Psychiatrists in Pinellas County, FL
Do you need help with mental health issues? Are you looking to change your life and become the best version of yourself? I work with my patients to identify the underlying issues that are impacting their quality of life and come up with a personalized, evidenced based plan to help them. I provide compassionate, non-judgmental quality care. I treat a wide range of psychiatric issues, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, alcohol use, PTSD, OCD, opioid use, ADHD, stress, postpartum depression, psychosis, and mood disorders.
Do you need help with mental health issues? Are you looking to change your life and become the best version of yourself? I work with my patients to identify the underlying issues that are impacting their quality of life and come up with a personalized, evidenced based plan to help them. I provide compassionate, non-judgmental quality care. I treat a wide range of psychiatric issues, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, alcohol use, PTSD, OCD, opioid use, ADHD, stress, postpartum depression, psychosis, and mood disorders.
Dr. Martha R. Alzamora is a psychiatrist working with adult population. She is the President and Medical Director of Continental Psychiatric & Lifestyle Medicine Services, PLLC and Nassau Psychiatric Services, P.C. Dr. Alzamora completed her training in Adult Psychiatry at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York State. She worked as Assistant Professor at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, teaching and training medical residents.
Dr. Martha R. Alzamora is a psychiatrist working with adult population. She is the President and Medical Director of Continental Psychiatric & Lifestyle Medicine Services, PLLC and Nassau Psychiatric Services, P.C. Dr. Alzamora completed her training in Adult Psychiatry at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York State. She worked as Assistant Professor at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, teaching and training medical residents.
Patricia Hoyt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
Patricia is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing and treating patients with medication management and brief psychotherapeutic interventions with a wide range of psychiatric disorders. I believe in the importance of integrative care including; lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management. My goal is to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and empower my clients through supportive education and client centered care.
Patricia is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing and treating patients with medication management and brief psychotherapeutic interventions with a wide range of psychiatric disorders. I believe in the importance of integrative care including; lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management. My goal is to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and empower my clients through supportive education and client centered care.
Laura Pohl ~Women's Mental Health Specialists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
My goals are to help you feel your best, in all areas of your life! Whether you have had mental health struggles before or are seeking mental health support for the first time. I have firsthand experience and knowledge of the options available - from complex medication management to therapy options. Together we can close the gap.
My goals are to help you feel your best, in all areas of your life! Whether you have had mental health struggles before or are seeking mental health support for the first time. I have firsthand experience and knowledge of the options available - from complex medication management to therapy options. Together we can close the gap.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Jennifer Self
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, LMHC, APRN
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33761
Ready for a fresh approach? My goal is to provide compassionate, non-judgmental, comprehensive, high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. I am here to listen and to take the time to understand what you are going through. I will get to know you, answer your questions, and together we can decide on a plan that works for you. I offer medication management and counseling for a full range of psychiatric issues, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, addiction, ADHD, stress, trauma, and mood disorders.
Ready for a fresh approach? My goal is to provide compassionate, non-judgmental, comprehensive, high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. I am here to listen and to take the time to understand what you are going through. I will get to know you, answer your questions, and together we can decide on a plan that works for you. I offer medication management and counseling for a full range of psychiatric issues, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, addiction, ADHD, stress, trauma, and mood disorders.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Carative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
Our mission is to enhance wellness and motivate self-improvement by strengthening minds. We offer high quality health care for patients seeking a trustworthy long-term psychiatric provider who can provide medication management and supportive counseling. The providers at Carative Psychiatry (CP) provide care to their patients using medical and mental health care models in order to treat the whole individual. The providers at CP are passionate about serving the community and helping others achieve their goals by using the Carative theory. Telepsychiatry practice serving Florida.
Our mission is to enhance wellness and motivate self-improvement by strengthening minds. We offer high quality health care for patients seeking a trustworthy long-term psychiatric provider who can provide medication management and supportive counseling. The providers at Carative Psychiatry (CP) provide care to their patients using medical and mental health care models in order to treat the whole individual. The providers at CP are passionate about serving the community and helping others achieve their goals by using the Carative theory. Telepsychiatry practice serving Florida.
Becky Hamner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
We offer a broad scope of psychiatric medication management for patients with mental health needs. Specializing in ADHD, post-partum, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders for pediatrics and adults ages 10 - 60. For additional information about scheduling your first appointment, you can visit our website! We also have in-person appointments with limited availability. Email or call us for more information.
We offer a broad scope of psychiatric medication management for patients with mental health needs. Specializing in ADHD, post-partum, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders for pediatrics and adults ages 10 - 60. For additional information about scheduling your first appointment, you can visit our website! We also have in-person appointments with limited availability. Email or call us for more information.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available the same day or the next day. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing in our network of clinics and online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans, including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available the same day or the next day. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing in our network of clinics and online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans, including Medicare.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Hello Nikki (Shalonda) Myles! I'm delighted to introduce myself as Nikki Myles, a Nurse Practitioner (NP) specializing in family medicine and psychiatry. I provide both in-person and Telehealth care, and I'm currently accepting new patients. Please explore my website to learn more about my services and our dedicated team of providers. Your health and well-being are our top priorities. Looking forward to the opportunity to assist you on your healthcare journey!
Hello Nikki (Shalonda) Myles! I'm delighted to introduce myself as Nikki Myles, a Nurse Practitioner (NP) specializing in family medicine and psychiatry. I provide both in-person and Telehealth care, and I'm currently accepting new patients. Please explore my website to learn more about my services and our dedicated team of providers. Your health and well-being are our top priorities. Looking forward to the opportunity to assist you on your healthcare journey!
Melissa Aull, PMHNP Melissa Aull is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2009. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from St. Petersburg College, a Master of Science in Nursing from Florida State University and a Post-Master's Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health, from the University of Cincinnati. Melissa believes in a treatment philosophy where clients can expect an open, honest atmosphere that promotes learning, understanding the client's history, and building a rapport for establishing a therapeutic relationship and developing strategies for improved mental health.
Melissa Aull, PMHNP Melissa Aull is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2009. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from St. Petersburg College, a Master of Science in Nursing from Florida State University and a Post-Master's Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health, from the University of Cincinnati. Melissa believes in a treatment philosophy where clients can expect an open, honest atmosphere that promotes learning, understanding the client's history, and building a rapport for establishing a therapeutic relationship and developing strategies for improved mental health.
Tired of your only option being pharmeceuticals? Me too! I am a holistic provider who uses plants, fungus and modern medicines. After years of frustration with medication management through very short sessions soley focused on revenue, I found a home where I can take the time needed to, really, offer you help. I aspire to spend the extra time with my clients and ensure their success, rather than toss medications out and run to the next appointment. You will find a caring, curious, professional with me. Let's support you, together.
Tired of your only option being pharmeceuticals? Me too! I am a holistic provider who uses plants, fungus and modern medicines. After years of frustration with medication management through very short sessions soley focused on revenue, I found a home where I can take the time needed to, really, offer you help. I aspire to spend the extra time with my clients and ensure their success, rather than toss medications out and run to the next appointment. You will find a caring, curious, professional with me. Let's support you, together.
I have been practicing psychiatry for more than 20 years and am Board Certified in both Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. My practice focuses on the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. I am passionate about helping people and take a holistic approach to the care I deliver. I take time with the individuals and families I work with and seek to understand their struggles in the context of current life circumstances and past experiences. I work with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, mood instability/bipolar disorder, eating issues, ADHD, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
I have been practicing psychiatry for more than 20 years and am Board Certified in both Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. My practice focuses on the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. I am passionate about helping people and take a holistic approach to the care I deliver. I take time with the individuals and families I work with and seek to understand their struggles in the context of current life circumstances and past experiences. I work with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, mood instability/bipolar disorder, eating issues, ADHD, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Donna K Dempsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Donna Dempsey MS APRN is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience treating adults at all levels of care. I graduated from Ohio State University with a Master's Degree in Psychiatric Nursing and started my career as Head Nurse of Adult Psychiatry at Cleveland Clinic. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings and have worked in private practice gaining extensive experience in the treatment of a wide variety of mental health disorders, particularly anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I offer Saturday appointments for new urgent visits.
Donna Dempsey MS APRN is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience treating adults at all levels of care. I graduated from Ohio State University with a Master's Degree in Psychiatric Nursing and started my career as Head Nurse of Adult Psychiatry at Cleveland Clinic. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings and have worked in private practice gaining extensive experience in the treatment of a wide variety of mental health disorders, particularly anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I offer Saturday appointments for new urgent visits.
Tracey A Sanderbeck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Seminole, FL 33772 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (APRN) trained to diagnose and prescribe medication for patients with mental health issues. Prior to becoming a Psychiatric APRN I was an Emergency Department RN, working in local ERs for 30+years. I have worked for Bardmoor ER & Morton Plant psychiatric ER & inpatient pediatric psychiatric unit, St. Petersburg General ER, & Northside Hospital & Heart Institute ER. I also have experience working with Veterans and worked at Bay Pines VA ER & inpatient psychiatric unit for 5 yrs. I am currently a Sexual Assault Examiner with The Suncoast Center S.A.V.E team.
I am a board certified psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (APRN) trained to diagnose and prescribe medication for patients with mental health issues. Prior to becoming a Psychiatric APRN I was an Emergency Department RN, working in local ERs for 30+years. I have worked for Bardmoor ER & Morton Plant psychiatric ER & inpatient pediatric psychiatric unit, St. Petersburg General ER, & Northside Hospital & Heart Institute ER. I also have experience working with Veterans and worked at Bay Pines VA ER & inpatient psychiatric unit for 5 yrs. I am currently a Sexual Assault Examiner with The Suncoast Center S.A.V.E team.
Betts Mental Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, FL 33770
Now taking on new clients! I am highly trained in treating clients from ages 6-65 with psychotherapy and pharmaceutical management. Are you feeling angry or anxious? Unmanageable feelings or moods? Severe stress, trauma, or depression? Are you finding it difficult to focus or finish your work? You're not alone! More than ever, people are experiencing feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, and uncertainty about how to handle their relationships, careers, and overall life. Ignoring your wants and neglecting yourself can have long-term negative effects on your body and psyche. We think that leading a better life shouldn't be that difficult.
Now taking on new clients! I am highly trained in treating clients from ages 6-65 with psychotherapy and pharmaceutical management. Are you feeling angry or anxious? Unmanageable feelings or moods? Severe stress, trauma, or depression? Are you finding it difficult to focus or finish your work? You're not alone! More than ever, people are experiencing feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, and uncertainty about how to handle their relationships, careers, and overall life. Ignoring your wants and neglecting yourself can have long-term negative effects on your body and psyche. We think that leading a better life shouldn't be that difficult.
Ashley Carro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
I treat each client individually based on concerns, symptoms and their preference for medication therapy. This can include dailly medications or as needed medications or both. After initial assessment I can recommend an individualized treatment plan based on the initial assessment/appointment. I will work closely with each client to identify goals for treatment and how we can work to achieve those goals.
I treat each client individually based on concerns, symptoms and their preference for medication therapy. This can include dailly medications or as needed medications or both. After initial assessment I can recommend an individualized treatment plan based on the initial assessment/appointment. I will work closely with each client to identify goals for treatment and how we can work to achieve those goals.
I am a dual certified nurse practitioner in pediatric primary care and psychiatric mental health, offering integrative mental health treatments (a holistic approach that uses conventional and complimentary therapies to treat psychiatric disorders) to children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, eating disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD and PTSD, as well as behavioral issues in children and teenagers.
I am a dual certified nurse practitioner in pediatric primary care and psychiatric mental health, offering integrative mental health treatments (a holistic approach that uses conventional and complimentary therapies to treat psychiatric disorders) to children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, eating disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD and PTSD, as well as behavioral issues in children and teenagers.
See more therapy options for Pinellas County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Pinellas County, FL
100+
Average cost per session
$199
Psychiatrists in Pinellas County, FL who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Medication Management |
77% | ADHD |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
81% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Pinellas County, FL see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Female | |
34% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Pinellas County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.