a combination of exercise, sleep, nutrition, &/or medication. -Schedule your consultation at WELLITI.COM
![Photo of Jerika Perry, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a9d0e22-daf0-4e07-abfc-d6cde0f258df/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jerika Perry is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with more than seven (7) years of medical expertise. Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you 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. We believe it shouldnt be so hard to live a better life.
Jerika Perry is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with more than seven (7) years of medical expertise. Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you 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. We believe it shouldnt be so hard to live a better life.
![Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f95c5497-ace2-4508-a55b-3095f87549f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Craig Jorden Jr, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94a92f91-a824-4223-9c7f-e492cb4d27eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Craig Jorden Jr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33602
Craig Jorden Jr is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). With over 5 years of working experience, he takes the time to build a rapport with his clients, while creating a specialized treatment plan for each individual. Craig’s philosophy is using a humanistic therapy approach, while building a trusting, work relationship with his clients. Craig specializes in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Addiction, Personality disorders, Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder. Using a combination of Psychotherapy and Psychopharmacology, allows Craig to provide mental health services for you and your family.
Craig Jorden Jr is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). With over 5 years of working experience, he takes the time to build a rapport with his clients, while creating a specialized treatment plan for each individual. Craig’s philosophy is using a humanistic therapy approach, while building a trusting, work relationship with his clients. Craig specializes in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Addiction, Personality disorders, Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder. Using a combination of Psychotherapy and Psychopharmacology, allows Craig to provide mental health services for you and your family.
![Photo of Ingrid Maria Suazo - Sublimity Care, LLC, DrHA, MSN, AAPRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a223d02b-3ce7-44a5-ace0-59b42b2f9253/1/320x400.png)
Sublimity Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrHA, MSN, AAPRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33637
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years.
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years.
![Photo of Matthew Joiner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd43e650-2e21-404d-b698-e48888f1f566/1/320x400.png)
Matthew Joiner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33613 (Online Only)
My ideal patient would be one who is first willing to seek care and work towards successful treatment.. These illnesses can range from anxiety, to depression and ADHD. I would establish realistic goals for treatment which would hopefully include complete remission. Guiding the patient through treatment and providing balance in life to my patients is the ultimate goal.
My ideal patient would be one who is first willing to seek care and work towards successful treatment.. These illnesses can range from anxiety, to depression and ADHD. I would establish realistic goals for treatment which would hopefully include complete remission. Guiding the patient through treatment and providing balance in life to my patients is the ultimate goal.
![Photo of Ingrid Suazo - Sublimity Care, LLC, DrHA, MSN, AAPRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f631063-3f9b-49e6-b1bf-f63434a599c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sublimity Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrHA, MSN, AAPRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33637 (Online Only)
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years.
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years.
![Photo of Sarah Gardner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f845789a-f0eb-4f0e-9bbf-d290e68c6844/3/320x400.jpeg)
Most of my clients have come to me as adults wondering whether they could possibly have undiagnosed ADHD or needing treatment. Many of them had been misdiagnosed in the past with depression, anxiety, or even bipolar disorder, but these never seemed quite right or the treatments never helped. Many have noticed that the strategies that previously worked for them at one time are no longer doing enough to manage all their overflowing responsibilities effectively and they are overwhelmed and burnt out. Some of my other clients come to me with concerns about managing mental health in the setting of pregnancy, postpartum, and lactation.
Most of my clients have come to me as adults wondering whether they could possibly have undiagnosed ADHD or needing treatment. Many of them had been misdiagnosed in the past with depression, anxiety, or even bipolar disorder, but these never seemed quite right or the treatments never helped. Many have noticed that the strategies that previously worked for them at one time are no longer doing enough to manage all their overflowing responsibilities effectively and they are overwhelmed and burnt out. Some of my other clients come to me with concerns about managing mental health in the setting of pregnancy, postpartum, and lactation.
See more therapy options for Tampa
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Tampa, FL
300+
Average cost per session
$195
Psychiatrists in Tampa, FL who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | ADHD |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
90% | Aetna |
85% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Tampa, FL see their clients
56% | In Person and Online | |
44% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Tampa?
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.