Psychiatrists in 30035

Photo of Lavern Novia Palmer - Ornaldo Swift Healthcare, AGPCNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ornaldo Swift Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGPCNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30035
I am a dedicated professional with more than two decades of clinical experience practicing across various cultures. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. Our practice, Ornaldo Swift Healthcare, specializes in treating teenagers, adults, the elderly and the underserved population, providing evidenced based psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapeutic counselling. We treat a wide range of psychiatric illnesses . We treat everyone with compassion and care is individualized
I am a dedicated professional with more than two decades of clinical experience practicing across various cultures. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. Our practice, Ornaldo Swift Healthcare, specializes in treating teenagers, adults, the elderly and the underserved population, providing evidenced based psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapeutic counselling. We treat a wide range of psychiatric illnesses . We treat everyone with compassion and care is individualized
(678) 582-1116 View (678) 582-1116
Photo of Omobolaji Oluseyi Oyebanjo Popoola, MD, ABPN, ABPM, Psychiatrist
Omobolaji Oluseyi Oyebanjo Popoola
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABPM
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30035
The mind set of a man determines the outcome of his life and the quality of relationships he enjoys. Hence the need for us to guard and nurture our minds with the best of cutting edge science and faith tools. My philosophy is that whatever affects your thinking, affects your life, your relationships, your God-given potential and ultimately your contributions to the society at large, the world needs you and we can't afford to miss out on your contribution to life! I am of the strong belief that not every disorder requires medications. Hence only after a thorough objective medical work up, will I consider a variety of treatments.
The mind set of a man determines the outcome of his life and the quality of relationships he enjoys. Hence the need for us to guard and nurture our minds with the best of cutting edge science and faith tools. My philosophy is that whatever affects your thinking, affects your life, your relationships, your God-given potential and ultimately your contributions to the society at large, the world needs you and we can't afford to miss out on your contribution to life! I am of the strong belief that not every disorder requires medications. Hence only after a thorough objective medical work up, will I consider a variety of treatments.
(770) 762-0525 View (770) 762-0525
Photo of Omobolaji Oluseyi Oyebanjo Popoola, MD, ABPN, ABPM, Psychiatrist
Omobolaji Oluseyi Oyebanjo Popoola
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABPM
Verified Verified
Serves Area
The mind set of a man determines the outcome of his life and the quality of relationships he enjoys. Hence the need for us to guard and nurture our minds with the best of cutting edge science and faith tools. My philosophy is that whatever affects your thinking, affects your life, your relationships, your God-given potential and ultimately your contributions to the society at large, the world needs you and we can't afford to miss out on your contribution to life! I am of the strong belief that not every disorder requires medications. Hence only after a thorough objective medical work up, will I consider a variety of treatments.
The mind set of a man determines the outcome of his life and the quality of relationships he enjoys. Hence the need for us to guard and nurture our minds with the best of cutting edge science and faith tools. My philosophy is that whatever affects your thinking, affects your life, your relationships, your God-given potential and ultimately your contributions to the society at large, the world needs you and we can't afford to miss out on your contribution to life! I am of the strong belief that not every disorder requires medications. Hence only after a thorough objective medical work up, will I consider a variety of treatments.
(470) 284-1397 View (470) 284-1397

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Marilyn Rankin, PMHNP, FNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marilyn Rankin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McDonough, GA 30252
By choosing to focus on your mental health, you’ve shown incredible strength, and I’m so proud of you for taking this important step! I’m Marilyn, a dedicated Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about guiding you toward a brighter, healthier future. With a deep commitment to understanding and empathy, I’m here to walk alongside you through life’s challenges. I believe every individual’s journey is unique, and my approach is rooted in respect and collaboration. I tailor my care to fit your specific needs.
By choosing to focus on your mental health, you’ve shown incredible strength, and I’m so proud of you for taking this important step! I’m Marilyn, a dedicated Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about guiding you toward a brighter, healthier future. With a deep commitment to understanding and empathy, I’m here to walk alongside you through life’s challenges. I believe every individual’s journey is unique, and my approach is rooted in respect and collaboration. I tailor my care to fit your specific needs.
(470) 470-5429 View (470) 470-5429
Photo of Ranjan Kumar Avashti - Nak Union Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Nak Union Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30349
Dr. Ranjan Avasthi, is a double board certified Adult and Child Psychiatrist. He is currently the medical director for the Peace of Mind Psychiatric Services Clinic as well as the lead psychiatrist for the Southern Crescent Behavioral Health System Partial Hospital Program, that specializes in substance abuse and recovery. Dr. Avasthi completed his Psychiatry fellowship at the Medical College of Georgia, a part of Augusta University. He stayed on to work as an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior. He also serves as an Adjunct Clinical Professor for Morehouse School of Medicine.
Dr. Ranjan Avasthi, is a double board certified Adult and Child Psychiatrist. He is currently the medical director for the Peace of Mind Psychiatric Services Clinic as well as the lead psychiatrist for the Southern Crescent Behavioral Health System Partial Hospital Program, that specializes in substance abuse and recovery. Dr. Avasthi completed his Psychiatry fellowship at the Medical College of Georgia, a part of Augusta University. He stayed on to work as an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior. He also serves as an Adjunct Clinical Professor for Morehouse School of Medicine.
(678) 582-2526 View (678) 582-2526
Photo of D. Diane Wilson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
D. Diane Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
Not accepting new clients
Mental health disorders truly impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. Years of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders may result in adverse health behaviors like a sedentary lifestyle, inadequate eating and sleeping habits, difficulty in relationships, and negative coping skills such as smoking and substance use. I practice a holistic approach to treatment, utilizing medication management as needed and a focus on lifestyle changes such as improved nutrition, adequate sleep, and exercise. I am committed to reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues.
Mental health disorders truly impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. Years of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders may result in adverse health behaviors like a sedentary lifestyle, inadequate eating and sleeping habits, difficulty in relationships, and negative coping skills such as smoking and substance use. I practice a holistic approach to treatment, utilizing medication management as needed and a focus on lifestyle changes such as improved nutrition, adequate sleep, and exercise. I am committed to reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues.
(470) 888-7057 View (470) 888-7057
Photo of Hawah Guar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hawah Guar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Snellville, GA 30078
As a bedside ICU nurse of 25 years while caring for the critically ill patients, I realized the psychological and physiological burdens placed on the patients and their families. I wanted to provide more than just bedside care for my patient. As a provider I could provide holistic care: physiological, and spiritual care to my patients so I obtained my master specializing family nurse practitioner. For the last four years I have been providing care as a hospitalist mid-level to acutely ill patients and their families.
As a bedside ICU nurse of 25 years while caring for the critically ill patients, I realized the psychological and physiological burdens placed on the patients and their families. I wanted to provide more than just bedside care for my patient. As a provider I could provide holistic care: physiological, and spiritual care to my patients so I obtained my master specializing family nurse practitioner. For the last four years I have been providing care as a hospitalist mid-level to acutely ill patients and their families.
(678) 607-8379 View (678) 607-8379
Photo of Kierston Wiman, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kierston Wiman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Douglasville, GA 30135
Welcome to Peace of Mind Psychiatry! I enjoy educating my patients about their mental health and treatment options so we can work together to create a treatment plan you will love. I feel it’s extremely important to understand the whole person when providing mental health care. This means I want to get to know you very well and have a full understanding of who you are and the experiences that made you who you are. I want to understand your symptoms, but more importantly I want to understand how those symptoms are affecting your life so we can help move you toward mental wellness in a goal-oriented way.
Welcome to Peace of Mind Psychiatry! I enjoy educating my patients about their mental health and treatment options so we can work together to create a treatment plan you will love. I feel it’s extremely important to understand the whole person when providing mental health care. This means I want to get to know you very well and have a full understanding of who you are and the experiences that made you who you are. I want to understand your symptoms, but more importantly I want to understand how those symptoms are affecting your life so we can help move you toward mental wellness in a goal-oriented way.
(470) 206-5640 View (470) 206-5640
Photo of Diana Manjarres - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
(678) 840-8446 View (678) 840-8446
Photo of La-Vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
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 Lois Schwarze - Integrity Psychiatry and Wellness, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Integrity Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Hi, I'm Lois Schwarze, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management and believe that medications work best when they are a part of a wider plan of care. I co-founded Integrity Psychiatry and Wellness with Ella Laura Johannaber, a therapeutic coach and wellness educator, so that our clients have more choices for getting the support they need. I am passionate about mental health and I've witnessed that healing happens through authentic connection. I spend time with my clients, listen, and treat each person as a unique individual.
Hi, I'm Lois Schwarze, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management and believe that medications work best when they are a part of a wider plan of care. I co-founded Integrity Psychiatry and Wellness with Ella Laura Johannaber, a therapeutic coach and wellness educator, so that our clients have more choices for getting the support they need. I am passionate about mental health and I've witnessed that healing happens through authentic connection. I spend time with my clients, listen, and treat each person as a unique individual.
(404) 383-8756 View (404) 383-8756
Photo of Anthony Campanella, PA, Physician Assistant
Anthony Campanella
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I am a Physician Assistant with 3 years experience working in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. I have also recently been awarded a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Psychiatry by the NCCPA. Originally from the state of FL, I graduated from then University of FL with my bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies before earning my PA degree from the University of South Alabama in 2020. I diagnose and help patients to manage conditions including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, sleep issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and much more.
I am a Physician Assistant with 3 years experience working in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. I have also recently been awarded a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Psychiatry by the NCCPA. Originally from the state of FL, I graduated from then University of FL with my bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies before earning my PA degree from the University of South Alabama in 2020. I diagnose and help patients to manage conditions including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, sleep issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and much more.
(678) 853-7404 View (678) 853-7404
Photo of Kimberly Ford, MD, Psychiatrist
Kimberly Ford
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Kimberly Ford completed her psychiatry residency training at Harvard University in Boston Massachusetts. She has enjoyed treating patients for over 25 years in a variety of settings such as inpatient, outpatient mental health clinics, emergency room, and multidisciplinary clinics.
Dr. Kimberly Ford completed her psychiatry residency training at Harvard University in Boston Massachusetts. She has enjoyed treating patients for over 25 years in a variety of settings such as inpatient, outpatient mental health clinics, emergency room, and multidisciplinary clinics.
(678) 919-8388 View (678) 919-8388
Photo of Tiffany Bates, APRN, NP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Bates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NP-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
(470) 275-2358 View (470) 275-2358
Photo of Brenda Smith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brenda Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Not Verified Not Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
As one of the Prescribers of Medication of Apex Family Healthcare Services, our focus is on meeting the Comprehensive Psychological Need of the Patient. It is our philosophy that health and healing comes from a combination of an effective medication regimen, psycho-therapy and learned social skills. Our Psychological Services Center offers medication management, psycho-therapy, substance abuse treatment, individual, family, marriage counseling all in one location.
As one of the Prescribers of Medication of Apex Family Healthcare Services, our focus is on meeting the Comprehensive Psychological Need of the Patient. It is our philosophy that health and healing comes from a combination of an effective medication regimen, psycho-therapy and learned social skills. Our Psychological Services Center offers medication management, psycho-therapy, substance abuse treatment, individual, family, marriage counseling all in one location.
(678) 506-7164 View (678) 506-7164
Photo of Jill Webb, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jill Webb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
Milton, GA 30009
Jill Webb believes in providing compassionate, patient centered care. Jill’s goal is to ensure patients feel heard in an environment of warmth, understanding, and trust. She offers comprehensive care through evidence-based medication management as well as brief supportive and solution-focused psychotherapy. She assists individuals to achieve the highest quality of life by utilizing their strengths.
Jill Webb believes in providing compassionate, patient centered care. Jill’s goal is to ensure patients feel heard in an environment of warmth, understanding, and trust. She offers comprehensive care through evidence-based medication management as well as brief supportive and solution-focused psychotherapy. She assists individuals to achieve the highest quality of life by utilizing their strengths.
(470) 634-9668 View (470) 634-9668
Photo of Shakaola Pinero, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shakaola Pinero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Shakaola is a Board Certified Adult Health Nurse Practitioner with an extensive background in Mental Health. She has worked both inpatient, outpatient, and consulting services for the adult population. Combing clinical education and experience has molded her into a well-rounded Practitioner. It has also provided a strong foundation for optimum patient care and improving patient outcomes. She is dedicated to improving access to emotional and behavioral health services and providing individualized care that addresses the whole person.
Shakaola is a Board Certified Adult Health Nurse Practitioner with an extensive background in Mental Health. She has worked both inpatient, outpatient, and consulting services for the adult population. Combing clinical education and experience has molded her into a well-rounded Practitioner. It has also provided a strong foundation for optimum patient care and improving patient outcomes. She is dedicated to improving access to emotional and behavioral health services and providing individualized care that addresses the whole person.
(470) 745-7082 View (470) 745-7082
Photo of Martine Senatus, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Martine Senatus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I create a safe, supportive, and non‑judgmental environment for every client and understand the importance of empathy, trust, and kindness. My sympathetic, kindhearted, and caring approaches to each individual patients make me capable of reaching the core of each of my patients’ issues. I empower them to enhance their awareness of their potentials in dealing with treatment and recovery. Tele Health Virtual Visits Available! same day/next day appointments available! Call us for psychiatric evaluations, medication management, prescriptions, addiction, anxiety, depression, and more! We are here for you.
I create a safe, supportive, and non‑judgmental environment for every client and understand the importance of empathy, trust, and kindness. My sympathetic, kindhearted, and caring approaches to each individual patients make me capable of reaching the core of each of my patients’ issues. I empower them to enhance their awareness of their potentials in dealing with treatment and recovery. Tele Health Virtual Visits Available! same day/next day appointments available! Call us for psychiatric evaluations, medication management, prescriptions, addiction, anxiety, depression, and more! We are here for you.
(770) 697-0643 View (770) 697-0643
Photo of Sandra Thomas - Beacon Counseling, MD, Psychiatrist
Beacon Counseling
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
We are Licensed Psychiatrist and Licensed Professional Counselors, who use our clinical training to address your body, soul, and mind. We use research-based interventions to help clients with various issues, including trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, relational struggles, attachment issues, etc. We treat children 8 years +, couples, and adults.
We are Licensed Psychiatrist and Licensed Professional Counselors, who use our clinical training to address your body, soul, and mind. We use research-based interventions to help clients with various issues, including trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, relational struggles, attachment issues, etc. We treat children 8 years +, couples, and adults.
(470) 280-7466 View (470) 280-7466
Photo of Panchajanya Paul - Cobb Child & Adult Psychiatry- Panchajanya Paul MD, Psychiatrist
I am board certified in Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry. I see children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults in my office in Dunwoody and am accepting new patients. I specialize in the use of medications and other holistic approaches to treat mental health conditions. I am also the Medical Director of Holistic Psychiatry. Treating clients with respect, integrity and compassion are my priorities. When managing medications, I incorporate the most current and best evidence based practices.
I am board certified in Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry. I see children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults in my office in Dunwoody and am accepting new patients. I specialize in the use of medications and other holistic approaches to treat mental health conditions. I am also the Medical Director of Holistic Psychiatry. Treating clients with respect, integrity and compassion are my priorities. When managing medications, I incorporate the most current and best evidence based practices.
(470) 516-8255 View (470) 516-8255

See more therapy options for 30035

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 30035

< 10

Psychiatrists in 30035 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Domestic Abuse
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Psychosis

Average years in practice

22 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 30035 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 30035?

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.