Psychiatrists in 30001

Photo of Marva Calder, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Marva Calder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 22 years of experience. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and other conditions in adults and seniors.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 22 years of experience. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and other conditions in adults and seniors.
(470) 688-1804 View (470) 688-1804
Photo of Izabella Matatova, Physician Assistant, PA-C, DEA
Izabella Matatova
Physician Assistant, PA-C, DEA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant with a strong focus on helping patients manage stress, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and grief. I graduated from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine’s PA Program in Suwanee, GA. Before transitioning to mental health, I worked in Family Medicine, where I discovered the profound impact of supporting individuals through challenges that often go unnoticed.
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant with a strong focus on helping patients manage stress, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and grief. I graduated from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine’s PA Program in Suwanee, GA. Before transitioning to mental health, I worked in Family Medicine, where I discovered the profound impact of supporting individuals through challenges that often go unnoticed.
(470) 339-4942 View (470) 339-4942
Photo of Chiazor Irene Eziakor - Healing Hands Integrated Psychiatric Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Healing Hands Integrated Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a highly experienced psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner, I am committed to offering personalized and affordable tele-psychiatry services. With over 20 years in healthcare, my goal is to provide convenient care tailored to your needs. We use a collaborative approach to mental health care, working closely with you. Our services are designed to be affordable and accessible, providing quality mental health care from the comfort of your home. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, we support your journey toward better mental health. Give us a trial!
As a highly experienced psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner, I am committed to offering personalized and affordable tele-psychiatry services. With over 20 years in healthcare, my goal is to provide convenient care tailored to your needs. We use a collaborative approach to mental health care, working closely with you. Our services are designed to be affordable and accessible, providing quality mental health care from the comfort of your home. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, we support your journey toward better mental health. Give us a trial!
(678) 672-3309 View (678) 672-3309

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Tiffany Mason, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Mason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Tiffany Mason. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) focused on providing integrative care for my patients. My passion is to restore hope, achieve balance, promote overall wellness, and well-being. I recognize the interaction of the biological, socioeconomic, psychological, nutritional, and lifestyle factors that impact the lives of our patients, which means each treatment plan will be unique and created collaboratively to fit you.
Hello! My name is Tiffany Mason. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) focused on providing integrative care for my patients. My passion is to restore hope, achieve balance, promote overall wellness, and well-being. I recognize the interaction of the biological, socioeconomic, psychological, nutritional, and lifestyle factors that impact the lives of our patients, which means each treatment plan will be unique and created collaboratively to fit you.
(470) 691-8094 View (470) 691-8094
Photo of Ramakanth K Vemuluri, Psychiatrist, MD, MRCPsyc
Ramakanth K Vemuluri
Psychiatrist, MD, MRCPsyc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Dr. Ram is a passionate psychiatrist who strives for total wellness using evidence-based treatments with collaborative and integrative approaches to mind-body medicine. His style is nonjudgmental, building a trusting relationship, accepting the client as is, and working towards intrinsic change. He believes that caring for the patient is the secret to care.Dr. Ram has completed a master’s in Ayurveda and an integrative medicine course. Ayurveda is the oldest form of medicine practiced in India.
Dr. Ram is a passionate psychiatrist who strives for total wellness using evidence-based treatments with collaborative and integrative approaches to mind-body medicine. His style is nonjudgmental, building a trusting relationship, accepting the client as is, and working towards intrinsic change. He believes that caring for the patient is the secret to care.Dr. Ram has completed a master’s in Ayurveda and an integrative medicine course. Ayurveda is the oldest form of medicine practiced in India.
(470) 444-4508 View (470) 444-4508
Photo of Dr. Beatrice Odero, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Dr. Beatrice Odero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you or your loved ones struggle with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar, Insomnia among others. We are here to listen. Mental health is complex. Our providers take consideration of genetics, environmental & social factors that may impact your emotional wellness. We offer comprehensive psychiatric assessment, medication management, nutritional psychiatry, psychotherapy, & tips on lifestyle-changes which will positively affect your emotional wellness. We utilize evidence-based interventions to create unique individualized treatment plan. Our goal is to provide compassionate, personalized, & culturally sensitive care.
Do you or your loved ones struggle with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar, Insomnia among others. We are here to listen. Mental health is complex. Our providers take consideration of genetics, environmental & social factors that may impact your emotional wellness. We offer comprehensive psychiatric assessment, medication management, nutritional psychiatry, psychotherapy, & tips on lifestyle-changes which will positively affect your emotional wellness. We utilize evidence-based interventions to create unique individualized treatment plan. Our goal is to provide compassionate, personalized, & culturally sensitive care.
(404) 640-5497 View (404) 640-5497
Photo of Shurma Maureen Pitt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Shurma Maureen Pitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Shurma Pitt, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with training in psychiatry, addiction, alcohol, and substance abuse. I am eager to connect with you! My passion is to help individuals feel better about themselves: mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically, using a non-judgmental approach. Everyone is unique, and a personalized approach is therefore tailored to provide you with comprehensive mental health care.
Hello! My name is Shurma Pitt, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with training in psychiatry, addiction, alcohol, and substance abuse. I am eager to connect with you! My passion is to help individuals feel better about themselves: mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically, using a non-judgmental approach. Everyone is unique, and a personalized approach is therefore tailored to provide you with comprehensive mental health care.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of Nicole Stallworth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Nicole Stallworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Villa Rica, GA 30180
Any person with mental health issues, whether acute or chronic.
Any person with mental health issues, whether acute or chronic.
(470) 735-7737 View (470) 735-7737
Photo of Dorcas Mwangi - Psychiatry And Wellness of Georgia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARPN, , PMHNP-C
Psychiatry And Wellness of Georgia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARPN, , PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30075
Dorcas Mwangi is a dual certified mental health and family nurse practitioner . She graduated from Georgia State University. Has over 20 year experience in taking care of children, adult and families struggling with mental health. She has over 8 years experience in substance abuse treatment, management and counseling. She is through, kind, and takes time with her patient. Her initial assessment, and follow up appointments are through and comprehensive. She enjoys working with children, adolescents, adults and family and takes time to know them. She tries to prescribe the least amount of medications possible.
Dorcas Mwangi is a dual certified mental health and family nurse practitioner . She graduated from Georgia State University. Has over 20 year experience in taking care of children, adult and families struggling with mental health. She has over 8 years experience in substance abuse treatment, management and counseling. She is through, kind, and takes time with her patient. Her initial assessment, and follow up appointments are through and comprehensive. She enjoys working with children, adolescents, adults and family and takes time to know them. She tries to prescribe the least amount of medications possible.
(678) 506-7807 View (678) 506-7807
Photo of Nirupama Natarajan, Psychiatrist, MD
Nirupama Natarajan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Milton, GA 30009
Dr. Niru Natarajan obtained her Medical Degree from The Tamilnadu Dr. MGR University Medical University at Chennai, India after completing Medical school education from Coimbatore Medical College. She then Completed her Adult Psychiatry ResidencyTraining at Louisiana State University, Shreveport, LA and her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Carilion Clinic Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine in Roanoke, VA. Dr. Natarajan is Double board certified by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology In Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
Dr. Niru Natarajan obtained her Medical Degree from The Tamilnadu Dr. MGR University Medical University at Chennai, India after completing Medical school education from Coimbatore Medical College. She then Completed her Adult Psychiatry ResidencyTraining at Louisiana State University, Shreveport, LA and her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Carilion Clinic Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine in Roanoke, VA. Dr. Natarajan is Double board certified by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology In Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
(770) 758-2022 View (770) 758-2022
Photo of Deena Spital, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Deena Spital
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Are you looking for a mental health provider who takes the time to listen to your concerns, and truly cares about you as a patient? I work closely with my patients to understand their concerns, goals, and values, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to their individual needs. I am committed to creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your mental health concerns.
Are you looking for a mental health provider who takes the time to listen to your concerns, and truly cares about you as a patient? I work closely with my patients to understand their concerns, goals, and values, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to their individual needs. I am committed to creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your mental health concerns.
(470) 828-3239 x1 View (470) 828-3239 x1
Photo of Mary DeVaul - Faith Psychiatry, Psychiatrist
Faith Psychiatry
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have been in psychiatry for 28 years. I see all ages, I typically offer second medication opinions to those who have been struggling with their current medications and lack of satisfactory results. I also offer supportive therapy.
I have been in psychiatry for 28 years. I see all ages, I typically offer second medication opinions to those who have been struggling with their current medications and lack of satisfactory results. I also offer supportive therapy.
(762) 252-8771 View (762) 252-8771
Photo of Lori Leonard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-C, PMHNP-C
Lori Leonard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cartersville, GA 30120
Feeling swamped by life's pressures? Unheard, misunderstood? There's often more beneath your mood swings. Through my in-depth evaluation, ill can help discover more about your symptoms. From anemia to vitamin deficits, I go beyond the surface. No rush for meds – we'll explore all avenues for your peace of mind. As your compassionate ally, I offer empathetic, patient-first care. Together, we'll tackle the physical and emotional strains holding you back, targeting the roots for lasting relief. Mental health shouldn't be sidelined. Elevate your well-being, function optimally, and defy mental health-induced weight challenge
Feeling swamped by life's pressures? Unheard, misunderstood? There's often more beneath your mood swings. Through my in-depth evaluation, ill can help discover more about your symptoms. From anemia to vitamin deficits, I go beyond the surface. No rush for meds – we'll explore all avenues for your peace of mind. As your compassionate ally, I offer empathetic, patient-first care. Together, we'll tackle the physical and emotional strains holding you back, targeting the roots for lasting relief. Mental health shouldn't be sidelined. Elevate your well-being, function optimally, and defy mental health-induced weight challenge
(762) 344-4474 View (762) 344-4474
Photo of Naveen Thomas, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Naveen Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30188
Clarity Integrative Psychiatry was founded with the principle that Psychiatry can do so much better. We can move beyond just covering up symptoms with psychiatric medications and achieve profound life changes by getting to the root causes of problematic symptoms. Examples of possible root causes may include nutritional imbalances, gut imbalances, hormonal imbalances, environmental toxins, and unresolved psychological trauma, just to name a few. Please note, that we are out of network with all health insurance providers. Telemedicine is an option.
Clarity Integrative Psychiatry was founded with the principle that Psychiatry can do so much better. We can move beyond just covering up symptoms with psychiatric medications and achieve profound life changes by getting to the root causes of problematic symptoms. Examples of possible root causes may include nutritional imbalances, gut imbalances, hormonal imbalances, environmental toxins, and unresolved psychological trauma, just to name a few. Please note, that we are out of network with all health insurance providers. Telemedicine is an option.
(404) 882-7516 View (404) 882-7516
Photo of Funmilayo C Rachal, Psychiatrist, MD
Funmilayo C Rachal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
I am a board certified adult and forensic psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, professionals in crisis, and the issues of intimacy and sexual dysfunction. I have a specific interest in treating those who struggle with problems related to poor self esteem, assertiveness,and relationship dysfunction. In addition I provide anxiety and/or depression counseling to those struggling with transitioning in college or careers. After an initial consultation, an individualized treatment plan is designed to address your treatment needs including individual and couples therapy and psychiatric medication management.
I am a board certified adult and forensic psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, professionals in crisis, and the issues of intimacy and sexual dysfunction. I have a specific interest in treating those who struggle with problems related to poor self esteem, assertiveness,and relationship dysfunction. In addition I provide anxiety and/or depression counseling to those struggling with transitioning in college or careers. After an initial consultation, an individualized treatment plan is designed to address your treatment needs including individual and couples therapy and psychiatric medication management.
(404) 620-4930 View (404) 620-4930
Photo of Aminata Barrie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Aminata Barrie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30328
I am passionate about providing compassionate care to individuals facing both medical and psychiatric challenges, drawing on specialized training and extensive expertise in these fields. I deeply value therapeutic relationships and am committed to helping families build healthier, more meaningful connections.
I am passionate about providing compassionate care to individuals facing both medical and psychiatric challenges, drawing on specialized training and extensive expertise in these fields. I deeply value therapeutic relationships and am committed to helping families build healthier, more meaningful connections.
(470) 458-7348 View (470) 458-7348
Photo of Dr. Hector Caballero - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(470) 868-4168 View (470) 868-4168
Photo of La-Vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Villa Rica, GA 30180
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
(678) 840-8446 View (678) 840-8446
Photo of Alex W Peterson - Balance Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Balance Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30075
Balance Behavioral Health is the result of a vision to create a safe-space to help women, men, young adults, and adolescents with their goal of achieving mental wellness. As many people have experienced, it can be difficult to find a compassionate and empathetic provider that listens without judgement. Developing a therapeutic relationship with your provider is the most important part of any treatment. Open communication, respect, and accessibility to all clients is at the heart of each client-provider relationship at Balance.
Balance Behavioral Health is the result of a vision to create a safe-space to help women, men, young adults, and adolescents with their goal of achieving mental wellness. As many people have experienced, it can be difficult to find a compassionate and empathetic provider that listens without judgement. Developing a therapeutic relationship with your provider is the most important part of any treatment. Open communication, respect, and accessibility to all clients is at the heart of each client-provider relationship at Balance.
(678) 946-2334 View (678) 946-2334
Photo of Dr. Gary Matthews - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Morrow, GA 30260
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(470) 801-1693 View (470) 801-1693

See more therapy options for 30001

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 30001

< 10

Psychiatrists in 30001 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
67% ADHD
67% Grief
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 30001 see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 30001?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.