Psychiatrists in Dallas, GA
Doris Elonu is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has more than 4 years of experience treating clients across the lifespan. Doris has cared for individuals and families with diverse mental health concerns in behavioral health settings, including outpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and telepsychiatry. Doris specializes in treating depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and more. Doris offers psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and therapy.
Doris Elonu is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has more than 4 years of experience treating clients across the lifespan. Doris has cared for individuals and families with diverse mental health concerns in behavioral health settings, including outpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and telepsychiatry. Doris specializes in treating depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and more. Doris offers psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and therapy.
Angela Danforth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Dallas, GA 30132 (Online Only)
I am a nurse practitioner (NP) with a focus in family medicine and psychiatry (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorder, etc.). I have 8 years of experience working in the healthcare field. I have an extensive background in women's health, but I later transitioned into psychiatry, working with patients with mental illness and substance abuse issues.
I am a nurse practitioner (NP) with a focus in family medicine and psychiatry (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorder, etc.). I have 8 years of experience working in the healthcare field. I have an extensive background in women's health, but I later transitioned into psychiatry, working with patients with mental illness and substance abuse issues.
Offering flexible EVENING, WEEKEND, & DAY appointments! Discover peace with our holistic mental health services. Specializing in anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis, insomnia, and alcohol addiction. When emotions persist and affect daily life, it's time for healthful solutions. Our approach focuses on individualized options, combining traditional and nutritional treatment plans. Affordable, evidence-based, and holistic care is tailored to patients of all ages. Your well-being is our priority, guiding you towards a healthier and balanced life.
Offering flexible EVENING, WEEKEND, & DAY appointments! Discover peace with our holistic mental health services. Specializing in anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis, insomnia, and alcohol addiction. When emotions persist and affect daily life, it's time for healthful solutions. Our approach focuses on individualized options, combining traditional and nutritional treatment plans. Affordable, evidence-based, and holistic care is tailored to patients of all ages. Your well-being is our priority, guiding you towards a healthier and balanced life.
I am a Board Certified Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years in the health care field. Are you truly living or just existing? Do you have a desire to live life to your fullest potential? Let me help you to live your best life! At my practice our philosophy is to take a collaborative approach to care. I believe the best outcomes are achieved when clinicians and client work together to create a plan of care that fully meets the clients needs.
I am a Board Certified Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years in the health care field. Are you truly living or just existing? Do you have a desire to live life to your fullest potential? Let me help you to live your best life! At my practice our philosophy is to take a collaborative approach to care. I believe the best outcomes are achieved when clinicians and client work together to create a plan of care that fully meets the clients needs.
Sabelle Mbye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, GA 30157
Sabelle Mbye is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She initially attended Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, Georgia, where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing, then pursued her interest in Psychiatry and Mental health, graduating with honors from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Master of Science in Nursing. At the University of Alabama at Birmingham, her training included an intensive practicum at Highland Rivers Health, one of Georgia’s largest behavioral healthcare providers operating outpatient clinic
Sabelle Mbye is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She initially attended Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, Georgia, where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing, then pursued her interest in Psychiatry and Mental health, graduating with honors from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Master of Science in Nursing. At the University of Alabama at Birmingham, her training included an intensive practicum at Highland Rivers Health, one of Georgia’s largest behavioral healthcare providers operating outpatient clinic
Sophroneo Behavioral Health & TMS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, GA 30157
An illness of the mind can be challenging and prevent people from achieving their full potential. Whether you are struggling with mental health issues or need assistance with your mental health, I am here to help. As a mental health professional, I am passionate about helping people function at their optimal level. My specialties include treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) disorders, schizoaffective disorder, and Schizophrenia.
An illness of the mind can be challenging and prevent people from achieving their full potential. Whether you are struggling with mental health issues or need assistance with your mental health, I am here to help. As a mental health professional, I am passionate about helping people function at their optimal level. My specialties include treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) disorders, schizoaffective disorder, and Schizophrenia.
DUE Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, GA 30132 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! My name is Doris Elonu, a dedicated Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing mental health care in the state of Georgia and beyond. I believe in the power of collaboration and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel valued, heard, and supported. With a passion for mental health advocacy and a commitment to compassionate care, my goal is to support individuals and families on their journey towards an improved mental well-being.
Welcome to my practice! My name is Doris Elonu, a dedicated Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing mental health care in the state of Georgia and beyond. I believe in the power of collaboration and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel valued, heard, and supported. With a passion for mental health advocacy and a commitment to compassionate care, my goal is to support individuals and families on their journey towards an improved mental well-being.
Psychiatric Healing for All, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, GA 30157
SAME Day or Next Day appointments.Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar, Panic, or other mental health disorders.Together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome challenges. Please understand you matter. I offer encouragement and understanding. Any mental health can lead to physical problems, trouble with sleep, lack of appetite, weight loss, muscle tension and headaches. I want to help you and work as a team, putting together a treatment plan and offering support. I believe that medication and therapy go hand in hand.
SAME Day or Next Day appointments.Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar, Panic, or other mental health disorders.Together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome challenges. Please understand you matter. I offer encouragement and understanding. Any mental health can lead to physical problems, trouble with sleep, lack of appetite, weight loss, muscle tension and headaches. I want to help you and work as a team, putting together a treatment plan and offering support. I believe that medication and therapy go hand in hand.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Garrett Ransom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hiram, GA 30141 (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Garrett Ransom and I am psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I love working with clients of all ages and to help them overcome whatever challenges they face.
Hi there! My name is Garrett Ransom and I am psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I love working with clients of all ages and to help them overcome whatever challenges they face.
The mind set of a man determines the outcome of his life and the quality of relationships he enjoys. Hence the need for us to guard and nurture our minds with the best of cutting edge science and faith tools. My philosophy is that whatever affects your thinking, affects your life, your relationships, your God-given potential and ultimately your contributions to the society at large, the world needs you and we can't afford to miss out on your contribution to life! I am of the strong belief that not every disorder requires medications. Hence only after a thorough objective medical work up, will I consider a variety of treatments.
The mind set of a man determines the outcome of his life and the quality of relationships he enjoys. Hence the need for us to guard and nurture our minds with the best of cutting edge science and faith tools. My philosophy is that whatever affects your thinking, affects your life, your relationships, your God-given potential and ultimately your contributions to the society at large, the world needs you and we can't afford to miss out on your contribution to life! I am of the strong belief that not every disorder requires medications. Hence only after a thorough objective medical work up, will I consider a variety of treatments.
Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a safe and non judgmental environment for individuals and couples. If you struggle with day to day life, or are challenged with debilitating psychological symptoms, we are here to help.
Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a safe and non judgmental environment for individuals and couples. If you struggle with day to day life, or are challenged with debilitating psychological symptoms, we are here to help.
Chidimma Nzoiwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Powder Springs, GA 30073
Welcome to HealthStat Psychiatry LLC. At HealthStat Psychiatry, we offer outstanding Psychiatric-Mental Health Services tailored to your needs via In-Person Office Visits and Telehealth. Our patient population is across the Lifespan. Our goal is to help our clients improve their overall mental health and quality of life by providing evidence-based, Integrative, empathetic, and individualized care. Chidimma Nzoiwu is a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with outstanding 5 years of practicing experience in Family Practice. She earned her MSN from Chamberlain University and PMHNP Post Cert. from Valdosta
Welcome to HealthStat Psychiatry LLC. At HealthStat Psychiatry, we offer outstanding Psychiatric-Mental Health Services tailored to your needs via In-Person Office Visits and Telehealth. Our patient population is across the Lifespan. Our goal is to help our clients improve their overall mental health and quality of life by providing evidence-based, Integrative, empathetic, and individualized care. Chidimma Nzoiwu is a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with outstanding 5 years of practicing experience in Family Practice. She earned her MSN from Chamberlain University and PMHNP Post Cert. from Valdosta
Pristella Ohanaja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powder Springs, GA 30127 (Online Only)
Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
Hello and welcome to my concierge psychiatry practice. I am a medical doctor and I personally handle all aspects of my patient's care. When you call or have a question, I am the person who will respond to you. I am accepting new patients with both in-person and telehealth availability. I look forward to empowering patients with the vital tools for personal and professional growth. I firmly believe in delivering comprehensive psychoeducation and guiding individuals to embrace their potential, purpose, and passion.
Hello and welcome to my concierge psychiatry practice. I am a medical doctor and I personally handle all aspects of my patient's care. When you call or have a question, I am the person who will respond to you. I am accepting new patients with both in-person and telehealth availability. I look forward to empowering patients with the vital tools for personal and professional growth. I firmly believe in delivering comprehensive psychoeducation and guiding individuals to embrace their potential, purpose, and passion.
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.
Kyla Kerr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30152
Accepting NEW clients! As a dedicated practitioner, I prioritize providing holistic care, treating each individual as a whole person rather than merely addressing isolated symptoms. My approach is rooted in values of integrity, transparency, and thoroughness, ensuring that every client receives the utmost attention and personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can just be yourself. Incorporated into my practice is a Lifestyle Medicine perspective to include nutrition, social connection, exercise, sleep, and stress management to optimize overall health.
Accepting NEW clients! As a dedicated practitioner, I prioritize providing holistic care, treating each individual as a whole person rather than merely addressing isolated symptoms. My approach is rooted in values of integrity, transparency, and thoroughness, ensuring that every client receives the utmost attention and personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can just be yourself. Incorporated into my practice is a Lifestyle Medicine perspective to include nutrition, social connection, exercise, sleep, and stress management to optimize overall health.
Samar Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, NP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Patients! I have extensive training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the whole lifespan and across various practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. I diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialties include, but are not limited to Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, ADD, and Substance use disorder.
Accepting NEW Patients! I have extensive training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the whole lifespan and across various practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. I diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialties include, but are not limited to Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, ADD, and Substance use disorder.
Jayne Andrade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Powder Springs, GA 30127
Making the decision to seek mental health care is difficult, yet very important. Thank you for making that brave decision to seek help. I am a doctoral-prepared, double board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family practice, who advocates for patients and empowers them to become active in their care. At Georgia Healthy Minds, you can expect to receive comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, brief psychotherapy, follow-up evaluations, and medication management. We strive to provide an environment that is safe, and non-judgmental while creating a personalized patient-centered treatment plan.
Making the decision to seek mental health care is difficult, yet very important. Thank you for making that brave decision to seek help. I am a doctoral-prepared, double board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family practice, who advocates for patients and empowers them to become active in their care. At Georgia Healthy Minds, you can expect to receive comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, brief psychotherapy, follow-up evaluations, and medication management. We strive to provide an environment that is safe, and non-judgmental while creating a personalized patient-centered treatment plan.
CoreHealthPsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powder Springs, GA 30127 (Online Only)
We are a virtual psychiatric mental health practice. We at CoreHealthPsych believe that everyone in need should have access to quality care. We provide patients with the knowledge and tools they need to live their best lives. Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient tele-health and individualized psychiatric care. We provide a safe and non-judgmental environment.
We are a virtual psychiatric mental health practice. We at CoreHealthPsych believe that everyone in need should have access to quality care. We provide patients with the knowledge and tools they need to live their best lives. Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient tele-health and individualized psychiatric care. We provide a safe and non-judgmental environment.
Shikira Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Powder Springs, GA 30127 (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Shikira. I’m a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with a doctorate degree in nursing practice. I’m originally from Ohio. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, sports, travel, community service activities, and my beloved fur babies. My experience is in medical/surgical nursing, brief counseling, and adult/child/adolescent mental health care. I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential treatment settings throughout my 10+ years in healthcare.
Hi! My name is Shikira. I’m a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with a doctorate degree in nursing practice. I’m originally from Ohio. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, sports, travel, community service activities, and my beloved fur babies. My experience is in medical/surgical nursing, brief counseling, and adult/child/adolescent mental health care. I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential treatment settings throughout my 10+ years in healthcare.
See more therapy options for Dallas
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dallas, GA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Dallas, GA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
88% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
88% | Stress |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Sleep or Insomnia |
75% | Behavioral Issues |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | Aetna |
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Dallas, GA see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
88% | Female | |
12% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dallas?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.