Psychiatrists in 30127

Photo of Olajide Opaleye - Sophroneo Behavioral Health & TMS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHMNP
Sophroneo Behavioral Health & TMS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHMNP
Powder Springs, GA 30127
An illness of the mind can be challenging and prevent people from achieving their full potential. Whether you are struggling with mental health issues or need assistance with your mental health, I am here to help. As a mental health professional, I am passionate about helping people function at their optimal level. My specialties include treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) disorders, schizoaffective disorder, and Schizophrenia.
An illness of the mind can be challenging and prevent people from achieving their full potential. Whether you are struggling with mental health issues or need assistance with your mental health, I am here to help. As a mental health professional, I am passionate about helping people function at their optimal level. My specialties include treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) disorders, schizoaffective disorder, and Schizophrenia.
(678) 390-3636 View (678) 390-3636
Photo of Shikira Woods, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Shikira Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Hi! My name is Shikira. I’m a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with a doctorate degree in nursing practice. I’m originally from Ohio. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, sports, travel, community service activities, and my beloved fur babies. My experience is in medical/surgical nursing, brief counseling, and adult/child/adolescent mental health care. I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential treatment settings throughout my 10+ years in healthcare.
Hi! My name is Shikira. I’m a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with a doctorate degree in nursing practice. I’m originally from Ohio. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, sports, travel, community service activities, and my beloved fur babies. My experience is in medical/surgical nursing, brief counseling, and adult/child/adolescent mental health care. I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential treatment settings throughout my 10+ years in healthcare.
(678) 712-5914 View (678) 712-5914
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
Photo of Doris Elonu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Doris Elonu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over four years of experience treating clients across the lifespan. I’ve cared for individuals and families facing diverse mental health concerns in a variety of behavioral health settings, including outpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and telepsychiatry. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and more. I offer psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, medication management, and therapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over four years of experience treating clients across the lifespan. I’ve cared for individuals and families facing diverse mental health concerns in a variety of behavioral health settings, including outpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and telepsychiatry. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and more. I offer psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, medication management, and therapy.
(470) 458-2627 View (470) 458-2627
Photo of Dr. Nurul Hoque, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Nurul Hoque
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am an experienced psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical practice, specializing in a comprehensive range of psychiatric conditions including Schizophrenia spectrum, Psychotic disorders, Bipolar and related disorders, Depressive and Anxiety disorders, Trauma- and stressor-related disorders, Somatic symptom disorders, and Substance-related and addictive disorders.
I am an experienced psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical practice, specializing in a comprehensive range of psychiatric conditions including Schizophrenia spectrum, Psychotic disorders, Bipolar and related disorders, Depressive and Anxiety disorders, Trauma- and stressor-related disorders, Somatic symptom disorders, and Substance-related and addictive disorders.
(470) 649-1907 View (470) 649-1907
Photo of Jayne Andrade, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Jayne Andrade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
Making the decision to seek mental health care is difficult, yet very important. Thank you for making that brave decision to seek help. I am a doctoral-prepared, double board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family practice, who advocates for patients and empowers them to become active in their care. At Georgia Healthy Minds, you can expect to receive comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, brief psychotherapy, follow-up evaluations, and medication management. We strive to provide an environment that is safe, and non-judgmental while creating a personalized patient-centered treatment plan.
Making the decision to seek mental health care is difficult, yet very important. Thank you for making that brave decision to seek help. I am a doctoral-prepared, double board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family practice, who advocates for patients and empowers them to become active in their care. At Georgia Healthy Minds, you can expect to receive comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, brief psychotherapy, follow-up evaluations, and medication management. We strive to provide an environment that is safe, and non-judgmental while creating a personalized patient-centered treatment plan.
(678) 562-8377 View (678) 562-8377
Photo of Pristella Ohanaja, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Pristella Ohanaja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
(470) 664-2692 View (470) 664-2692
Photo of Ashlee Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Ashlee Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to being a compassionate partner in your mental health journey. I believe in intentionally listening to your unique experiences and providing tailored care that meets your individual needs.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to being a compassionate partner in your mental health journey. I believe in intentionally listening to your unique experiences and providing tailored care that meets your individual needs.
(470) 616-3791 View (470) 616-3791
Photo of Shashank Jha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Shashank Jha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
I am a double board-certified nurse practitioner practicing psychiatry in Atlanta, GA, since 2015. My healthcare career began in India in 1994, where I practiced primary care and psychiatry for nearly fourteen years before moving to Atlanta in 2008. After relocating to the U.S., I furthered my education by graduating from the combined bachelor's-master's accelerated nurse-practitioner program at Kennesaw State University in 2011.
I am a double board-certified nurse practitioner practicing psychiatry in Atlanta, GA, since 2015. My healthcare career began in India in 1994, where I practiced primary care and psychiatry for nearly fourteen years before moving to Atlanta in 2008. After relocating to the U.S., I furthered my education by graduating from the combined bachelor's-master's accelerated nurse-practitioner program at Kennesaw State University in 2011.
(470) 646-7071 View (470) 646-7071

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Francisca Ogbonna, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP
Francisca Ogbonna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Ogbonna is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric, and Family Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP, FNP). Dr. Ogbonna has over 25 years of nursing experience and providing high-quality psychiatric care. With advanced training in psychiatry and mental health, medication management, Dr. Ogbonna is equipped to address the complex physical, mental, and emotional needs of the individual 18 years, and older. Dr. Ogbonna employs personalization and collaboration to help make the treatment process holistic, where the individual and provider work together to address circumstances, challenges and goals. Dr. Ogbonna is a nurse educator.
Dr. Ogbonna is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric, and Family Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP, FNP). Dr. Ogbonna has over 25 years of nursing experience and providing high-quality psychiatric care. With advanced training in psychiatry and mental health, medication management, Dr. Ogbonna is equipped to address the complex physical, mental, and emotional needs of the individual 18 years, and older. Dr. Ogbonna employs personalization and collaboration to help make the treatment process holistic, where the individual and provider work together to address circumstances, challenges and goals. Dr. Ogbonna is a nurse educator.
(470) 664-4049 View (470) 664-4049
Photo of Valencia Mitonya Covington, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Valencia Mitonya Covington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
13 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30076
Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and PTSD to name a few are examples of mental health issues people struggle with every day. These mental health issues can have a significant impact on our lives. You deserve to be happy, have confidence, self-love, and enjoy life. I also prepare the paperwork required for bariatric surgery. As a provider, I utilize a comprehensive approach to diagnose and formulate individualized treatment plans that will work out for you. We now offer medication management, Gene-sight testing, and cognitive testing for disorders such as ADHD. Semaglutide & Zepbound are also available for your weight loss needs.
Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and PTSD to name a few are examples of mental health issues people struggle with every day. These mental health issues can have a significant impact on our lives. You deserve to be happy, have confidence, self-love, and enjoy life. I also prepare the paperwork required for bariatric surgery. As a provider, I utilize a comprehensive approach to diagnose and formulate individualized treatment plans that will work out for you. We now offer medication management, Gene-sight testing, and cognitive testing for disorders such as ADHD. Semaglutide & Zepbound are also available for your weight loss needs.
(404) 586-4079 View (404) 586-4079
Photo of Phuong Le, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Phuong Le
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Growing up I had always wanted to be in healthcare due to my own health issues. The resilience of the human mind was always super intriguing to me. I have worked in both the medical intensive care unit as well as crisis stabilization units for mental health, but in the end, my passion in mental health won. I have been in the healthcare industry since 2015. When it comes to mental health assessment and treatment, I strive to understand clients in the context of their personal development - which includes upbringing, social history, and their individual beliefs and culture.
Growing up I had always wanted to be in healthcare due to my own health issues. The resilience of the human mind was always super intriguing to me. I have worked in both the medical intensive care unit as well as crisis stabilization units for mental health, but in the end, my passion in mental health won. I have been in the healthcare industry since 2015. When it comes to mental health assessment and treatment, I strive to understand clients in the context of their personal development - which includes upbringing, social history, and their individual beliefs and culture.
(678) 582-8095 View (678) 582-8095
Photo of Christy Jones - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Woodstock, GA 30189
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) 664-2381 View (470) 664-2381
Photo of Randy T. Warner, Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Randy T. Warner
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Inc. after having passed a stringent written examination in the subject matter of Psychiatry and Neurology. As well, oral examination with actual patients under the scrutiny of experts in the field. I have 23 years of experience in treating children, adolescents, and adults; inpatient and outpatient. I am trained and familiar with various modalities of psychotherapy; however, I am not currently a primary therapist as I coordinate care. I provide Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for treatment-resistant depression which can be life-changing for resistant depression.
I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Inc. after having passed a stringent written examination in the subject matter of Psychiatry and Neurology. As well, oral examination with actual patients under the scrutiny of experts in the field. I have 23 years of experience in treating children, adolescents, and adults; inpatient and outpatient. I am trained and familiar with various modalities of psychotherapy; however, I am not currently a primary therapist as I coordinate care. I provide Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for treatment-resistant depression which can be life-changing for resistant depression.
(404) 476-7196 View (404) 476-7196
Photo of Cheryl Gregory, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Cheryl Gregory
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Cheryl Gregory, PMHNP, is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across Georgia. With a focus on both mental and emotional wellbeing, Cheryl helps clients navigate their mental health journeys by offering thorough assessments, accurate diagnoses, and personalized treatment plans. Serving a diverse range of clients, Cheryl specializes in treating children, adolescents, and adults, ensuring that each individual receives the care they need, whether inperson or through convenient telehealth options.
Cheryl Gregory, PMHNP, is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across Georgia. With a focus on both mental and emotional wellbeing, Cheryl helps clients navigate their mental health journeys by offering thorough assessments, accurate diagnoses, and personalized treatment plans. Serving a diverse range of clients, Cheryl specializes in treating children, adolescents, and adults, ensuring that each individual receives the care they need, whether inperson or through convenient telehealth options.
(470) 735-2349 View (470) 735-2349
Photo of Kendra Jo Back, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Kendra Jo Back
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Mental health affects many people. My primary experience has been with anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, and bipolar. The utilization of medications when necessary, nutrition, exercise, and counseling will help you take charge of your mental health. The ultimate goal is to learn effective coping skills that will allow you to be in control.
Mental health affects many people. My primary experience has been with anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, and bipolar. The utilization of medications when necessary, nutrition, exercise, and counseling will help you take charge of your mental health. The ultimate goal is to learn effective coping skills that will allow you to be in control.
(470) 570-1319 View (470) 570-1319
Asata V Kamara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP-C
Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Asata Kamara AGNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a noteworthy and highly experienced medical professional with over 20 years of experience. As a Doctoring Prepared Nurse (DNP) as well as 9 years of experience as a Certified Adult Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Kamara has vast experience in the treatment and management of anxiety disorder, mood disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), insomnia, and schizophrenia. She also has immense experience in the treatment and management of chronic diseases such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes type 2.
Asata Kamara AGNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a noteworthy and highly experienced medical professional with over 20 years of experience. As a Doctoring Prepared Nurse (DNP) as well as 9 years of experience as a Certified Adult Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Kamara has vast experience in the treatment and management of anxiety disorder, mood disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), insomnia, and schizophrenia. She also has immense experience in the treatment and management of chronic diseases such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes type 2.
(404) 689-9386 View (404) 689-9386
Photo of Jechell Lary-Waller - Lary-Waller Mental Health and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Lary-Waller Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Atlanta, GA 30308
Struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD? I'm here to help with fast, compassionate medication support. I offer virtual visits across Georgia and Arizona. I accept most insurances including: Aetna, Anthem, BCBS, and Carelon and more. For those without insurance, I offer special rates for initial evaluations and follow-ups. If clinically appropriate, prescriptions can be sent directly to your pharmacy at the end of your first session. Appointments available now — Call or text 478-227-0202.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD? I'm here to help with fast, compassionate medication support. I offer virtual visits across Georgia and Arizona. I accept most insurances including: Aetna, Anthem, BCBS, and Carelon and more. For those without insurance, I offer special rates for initial evaluations and follow-ups. If clinically appropriate, prescriptions can be sent directly to your pharmacy at the end of your first session. Appointments available now — Call or text 478-227-0202.
(470) 516-1207 View (470) 516-1207
Photo of Katie Butler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Katie Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Dunwoody, GA 30338
As an Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the Perimeter and Alpharetta areas, Katie Butler specializes in prescribing and managing medication for clients with anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, autism and substance abuse.
As an Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the Perimeter and Alpharetta areas, Katie Butler specializes in prescribing and managing medication for clients with anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, autism and substance abuse.
(770) 629-8482 View (770) 629-8482
Photo of Dr. Lindsay Legnon, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Lindsay Legnon
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Lindsay Legnon is board-certified in Psychiatry and has 15 years of experience in outpatient clinical psychiatry. Her focus is primarily on medication management, but she does incorporate brief cognitive behavioral therapy and supportive therapy when appropriate. If more extensive psychotherapy is felt to be beneficial, she will recommend a therapist and collaborate with them for optimal care.
Dr. Lindsay Legnon is board-certified in Psychiatry and has 15 years of experience in outpatient clinical psychiatry. Her focus is primarily on medication management, but she does incorporate brief cognitive behavioral therapy and supportive therapy when appropriate. If more extensive psychotherapy is felt to be beneficial, she will recommend a therapist and collaborate with them for optimal care.
(917) 634-5311 View (917) 634-5311

See more therapy options for 30127

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 30127

< 10

Psychiatrists in 30127 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
89% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Sleep or Insomnia
56% Addiction

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
89% Cigna and Evernorth
78% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 30127 see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 30127?

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.