Psychiatrists in Tampa, FL
![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 De-Shaunah Dixon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d139351f-275d-42c3-a1c4-df7101727bf4/1/320x400.png)
Hey there! My name is De-Shaunah Dixon, and I am a doctoral-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am open, non-judgmental, and bring to you many years of experience in treating various mental health disorders. I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental well-being. I strive to create a supportive, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for my sessions with patients.
Hey there! My name is De-Shaunah Dixon, and I am a doctoral-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am open, non-judgmental, and bring to you many years of experience in treating various mental health disorders. I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental well-being. I strive to create a supportive, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for my sessions with patients.
![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 Allison Kennel-Besselieu, PMHNP, CPNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7204aef-6864-4067-bb82-5e8ee4caad5a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Kennel-Besselieu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33609
My ideal client is someone that wants to commit to working together to improve symptoms of anxiety, panic, depression, ADHD, tic disorders, sleep disorders, and Autism through the use of therapy, medication, supplements, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client is someone that wants to commit to working together to improve symptoms of anxiety, panic, depression, ADHD, tic disorders, sleep disorders, and Autism through the use of therapy, medication, supplements, and lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Dr. Aaron Avallone, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1227b325-8a8c-4251-a7c1-04906b7cb5f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I treat all ages and all types of behavioral health conditions. I prefer patients who are open, insightful, and motivated to explore their habits, behaviors, and ways of thinking about themselves and the world around them with the aim of evolving into a better version of themselves.
I treat all ages and all types of behavioral health conditions. I prefer patients who are open, insightful, and motivated to explore their habits, behaviors, and ways of thinking about themselves and the world around them with the aim of evolving into a better version of themselves.
![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 Dr. Maryam Davari, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8900d24c-a55a-4009-8918-c2856d2a9556/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
![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 Yulonda Leverett, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e923034-f426-450c-ab39-fe3f8247634c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yulonda Leverett is a dual certified Nurse Practitioner in both Adult Health and Psychiatric Mental Health. She has more than 28 years of nursing experience which includes critical care and perioperative services. She has over ten years of expertise working with the elderly within the long-term care and post-acute rehabilitation setting and is highly skilled in the treatment of various forms of dementia.
Yulonda Leverett is a dual certified Nurse Practitioner in both Adult Health and Psychiatric Mental Health. She has more than 28 years of nursing experience which includes critical care and perioperative services. She has over ten years of expertise working with the elderly within the long-term care and post-acute rehabilitation setting and is highly skilled in the treatment of various forms of dementia.
![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 Marc Ettensohn - Cornerstone Psychiatric Care: Ketamine Therapy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7cd3b8f-b8b4-4a30-9785-f2acc8aecc3f/1/320x400.png)
Cornerstone Psychiatric Care is currently acceptng new patients for both ketamine infusions and medication management. We are specialists in helping people overcome their treatment resistant depression. If you have struggled with depression and can't seem to make any progress no matter what medication you try, our experts are here to help you overcome that. We also have experts who can work with you no matter your psychiatric needs.
Cornerstone Psychiatric Care is currently acceptng new patients for both ketamine infusions and medication management. We are specialists in helping people overcome their treatment resistant depression. If you have struggled with depression and can't seem to make any progress no matter what medication you try, our experts are here to help you overcome that. We also have experts who can work with you no matter your psychiatric needs.
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![Photo of Tabatha N Sams, MA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd63d96f-9b2a-4a27-badf-c76b0d3ffaac/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tabatha N Sams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33614
My ideal client is willing to receive psychiatric care as well as advocate for their health and individual needs. I pride myself on being a good listener and work diligently to build trusting relationships with my clients achieving their personal health goals as well as providing engaging and quality care.
My ideal client is willing to receive psychiatric care as well as advocate for their health and individual needs. I pride myself on being a good listener and work diligently to build trusting relationships with my clients achieving their personal health goals as well as providing engaging and quality care.
![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 Dr. Allison Jackson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aed99411-1b34-44b5-b1c5-4054c90e905b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Allison Jackson is a Harvard-trained board-certified psychiatrist who opened MindfulMD as a way to provide individually tailored, compassionate psychiatric care for her patients. She is accepting new patients in Florida (in-person in Tampa and virtual over the entire state). She has experience treating a wide variety of conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep issues, sexual health issues, bipolar disorder, PTSD, derm-psych conditions i.e. skin picking and trichotillomania, and many more. She also has worked with patients on managing stress related to relationships, illness, burnout, grief, career, or identity.
Dr. Allison Jackson is a Harvard-trained board-certified psychiatrist who opened MindfulMD as a way to provide individually tailored, compassionate psychiatric care for her patients. She is accepting new patients in Florida (in-person in Tampa and virtual over the entire state). She has experience treating a wide variety of conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep issues, sexual health issues, bipolar disorder, PTSD, derm-psych conditions i.e. skin picking and trichotillomania, and many more. She also has worked with patients on managing stress related to relationships, illness, burnout, grief, career, or identity.
![Photo of Fallon Page Shelton - Fallon Shelton Concierge Mental Health PLLC , MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e360c1-6104-475c-bfe0-e3044d9ae0bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fallon Shelton Concierge Mental Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33611 (Online Only)
I bring with me a unique set of work experiences that have fostered my passion for helping those that suffer from mental health disorders. My own personal experiences and past employment endeavors have given me empathy to help patients with mental health disorders. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my goal to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care. I will do all I can to assist individuals and their families in recognizing, without stigma, the value of psychiatric assistance.
I bring with me a unique set of work experiences that have fostered my passion for helping those that suffer from mental health disorders. My own personal experiences and past employment endeavors have given me empathy to help patients with mental health disorders. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my goal to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care. I will do all I can to assist individuals and their families in recognizing, without stigma, the value of psychiatric assistance.
![Photo of Brittany Barber, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4e86daa-ef0a-4308-89f6-8cde446a0766/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Barber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33647 (Online Only)
Brittany Barber is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Her goal is to provide excellent care to individuals suffering from mental illnesses that negatively impact their quality of life. Together, she works with patients to target the symptoms causing them distress and uses evidence-based practices to develop treatments plan that improves their quality of life. She provides medication management and supportive therapy to help patients navigate difficult life transitions. By helping patients identify the symptoms causing the most negative impact on their lives, her treatment plans are directed toward fixing symptoms.
Brittany Barber is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Her goal is to provide excellent care to individuals suffering from mental illnesses that negatively impact their quality of life. Together, she works with patients to target the symptoms causing them distress and uses evidence-based practices to develop treatments plan that improves their quality of life. She provides medication management and supportive therapy to help patients navigate difficult life transitions. By helping patients identify the symptoms causing the most negative impact on their lives, her treatment plans are directed toward fixing symptoms.
![Photo of Derek Robben, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ff603ea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tired of ineffective treatments? Are depression, anxiety or substance abuse preventing you from living your best life? Dr. Robben offers TMS THERAPY as an alternative or augmentation to traditional medications. ALSO FOR HIS TMS PATIENTS, Dr. Robben offers genetic testing to match determine if your current medication is the best choice for you or if a change may be in order! This remarkable new tool practically eliminates the "trial and error" approach.
Tired of ineffective treatments? Are depression, anxiety or substance abuse preventing you from living your best life? Dr. Robben offers TMS THERAPY as an alternative or augmentation to traditional medications. ALSO FOR HIS TMS PATIENTS, Dr. Robben offers genetic testing to match determine if your current medication is the best choice for you or if a change may be in order! This remarkable new tool practically eliminates the "trial and error" approach.
![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 Shannon Munz, DNP, PHMNP, FNP-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a673390-53e2-43b7-a11b-1e1d08972487/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Munz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP, FNP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33602 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am deeply committed to aiding individuals from diverse backgrounds navigate life's transitions and challenges; be they work-related, personal, or social. I understand how these hurdles can throw us off balance. My primary objective is to guide you back to your optimal and authentic self.
Welcome! I am deeply committed to aiding individuals from diverse backgrounds navigate life's transitions and challenges; be they work-related, personal, or social. I understand how these hurdles can throw us off balance. My primary objective is to guide you back to your optimal and authentic self.
![Photo of Georges Coupet, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d89dd94-492e-4a3c-97fc-6333034d7bfa/1/320x400.png)
Georges Coupet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33647 (Online Only)
Georges Coupet is a personable and enthusiastic clinician with over 7 years of experience in Psychiatry. He believes in a patient-centered and humanistic approach to treatment. He develops an individualized treatment plan for each client that includes pharmacology, depending on the needs of the client. “My goal is to make my clients as comfortable as possible in order to establish a trusting working relationship. No judgment zone.”
Georges Coupet is a personable and enthusiastic clinician with over 7 years of experience in Psychiatry. He believes in a patient-centered and humanistic approach to treatment. He develops an individualized treatment plan for each client that includes pharmacology, depending on the needs of the client. “My goal is to make my clients as comfortable as possible in order to establish a trusting working relationship. No judgment zone.”
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.