Psychiatrists in Key Biscayne, FL
Patricia Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
Patricia Rodriguez, PMHNP, is a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a profound passion for helping individuals achieve mental well-being and emotional balance. She is deeply committed to providing the highest level of care and support to her patients. Patricia offers in person and online psychiatry consults for both new and existing patients, providing comprehensive medication management, personalized treatment plans. She firmly believes in a holistic approach to mental health, acknowledging that each individual is unique and requires personalized care.
Patricia Rodriguez, PMHNP, is a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a profound passion for helping individuals achieve mental well-being and emotional balance. She is deeply committed to providing the highest level of care and support to her patients. Patricia offers in person and online psychiatry consults for both new and existing patients, providing comprehensive medication management, personalized treatment plans. She firmly believes in a holistic approach to mental health, acknowledging that each individual is unique and requires personalized care.
![Photo of Patrick Sassoon, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/500ddb5e-2290-4e1d-9d4f-668814f5d018/2/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
![Photo of Dr. Clara Alvarez, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cdf9aa5-b94f-4c04-9c1f-77e503eb2702/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am a triple board-certified psychiatrist with years of clinical experience and medical teaching. I focus on Brain Sciences, emotional regulation, chronic illnesses, positive interventions, empowerment, mind-body healing, and re-programming. I help individuals to achieve their wellness goals, including personal and professional growth. The comprehensive neuropsychiatric assessments are personalized to medical, emotional, situational, and spiritual targets. For more information visit my website at www.claraalvarezmd.com
Hi! I am a triple board-certified psychiatrist with years of clinical experience and medical teaching. I focus on Brain Sciences, emotional regulation, chronic illnesses, positive interventions, empowerment, mind-body healing, and re-programming. I help individuals to achieve their wellness goals, including personal and professional growth. The comprehensive neuropsychiatric assessments are personalized to medical, emotional, situational, and spiritual targets. For more information visit my website at www.claraalvarezmd.com
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Michelle Trevino, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/526224da-fd45-43a6-b6df-c3faa0108a2f/1/320x400.png)
Michelle Trevino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coral Gables, FL 33134 (Online Only)
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. We want to help!
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. We want to help!
![Photo of Leonor Francisco, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf8ea49e-f1d7-41be-97ae-d69eef0d0921/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leonor Francisco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137 (Online Only)
I started my nursing career in 2006 and have over 16 years of diverse nursing experience. I earn my patients’ trust by delivering quality and passionate care. The importance of helping a person heal, not only physically but emotionally, presented itself, and I moved on to pursue my graduate degree at Walden University to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
I started my nursing career in 2006 and have over 16 years of diverse nursing experience. I earn my patients’ trust by delivering quality and passionate care. The importance of helping a person heal, not only physically but emotionally, presented itself, and I moved on to pursue my graduate degree at Walden University to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Wendy Oliver-Pyatt, MD, FAED, FIAEDP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51d3c908-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Wendy Oliver-Pyatt
Psychiatrist, MD, FAED, FIAEDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Miami, FL 33143
My work with you is based on delving deeply into your inner world, forming a connection and deeper understanding that can provide validation, a greater sense of balance and perspective, and enhanced ability to embrace life with mindfulness and reflection. I am the founder of five distinctive eating disorder programs and the Chief Executive Officer of Galen Mental Health/Galen Hope and Within Health. I was the State of Nevada Medical Director for Mental Health, and have extensive experience in pharmacotherapy. It may be determined that medication is indicated; yet all care eclectic & psychodynamically informed.
My work with you is based on delving deeply into your inner world, forming a connection and deeper understanding that can provide validation, a greater sense of balance and perspective, and enhanced ability to embrace life with mindfulness and reflection. I am the founder of five distinctive eating disorder programs and the Chief Executive Officer of Galen Mental Health/Galen Hope and Within Health. I was the State of Nevada Medical Director for Mental Health, and have extensive experience in pharmacotherapy. It may be determined that medication is indicated; yet all care eclectic & psychodynamically informed.
![Photo of Albert Luong, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef9c5a35-478f-41b7-83a5-a0535e04ec23/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Albert Luong is an adult psychiatrist. He integrates a warm and collaborative approach to treating psychiatric conditions, with the aim of building a strong therapeutic relationship to help patients achieve their goals. In line with holistic treatment, Dr. Luong utilizes both psychotherapy as well as medication management, implementing a safe, empathic, and individualistic framework to allow for healing and wellness.
Dr. Albert Luong is an adult psychiatrist. He integrates a warm and collaborative approach to treating psychiatric conditions, with the aim of building a strong therapeutic relationship to help patients achieve their goals. In line with holistic treatment, Dr. Luong utilizes both psychotherapy as well as medication management, implementing a safe, empathic, and individualistic framework to allow for healing and wellness.
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.
![Photo of Olamiju Olaleye, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59f0e70d-3c2b-42e6-8281-518634ce6e99/2/320x400.jpeg)
Olamiju Olaleye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. I hold a Doctor of Nursing degree from the University of North Florida. I am board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
I am a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. I hold a Doctor of Nursing degree from the University of North Florida. I am board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
![Photo of Heidi Mattison, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05b1d0c9-1312-46f3-99b2-42b94ffff299/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am devoted to providing effective, affordable health care to those in need.
I am devoted to providing effective, affordable health care to those in need.
![Photo of Aarti U Jerath, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51f1722c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Aarti Jerath, MD MA, is a board certified psychiatrist who treats adults and children. She feels passionate and driven about helping people feel mentally and emotionally healthy. She is committed to her patients’ well-being with the goal of helping them achieve happiness, enjoy life and be successful. The source of Dr. Jerath’s quality of care comes from her genuine love and empathy for people.
Dr. Aarti Jerath, MD MA, is a board certified psychiatrist who treats adults and children. She feels passionate and driven about helping people feel mentally and emotionally healthy. She is committed to her patients’ well-being with the goal of helping them achieve happiness, enjoy life and be successful. The source of Dr. Jerath’s quality of care comes from her genuine love and empathy for people.
![Photo of Lerae J Hill - Mahogany Primary Care & Wellness, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9c8c39b-7157-41b7-a3cf-c8cadd334a03/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mahogany Primary Care & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Mental Health is an important aspect of life today. Many are still facing the stigmas of seeking care for conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and other mental health problems. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who strives to give patient-centered, individualized care to those seeking assistance with their mental health.
Mental Health is an important aspect of life today. Many are still facing the stigmas of seeking care for conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and other mental health problems. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who strives to give patient-centered, individualized care to those seeking assistance with their mental health.
![Photo of Naomi Rebeles, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe2e03e0-6cfc-4461-bb2d-327a62db95ab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Naomi Rebeles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
I understand that mental health is affecting our communities, including our children, at an alarming rate. I am passionate about helping you or your family member through these challenging times. I do not believe a pill can fix everything, but evidence-based research shows that medications can sometimes rebalance chemicals in the body. This allows patients afflicted by mood disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, PTSD, eating disorders, and substance use disorders to be receptive to therapy and gain the necessary life skills to start enjoying life again.
I understand that mental health is affecting our communities, including our children, at an alarming rate. I am passionate about helping you or your family member through these challenging times. I do not believe a pill can fix everything, but evidence-based research shows that medications can sometimes rebalance chemicals in the body. This allows patients afflicted by mood disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, PTSD, eating disorders, and substance use disorders to be receptive to therapy and gain the necessary life skills to start enjoying life again.
![Photo of Maria J Vega, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bc434cd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced, board certified psychiatrist. I earned my medical degree in 1995 and completed a Residency in adult psychiatry at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Florida. I then did a 2 year fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry I worked as an assistant professor at Jackson Memorial Hospital from 2002-2005. I was then voluntary faculty at the University of Miami, Department of Psychiatry. I have vast experience treating eating disorders, ADHD, and autism, via both medication and/or therapy. I am currently residing in both Georgia and Florida, and fluent in Spanish. I offer telemedicine services.
I am an experienced, board certified psychiatrist. I earned my medical degree in 1995 and completed a Residency in adult psychiatry at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Florida. I then did a 2 year fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry I worked as an assistant professor at Jackson Memorial Hospital from 2002-2005. I was then voluntary faculty at the University of Miami, Department of Psychiatry. I have vast experience treating eating disorders, ADHD, and autism, via both medication and/or therapy. I am currently residing in both Georgia and Florida, and fluent in Spanish. I offer telemedicine services.
![Photo of John Banks III, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e8ff93a-dcbb-4811-9fe4-71e0042fdcc8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Banks implements an integrative approach to his practice that primarily utilizes medication management and various psychotherapy disciplines such as cognitive-behavioral, supportive, and psychodynamic techniques. While Dr. Banks is trained in a variety of therapeutic fields, he works collaboratively with therapists and may recommend their inclusion as part of your treatment team to provide you with the level of care you deserve. The duration of follow-up appointments with Dr. Banks is typically 20-30 minutes.
Dr. Banks implements an integrative approach to his practice that primarily utilizes medication management and various psychotherapy disciplines such as cognitive-behavioral, supportive, and psychodynamic techniques. While Dr. Banks is trained in a variety of therapeutic fields, he works collaboratively with therapists and may recommend their inclusion as part of your treatment team to provide you with the level of care you deserve. The duration of follow-up appointments with Dr. Banks is typically 20-30 minutes.
![Photo of Yanet Hernandez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35851a3e-12bc-43da-a237-f49f3cdd55c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yanet Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
My name is Yanet Hernandez, I'm from Cuba, I received my master from Regis College, I have been practicing for more than 20 years, helping adults struggling with stress, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, ect. I have been working in the mental health field for several years.
My name is Yanet Hernandez, I'm from Cuba, I received my master from Regis College, I have been practicing for more than 20 years, helping adults struggling with stress, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, ect. I have been working in the mental health field for several years.
![Photo of Christy Vadakkan, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c8cd477-af7d-42f2-9253-95c34fdfc197/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hey there, my name is Dr. Christy Vadakkan. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Miami (“Go Canes”) and medical school at Nova Southeastern University, Psychiatry residency training at Palm Beach Consortium of Graduate Medical Education. Later I completed a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine. I have worked with a wide variety of patients with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. The hands-on care, education, and service needed behind treating the emotional, physical, and mental states of my patients have fueled my passion for psychiatry.
Hey there, my name is Dr. Christy Vadakkan. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Miami (“Go Canes”) and medical school at Nova Southeastern University, Psychiatry residency training at Palm Beach Consortium of Graduate Medical Education. Later I completed a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine. I have worked with a wide variety of patients with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. The hands-on care, education, and service needed behind treating the emotional, physical, and mental states of my patients have fueled my passion for psychiatry.
![Photo of Randy T Warner, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/954bafcd-8de5-461b-ae5c-03523dafe2f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Each and every individual is unique and has had their own collective experience to shape the person that they have become. Also, each and every individual has variances in how they might respond to standard or novel treatments. Decades of experience in post-residency training and thousands of patients of all ages later have shaped my treatment approach. That would be one that is extremely methodical. You can be assured that every step along the way will be executed to the highest professional standards. I will work tirelessly to see that you are returned to your baseline functioning and won't stop trying until that is attained.
Each and every individual is unique and has had their own collective experience to shape the person that they have become. Also, each and every individual has variances in how they might respond to standard or novel treatments. Decades of experience in post-residency training and thousands of patients of all ages later have shaped my treatment approach. That would be one that is extremely methodical. You can be assured that every step along the way will be executed to the highest professional standards. I will work tirelessly to see that you are returned to your baseline functioning and won't stop trying until that is attained.
![Photo of Dr. Irene Gan, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9912b0a0-492b-4703-84f0-c195494d465f/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Irene Gan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse and family nurse practitioner who has worked in academic, inpatient and outpatient settings for over ten years. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing Education from Villanova University and Family Practice from Northern Illinois University. After receiving my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, I had post-doctorate training in psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic mental health treatment at the University of Massachusetts Global.
I am a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse and family nurse practitioner who has worked in academic, inpatient and outpatient settings for over ten years. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing Education from Villanova University and Family Practice from Northern Illinois University. After receiving my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, I had post-doctorate training in psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic mental health treatment at the University of Massachusetts Global.
![Photo of Patricia Gilliano, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d31a15ac-4af2-4bc6-89d4-1eca93fb2819/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in Florida. I have been in healthcare for over 25 years as a clinical nurse and executive leader. I have worked with many clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, Post COVID issues, grief, suffering, or self-image issues.
Hi! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in Florida. I have been in healthcare for over 25 years as a clinical nurse and executive leader. I have worked with many clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, Post COVID issues, grief, suffering, or self-image issues.
See more therapy options for Key Biscayne
Nearby Searches for Key Biscayne
- Coconut Grove
- Coral Gables
- Cutler Bay
- Doral
- Hialeah
- Kendall
- Miami
- Miami Beach
- North Miami
- Palmetto Bay
- Pinecrest
- South Miami
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Key Biscayne, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Key Biscayne, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Medication Management |
67% | Anxiety |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Grief |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Key Biscayne, FL see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Key Biscayne?
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.