Psychiatrists in Ben Hill County, GA

Photo of Felecia Brockington - VEMa Holistic Health, AGNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VEMa Holistic Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fitzgerald, GA 31750
My goal is to ensure that healthcare is reasonably priced and available to everyone, so I offer mobile services through in-home visits and Telehealth. The hours are flexible to accommodate the demands of a busy lifestyle, with availability in the evenings, weekends, and holidays.
My goal is to ensure that healthcare is reasonably priced and available to everyone, so I offer mobile services through in-home visits and Telehealth. The hours are flexible to accommodate the demands of a busy lifestyle, with availability in the evenings, weekends, and holidays.
(229) 471-0573 View (229) 471-0573

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Jason Wilcox, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jason Wilcox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hazlehurst, GA 31539  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Georgia. I received my Master's from Walden University and have been practicing for one year. I look forward to helping those who have mental health problems become mentally healthy.
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Georgia. I received my Master's from Walden University and have been practicing for one year. I look forward to helping those who have mental health problems become mentally healthy.
(912) 333-7589 View (912) 333-7589
Photo of Dr. Nurul Hoque, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Nurul Hoque
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Hinesville, GA 31313  (Online Only)
I am an experienced psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical practice, specializing in a comprehensive range of psychiatric conditions including Schizophrenia spectrum, Psychotic disorders, Bipolar and related disorders, Depressive and Anxiety disorders, Trauma- and stressor-related disorders, Somatic symptom disorders, and Substance-related and addictive disorders.
I am an experienced psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical practice, specializing in a comprehensive range of psychiatric conditions including Schizophrenia spectrum, Psychotic disorders, Bipolar and related disorders, Depressive and Anxiety disorders, Trauma- and stressor-related disorders, Somatic symptom disorders, and Substance-related and addictive disorders.
(470) 649-1907 View (470) 649-1907
Photo of Jenny Yancey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jenny Yancey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210
Jenny Yancey, PMHNP Jenny Yancey is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Walden University. Jenny is committed to providing honest, respectful, and evidence-based treatment. She believes in forming partnerships with patients and allowing them to have an active voice in treatment and recovery options. In her spare time, Jenny enjoys church, spending time with family and friends, soccer, and horseback riding.
Jenny Yancey, PMHNP Jenny Yancey is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Walden University. Jenny is committed to providing honest, respectful, and evidence-based treatment. She believes in forming partnerships with patients and allowing them to have an active voice in treatment and recovery options. In her spare time, Jenny enjoys church, spending time with family and friends, soccer, and horseback riding.
(478) 395-1459 View (478) 395-1459
Photo of Adaorah L Abor - Healthstar behavioral health Services., MSN, BSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse
Healthstar behavioral health Services.
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, BSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Macon, GA 31210  (Online Only)
Adaorah Abor a master-prepared, licensed, and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from Walden University, Minneapolis Minnesota, Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Walden University, Minneapolis-Minnesota, and an associate degree from the University of North Georgia.
Adaorah Abor a master-prepared, licensed, and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from Walden University, Minneapolis Minnesota, Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Walden University, Minneapolis-Minnesota, and an associate degree from the University of North Georgia.
(770) 670-4419 View (770) 670-4419
Photo of Jennifer Hill, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sale City, GA 31784  (Online Only)
We help women feel empowered, achieve their goals, and heal their mind, body and soul. Finding the cause of anxiety, depression or other mental health issues. Using medication and therapy to achieve the best results.
We help women feel empowered, achieve their goals, and heal their mind, body and soul. Finding the cause of anxiety, depression or other mental health issues. Using medication and therapy to achieve the best results.
(229) 398-3531 View (229) 398-3531
Photo of Emilie Taulbee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emilie Taulbee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Statesboro, GA 30458
I provide effective evidence-based medication management and brief therapeutic counseling for adults. I treat a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. I coordinates care by working closely with psycho-therapists, counselors, and other health care providers. I have a strong background working with adults alongside Dr. Julie Jensen and 15 years of nursing experience.
I provide effective evidence-based medication management and brief therapeutic counseling for adults. I treat a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. I coordinates care by working closely with psycho-therapists, counselors, and other health care providers. I have a strong background working with adults alongside Dr. Julie Jensen and 15 years of nursing experience.
(912) 491-4612 View (912) 491-4612
Photo of William Dwight, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
William Dwight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210
William Dwight is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2017. He obtained his Master's of Science in Nursing, specializing in Family Psychiatric Mental Health from Valdosta State University. He is qualified to treat children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics although he prefers treating adolescents, adults, and the geriatric. Some of William's practice specialties include (but not limited to) Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and ADHD. He prefers prescribing traditional up to date medications that are mostly affordable for the public.
William Dwight is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2017. He obtained his Master's of Science in Nursing, specializing in Family Psychiatric Mental Health from Valdosta State University. He is qualified to treat children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics although he prefers treating adolescents, adults, and the geriatric. Some of William's practice specialties include (but not limited to) Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and ADHD. He prefers prescribing traditional up to date medications that are mostly affordable for the public.
(478) 666-5170 View (478) 666-5170
Photo of Karen Brazell, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Brazell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Statesboro, GA 30458  (Online Only)
Good day! I'm Karen, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with training in both psychiatry and family medicine. I'm passionate about truly listening and helping you develop an individualized treatment plan that provides a brighter solution for your mental wellness and overall health. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder. I offer holistic and collaborative treatment options at convenient times, all from the comfort of your home.
Good day! I'm Karen, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with training in both psychiatry and family medicine. I'm passionate about truly listening and helping you develop an individualized treatment plan that provides a brighter solution for your mental wellness and overall health. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder. I offer holistic and collaborative treatment options at convenient times, all from the comfort of your home.
(912) 207-9249 View (912) 207-9249
Photo of Daniel B Wright - Daniel B Wright DNP LLC., DNP, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, MSA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel B Wright DNP LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, MSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moultrie, GA 31788  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga.
Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga.
(850) 673-0252 View (850) 673-0252
Photo of Sabitha Aligeti, MD, Psychiatrist
Sabitha Aligeti
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Warner Robins, GA 31088
Dr. Sabitha Aligeti is a board-certified psychiatrist who joined Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals in August 2018. Dr. Aligeti has clinical experience working with adults and veteran populations in inpatient, outpatient, community and multi-disciplinary settings. Dr. Aligeti's treatment services include: conventional and evidence-based approaches such as pharmacogenetic testing, neurology treatments like TMS, integration mental health care, and telepsychiatry.
Dr. Sabitha Aligeti is a board-certified psychiatrist who joined Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals in August 2018. Dr. Aligeti has clinical experience working with adults and veteran populations in inpatient, outpatient, community and multi-disciplinary settings. Dr. Aligeti's treatment services include: conventional and evidence-based approaches such as pharmacogenetic testing, neurology treatments like TMS, integration mental health care, and telepsychiatry.
(770) 762-3912 View (770) 762-3912
Photo of David Sogbamu, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Sogbamu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Warner Robins, GA 31088
David Sogbamu, APRN, PMHNP–BC, stands at the forefront of psychiatric and Mental Health care, bringing a wealth of expertise and a compassionate approach to his practice. As a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on the entire lifespan, David has dedicated his career to the comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. With specialized training covering a diverse range of issues, David is adept at addressing the unique
David Sogbamu, APRN, PMHNP–BC, stands at the forefront of psychiatric and Mental Health care, bringing a wealth of expertise and a compassionate approach to his practice. As a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on the entire lifespan, David has dedicated his career to the comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. With specialized training covering a diverse range of issues, David is adept at addressing the unique
(404) 637-0116 View (404) 637-0116
Photo of Flora I Jones, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, MEd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Flora I Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, MEd
Verified Verified
Albany, GA 31701
Flora combines evidence-based practice with clinical experience, observation and listening to meet a patient “where they are” on their mental health journey. When patients feel heard and respected, they are empowered to view their practitioner as someone who partners with them as they work to improve their mental and behavioral health. Along with medication and psychotherapy, we offer long-acting injectable antipsychotics, urine/blood testing, collaboration with primary care provider, telemedicine, psychiatric evaluation for clearance, and school/sport physicals. Walk-ins are welcome, same day appointments are guaranteed.
Flora combines evidence-based practice with clinical experience, observation and listening to meet a patient “where they are” on their mental health journey. When patients feel heard and respected, they are empowered to view their practitioner as someone who partners with them as they work to improve their mental and behavioral health. Along with medication and psychotherapy, we offer long-acting injectable antipsychotics, urine/blood testing, collaboration with primary care provider, telemedicine, psychiatric evaluation for clearance, and school/sport physicals. Walk-ins are welcome, same day appointments are guaranteed.
(229) 304-2159 View (229) 304-2159
Photo of David Sogbamu, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Sogbamu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Milledgeville, GA 31061
Mr. David Sogbamu, MSN, APRN, PMHNP–BC, stands at the forefront of psychiatric and mental health care, bringing a wealth of expertise and a compassionate approach to his practice. As a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on the entire lifespan, David has dedicated his career to the comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions.
Mr. David Sogbamu, MSN, APRN, PMHNP–BC, stands at the forefront of psychiatric and mental health care, bringing a wealth of expertise and a compassionate approach to his practice. As a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on the entire lifespan, David has dedicated his career to the comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions.
(706) 493-7738 View (706) 493-7738
Photo of Edyn McKinnon, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edyn McKinnon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Axson, GA 31624  (Online Only)
I work with individuals from the age of 6 to geriatrics. I have had the pleasure to work on several inpatient crisis stability units for adult age patients 18-55 years old as well as geriatric units for patients ages 55 years and older. I have also worked in a private practice setting for the past 3 years that I just recently left. I felt it was time to move out more on my own. So here I am, I have come to realize when you love what you do it no longer truly is work.
I work with individuals from the age of 6 to geriatrics. I have had the pleasure to work on several inpatient crisis stability units for adult age patients 18-55 years old as well as geriatric units for patients ages 55 years and older. I have also worked in a private practice setting for the past 3 years that I just recently left. I felt it was time to move out more on my own. So here I am, I have come to realize when you love what you do it no longer truly is work.
(912) 299-8606 View (912) 299-8606
Photo of Stephanie Williams, NP-BC, MSN-RN, MBA-HA, Psychiatric Nurse
Stephanie Williams
Psychiatric Nurse, NP-BC, MSN-RN, MBA-HA
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210  (Online Only)
Stephanie started her nursing career in 2005 as a nurse extern on a med-surg unit at Medical Center Navient Health. Over the years she has been provided opportunities to gain knowledge and skill in several areas of nursing such as: labor and delivery, women's services, stroke/neuro, case management, and utilization reviews. She obtained her mental health experience providing treatment with community service board outpatient practices.
Stephanie started her nursing career in 2005 as a nurse extern on a med-surg unit at Medical Center Navient Health. Over the years she has been provided opportunities to gain knowledge and skill in several areas of nursing such as: labor and delivery, women's services, stroke/neuro, case management, and utilization reviews. She obtained her mental health experience providing treatment with community service board outpatient practices.
(478) 242-6182 View (478) 242-6182
Photo of Santissa T Clapp, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Santissa T Clapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210  (Online Only)
I am truly passionate about being a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and believe it to be my calling and purpose in life. While mental health is often overlooked or avoided in the realm of healthcare, I have been drawn to it. I know that every patient is unique and I take pride in tailoring each experience to suit their specific needs. My approach focuses on equipping patients with the necessary tools to long term manage their mental health. I also offer psychotherapy and help with natural alternatives to prescribed medications, like vitamins and supplements. Schedule today to embark on your mental health journey.
I am truly passionate about being a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and believe it to be my calling and purpose in life. While mental health is often overlooked or avoided in the realm of healthcare, I have been drawn to it. I know that every patient is unique and I take pride in tailoring each experience to suit their specific needs. My approach focuses on equipping patients with the necessary tools to long term manage their mental health. I also offer psychotherapy and help with natural alternatives to prescribed medications, like vitamins and supplements. Schedule today to embark on your mental health journey.
(678) 680-5596 View (678) 680-5596
Photo of Korinne Edwards, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Korinne Edwards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Georgia. I received my Masters and Doctorate from Columbia University School of Nursing in New York City and have been practicing for the last 5 years. I help teens and adults struggling with mental health concerns become the best version of themselves with the use of medication and psychoeducation. I hope to see you soon!
Hello! I'm a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Georgia. I received my Masters and Doctorate from Columbia University School of Nursing in New York City and have been practicing for the last 5 years. I help teens and adults struggling with mental health concerns become the best version of themselves with the use of medication and psychoeducation. I hope to see you soon!
(706) 898-3380 View (706) 898-3380
Photo of Gregory Claxton, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gregory Claxton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Milledgeville, GA 31061  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety? Moodiness? Restlessness? Feeling down? Can't focus? I'd love to work with you to see if we can find solutions together. My main goal is to help YOU decide a mental health treatment that will be safe and most effective for you. My role is not to simply prescribe medication. My role is to be your collaborator and resource for information about medication options and prescribe them as appropriate!
Are you struggling with anxiety? Moodiness? Restlessness? Feeling down? Can't focus? I'd love to work with you to see if we can find solutions together. My main goal is to help YOU decide a mental health treatment that will be safe and most effective for you. My role is not to simply prescribe medication. My role is to be your collaborator and resource for information about medication options and prescribe them as appropriate!
(478) 250-0462 View (478) 250-0462
Photo of Dr. Judith Ngulefac Dnp, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Judith Ngulefac Dnp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milledgeville, GA 31061
Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, DOT-CME is an experienced doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with over 14 years of experience in diverse health care settings providing high-quality care to clients. Dr. Ngulefac believes that your mental health is as important as your physical health and requires the same attention. She provides an initial psychiatric evaluation that will enable her to diagnose & develop an individualized treatment plan with routine follow-up visits to monitor symptoms and medication effectiveness.
Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, DOT-CME is an experienced doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with over 14 years of experience in diverse health care settings providing high-quality care to clients. Dr. Ngulefac believes that your mental health is as important as your physical health and requires the same attention. She provides an initial psychiatric evaluation that will enable her to diagnose & develop an individualized treatment plan with routine follow-up visits to monitor symptoms and medication effectiveness.
(470) 348-2404 View (470) 348-2404

See more therapy options for Ben Hill County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Ben Hill County, GA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Ben Hill County, GA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Emotional Disturbance

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Wellpoint | Amerigroup
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Ben Hill County, GA see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Ben Hill County?

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.