Psychiatrists in Miami, FL
Vivian Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33179 (Online Only)
When you work with me, we are a team. I will celebrate your victories and support you through the tough times. In addition to being able to prescribe medications, I take a holistic approach to thoroughly understand diagnoses, medications, and treatments. Initial appointments typically last 55-60 minutes, and follow-up appointments for medications last 25-30 minutes. I have an open email policy and aim to respond within 10 hours. Please provide at least eight hours' notice if you need to cancel an appointment. I stay updated through the Carlat Podcast, Doximity, the Neuroscience Education Institute (NEI), Psych Congress, and ADDitud.
When you work with me, we are a team. I will celebrate your victories and support you through the tough times. In addition to being able to prescribe medications, I take a holistic approach to thoroughly understand diagnoses, medications, and treatments. Initial appointments typically last 55-60 minutes, and follow-up appointments for medications last 25-30 minutes. I have an open email policy and aim to respond within 10 hours. Please provide at least eight hours' notice if you need to cancel an appointment. I stay updated through the Carlat Podcast, Doximity, the Neuroscience Education Institute (NEI), Psych Congress, and ADDitud.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137
Margarita Lopez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Margarita's experience has helped her develop an in-depth understanding of the healthcare needs of her community, and she is dedicated to supporting the underserved and ensuring that all her patients receive the best possible care. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where her patients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together towards their goals.
Margarita Lopez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Margarita's experience has helped her develop an in-depth understanding of the healthcare needs of her community, and she is dedicated to supporting the underserved and ensuring that all her patients receive the best possible care. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where her patients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together towards their goals.
Envision Mindcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Joain Sophie Silvera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Florida. I received my Masters from the Florida State University and a doctorate from Walden University have been practicing for 3 years.
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Florida. I received my Masters from the Florida State University and a doctorate from Walden University have been practicing for 3 years.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, ACNPCAG
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Maria Botero,APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, ACNPC-AG Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental wellness. With a passion for mental health and a dedication to compassionate care. My mission is to provide comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric care that promotes healing, resilience, and overall well-being. I am dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, striving to create a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, heard, and empowered to seek the help they deserve.
Maria Botero,APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, ACNPC-AG Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental wellness. With a passion for mental health and a dedication to compassionate care. My mission is to provide comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric care that promotes healing, resilience, and overall well-being. I am dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, striving to create a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, heard, and empowered to seek the help they deserve.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe that addressing mental health concerns is just as important as addressing physical concerns. I enjoy working with a wide array of clients and assisting with their mental health needs. I am described as personable and caring, and desire to provide an individualized approach to treatment in a safe and welcoming environment. I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, and Women's Health. I am bilingual in English and Spanish.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe that addressing mental health concerns is just as important as addressing physical concerns. I enjoy working with a wide array of clients and assisting with their mental health needs. I am described as personable and caring, and desire to provide an individualized approach to treatment in a safe and welcoming environment. I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, and Women's Health. I am bilingual in English and Spanish.
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.
Someone who is committed to improving the quality of their life and mental health. Someone looking for a trusted partner in their journey to achieving success in their life.
Someone who is committed to improving the quality of their life and mental health. Someone looking for a trusted partner in their journey to achieving success in their life.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Margarita Lopez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Margarita's experience has helped her develop an in-depth understanding of the healthcare needs of her community, and she is dedicated to supporting the underserved and ensuring that all her patients receive the best possible care. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where her patients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together towards their goals.
Margarita Lopez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Margarita's experience has helped her develop an in-depth understanding of the healthcare needs of her community, and she is dedicated to supporting the underserved and ensuring that all her patients receive the best possible care. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where her patients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together towards their goals.
Myrtle Davenport
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33186
As a mother, wife, and working professional, I understand the overwhelming feeling of being pulled in many directions all at once, while trying to manage life challenges. All of this can cause stress and mental imbalance. As a mental health provider, it is my duty to provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment. You can expect to be heard, emotionally validated, and supported. With my knowledge and clinical background, I can assist you in achieving optimal mental health and well-being. My mission is to promote mental health awareness within the community to reduce the stigma associated with mental health.
As a mother, wife, and working professional, I understand the overwhelming feeling of being pulled in many directions all at once, while trying to manage life challenges. All of this can cause stress and mental imbalance. As a mental health provider, it is my duty to provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment. You can expect to be heard, emotionally validated, and supported. With my knowledge and clinical background, I can assist you in achieving optimal mental health and well-being. My mission is to promote mental health awareness within the community to reduce the stigma associated with mental health.
ElevateTMS, is a center that offers a safe and non-invasive treatment for those suffering from depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. Located in Miami, Florida, we are here to change the stigma around mental health treatments by providing a safe and supportive environment where patients can feel comfortable with their journey towards recovery. Our team of experts will work with you, one on one, to develop a personalized plan based on your individual needs so you can get back to living life again!
ElevateTMS, is a center that offers a safe and non-invasive treatment for those suffering from depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. Located in Miami, Florida, we are here to change the stigma around mental health treatments by providing a safe and supportive environment where patients can feel comfortable with their journey towards recovery. Our team of experts will work with you, one on one, to develop a personalized plan based on your individual needs so you can get back to living life again!
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Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Dr. Kettlyne Stcyr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33179 (Online Only)
Behavioral health is a specialty in which those in need bare their souls looking to professionals such as myself to help them improve their lives. The ideal patient is any man or woman who is in need of my help. Each patient is unique and I listen with an open mind and acknowledging their needs. I ask each patient about their preferences, goals, and expectations and begin the journey to wellness together. I am blessed to be able to interact with people from many different cultures, ethnicities, and social classes. Our differences are what make this area a great place to live and work.
Behavioral health is a specialty in which those in need bare their souls looking to professionals such as myself to help them improve their lives. The ideal patient is any man or woman who is in need of my help. Each patient is unique and I listen with an open mind and acknowledging their needs. I ask each patient about their preferences, goals, and expectations and begin the journey to wellness together. I am blessed to be able to interact with people from many different cultures, ethnicities, and social classes. Our differences are what make this area a great place to live and work.
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.
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Marie Carline Oseh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC, DNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
As a person, social coherence is our order of the day. With it brings a lot of challenges that affect every one of us. This is the calling that drew me to psychiatry, where I can navigate how to help individuals and families cope with their daily issues. As a professional with both psychiatric and clinical knowledge (Psychiatric Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Master of Science in Nursing- FNP), I understand the mental strains in our lives. The good news is that I have specialized in depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder which I am happy to help with the healing journey for both individuals and families.
As a person, social coherence is our order of the day. With it brings a lot of challenges that affect every one of us. This is the calling that drew me to psychiatry, where I can navigate how to help individuals and families cope with their daily issues. As a professional with both psychiatric and clinical knowledge (Psychiatric Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Master of Science in Nursing- FNP), I understand the mental strains in our lives. The good news is that I have specialized in depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder which I am happy to help with the healing journey for both individuals and families.
Hey there, I'm proficient bilingual physician, who has undergone training in both adult and pediatric psychiatry. I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in Elmhurst, NY, where I acquired the skills to manage diverse and high-risk populations. Later, I returned to her hometown and pursued her Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine.
Hey there, I'm proficient bilingual physician, who has undergone training in both adult and pediatric psychiatry. I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in Elmhurst, NY, where I acquired the skills to manage diverse and high-risk populations. Later, I returned to her hometown and pursued her Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine.
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and therapists with expertise in treating mental health and substance use disorders. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and therapists with expertise in treating mental health and substance use disorders. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
Rosanie Estima
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience in mental health, Rosanie Estima believes treating not just the symptoms but the person as a whole, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She promotes an environment where clients feel understood and supported. She believes in empowering knowledge and fostering a collaborative approach to mental health. Her broad exposure has equipped her with a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health, enabling her to tailor her approach to the unique needs of each individual.
With over a decade of experience in mental health, Rosanie Estima believes treating not just the symptoms but the person as a whole, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She promotes an environment where clients feel understood and supported. She believes in empowering knowledge and fostering a collaborative approach to mental health. Her broad exposure has equipped her with a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health, enabling her to tailor her approach to the unique needs of each individual.
In my role as a PMHNP specializing in women's mental health, I am committed to providing evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and individualized care to women of all ages and backgrounds. I believe in fostering a therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, and collaboration, where women feel heard, understood, and supported in their mental health journey. Providing comprehensive and holistic care is essential in promoting the well-being of women. I am confident that my dedication, expertise, and compassion makes me well-suited to provide high-quality care you deserve.
In my role as a PMHNP specializing in women's mental health, I am committed to providing evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and individualized care to women of all ages and backgrounds. I believe in fostering a therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, and collaboration, where women feel heard, understood, and supported in their mental health journey. Providing comprehensive and holistic care is essential in promoting the well-being of women. I am confident that my dedication, expertise, and compassion makes me well-suited to provide high-quality care you deserve.
Welcome to My Practice! I aim to create a collaborative and supportive environment where you feel heard and respected. I prioritize open communication and empathy, encouraging you to express your thoughts and concerns freely. Together, we’ll explore your challenges and work towards solutions that align with your unique situation and aspirations. My style is patient-centered, meaning your input is crucial in shaping your treatment plan.
Welcome to My Practice! I aim to create a collaborative and supportive environment where you feel heard and respected. I prioritize open communication and empathy, encouraging you to express your thoughts and concerns freely. Together, we’ll explore your challenges and work towards solutions that align with your unique situation and aspirations. My style is patient-centered, meaning your input is crucial in shaping your treatment plan.
See more therapy options for Miami
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Miami, FL
500+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in Miami, FL who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | ADHD |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | Aetna |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Miami, FL see their clients
54% | Online Only | |
46% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
26% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Miami?
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.