Psychiatrists in Palm Beach County, FL
![Photo of Brenda Ann Cooper - Harmonious Health and Wellness LLC, M, H, N, P, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48d56089-efa9-497a-8baa-489af0472d16/1/320x400.jpeg)
Harmonious Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, M, H, N, P
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33407 (Online Only)
Brenda Cooper is dedicated and understands the importance of working with individuals struggling with mental illness as well as working with their families. Brenda has experience working with adults and children. She utilizes a holistic approach, focusing on meeting each individual 's needs.
Brenda Cooper is dedicated and understands the importance of working with individuals struggling with mental illness as well as working with their families. Brenda has experience working with adults and children. She utilizes a holistic approach, focusing on meeting each individual 's needs.
![Photo of Mouville Caro - MorMindful Therapy & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7c82a91-3856-4277-8731-4f29c7b78ece/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to MorMindful Therapy & Psychiatry! We are a mindfulness based practice that provides affordable therapy and psychiatry on a cognitive behavioral platform that clients find accessible and hands on. If you are taking the first step to improving your mental health, looking for help for a loved one or considering switching providers, you will quickly find that MorMindul is a unique family-run mental health practice that offers therapeutic interventions delivered with respect, compassion and real clinical expertise in a judgement free zone. To find out more about our staff clinicians please visit www.MorMindful.com.
Welcome to MorMindful Therapy & Psychiatry! We are a mindfulness based practice that provides affordable therapy and psychiatry on a cognitive behavioral platform that clients find accessible and hands on. If you are taking the first step to improving your mental health, looking for help for a loved one or considering switching providers, you will quickly find that MorMindul is a unique family-run mental health practice that offers therapeutic interventions delivered with respect, compassion and real clinical expertise in a judgement free zone. To find out more about our staff clinicians please visit www.MorMindful.com.
![Photo of Michelle DeSantis, APRN , PMHNPBC, FNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73dbec2e-ca17-46aa-b0f8-085935125d6c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle DeSantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , PMHNPBC, FNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with your mental health and self-medicating with substances? Welcome to my telepsychiatry practice, led by a dual-certified nurse practitioner with extensive experience in providing compassionate and effective care. My primary focus is to help individuals achieve mental health and wellness, particularly those dealing with dual diagnoses. I understand the unique challenges that come with managing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, and I am dedicated to providing comprehensive, personalized treatment.
Are you struggling with your mental health and self-medicating with substances? Welcome to my telepsychiatry practice, led by a dual-certified nurse practitioner with extensive experience in providing compassionate and effective care. My primary focus is to help individuals achieve mental health and wellness, particularly those dealing with dual diagnoses. I understand the unique challenges that come with managing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, and I am dedicated to providing comprehensive, personalized treatment.
![Photo of Jennifer Bruk, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46b26ee0-65db-481e-b984-c7e02b28bf55/2/320x400.jpeg)
A diverse nursing career and experiences over the years has enabled me to see how important a state of well being plays in all aspects of medicine. It is my belief that every patient is an individual and should be treated as such. One of the most important ways to ensure good care is by practicing active listening. Active listening is a crucial and needed skill in the treatment of mental health conditions. It is the most effective way to listen and understand the patients needs which will ultimately lead to the best treatment options.
A diverse nursing career and experiences over the years has enabled me to see how important a state of well being plays in all aspects of medicine. It is my belief that every patient is an individual and should be treated as such. One of the most important ways to ensure good care is by practicing active listening. Active listening is a crucial and needed skill in the treatment of mental health conditions. It is the most effective way to listen and understand the patients needs which will ultimately lead to the best treatment options.
![Photo of Raul J. Rodriguez, MD, DABPN, ADM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5d4c639-7519-4186-8dff-bff370e85c7a/1/320x400.jpeg)
As an Interventional Psychiatrist, I focus on challenging clinical situations. I help individuals who suffer from Treatment Resistant Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, OCD, Eating Disorders, Psychosis, Addiction, and especially any complex combination of the aforementioned. People often come to me after they have failed multiple prior medication regimens and sometimes even treatment centers. Most have a lot on the line, whether it be work, marriage, the ability to parent, school, or even just maintaining a faint hope that they can experience happiness again one day.
As an Interventional Psychiatrist, I focus on challenging clinical situations. I help individuals who suffer from Treatment Resistant Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, OCD, Eating Disorders, Psychosis, Addiction, and especially any complex combination of the aforementioned. People often come to me after they have failed multiple prior medication regimens and sometimes even treatment centers. Most have a lot on the line, whether it be work, marriage, the ability to parent, school, or even just maintaining a faint hope that they can experience happiness again one day.
![Photo of Marc Ettensohn - Cornerstone Vitamin Infusions , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b8fa4ee-d31b-44d9-a082-79133c68be0f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vitamin infusions provide direct and effective delivery of vitamins and nutrients to the bloodstream. Tablets and capsules can take hours to absorb; they also pass through the acidic gastrointestinal system, further impeding absorption. Vitamin infusions bypass these obstacles, which permit full absorption and bioavailability. Our vitamins are compounded by a reputable pharmaceutical company certified by the Professional Compounding Accreditation Board.
Vitamin infusions provide direct and effective delivery of vitamins and nutrients to the bloodstream. Tablets and capsules can take hours to absorb; they also pass through the acidic gastrointestinal system, further impeding absorption. Vitamin infusions bypass these obstacles, which permit full absorption and bioavailability. Our vitamins are compounded by a reputable pharmaceutical company certified by the Professional Compounding Accreditation Board.
![Photo of Joseph Lalia - Disambiguation Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23bfa3ef-d00d-4aa2-a9d9-69c053bfdb21/3/320x400.jpeg)
Disambiguation Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33407 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients. Operating remotely as a general psychiatrist. New clients in FL and NY are seen within days of inquiring, via telepsychiatry. Our practice suits high-functioning individuals with busy lives. Focus areas include: anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, and depression. Forensic psychiatry services, disability evaluations, power of attorney/capacity evaluations, etc., are also available to attorneys, agencies, and other professionals.
Now accepting new patients. Operating remotely as a general psychiatrist. New clients in FL and NY are seen within days of inquiring, via telepsychiatry. Our practice suits high-functioning individuals with busy lives. Focus areas include: anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, and depression. Forensic psychiatry services, disability evaluations, power of attorney/capacity evaluations, etc., are also available to attorneys, agencies, and other professionals.
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay (TMS Treatment), FL, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9fcc601-455f-46c8-8a4e-76d4f3df476e/2/320x400.png)
At Harmony Bay, we offer cutting-edge Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy for adults 18 and over. TMS is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment designed to address Major Depressive Disorder when antidepressants fall short. Using targeted magnetic pulses, TMS stimulates brain areas linked to mood regulation, helping to normalize brain activity and reduce depression symptoms without the side effects of medication. Our clean, calming environment enhances your therapy experience, providing a supportive setting for your mental health journey.
At Harmony Bay, we offer cutting-edge Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy for adults 18 and over. TMS is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment designed to address Major Depressive Disorder when antidepressants fall short. Using targeted magnetic pulses, TMS stimulates brain areas linked to mood regulation, helping to normalize brain activity and reduce depression symptoms without the side effects of medication. Our clean, calming environment enhances your therapy experience, providing a supportive setting for your mental health journey.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Online Psychiatrist in Palm Beach, Florida, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e385fad-1007-4d69-9f33-bdf8bcba5860/1/320x400.jpeg)
Online Psychiatrist in Palm Beach, Florida
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Beach, FL 33480 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Alessandra Ferrera, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49b2e210-85ec-49cc-8884-6d8dd4530b8a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am originally from Lima, Peru and raised in Miami. Growing up I enjoyed playing tennis and reading as much as possible. Upon high school graduation I decided to stay close to my family and attended the University of Miami. During my time there I became an avid fan of the Hurricanes but after college my desire to become a physician and my husband’s job took us to the Midwest. I have since returned to join Delray Beach Psychiatry where I currently treat Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, OCD and PTSD with either medication and/or therapy.
I am originally from Lima, Peru and raised in Miami. Growing up I enjoyed playing tennis and reading as much as possible. Upon high school graduation I decided to stay close to my family and attended the University of Miami. During my time there I became an avid fan of the Hurricanes but after college my desire to become a physician and my husband’s job took us to the Midwest. I have since returned to join Delray Beach Psychiatry where I currently treat Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, OCD and PTSD with either medication and/or therapy.
![Photo of Andres Fraga, MSN, PMH-NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8afffa48-e100-436f-a0d0-c4c054797928/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andres Fraga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMH-NP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33434 (Online Only)
I have been working as a mental health provider for 30 years. I have worked in community mental health centers, hospitals, and now in private practice. My experience includes case management, crisis response, outpatient and inpatient treatment of all the various mental health issues. My approach is holistic, I like to help clients achieve goals to improve mind, body, and spirit. With respect, patience, empathy, and non-judgement, I look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with every client.
I have been working as a mental health provider for 30 years. I have worked in community mental health centers, hospitals, and now in private practice. My experience includes case management, crisis response, outpatient and inpatient treatment of all the various mental health issues. My approach is holistic, I like to help clients achieve goals to improve mind, body, and spirit. With respect, patience, empathy, and non-judgement, I look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with every client.
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![Photo of Jessica Shepley : Ketamine And Spravato Specialist, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, CRNI, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32f41337-f742-43e9-8af0-902928c38cf6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Shepley : Ketamine And Spravato Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, CRNI
Verified Verified
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
If you struggle with treatment-resistant depression, Cornerstone Ketamine can help provide the relief you need. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in treatment-resistant disorders, including depression, bipolar depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. Since 2016 I have provided thousands of Ketamine infusions and Spravato treatments. At our clinic, you will find a warm, friendly environment with REMS & ACLS providers; safe and effective dosing with minimally intrusive monitoring; and a treatment room to yourself.
If you struggle with treatment-resistant depression, Cornerstone Ketamine can help provide the relief you need. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in treatment-resistant disorders, including depression, bipolar depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. Since 2016 I have provided thousands of Ketamine infusions and Spravato treatments. At our clinic, you will find a warm, friendly environment with REMS & ACLS providers; safe and effective dosing with minimally intrusive monitoring; and a treatment room to yourself.
![Photo of Louis T Joseph, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b91b23c5-bcb1-4be2-be28-038f8311ff0e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Opensea.institute for appointments. Perhaps you might ask yourself if you’ve reached a precipice— a point in your life where you know need to make a change. Perhaps, you’re realizing that living your life without an appreciable feeling of balance and fulfillment is no longer something you’re willing to do? At Open Sea Institute, Dr. Joseph offers clients the opportunity to co-create the changes they are seeking in their lives. When you partner with Dr. Joseph, you will develop a clear vision of your truest potential while learning how to work through and remove the steady stream of obstacles that we all must encounter in our lives.
Opensea.institute for appointments. Perhaps you might ask yourself if you’ve reached a precipice— a point in your life where you know need to make a change. Perhaps, you’re realizing that living your life without an appreciable feeling of balance and fulfillment is no longer something you’re willing to do? At Open Sea Institute, Dr. Joseph offers clients the opportunity to co-create the changes they are seeking in their lives. When you partner with Dr. Joseph, you will develop a clear vision of your truest potential while learning how to work through and remove the steady stream of obstacles that we all must encounter in our lives.
![Photo of Robert Cohen - Robert Cohen M.D.- Southcoast Psychiatric Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef062e2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Cohen M.D.- Southcoast Psychiatric Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33487
Dr. Cohen is the Medical Director of Southcoast Psycotherapy & Medical Services. In this capacity, he treats a broad spectrum of mental health issues such as anxiety, and depression. Dr. Cohen also provides medical psychiatric services for patients in need of psychostimulants for attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). He is highly skilled and experienced in treating patients suffering from post – traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as sleep disorders.
Dr. Cohen is the Medical Director of Southcoast Psycotherapy & Medical Services. In this capacity, he treats a broad spectrum of mental health issues such as anxiety, and depression. Dr. Cohen also provides medical psychiatric services for patients in need of psychostimulants for attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). He is highly skilled and experienced in treating patients suffering from post – traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as sleep disorders.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1fb7a39-b8f3-4089-a03b-8d124ebdef70/2/320x400.png)
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Vanessa Gelin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58b453d6-8859-4fcb-8114-16f2f484db0d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vanessa Gelin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33407
Haven't felt like yourself lately? Vanessa can support your journey to becoming a better you. She is an Ivy League graduate from the University of Pennsylvania and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats across the life span from children, adolescents and adults with conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, and schizophrenia.
Haven't felt like yourself lately? Vanessa can support your journey to becoming a better you. She is an Ivy League graduate from the University of Pennsylvania and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats across the life span from children, adolescents and adults with conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Safir Azam Md, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f89b50da-f4c5-479a-9989-cd6ef49253b6/1/320x400.png)
Mission : My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.
Mission : My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.
![Photo of Phara Camille Metellus - Turning Point Health Services, DNP, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ad7d800-ebb3-4bdb-b20f-3e694c989f50/2/320x400.jpeg)
Turning Point Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
I am located in Florida and can see patients in person and via telehealth. I have been in the mental health field for a few years, and I have worked with the general population in the outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am located in Florida and can see patients in person and via telehealth. I have been in the mental health field for a few years, and I have worked with the general population in the outpatient and inpatient settings.
![Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, LPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82526871-8a94-46d9-b3c8-2009d8d01dbd/2/320x400.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 Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f66740d2-9868-4287-a023-a185e2da6f58/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for Palm Beach County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Palm Beach County, FL
300+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Palm Beach County, FL who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Medication Management |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | Aetna |
82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Palm Beach County, FL see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Palm Beach County?
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.