Psychiatrists in Plantation, FL
![Photo of Leonie Sistrat, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c703c2de-c494-4773-a7b3-ee6d00bd9d01/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leonie Sistrat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324 (Online Only)
As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my priority is patient safety and to restore a sense of functionality back into the lives of my patients. Many people deal with daily challenges that may become overwhelming and may impact several areas of our lives. Together we will devise a treatment plan based on your individual needs that will restore you back to good mental health.
As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my priority is patient safety and to restore a sense of functionality back into the lives of my patients. Many people deal with daily challenges that may become overwhelming and may impact several areas of our lives. Together we will devise a treatment plan based on your individual needs that will restore you back to good mental health.
![Photo of Alicia M Ciliezar, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/457f8a9a-580e-4c50-a80a-b6c4dc6eb94b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia M Ciliezar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324
I believe in psychiatric care that is humane and patient-centered. Together we work on a treatment plan that works for you and your goals! Understandably, opening to a stranger about past- trauma and current struggles is not easy…Therefore, my approach to psychiatric care is based on principles of humanistic care, unconditional acceptance and safety. Let’s begin your healing journey today.
I believe in psychiatric care that is humane and patient-centered. Together we work on a treatment plan that works for you and your goals! Understandably, opening to a stranger about past- trauma and current struggles is not easy…Therefore, my approach to psychiatric care is based on principles of humanistic care, unconditional acceptance and safety. Let’s begin your healing journey today.
![Photo of Jessica Herron, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15c2efe4-43e4-48c6-9ddc-09db29fd1278/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Herron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Jessica and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Jessica Herron is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She started her career as a registered nurse on a progressive coronary unit at age of 21, where she learned mental health is at the core of healing. She obtained her masters degree in nursing, in 2010 and specialized in psychiatric care. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Jessica and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Jessica Herron is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She started her career as a registered nurse on a progressive coronary unit at age of 21, where she learned mental health is at the core of healing. She obtained her masters degree in nursing, in 2010 and specialized in psychiatric care. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
![Photo of Michelle Gavin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f028b6b9-d8e4-43c3-ac2f-7fdd6c9c011a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michelle Gavin is a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in the outpatient treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. She is a graduate of the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and received her training in adult Psychiatry at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Dr. Gavin works closely with her patients in a warm and empathic environment and tailors treatment to fit the needs of the individual. If medication is warranted, she strives to achieve the best possible outcomes with minimal to no side effects.
Dr. Michelle Gavin is a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in the outpatient treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. She is a graduate of the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and received her training in adult Psychiatry at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Dr. Gavin works closely with her patients in a warm and empathic environment and tailors treatment to fit the needs of the individual. If medication is warranted, she strives to achieve the best possible outcomes with minimal to no side effects.
![Photo of Claudine Mondesir - Monarch Mental Health & Wellness Services, LLC, MPAS, PA-C, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b932fa68-9aa1-432c-a226-97943ad78750/1/320x400.png)
Monarch Mental Health & Wellness Services, LLC
Psychiatrist, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324
When an individual is exposed to trauma or any significant life events, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. Our greatest passion is working with individuals who have been impacted by these events and helping them to rebuild their ideal self-image. We find great pride in helping individuals to achieve healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthening their interpersonal relationships. There's no single approach in helping individuals achieve their optimal mental aptitude. We're always patient, provide a non-judgmental environment with clinicians that listen to your concerns and strive to give optimal service to all.
When an individual is exposed to trauma or any significant life events, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. Our greatest passion is working with individuals who have been impacted by these events and helping them to rebuild their ideal self-image. We find great pride in helping individuals to achieve healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthening their interpersonal relationships. There's no single approach in helping individuals achieve their optimal mental aptitude. We're always patient, provide a non-judgmental environment with clinicians that listen to your concerns and strive to give optimal service to all.
![Photo of James Brown, PMHNP, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01949287-efa6-4287-a339-9e3cfdc0d97f/1/320x400.png)
James Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with James and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! "Psychiatry has been a natural fit for me throughout my professional career. I have been a registered nurse since 1995, became a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner in 2015; I returned to Rush University in 2019 for a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with a focus as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am happy to be a part of the mental health care field as it evolves and becomes more effective and available! To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone to scan this QR code:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with James and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! "Psychiatry has been a natural fit for me throughout my professional career. I have been a registered nurse since 1995, became a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner in 2015; I returned to Rush University in 2019 for a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with a focus as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am happy to be a part of the mental health care field as it evolves and becomes more effective and available! To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone to scan this QR code:
![Photo of Philippe Carrie, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dde8ea62-31c0-4b75-89a2-10884673e7cf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Carrie is an experienced, board-certified psychiatrist who aims to provide the best form of care for clients looking for medication intervention. He is part of a boutique division of Plantation Counseling and Wellness. You can find out more about him, scheduling, services, etc. at plantationpsychiatrist.com. The practice in Plantation, FL has been operating for over 15 years and because a portion of patients benefits from medication, Dr. Carrie was added to the team! Dr. Carrie can see patients throughout the state of Florida and offer convenient telehealth video visits.
Dr. Carrie is an experienced, board-certified psychiatrist who aims to provide the best form of care for clients looking for medication intervention. He is part of a boutique division of Plantation Counseling and Wellness. You can find out more about him, scheduling, services, etc. at plantationpsychiatrist.com. The practice in Plantation, FL has been operating for over 15 years and because a portion of patients benefits from medication, Dr. Carrie was added to the team! Dr. Carrie can see patients throughout the state of Florida and offer convenient telehealth video visits.
![Photo of Michelle Zitnick, APRN, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29ea7ea4-1acb-4121-895e-f5c7fc6e869d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Zitnick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33317 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hi! I'm Michelle. If you are here I am sorry life is hard right now, but I am glad you are seeking help! It can be difficult to recognize needing that help, and even harder to reach out to a stranger. I don't want to be a complete stranger, so here is a little bit about me. I am a person who struggles as well, even though our struggles may be different. I am a nurse who has worked with people for 16 years, and most recently obtained an advanced degree so I can provide mental health care. If you find yourself in search of help, I am here. We can work together and create a plan to improve mood, lessen anxiety, and enjoy life again!
Hi! I'm Michelle. If you are here I am sorry life is hard right now, but I am glad you are seeking help! It can be difficult to recognize needing that help, and even harder to reach out to a stranger. I don't want to be a complete stranger, so here is a little bit about me. I am a person who struggles as well, even though our struggles may be different. I am a nurse who has worked with people for 16 years, and most recently obtained an advanced degree so I can provide mental health care. If you find yourself in search of help, I am here. We can work together and create a plan to improve mood, lessen anxiety, and enjoy life again!
![Photo of Dr. Nina Edelman, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92fa3131-41ae-4760-b1a0-e2cccec0d2d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of experience in direct patient care. As a doctorate prepared nurse practitioner, I have the highest level of education in my field. I have strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience and patient values. I believe in treating the person as a whole and am passionate about helping my patients achieve optimal mental and physical health.
I am a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of experience in direct patient care. As a doctorate prepared nurse practitioner, I have the highest level of education in my field. I have strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience and patient values. I believe in treating the person as a whole and am passionate about helping my patients achieve optimal mental and physical health.
![Photo of Jakaria Nyeisha Jean-Louis - Healed Minds Inc, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15084310-e5e0-4274-955d-65e82b4b4492/1/320x400.jpeg)
Healed Minds Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33317
The ideal client in my practice is looking to establish psychiatric services or switch psychiatric providers. Although I provide medication management, I will also almost always recommend therapy with medications.
The ideal client in my practice is looking to establish psychiatric services or switch psychiatric providers. Although I provide medication management, I will also almost always recommend therapy with medications.
![Photo of Marvalee Allison, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e00fd7a-a376-4f35-bdab-5645b9bfac80/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marvalee Allison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Marvalee Allison. I am Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida. I provide tele-psychiatry services for patients 18 years old and above.I have worked in inpatient psychiatric facilities, substance abuse centers, Long Term Care, and outpatient psychiatric centers. My experiences include but are not limited to Women's Health psychiatric disorders, suicidal ideations, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance abuse, PTSD , Dementia with behavioral disturbances, TBI, and ADHD.
Hello, my name is Marvalee Allison. I am Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida. I provide tele-psychiatry services for patients 18 years old and above.I have worked in inpatient psychiatric facilities, substance abuse centers, Long Term Care, and outpatient psychiatric centers. My experiences include but are not limited to Women's Health psychiatric disorders, suicidal ideations, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance abuse, PTSD , Dementia with behavioral disturbances, TBI, and ADHD.
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![Photo of David Gavin, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53c0e116-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
David Gavin, MD, MS attended the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) for medical school, residency, and graduate school. He has published over 30 peer-reviewed reports on addiction disorders and schizophrenia and received VA and NIH funding. He has over 10 years of experience treating patients and training residents to treat patients with various psychiatric disorders. In addition, he has received numerous awards, including UIC Departmental Faculty of the Year, NARSAD Young Investigator Grant, and APIRE/AstraZeneca Young Minds in Psychiatry Award.
David Gavin, MD, MS attended the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) for medical school, residency, and graduate school. He has published over 30 peer-reviewed reports on addiction disorders and schizophrenia and received VA and NIH funding. He has over 10 years of experience treating patients and training residents to treat patients with various psychiatric disorders. In addition, he has received numerous awards, including UIC Departmental Faculty of the Year, NARSAD Young Investigator Grant, and APIRE/AstraZeneca Young Minds in Psychiatry Award.
![Photo of Dr. Charmi Balsara, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5f9e856-7fbb-49b1-b0c9-baf8e019744b/2/320x400.jpeg)
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, Burnout, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Suicidal Thoughts, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Postpartum Care, Self-Esteem Concerns, Women's Issues, Life Transitions, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Coping Skills Development, Dual Diagnosis.
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, Burnout, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Suicidal Thoughts, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Postpartum Care, Self-Esteem Concerns, Women's Issues, Life Transitions, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Coping Skills Development, Dual Diagnosis.
![Photo of Amber Lockman, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf99a05f-6c18-436a-9aac-d9057eae58b9/1/320x400.png)
Amber Lockman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Amber and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Amber Lockman is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and is a graduate of The University of Texas at Houston. She has a passion for helping others overcome struggles in their lives and has experience working with patients across the lifespan in the ER, inpatient mental health facilities, as well as outpatient settings. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Amber and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Amber Lockman is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and is a graduate of The University of Texas at Houston. She has a passion for helping others overcome struggles in their lives and has experience working with patients across the lifespan in the ER, inpatient mental health facilities, as well as outpatient settings. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
![Photo of Adma Romans, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7a3dacd-9a88-46f3-96e0-975a9b7f17c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adma Romans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324 (Online Only)
Dr. Wilson-Romans is Board - Certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I hold a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from The University of Alabama with certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP).
Dr. Wilson-Romans is Board - Certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I hold a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from The University of Alabama with certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP).
![Photo of Julia Meadows, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/902325bc-2273-4035-a08a-e98406cdd8f7/1/320x400.png)
Julia Meadows
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Julia and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Julia Meadows is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and has been working in healthcare since 2014. Julia's purpose is to work with clients to assist them in reaching their treatment goals and improving their overall quality of life. She utilizes evidence-based psychiatric practice to provide competent, compassionate, and holistic care to her clients. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Julia and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Julia Meadows is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and has been working in healthcare since 2014. Julia's purpose is to work with clients to assist them in reaching their treatment goals and improving their overall quality of life. She utilizes evidence-based psychiatric practice to provide competent, compassionate, and holistic care to her clients. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
![Photo of Dr. Philippe Carrie - Plantation Psychiatry - Child, Teen & Adult, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/716e3326-8c7d-479c-9a8e-b3e0430a8441/2/320x400.jpeg)
Plantation Psychiatry - Child, Teen & Adult
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33317
I'm Dr. Philippe Carrie, MD, Lead Psychiatrist at Plantation Counseling & Wellness / Plantation Psychiatry. I'm extending a heartfelt invitation for you to connect with us. As you embark on this journey, I encourage you to explore the essence of our mental health practice by visiting www.PlantationPsychiatrist.com and www.LifeCounselor.net, where our devoted team awaits, eager to connect with you on a personal level to help you find the very best solutions to your mental health, emotional wellness, and relationship concerns.
I'm Dr. Philippe Carrie, MD, Lead Psychiatrist at Plantation Counseling & Wellness / Plantation Psychiatry. I'm extending a heartfelt invitation for you to connect with us. As you embark on this journey, I encourage you to explore the essence of our mental health practice by visiting www.PlantationPsychiatrist.com and www.LifeCounselor.net, where our devoted team awaits, eager to connect with you on a personal level to help you find the very best solutions to your mental health, emotional wellness, and relationship concerns.
![Photo of Kathy Monroy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d297bc5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist and Psychoanalyst. I know it can be difficult to find yourself struggling with your emotions which in turn create disharmony, inhibition or unhappiness. These difficulties can feel overwhelming and affect every aspect of life from relationships to your work and daily activities. Sometimes it is difficult to understand why we react the way we do and how to achieve a change in a deep and long lasting way.
I am a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist and Psychoanalyst. I know it can be difficult to find yourself struggling with your emotions which in turn create disharmony, inhibition or unhappiness. These difficulties can feel overwhelming and affect every aspect of life from relationships to your work and daily activities. Sometimes it is difficult to understand why we react the way we do and how to achieve a change in a deep and long lasting way.
![Photo of Caryn B Schorr, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7265ca0c-ace0-4422-ad76-84e1c8205d4d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double boarded psychiatrist, a psychotherapist and a psychoanalyst. I treat adults who despite their innate capabilities are experiencing difficulties in their relationships, academics or career. Together our work focuses on identifying and dealing with those issues which are outside of awareness and are interfering with the freedom to succeed. Seeking therapy is often a difficult decision, but it can be one of the most important emotional investments you make.
I am a double boarded psychiatrist, a psychotherapist and a psychoanalyst. I treat adults who despite their innate capabilities are experiencing difficulties in their relationships, academics or career. Together our work focuses on identifying and dealing with those issues which are outside of awareness and are interfering with the freedom to succeed. Seeking therapy is often a difficult decision, but it can be one of the most important emotional investments you make.
![Photo of Dr. Barbara Barrett, PhD, DNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31ced332-9d7b-4b62-aca9-76369955ac66/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Barbara Barrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33322
Dr. Barrett believes that health is wealth, and that total health is achieved when mental health is also prioritized. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctorally educated therapist. She provides mental health evaluations, therapy, medication management, and other client-specific treatment interventions and recommendations for clients across the life span for clients seeking relief from emotional and behavioral challenge.
Dr. Barrett believes that health is wealth, and that total health is achieved when mental health is also prioritized. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctorally educated therapist. She provides mental health evaluations, therapy, medication management, and other client-specific treatment interventions and recommendations for clients across the life span for clients seeking relief from emotional and behavioral challenge.
See more therapy options for Plantation
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Plantation, FL
20+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in Plantation, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
68% | ADHD |
61% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
61% | Medication Management |
50% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
73% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Plantation, FL see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Plantation?
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.