Psychiatrists in 30305

Photo of Lydia Stearns, Physician Assistant, PA
Lydia Stearns
Physician Assistant, PA
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. It is my absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on becoming your best self, it is our mission to help you achieve mental clarity and inner peace. Here at Anywhere Clinic, we combine traditional medication management and psychotherapy with cutting edge alternative treatments such as TMS, psychedelic therapy, regenerative medicine, spiritual healing, and more.
We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. It is my absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on becoming your best self, it is our mission to help you achieve mental clarity and inner peace. Here at Anywhere Clinic, we combine traditional medication management and psychotherapy with cutting edge alternative treatments such as TMS, psychedelic therapy, regenerative medicine, spiritual healing, and more.
(470) 592-9723 View (470) 592-9723
Photo of Kim Dobson-Callahan, Psychiatrist, MD
Kim Dobson-Callahan
Psychiatrist, MD
Atlanta, GA 30305
I am a physician with over 25 years of clinical experience working with patients and supervising trainees at a number of medical schools and universities. I am board certified in the treatment of children, adolescents, and general psychiatry, treating patients aged 2 - 65 years. I offer psychiatric assessment and management of psychotropic medications. However, medication in my practice is only a part of comprehensive mental health care. In my care of children and adolescents, I prioritize a partnership between myself, the child and parents. I value communication with therapeutic providers, teachers and physicians.
I am a physician with over 25 years of clinical experience working with patients and supervising trainees at a number of medical schools and universities. I am board certified in the treatment of children, adolescents, and general psychiatry, treating patients aged 2 - 65 years. I offer psychiatric assessment and management of psychotropic medications. However, medication in my practice is only a part of comprehensive mental health care. In my care of children and adolescents, I prioritize a partnership between myself, the child and parents. I value communication with therapeutic providers, teachers and physicians.
(678) 262-2399 View (678) 262-2399
Photo of Bryanna Baptiste, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Bryanna Baptiste
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there! I'm Bryanna, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to supporting individuals who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally stuck. I believe mental health care should be accessible, affirming, and rooted in trust. I work with clients navigating anxiety, depression, or burnout—often shaped by cultural expectations, generational trauma, or professional pressure—to co-create care plans aligned with their values, goals, and lifestyle.
Hi there! I'm Bryanna, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to supporting individuals who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally stuck. I believe mental health care should be accessible, affirming, and rooted in trust. I work with clients navigating anxiety, depression, or burnout—often shaped by cultural expectations, generational trauma, or professional pressure—to co-create care plans aligned with their values, goals, and lifestyle.
(404) 537-3878 View (404) 537-3878
Photo of Kelly Gilfillan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kelly Gilfillan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 23 years of experience in medication management, treating a wide range of mental health issues. I specialize in working with adults and seniors managing ADHD, anger, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, OCD, depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and more.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 23 years of experience in medication management, treating a wide range of mental health issues. I specialize in working with adults and seniors managing ADHD, anger, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, OCD, depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and more.
(470) 649-3329 View (470) 649-3329
Photo of Cody M. Browning, Psychiatrist, MD
Cody M. Browning
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
Considered to have an empathetic and calming approach by his patients, Dr. Browning believes in meeting each individual on their terms. Fostering a genuine connection and encouraging a curious mind can help to reveal common patterns of interpersonal interactions, thoughts, and behaviors through a psychodynamic and supportive approach. No one person is the same, and Dr. Browning believes in fusing the biological, psychological, and psychosocial aspects of each individual's experience to create a plan to move forward and begin the journey toward feeling better.
Considered to have an empathetic and calming approach by his patients, Dr. Browning believes in meeting each individual on their terms. Fostering a genuine connection and encouraging a curious mind can help to reveal common patterns of interpersonal interactions, thoughts, and behaviors through a psychodynamic and supportive approach. No one person is the same, and Dr. Browning believes in fusing the biological, psychological, and psychosocial aspects of each individual's experience to create a plan to move forward and begin the journey toward feeling better.
(470) 309-0721 View (470) 309-0721
Photo of Armeshia Lawrence, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Armeshia Lawrence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m Armeshia Lawrence, a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I’m licensed to provide a wide range of services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families in outpatient mental health clinics, psychiatric emergency services, private practice, or in hospital and community health center settings.
I’m Armeshia Lawrence, a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I’m licensed to provide a wide range of services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families in outpatient mental health clinics, psychiatric emergency services, private practice, or in hospital and community health center settings.
(470) 202-3646 View (470) 202-3646
Photo of Frantz Georges - A Mind Affair, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
A Mind Affair, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
Hello this is Dr. Frantz Georges (psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I’ve been working as mental health nurse for over 25 years and as a practitioner the past 6 years. I treat patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychotic disorders. I treat each one of my patients individually and provide the best possible care to them. If you are looking for someone to listen to your needs and to take time to understand your problems (situation); you have found the right provider. Once again I treat individuals from 5-100 years old with a variety of mental health disorders.
Hello this is Dr. Frantz Georges (psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I’ve been working as mental health nurse for over 25 years and as a practitioner the past 6 years. I treat patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychotic disorders. I treat each one of my patients individually and provide the best possible care to them. If you are looking for someone to listen to your needs and to take time to understand your problems (situation); you have found the right provider. Once again I treat individuals from 5-100 years old with a variety of mental health disorders.
(770) 904-9724 View (770) 904-9724
Photo of Benedicta N Okoye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMNP-BC
Benedicta N Okoye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Benedicta Okoye has a wide range of clinical experience; she has worked in the healthcare field for over two decades. She is a doctorate dual prepared Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Dr. Benedicta Okoye has a wide range of clinical experience; she has worked in the healthcare field for over two decades. She is a doctorate dual prepared Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of D. Diane Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
D. Diane Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Mental health disorders truly impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. Years of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders may result in adverse health behaviors like a sedentary lifestyle, inadequate eating and sleeping habits, difficulty in relationships, and negative coping skills such as smoking and substance use. I practice a holistic approach to treatment, utilizing medication management as needed and a focus on lifestyle changes such as improved nutrition, adequate sleep, and exercise. I am committed to reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues.
Mental health disorders truly impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. Years of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders may result in adverse health behaviors like a sedentary lifestyle, inadequate eating and sleeping habits, difficulty in relationships, and negative coping skills such as smoking and substance use. I practice a holistic approach to treatment, utilizing medication management as needed and a focus on lifestyle changes such as improved nutrition, adequate sleep, and exercise. I am committed to reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues.
(470) 888-7057 View (470) 888-7057
Photo of Ashim Mehta - PsychMD Georgia, Psychiatrist, MD
PsychMD Georgia
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
At PsychMD Georgia, Dr Mehta treats patients all over Georgia via telemed and in-person. He specializes in treating Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, MDD, Bipolar and other psychotic spectrum disorders. Dr. Mehta utilizes a direct-patient care model and eliminates gatekeepers/insurance companies that pose other administrative burdens and friction between a doctor and their patient. Don't be surprised if he picks up the phone directly when you call the office. It's a direct relationship with your doctor with no front desk/insurance companies or gate keepers for a transparent and low price of $100/month. Now Serving Alpharetta, Dalton, & Georgia
At PsychMD Georgia, Dr Mehta treats patients all over Georgia via telemed and in-person. He specializes in treating Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, MDD, Bipolar and other psychotic spectrum disorders. Dr. Mehta utilizes a direct-patient care model and eliminates gatekeepers/insurance companies that pose other administrative burdens and friction between a doctor and their patient. Don't be surprised if he picks up the phone directly when you call the office. It's a direct relationship with your doctor with no front desk/insurance companies or gate keepers for a transparent and low price of $100/month. Now Serving Alpharetta, Dalton, & Georgia
(470) 619-1422 View (470) 619-1422
Photo of Brian Teliho, Psychiatrist, MD
Brian Teliho
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you're tired of searching for the right provider, don't settle. Dr. Teliho has more than 20 years of experience. Does your schedule or location prohibit you from getting quality care? Dr. Teliho is pioneering the advancement of telemedicine in psychiatry. Conduct appointments right from your own home or workplace, even after hours. The future of quality mental health care is already here. Ask for a referral from your current therapist or primary care physician, and visit his website for more information about his practice and how telemedicine may work for you.
If you're tired of searching for the right provider, don't settle. Dr. Teliho has more than 20 years of experience. Does your schedule or location prohibit you from getting quality care? Dr. Teliho is pioneering the advancement of telemedicine in psychiatry. Conduct appointments right from your own home or workplace, even after hours. The future of quality mental health care is already here. Ask for a referral from your current therapist or primary care physician, and visit his website for more information about his practice and how telemedicine may work for you.
(404) 949-0344 View (404) 949-0344
Photo of Corey Allen Beck, Psychiatrist, MD
Corey Allen Beck
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I believe that a combination of skilled psychotherapy and proper medication management helps people recover faster. My goal is to get you back to living your life to its fullest as quickly as possible.
I believe that a combination of skilled psychotherapy and proper medication management helps people recover faster. My goal is to get you back to living your life to its fullest as quickly as possible.
(678) 712-2924 View (678) 712-2924
Photo of Amitha L Dhingra, Psychiatrist, MD
Amitha L Dhingra
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Dhingra is board certified in General Psychiatry. She completed her residency in adult psychiatry at the Emory University School of Medicine, and was chosen to serve as the Chief Resident for Emory University Hospital in her final year of adult psychiatry. Dr. Dhingra completed an additional year of training in Geriatric Psychiatry, graduating in 2020.
Dr. Dhingra is board certified in General Psychiatry. She completed her residency in adult psychiatry at the Emory University School of Medicine, and was chosen to serve as the Chief Resident for Emory University Hospital in her final year of adult psychiatry. Dr. Dhingra completed an additional year of training in Geriatric Psychiatry, graduating in 2020.
(404) 991-6950 View (404) 991-6950
Photo of Sharat Vallurupalli, Psychiatrist, MD, SEP
Sharat Vallurupalli
Psychiatrist, MD, SEP
Serves Area
Whether you are a parent concerned about your child who is struggling, or an adult working on their own challenges, I am here to provided a safe space to explore these issues with you and find the solutions that work for you. I have worked across a wide variety of clinical settings, age groups, and cultures and I have extensive training in the fields of psychiatry and trauma. I am available for diagnostic consultations and psychotherapy. I do not accept insurance at this time. I can be flexible. Please click on the link to my website to see my fees.
Whether you are a parent concerned about your child who is struggling, or an adult working on their own challenges, I am here to provided a safe space to explore these issues with you and find the solutions that work for you. I have worked across a wide variety of clinical settings, age groups, and cultures and I have extensive training in the fields of psychiatry and trauma. I am available for diagnostic consultations and psychotherapy. I do not accept insurance at this time. I can be flexible. Please click on the link to my website to see my fees.
(678) 209-0214 View (678) 209-0214
Photo of Naureen Munawar - Apex Family Healthcare Services, Psychiatrist
Apex Family Healthcare Services
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
We are a Full Service Psychological Services Center with a large team of therapist to fit your needs and help you throughout your journey of recovery. Our facility offers 16 suites with Clinicians trained in every area of psychotherapy to serve you regardless of your diagnosis. We are able to accommodate multiple family members for same day appointments with therapist and doctors reducing your travel time between multiple offices for different appointments. We are a One-Stop-Shop providing excellent care, quality services and an array of skilled professionals of all ages, ethnicities and gender.
We are a Full Service Psychological Services Center with a large team of therapist to fit your needs and help you throughout your journey of recovery. Our facility offers 16 suites with Clinicians trained in every area of psychotherapy to serve you regardless of your diagnosis. We are able to accommodate multiple family members for same day appointments with therapist and doctors reducing your travel time between multiple offices for different appointments. We are a One-Stop-Shop providing excellent care, quality services and an array of skilled professionals of all ages, ethnicities and gender.
(678) 782-7272 View (678) 782-7272
Photo of Lola Ogunniyi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, RN, MBA, PMHNP
Lola Ogunniyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, RN, MBA, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Our focus is to provide a comprehensive solution for managing your mental well-being and empowering you to take pride in your physical appearance. While managing your mental health wellness, we also provide microchanneling spa treatment. This service rejuvenates your body, and contribute to enhancing your overall sense of well-being. By actively listening and collaborating with you, we devise effective strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. We also offer techniques to boost your self-esteem and self-confidence which enables you to view yourself positively.
Our focus is to provide a comprehensive solution for managing your mental well-being and empowering you to take pride in your physical appearance. While managing your mental health wellness, we also provide microchanneling spa treatment. This service rejuvenates your body, and contribute to enhancing your overall sense of well-being. By actively listening and collaborating with you, we devise effective strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. We also offer techniques to boost your self-esteem and self-confidence which enables you to view yourself positively.
(678) 562-6948 View (678) 562-6948
Photo of Dr. Joanne Patterson - Dr Joanne Psychiatry NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Dr Joanne Psychiatry NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
New patients are always accepted! Dr. Patterson offers modern, quality mental health treatment. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she believes that the most important aspect of care is listening to the client's unique story. Although medication management is a large part of her role, medicine is only prescribed when absolutely necessary. Specializing in women and adolescent mental health, Dr. Patterson will assess your genetics, reproductive hormonal events, as well as life events/stressors and responses to them. Virtual available in the United States Virgin Islands, Nevada, D.C, and Georgia.
New patients are always accepted! Dr. Patterson offers modern, quality mental health treatment. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she believes that the most important aspect of care is listening to the client's unique story. Although medication management is a large part of her role, medicine is only prescribed when absolutely necessary. Specializing in women and adolescent mental health, Dr. Patterson will assess your genetics, reproductive hormonal events, as well as life events/stressors and responses to them. Virtual available in the United States Virgin Islands, Nevada, D.C, and Georgia.
(240) 534-1910 View (240) 534-1910
Photo of Dr. Sora Park, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sora Park
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatrist who is passionate about helping people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and their general mental health. I particularly enjoy working in women's mental health and with second generation Americans. I know each person has a unique set of circumstances contributing to their current situation, which means every treatment plan is equally as unique. I believe in working together to create a collaborative plan tailored to fit you.
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatrist who is passionate about helping people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and their general mental health. I particularly enjoy working in women's mental health and with second generation Americans. I know each person has a unique set of circumstances contributing to their current situation, which means every treatment plan is equally as unique. I believe in working together to create a collaborative plan tailored to fit you.
(404) 383-8532 View (404) 383-8532
Photo of Jasmine Munroe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Jasmine Munroe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Jasmine Bryant I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who possesses exceptional clinical skills and expertise, but more importantly, I demonstrate genuine empathy and understanding towards the clients' needs. I tailor my therapeutic approach to the unique needs and preferences of each patient, integrating evidence-based practices with empathy, compassion, and cultural sensitivity. I collaborate closely with patients to foster trust and empowerment in the therapeutic process. The most common theoretical approach in the work of psychiatric nurse practitioners is the biopsychosocial model.
Hello, my name is Jasmine Bryant I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who possesses exceptional clinical skills and expertise, but more importantly, I demonstrate genuine empathy and understanding towards the clients' needs. I tailor my therapeutic approach to the unique needs and preferences of each patient, integrating evidence-based practices with empathy, compassion, and cultural sensitivity. I collaborate closely with patients to foster trust and empowerment in the therapeutic process. The most common theoretical approach in the work of psychiatric nurse practitioners is the biopsychosocial model.
(770) 525-3905 View (770) 525-3905
Photo of Judith Ngulefac - Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Our practice offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy – a non-drug, non-invasive option for treating Depression, PTSD, Depression with anxiety, and OCD. TMS therapy is providing a new possibility to those who have not found relief through traditional treatments. Find Relief When Medications Haven't Worked: TMS Therapy. Depression Treatment Breakthrough: Discover TMS. A New Path Forward: Drug-Free Depression Treatment with TMS. Reclaim Your Life from Depression with FDA-Approved Neurostar TMS. Hope Restored: Innovative Depression Treatment Now Available. Non-Invasive, Non-Drug Depression Therapy: Neurostar TMS
Our practice offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy – a non-drug, non-invasive option for treating Depression, PTSD, Depression with anxiety, and OCD. TMS therapy is providing a new possibility to those who have not found relief through traditional treatments. Find Relief When Medications Haven't Worked: TMS Therapy. Depression Treatment Breakthrough: Discover TMS. A New Path Forward: Drug-Free Depression Treatment with TMS. Reclaim Your Life from Depression with FDA-Approved Neurostar TMS. Hope Restored: Innovative Depression Treatment Now Available. Non-Invasive, Non-Drug Depression Therapy: Neurostar TMS
(470) 943-5502 View (470) 943-5502

See more therapy options for 30305

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 30305

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 30305 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
83% Medication Management
78% ADHD
78% Trauma and PTSD
74% Bipolar Disorder
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
81% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 30305 see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

65% Female
35% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 30305?

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.