Psychiatrists in 30301

Photo of Nancy Young, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Nancy Young
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Our experienced Board-Certified Psychiatric Medical Providers have over 20 years of medical experience combined. They are highly trained in the psychiatric field with an extended scope in family medicine to promote excellent treatments for our patients.
Our experienced Board-Certified Psychiatric Medical Providers have over 20 years of medical experience combined. They are highly trained in the psychiatric field with an extended scope in family medicine to promote excellent treatments for our patients.
(404) 905-3676 View (404) 905-3676
Photo of Bryce Maughon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Bryce Maughon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work best with clients seeking support for everyday anxiety, self-doubt, and stress. My style is warm, steady, and collaborative—with a focus on practical strategies, resilience, and balanced care. I integrate gentle medication management when helpful and support you at a pace that feels right. Many clients come to me wanting to feel heard and grounded again, and together we build a path forward that feels clear, empowering, and sustainable.
I work best with clients seeking support for everyday anxiety, self-doubt, and stress. My style is warm, steady, and collaborative—with a focus on practical strategies, resilience, and balanced care. I integrate gentle medication management when helpful and support you at a pace that feels right. Many clients come to me wanting to feel heard and grounded again, and together we build a path forward that feels clear, empowering, and sustainable.
(706) 715-8573 View (706) 715-8573
Photo of Tarvett Lane, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, APRN
Tarvett Lane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, APRN
Online Only
Hello, It's nice to meet you! I'm Tarvett, founder of Joyful Minds Integrated Mental Health & Wellness. I'm a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. with over 25 years of clinical experience working in different areas of healthcare. I have experience in both outpatient and inpatient mental healthcare. Specializing in Women’s Mental Health & Wellness. My passion for working with Women’s Mental Health began with my own journey of being a single parent raising my son while juggling my educational journey and a career. I understand the challenges that women face.
Hello, It's nice to meet you! I'm Tarvett, founder of Joyful Minds Integrated Mental Health & Wellness. I'm a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. with over 25 years of clinical experience working in different areas of healthcare. I have experience in both outpatient and inpatient mental healthcare. Specializing in Women’s Mental Health & Wellness. My passion for working with Women’s Mental Health began with my own journey of being a single parent raising my son while juggling my educational journey and a career. I understand the challenges that women face.
(229) 303-4316 View (229) 303-4316
Photo of Alan Brody Md, Psychiatrist, MD
Alan Brody Md
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Brody is an experienced Board Certified Psychiatrist with specialties in treating adults, adolescents, and children. His neighborhood practice treats individuals with ADHD, mood disorders, including depression and anxiety, as well as situational and family/social related disorders. He uses individual psychotherapy with an eclectic/supportive approach and will prescribe medication as needed. His focus is on creating a warm trusting environment to help his patients feel free to be as open and honest as possible.
Dr. Brody is an experienced Board Certified Psychiatrist with specialties in treating adults, adolescents, and children. His neighborhood practice treats individuals with ADHD, mood disorders, including depression and anxiety, as well as situational and family/social related disorders. He uses individual psychotherapy with an eclectic/supportive approach and will prescribe medication as needed. His focus is on creating a warm trusting environment to help his patients feel free to be as open and honest as possible.
(301) 781-7019 View (301) 781-7019
Photo of Gifty Ntiamoah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Gifty Ntiamoah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I charge $80 per consult. I do not prescribe any controlled substances. Welcome! I'm Gifty Ntiamoah, a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in depression, anxiety, and weight loss. I also offer spiritual counseling based on the bible teachings. I can see patients from ID, IA, GA, FL, NY, NH, WA, MT, and CO.
I charge $80 per consult. I do not prescribe any controlled substances. Welcome! I'm Gifty Ntiamoah, a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in depression, anxiety, and weight loss. I also offer spiritual counseling based on the bible teachings. I can see patients from ID, IA, GA, FL, NY, NH, WA, MT, and CO.
(470) 570-5278 View (470) 570-5278
Photo of Dr. Chasity J. Carswell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
(678) 679-6542 View (678) 679-6542
Photo of Mary Gillingham - Stable Steps Teletherapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Stable Steps TeleTherapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
We use solution focused therapy to assess your strengths, to help you reach your goals. Narrative therapy will help you rewrite your story for the happy ending you deserve! We use cognitive behavioral techniques to help you reframe negative thoughts to positive thoughts. No matter your struggle, we’re here to see you, hear you, and provide real help.
We use solution focused therapy to assess your strengths, to help you reach your goals. Narrative therapy will help you rewrite your story for the happy ending you deserve! We use cognitive behavioral techniques to help you reframe negative thoughts to positive thoughts. No matter your struggle, we’re here to see you, hear you, and provide real help.
(912) 616-2902 View (912) 616-2902
Photo of Dr. Lois Macdonnell, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Lois Macdonnell
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Macdonnell is a double-boarded psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience in adult psychiatry and geriatric psychiatry. Dr. Macdonnell focuses on treating individuals with medication management. Supportive and interpersonal therapy is incorporated as needed. When additional therapy or longer sessions are necessary to enhance the individual’s treatment she invites a therapist to become a member of your care team.
Dr. Macdonnell is a double-boarded psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience in adult psychiatry and geriatric psychiatry. Dr. Macdonnell focuses on treating individuals with medication management. Supportive and interpersonal therapy is incorporated as needed. When additional therapy or longer sessions are necessary to enhance the individual’s treatment she invites a therapist to become a member of your care team.
(678) 946-2884 View (678) 946-2884
Photo of Patricia Allen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Patricia Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am an experienced dual ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive medication management for mood and affective disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and trauma-related conditions.
I am an experienced dual ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive medication management for mood and affective disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and trauma-related conditions.
(470) 777-8360 View (470) 777-8360

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Assumpta U Nwagwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Assumpta U Nwagwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Riverdale, GA 30274
Hi, I know you're here today because you want to feel better, wake up each day without the burden of overwhelming anxiety, sadness, or other debilitating symptoms. I am here to help you get relief, hope and stability that will allow you to be more fully in control of your life again. As every clients want to improve their quality of life, mental well-being is the foundational to enjoying life to its fullest. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgemental space where we can explore your thoughts and feelings together. I use a holistic approach of care. Feel free to reach out, and we can discuss how I can best support you to wellness.
Hi, I know you're here today because you want to feel better, wake up each day without the burden of overwhelming anxiety, sadness, or other debilitating symptoms. I am here to help you get relief, hope and stability that will allow you to be more fully in control of your life again. As every clients want to improve their quality of life, mental well-being is the foundational to enjoying life to its fullest. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgemental space where we can explore your thoughts and feelings together. I use a holistic approach of care. Feel free to reach out, and we can discuss how I can best support you to wellness.
(470) 466-6356 View (470) 466-6356
Photo of Sandra Thomas - Beacon Counseling, Psychiatrist, MD
Beacon Counseling
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Devon Phillip Briggs, Psychiatrist, MD
Devon Phillip Briggs
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
As a provider, I always endeavor to treat the whole person. Medication, while often necessary, is but one piece. I am dedicated to helping my clients put all the pieces of their puzzle together and unlock their potential to live a fulfilling and amazing life. You are never just a diagnosis or defined by your symptoms. It is critical for me to see, understand and connect with the person that you are. Everything else flows from that. Too often we can feel like no one is really listening, even our doctors. So our entire encounter should be therapeutic, and you should leave in some way better than how you came.
As a provider, I always endeavor to treat the whole person. Medication, while often necessary, is but one piece. I am dedicated to helping my clients put all the pieces of their puzzle together and unlock their potential to live a fulfilling and amazing life. You are never just a diagnosis or defined by your symptoms. It is critical for me to see, understand and connect with the person that you are. Everything else flows from that. Too often we can feel like no one is really listening, even our doctors. So our entire encounter should be therapeutic, and you should leave in some way better than how you came.
(678) 916-9406 View (678) 916-9406
Photo of Rita Ford, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Rita Ford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Fountain Behavioral Healthcare. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand that seeking support can feel overwhelming. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges, you don't have to face it alone. My passion is to help you regain balance and thrive. In recognition of my passion and dedication to patient care, I was honored with the AJC Award for Excellence in 2023. This acknowledgment reflects my passion for helping others regain their sense of self, build resilience, and embrace life with renewed hope.
Welcome to Fountain Behavioral Healthcare. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand that seeking support can feel overwhelming. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges, you don't have to face it alone. My passion is to help you regain balance and thrive. In recognition of my passion and dedication to patient care, I was honored with the AJC Award for Excellence in 2023. This acknowledgment reflects my passion for helping others regain their sense of self, build resilience, and embrace life with renewed hope.
(470) 802-4948 View (470) 802-4948
Photo of Cherie Kunik, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, SEP
Cherie Kunik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, SEP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, especially during times of transition, stress, or trauma. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or feeling disconnected from yourself and others. Whether navigating a significant life change, healing from past experiences, or seeking a more balanced and fulfilling life, I am here to support you with a compassionate, integrative approach to mental health.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, especially during times of transition, stress, or trauma. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or feeling disconnected from yourself and others. Whether navigating a significant life change, healing from past experiences, or seeking a more balanced and fulfilling life, I am here to support you with a compassionate, integrative approach to mental health.
(678) 329-9080 View (678) 329-9080
Photo of Jessica Igbalajobi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jessica Igbalajobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Atlanta, GA 30324
I believe in addressing symptoms in a respectful and collaborative manner. I will use my experience as a mental health professional to provide you with several options for treatment while maintaining your safety, but you will always have the final say in what the next step is. I provide very detailed initial assessments. Let's work together to build the mindset needed to live the life you want!.
I believe in addressing symptoms in a respectful and collaborative manner. I will use my experience as a mental health professional to provide you with several options for treatment while maintaining your safety, but you will always have the final say in what the next step is. I provide very detailed initial assessments. Let's work together to build the mindset needed to live the life you want!.
(470) 613-7538 View (470) 613-7538
Photo of Betty Obuya - Betty Obuya | Mercie Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Betty Obuya | Mercie Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s emotional and mental health challenges. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, struggling to cope, or facing issues that impact your daily functioning, I’m here to help. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported. My approach is rooted in empathy and a deep commitment to improving access to quality mental health care. I work with children from age 6, adolescents and adults. I am passionate about advocating for those who often feel overlooked.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s emotional and mental health challenges. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, struggling to cope, or facing issues that impact your daily functioning, I’m here to help. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported. My approach is rooted in empathy and a deep commitment to improving access to quality mental health care. I work with children from age 6, adolescents and adults. I am passionate about advocating for those who often feel overlooked.
(903) 623-8957 View (903) 623-8957
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 Omobolaji Oluseyi Oyebanjo Popoola, Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABPM
Omobolaji Oluseyi Oyebanjo Popoola
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABPM
Hiram, GA 30141
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) 439-3070 View (770) 439-3070
Photo of Odette Amanda Butler - Micgra Psych, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNPbc
Micgra Psych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNPbc
Dallas, GA 30132
I am a Board Certified Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years in the health care field. Are you truly living or just existing? Do you have a desire to live life to your fullest potential? Let me help you to live your best life! At my practice our philosophy is to take a collaborative approach to care. I believe the best outcomes are achieved when clinicians and client work together to create a plan of care that fully meets the clients needs.
I am a Board Certified Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years in the health care field. Are you truly living or just existing? Do you have a desire to live life to your fullest potential? Let me help you to live your best life! At my practice our philosophy is to take a collaborative approach to care. I believe the best outcomes are achieved when clinicians and client work together to create a plan of care that fully meets the clients needs.
(206) 309-8265 View (206) 309-8265
Photo of Tina Ezeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tina Ezeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a deep commitment to supporting my clients on their journey toward healing and resilience, I strive to create a safe, collaborative space where each person feels heard, understood, and empowered. My goal is to help individuals lead healthier, more fulfilling lives through personalized, holistic mental health care. Seeking support for your mental health is a courageous step, and I’m here to walk alongside you.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a deep commitment to supporting my clients on their journey toward healing and resilience, I strive to create a safe, collaborative space where each person feels heard, understood, and empowered. My goal is to help individuals lead healthier, more fulfilling lives through personalized, holistic mental health care. Seeking support for your mental health is a courageous step, and I’m here to walk alongside you.
(404) 856-3079 View (404) 856-3079

See more therapy options for 30301

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 30301

< 10

Psychiatrists in 30301 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
89% Depression
89% Trauma and PTSD
78% Medication Management
67% Bipolar Disorder
56% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
56% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% BlueCross and BlueShield
71% Cigna and Evernorth
57% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 30301 see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 30301?

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.