Psychiatrists in 30342

Photo of Dola Abiodun, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dola Abiodun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dolapo "Dola" Abiodun, DNP, PMHNP Dr. Dola Abiodun is a doctorate prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with an expertise in treating depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, personalities disorder, Bipolar 1 & 2 disorder, ADHD, substance and alcohol use disorder and schizoaffective disorders. She is also an adjunct faculty professor at University of Massachusetts, Global, Irvine, California and Liberty University in Virginia, USA. Dr. Abiodun completed her first Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.
Dolapo "Dola" Abiodun, DNP, PMHNP Dr. Dola Abiodun is a doctorate prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with an expertise in treating depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, personalities disorder, Bipolar 1 & 2 disorder, ADHD, substance and alcohol use disorder and schizoaffective disorders. She is also an adjunct faculty professor at University of Massachusetts, Global, Irvine, California and Liberty University in Virginia, USA. Dr. Abiodun completed her first Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.
(877) 265-3058 View (877) 265-3058
Photo of Lyle Cason, PAC, Physician Assistant
Lyle Cason
Physician Assistant, PAC
Verified Verified
Lyle Cason is a certified Physician Assistant who joined LifeStance Health in January 2017. He graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion and Behavior from the College of Public Health at the University of Georgia. Afterward, he completed his Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at South University in Tampa, Florida where he graduated with highest honors. Lyle believes in providing compassionate care for all and treating each client he sees as a unique individual with unique needs.
Lyle Cason is a certified Physician Assistant who joined LifeStance Health in January 2017. He graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion and Behavior from the College of Public Health at the University of Georgia. Afterward, he completed his Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at South University in Tampa, Florida where he graduated with highest honors. Lyle believes in providing compassionate care for all and treating each client he sees as a unique individual with unique needs.
(404) 467-6932 View (404) 467-6932
Photo of Amanda E. Williams, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Amanda E. Williams
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist specializing in the true integration of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy. My goal is to actively collaborate with you to achieve treatment goals, while reducing the need for psychotropic medication when appropriate. I provide an empathic and supportive environment so that you may gain a better understanding of yourself to facilitate positive change. I pride myself on providing individual psychotherapy combined with medication management (rare for modern day psychiatrists) and also coordinated medication management for patients who see another therapist. I am experienced in the treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and adjustment reactions.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist specializing in the true integration of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy. My goal is to actively collaborate with you to achieve treatment goals, while reducing the need for psychotropic medication when appropriate. I provide an empathic and supportive environment so that you may gain a better understanding of yourself to facilitate positive change. I pride myself on providing individual psychotherapy combined with medication management (rare for modern day psychiatrists) and also coordinated medication management for patients who see another therapist. I am experienced in the treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and adjustment reactions.
(404) 865-1183 View (404) 865-1183
Photo of Dr. Gideon Matzkin, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Gideon Matzkin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gideon Matzkin, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist trained to diagnose and treat acute and chronic mental health conditions with medication management and psychodynamic therapy to enhance self understanding, relationships, and help patients maximize their own potential. Dr. Matzkin provides and directly supervises other practitioners to treat clients with psychotherapy, medication management, and TMS treatment.
Gideon Matzkin, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist trained to diagnose and treat acute and chronic mental health conditions with medication management and psychodynamic therapy to enhance self understanding, relationships, and help patients maximize their own potential. Dr. Matzkin provides and directly supervises other practitioners to treat clients with psychotherapy, medication management, and TMS treatment.
(678) 932-1767 View (678) 932-1767
Photo of Brian Teliho, MD, Psychiatrist
Brian Teliho
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30342
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 Brian Bortnick, MD, Psychiatrist
Brian Bortnick
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342
Brian Bortnick is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 1995. He completed his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Boston College, his Medical School at Virginia Commonwealth University, and his Psychiatric Residency at Emory University School of Medicine. With more than 25 years of experience, Brian incorporates both psychotherapy and pharmacology to ensure his patients receive an individualized treatment plan that they feel comfortable with and can remain consistent with longterm. Brian strongly believes that patients should feel heard and understood.
Brian Bortnick is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 1995. He completed his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Boston College, his Medical School at Virginia Commonwealth University, and his Psychiatric Residency at Emory University School of Medicine. With more than 25 years of experience, Brian incorporates both psychotherapy and pharmacology to ensure his patients receive an individualized treatment plan that they feel comfortable with and can remain consistent with longterm. Brian strongly believes that patients should feel heard and understood.
(770) 824-1095 View (770) 824-1095
Photo of Lovelyne Joseph, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lovelyne Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Lovelyne Joseph, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC Lovelyne Joseph is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2019. She earned a BSN from Remington College of Nursing, an MSN and FNP from South University, and a PMHNP from Florida State University. Lovelyne is certified to provide comprehensive mental health services to ages across the lifespan. Her goal is to provide patients with evidence based, dignified, and compassionate psychiatric mental health care.
Lovelyne Joseph, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC Lovelyne Joseph is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2019. She earned a BSN from Remington College of Nursing, an MSN and FNP from South University, and a PMHNP from Florida State University. Lovelyne is certified to provide comprehensive mental health services to ages across the lifespan. Her goal is to provide patients with evidence based, dignified, and compassionate psychiatric mental health care.
(404) 554-9748 View (404) 554-9748
Photo of Ashlee Anderson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashlee Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Ashlee Anderson and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my Masters Degree from Walden University. I have been a Registered Nurse for 12 years. I have been practicing as Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 2 years. I help adolescents , adults, and geriatrics with medication management for mental health illness , and individuals struggling with sobriety and recovery.
Hello, my name is Ashlee Anderson and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my Masters Degree from Walden University. I have been a Registered Nurse for 12 years. I have been practicing as Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 2 years. I help adolescents , adults, and geriatrics with medication management for mental health illness , and individuals struggling with sobriety and recovery.
(470) 339-7943 View (470) 339-7943
Photo of Tam Pham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tam Pham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tam Pham is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. He graduated from the UAB Master's School of Nursing. Tam offers his clients medication management. Outside of work, Tam enjoys playing volleyball and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. He is an active member of HVA (Hotlanta Volleyball Association) the GA chapter of NAGVA (North American Gay Volleyball Association).
Tam Pham is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. He graduated from the UAB Master's School of Nursing. Tam offers his clients medication management. Outside of work, Tam enjoys playing volleyball and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. He is an active member of HVA (Hotlanta Volleyball Association) the GA chapter of NAGVA (North American Gay Volleyball Association).
(404) 795-4462 View (404) 795-4462
Photo of Darlene McNulty, DO, Psychiatrist
Darlene McNulty
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Darlene McNulty extends her compassion and knowledge to treat psychiatric illnesses in adults in the Sandy Springs office for LifeStance Health. Dr. McNulty is a TMS certified professional.
Darlene McNulty extends her compassion and knowledge to treat psychiatric illnesses in adults in the Sandy Springs office for LifeStance Health. Dr. McNulty is a TMS certified professional.
(877) 265-3058 View (877) 265-3058
Photo of Dr. Brian Bortnick - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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.
(888) 230-3466 View (888) 230-3466
Photo of Dr. Staffel Strong, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Staffel Strong
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I believe psychiatry should seek to examine the neurologic, genetic, and environmental conditions that contribute to child, adolescent and adult development. Be Strong Wellness Clinic was founded to incorporate the interaction of these components to provide comprehensive care, diagnostic clarity and individualized treatment to meet patient's needs.
I believe psychiatry should seek to examine the neurologic, genetic, and environmental conditions that contribute to child, adolescent and adult development. Be Strong Wellness Clinic was founded to incorporate the interaction of these components to provide comprehensive care, diagnostic clarity and individualized treatment to meet patient's needs.
(470) 928-5191 View (470) 928-5191
Photo of Cassandra Gilliam, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cassandra Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I received my PMHNP license in 2023. Prior to becoming a NP, I was a mental health nurse, nurse educator and mental health change agent for 19 years. As a mental health advocate my goal is to ensure that each client receives individualized, and patient centered care, to help you along your journey to becoming a "new you." I love working with young adults and the elderly with anxiety/panic disorders, mood disorders and trauma.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I received my PMHNP license in 2023. Prior to becoming a NP, I was a mental health nurse, nurse educator and mental health change agent for 19 years. As a mental health advocate my goal is to ensure that each client receives individualized, and patient centered care, to help you along your journey to becoming a "new you." I love working with young adults and the elderly with anxiety/panic disorders, mood disorders and trauma.
(470) 613-6755 View (470) 613-6755
Photo of Alicia Canzius - Unique Euphoria , RN, Psychiatric Nurse
Unique Euphoria
Psychiatric Nurse, RN
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342
Congratulations on taking the first step to living today! Life is full of challenges that can cause you reoccurring and painful thoughts that can last for years. Challenges can include work burnout, family, finances, intimate partner relationships, depression, anxiety, and many more. Let me help you find your way out of the constant cycle of negative ruminating thoughts. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy does not focus on the traumatizing events of your life. Instead, I will help you move past negative reoccurring thoughts by helping you focus on a life that is worth living today!
Congratulations on taking the first step to living today! Life is full of challenges that can cause you reoccurring and painful thoughts that can last for years. Challenges can include work burnout, family, finances, intimate partner relationships, depression, anxiety, and many more. Let me help you find your way out of the constant cycle of negative ruminating thoughts. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy does not focus on the traumatizing events of your life. Instead, I will help you move past negative reoccurring thoughts by helping you focus on a life that is worth living today!
(470) 660-4027 View (470) 660-4027
Photo of Allison Peklansky, DO, Psychiatrist
Allison Peklansky
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342
Are you looking for a psychiatrist who is compassionate, attentive and collaborative? My approach is warm, empathic and values patient autonomy. My evaluations are thorough and not rushed. It is my mission to provide individualized and patient-centered care. I strive to achieve a strong therapeutic alliance which I feel is necessary to help you through your journey of healing.
Are you looking for a psychiatrist who is compassionate, attentive and collaborative? My approach is warm, empathic and values patient autonomy. My evaluations are thorough and not rushed. It is my mission to provide individualized and patient-centered care. I strive to achieve a strong therapeutic alliance which I feel is necessary to help you through your journey of healing.
(470) 284-0961 View (470) 284-0961
Photo of Celestin Ekokobe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Celestin Ekokobe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Celestin Ekokobe, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse practitioner (PMNHNP-BC). I received a master’s in nursing from Georgia College and State University. I am passionate about providing quality comprehensive and compassionate mental healthcare to adults as well as brief supportive solution-focused psychotherapy. I provide non-judgmental evidence-based care and will work with patients to ensure their needs.
My name is Celestin Ekokobe, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse practitioner (PMNHNP-BC). I received a master’s in nursing from Georgia College and State University. I am passionate about providing quality comprehensive and compassionate mental healthcare to adults as well as brief supportive solution-focused psychotherapy. I provide non-judgmental evidence-based care and will work with patients to ensure their needs.
(470) 310-6661 View (470) 310-6661
Photo of Lois Schwarze - Integrity Psychiatry and Wellness, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Integrity Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hi, I'm Lois Schwarze, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management and believe that medications work best when they are a part of a wider plan of care. I co-founded Integrity Psychiatry and Wellness with Ella Laura Johannaber, a therapeutic coach and wellness educator, so that our clients have more choices for getting the support they need. I am passionate about mental health and I've witnessed that healing happens through authentic connection. I spend time with my clients, listen, and treat each person as a unique individual.
Hi, I'm Lois Schwarze, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management and believe that medications work best when they are a part of a wider plan of care. I co-founded Integrity Psychiatry and Wellness with Ella Laura Johannaber, a therapeutic coach and wellness educator, so that our clients have more choices for getting the support they need. I am passionate about mental health and I've witnessed that healing happens through authentic connection. I spend time with my clients, listen, and treat each person as a unique individual.
(404) 383-8756 View (404) 383-8756
Photo of Kelley Jenkins, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelley Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Peace of Mind Psychiatry! We enjoy educating patients about their mental health and treatment options so we can work together to create a treatment plan you will love. We feel it’s extremely important to understand the whole person when providing mental health care. This means I want to get to know you very well and have a full understanding of who you are and the experiences that made you who you are. I want to understand your symptoms, but more importantly I want to understand how those symptoms are affecting your life so we can help move you toward mental wellness in a goal-oriented way.
Welcome to Peace of Mind Psychiatry! We enjoy educating patients about their mental health and treatment options so we can work together to create a treatment plan you will love. We feel it’s extremely important to understand the whole person when providing mental health care. This means I want to get to know you very well and have a full understanding of who you are and the experiences that made you who you are. I want to understand your symptoms, but more importantly I want to understand how those symptoms are affecting your life so we can help move you toward mental wellness in a goal-oriented way.
(470) 206-5640 View (470) 206-5640
Photo of Suparna Basu, MD, Psychiatrist
Suparna Basu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Suparna Basu is an experienced and compassionate board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in caring for those with a variety of mental health problems. Dr. Basu is a psychopharmacologist who focuses primarily on medication management. She prefers her patients have a separate therapist that she can collaborate with. Dr. Basu's approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which her working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about Dr.Basu on her website; http://basupsychiatry.com
Suparna Basu is an experienced and compassionate board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in caring for those with a variety of mental health problems. Dr. Basu is a psychopharmacologist who focuses primarily on medication management. She prefers her patients have a separate therapist that she can collaborate with. Dr. Basu's approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which her working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about Dr.Basu on her website; http://basupsychiatry.com
(404) 390-2683 View (404) 390-2683

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Lola Adeboye - Bel Healthcare Behavioral Health Services, PMHNP, AP-NP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bel Healthcare Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AP-NP, MSN
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
In my practice, I perform psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups on diverse mental health disorders like Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorders, Psychosis, Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective disorders and ADHD. My expertise is acquired through 10 years of experience in the medical field and rigorous educational trainings at the University of West Georgia where I obtained my Bachelors in Nursing then I proceeded for my Masters in Nursing at the University of Alabama “Roll Tide”.
In my practice, I perform psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups on diverse mental health disorders like Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorders, Psychosis, Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective disorders and ADHD. My expertise is acquired through 10 years of experience in the medical field and rigorous educational trainings at the University of West Georgia where I obtained my Bachelors in Nursing then I proceeded for my Masters in Nursing at the University of Alabama “Roll Tide”.
(470) 729-9159 View (470) 729-9159

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 30342

10+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in 30342 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
89% Anxiety
84% Bipolar Disorder
79% Medication Management
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Sleep or Insomnia
68% Grief

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
70% Cigna and Evernorth
50% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 30342 see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 30342?

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.