Psychiatrists in 30040

Photo of Susan Player, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Player
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
I am an advanced practice registered nurse with a variety of experiences in medical/surgical, psychiatric and project management experience in the arena of nursing care and administration in both civilian and military populations. I graduated from the University of South Caroline for my undergraduate degree in 1979, worked in patient care in Charleston, SC in a variety of hospital settings until I entered into the USAF in 1988, I served on Active Duty until 1991.
I am an advanced practice registered nurse with a variety of experiences in medical/surgical, psychiatric and project management experience in the arena of nursing care and administration in both civilian and military populations. I graduated from the University of South Caroline for my undergraduate degree in 1979, worked in patient care in Charleston, SC in a variety of hospital settings until I entered into the USAF in 1988, I served on Active Duty until 1991.
(470) 748-3145 View (470) 748-3145
Photo of Azeezat A Samuel, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Azeezat A Samuel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
Azeezat A. Samuel is a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and mental health. She holds a Master of Nursing degree from Walden University and is board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She began her training earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain College of Nursing. She went on to her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. After graduating she worked as a Nurse Practitioner in an outpatient clinic.
Azeezat A. Samuel is a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and mental health. She holds a Master of Nursing degree from Walden University and is board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She began her training earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain College of Nursing. She went on to her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. After graduating she worked as a Nurse Practitioner in an outpatient clinic.
(470) 570-4384 View (470) 570-4384
Photo of Erika Kang, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erika Kang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
Erika Kang, RN, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC is a graduate from the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she received her Masters as an FNP and Augusta University where she received her PMHNP as a Post Masters. While Psychiatry is her true passion, she loves being able to incorporate a comprehensive treatment plan using her background as an FNP by helping clients understand how untreated or unmanaged physical illnesses can exacerbate mental illness. She enjoys working with her clients to help them achieve the goals they are seeking, whether through medication alone or a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
Erika Kang, RN, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC is a graduate from the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she received her Masters as an FNP and Augusta University where she received her PMHNP as a Post Masters. While Psychiatry is her true passion, she loves being able to incorporate a comprehensive treatment plan using her background as an FNP by helping clients understand how untreated or unmanaged physical illnesses can exacerbate mental illness. She enjoys working with her clients to help them achieve the goals they are seeking, whether through medication alone or a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
(470) 748-6803 View (470) 748-6803
Photo of Shannon Hummel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Hummel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
Shannon Hummel builds therapeutic relationships in a holistic approach to treatment. She considers mind, body, and spirit elements to get to a patient’s core, addressing every aspect of their depression, anxiety, or trauma. Her approach is to integrate nutrition, exercise, spirituality, self-care, and mindfulness into the examination of all factors influencing a patient’s mood. She conducts in-depth listening, helping patients pull back each emotional layer. Through her compassionate and patient-centered care, patients feel heard and understood so they can believe in their strengths and reach a better quality of life.
Shannon Hummel builds therapeutic relationships in a holistic approach to treatment. She considers mind, body, and spirit elements to get to a patient’s core, addressing every aspect of their depression, anxiety, or trauma. Her approach is to integrate nutrition, exercise, spirituality, self-care, and mindfulness into the examination of all factors influencing a patient’s mood. She conducts in-depth listening, helping patients pull back each emotional layer. Through her compassionate and patient-centered care, patients feel heard and understood so they can believe in their strengths and reach a better quality of life.
(678) 929-2409 View (678) 929-2409
Photo of Hannah Brooks, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
Hannah Brooks, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham UAB School of Nursing where she received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees, graduating with Honors in Nursing. After completing her undergraduate degree, she accepted a position at UAB Hospital inpatient psychiatry where she worked in the Emergency Department and Inpatient Adult Psychiatric Units. While working towards her graduate degree, Ms. Brooks trained at UAB Hospital, Cooper Green Community Clinic, and the Birmingham VA.
Hannah Brooks, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham UAB School of Nursing where she received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees, graduating with Honors in Nursing. After completing her undergraduate degree, she accepted a position at UAB Hospital inpatient psychiatry where she worked in the Emergency Department and Inpatient Adult Psychiatric Units. While working towards her graduate degree, Ms. Brooks trained at UAB Hospital, Cooper Green Community Clinic, and the Birmingham VA.
(470) 664-6795 View (470) 664-6795
Photo of Barry Jones, MD, Psychiatrist
Barry Jones
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
Barry Jones, M.D., is a licensed psychiatrist at Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals working in the Cumming office. My training as a medical doctor, addictionologist, psychiatrist and psychoanalyst has given me a unique background for the evaluation and treatment of patients. My education has spanned a period of almost 38 years, and continues so that I may always remain abreast of the latest developments. As with any medical specialty, psychiatry is always changing. New and better approaches to solving problems are being developed.
Barry Jones, M.D., is a licensed psychiatrist at Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals working in the Cumming office. My training as a medical doctor, addictionologist, psychiatrist and psychoanalyst has given me a unique background for the evaluation and treatment of patients. My education has spanned a period of almost 38 years, and continues so that I may always remain abreast of the latest developments. As with any medical specialty, psychiatry is always changing. New and better approaches to solving problems are being developed.
(470) 748-6639 View (470) 748-6639
Photo of Lola Adeboye - Bel Healthcare Behavioral Health Services, PMHNP, AP-NP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bel Healthcare Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AP-NP, MSN
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
In my practice, I perform psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups on diverse mental health disorders like Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorders, Psychosis, Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective disorders and ADHD. My expertise is acquired through 10 years of experience in the medical field and rigorous educational trainings at the University of West Georgia where I obtained my Bachelors in Nursing then I proceeded for my Masters in Nursing at the University of Alabama “Roll Tide”.
In my practice, I perform psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups on diverse mental health disorders like Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorders, Psychosis, Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective disorders and ADHD. My expertise is acquired through 10 years of experience in the medical field and rigorous educational trainings at the University of West Georgia where I obtained my Bachelors in Nursing then I proceeded for my Masters in Nursing at the University of Alabama “Roll Tide”.
(470) 729-9159 View (470) 729-9159
Photo of Jordan Stumph, PA, Physician Assistant
Jordan Stumph
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
As a dedicated psychiatric physician assistant, my foremost goal is to ensure that each patient feels genuinely heard and understood. I am committed to providing care with empathy and compassion, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of every individual. My expertise encompasses a wide range of mental health conditions, including generalized anxiety disorder and depression, as well as many other less common diagnoses.
As a dedicated psychiatric physician assistant, my foremost goal is to ensure that each patient feels genuinely heard and understood. I am committed to providing care with empathy and compassion, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of every individual. My expertise encompasses a wide range of mental health conditions, including generalized anxiety disorder and depression, as well as many other less common diagnoses.
(678) 820-7817 View (678) 820-7817
Photo of Dr. Barry Jones - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
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) 625-3185 View (470) 625-3185
Photo of Ronald Soelimto, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Ronald Soelimto
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
Ronald Soelimto is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2023. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from California State University, Northridge, a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from Azusa Pacific University, and a Post-Master's Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Purdue University Global. Ronald always wanted to challenge himself and expand his knowledge of practice. His learning did not stop at school. Ronald is always looking at the newest research to better help his clients.
Ronald Soelimto is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2023. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from California State University, Northridge, a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from Azusa Pacific University, and a Post-Master's Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Purdue University Global. Ronald always wanted to challenge himself and expand his knowledge of practice. His learning did not stop at school. Ronald is always looking at the newest research to better help his clients.
(470) 835-0652 View (470) 835-0652
Photo of Tammy Denny-Smith, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tammy Denny-Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
ammy Denny-Smith is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia and seasoned in both medical and mental health domains. She believes in a collaborative approach to care when working with individuals and their families. She feels treatment is more successful when the person is an active participant in their treatment plan. Tammy provides empathetic care to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard and empowered in their journey towards holistic well-being. Tammy is passionate about participating in the Life is A Ride Charity that benefits Hooves for Hope Therapeutic riding program.
ammy Denny-Smith is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia and seasoned in both medical and mental health domains. She believes in a collaborative approach to care when working with individuals and their families. She feels treatment is more successful when the person is an active participant in their treatment plan. Tammy provides empathetic care to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard and empowered in their journey towards holistic well-being. Tammy is passionate about participating in the Life is A Ride Charity that benefits Hooves for Hope Therapeutic riding program.
(470) 722-2797 View (470) 722-2797
Photo of Jill Webb, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jill Webb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
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 Olasimbo Babatope - Atlanta Telepsychiatry, Psychiatrist
Atlanta Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
Welcome to Atlanta Tele-psychiatry!! We believe in recovery from mental illness that goes beyond the absence of symptoms, and we will work with you to establish and maintain your recovery journey. Our ultimate goal is to help you regain a rich, rewarding, and meaningful life in our community.
Welcome to Atlanta Tele-psychiatry!! We believe in recovery from mental illness that goes beyond the absence of symptoms, and we will work with you to establish and maintain your recovery journey. Our ultimate goal is to help you regain a rich, rewarding, and meaningful life in our community.
(470) 300-1958 View (470) 300-1958
Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
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Photo of Ireta Favors, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ireta Favors
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! My name is Ireta Favors and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I possess 10 years plus of diverse experience in the field of mental health. I chose and continue to choose the field of mental health because I have a genuine passion for listening, educating and assisting others in becoming the best version of themselves. I look forward to helping you become the best version of you!
Welcome! My name is Ireta Favors and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I possess 10 years plus of diverse experience in the field of mental health. I chose and continue to choose the field of mental health because I have a genuine passion for listening, educating and assisting others in becoming the best version of themselves. I look forward to helping you become the best version of you!
(470) 683-6925 View (470) 683-6925
Photo of Dr. Demetrice Grier - Affordable Mental Health, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Affordable Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We are all human and go through life challenges. I am confident that I can provide empathy and support with the challenges you face, and offer various approaches to overcome them.
We are all human and go through life challenges. I am confident that I can provide empathy and support with the challenges you face, and offer various approaches to overcome them.
(678) 679-9294 View (678) 679-9294
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Dr. Chinwe Ibiam, DNP, AGACNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Chinwe Ibiam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGACNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a compassionate, dual certified, doctorate degree prepared psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with great people skills.
I am a compassionate, dual certified, doctorate degree prepared psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with great people skills.
(678) 326-4489 View (678) 326-4489
Photo of Aminata Barrie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aminata Barrie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a compassionate and skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to helping clients achieve their best outcomes. My patient-centered approach is rooted in empathy and understanding. I have extensive experience providing comprehensive mental health care to diverse populations. With a strong background in Medical-Surgical Nursing, I excel in managing acute psychiatric conditions and delivering holistic, high-quality care. I am dedicated to improving patient outcomes through individualized support and a commitment to their well-being.
I am a compassionate and skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to helping clients achieve their best outcomes. My patient-centered approach is rooted in empathy and understanding. I have extensive experience providing comprehensive mental health care to diverse populations. With a strong background in Medical-Surgical Nursing, I excel in managing acute psychiatric conditions and delivering holistic, high-quality care. I am dedicated to improving patient outcomes through individualized support and a commitment to their well-being.
(470) 524-8137 View (470) 524-8137
Photo of Eunji Sung, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eunji Sung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Eunji "Angela" Sung, a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with decades of experience. I take a holistic approach to mental health, working to destigmatize mental healthcare by addressing both physical and mental health needs. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, OCD, insomnia, and culturally sensitive care for diverse backgrounds. My approach to mental healthcare is holistic and person-centered, focusing on both physical and mental aspects of well-being. My goal is to build a trusting relationship that fosters honesty, growth, and resilience.
Hello, I'm Eunji "Angela" Sung, a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with decades of experience. I take a holistic approach to mental health, working to destigmatize mental healthcare by addressing both physical and mental health needs. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, OCD, insomnia, and culturally sensitive care for diverse backgrounds. My approach to mental healthcare is holistic and person-centered, focusing on both physical and mental aspects of well-being. My goal is to build a trusting relationship that fosters honesty, growth, and resilience.
(470) 470-6301 View (470) 470-6301
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 30040

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 30040 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
95% Depression
92% Bipolar Disorder
71% ADHD
63% Trauma and PTSD
61% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
55% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
97% Cigna and Evernorth
89% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 30040 see their clients

55% Online Only
45% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 30040?

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.