Psychiatrists in Dougherty County, GA

Photo of Michayala Bush, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michayala Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Albany, GA 31701  (Online Only)
My name is Michayala Bush and I’m a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have specialized in Mental Health since 2013 treating patients in state mental facilities, correctional facilities, crisis centers, and community mental health. I specialize in depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, and behavioral issues.
My name is Michayala Bush and I’m a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have specialized in Mental Health since 2013 treating patients in state mental facilities, correctional facilities, crisis centers, and community mental health. I specialize in depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, and behavioral issues.
(229) 216-9340 View (229) 216-9340
Photo of Jacqueline Yvette Holloway, PMHNP, DOT-ME, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Yvette Holloway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DOT-ME
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, GA 31701
I believe that every client deserves quality care, with the focus on wellness, which includes their family and community. The perfect treatment environment requires 3 elements: Respect, Commitment, and Loyalty. I will do my best to integrate these three in to the treatment experience.
I believe that every client deserves quality care, with the focus on wellness, which includes their family and community. The perfect treatment environment requires 3 elements: Respect, Commitment, and Loyalty. I will do my best to integrate these three in to the treatment experience.
(229) 458-7072 View (229) 458-7072
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

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Patrick Notini - Pacifica Counseling & Psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist
Pacifica Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31201
The decision to start medication for your mental health is a big step to creating the life you deserve. Dr. Notini is specialized in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and PTSD. Dr. Notini has experience serving veterans and active duty military individuals as well.
The decision to start medication for your mental health is a big step to creating the life you deserve. Dr. Notini is specialized in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and PTSD. Dr. Notini has experience serving veterans and active duty military individuals as well.
(478) 241-6354 View (478) 241-6354
Photo of Tarvett Standley, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tarvett Standley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31904
Tarvett Standley is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor in Nursing and a Master's Degree in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner from Columbus State University and a Post Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Cincinnati. Tarvett believes in providing a safe environment for disclosure to build a trusting relationship. In her spare time, Tarvett enjoys time with family and friends, traveling, reading, and listening to podcasts.
Tarvett Standley is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor in Nursing and a Master's Degree in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner from Columbus State University and a Post Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Cincinnati. Tarvett believes in providing a safe environment for disclosure to build a trusting relationship. In her spare time, Tarvett enjoys time with family and friends, traveling, reading, and listening to podcasts.
(706) 862-8292 View (706) 862-8292
Photo of Brandi C Lane, PMHNP, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandi C Lane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31602
Brandi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who is board certified in psychiatry by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and certified in family medicine by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. She has practiced medicine in psychiatry for almost 7 years now. She obtained her Master of Science and Nursing degree from Chamberlain University in 2017 and her Post Masters Degree in Psychiatry in 2019 from Regis University. Brandi has specialized in treating all mental health disorders across the lifespan, such as ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
Brandi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who is board certified in psychiatry by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and certified in family medicine by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. She has practiced medicine in psychiatry for almost 7 years now. She obtained her Master of Science and Nursing degree from Chamberlain University in 2017 and her Post Masters Degree in Psychiatry in 2019 from Regis University. Brandi has specialized in treating all mental health disorders across the lifespan, such as ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
(229) 287-4182 View (229) 287-4182
Photo of Chelsey L Mondy, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chelsey L Mondy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31602
In today's fast paced world, mental health has started to gain awareness as it begins to affect lives more and more. Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming and at times, terrifying. However, continuing to live with symptoms that can be debilitating can feel equally as overwhelming. Finding a provider who cares and hears you is imperative to build trust and feel confident in the treatment you are receiving.
In today's fast paced world, mental health has started to gain awareness as it begins to affect lives more and more. Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming and at times, terrifying. However, continuing to live with symptoms that can be debilitating can feel equally as overwhelming. Finding a provider who cares and hears you is imperative to build trust and feel confident in the treatment you are receiving.
(229) 800-6542 View (229) 800-6542
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 Dr. Terrill Cooper - CareStop LLC, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
CareStop LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Warner Robins, GA 31093  (Online Only)
You do not have to suffer in silence anymore. At CareStop, we want to help you feel better and get your life back on track as soon as possible. Imagine being able to see your mental health provider from the comfort of your home. Guess what? Dr. Cooper will come to you, virtually! All you need is a device with a speaker, camera, and internet connection to start your journey to smiling again.
You do not have to suffer in silence anymore. At CareStop, we want to help you feel better and get your life back on track as soon as possible. Imagine being able to see your mental health provider from the comfort of your home. Guess what? Dr. Cooper will come to you, virtually! All you need is a device with a speaker, camera, and internet connection to start your journey to smiling again.
(478) 209-2793 View (478) 209-2793
Photo of Cassandra Gilliam - A New You Psychiatric Care LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A New You Psychiatric Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31206  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in anxiety and panic disorders, mood disorders and trauma. If you are feeling tearful, irritable or having issues with attention and focus, allow me to help you determine a course of treatment that can help you feel more like yourself. I will use a combination of assessment, evaluation and talk therapy to ascertain any underlying mental health alterations to develop a diagnosis and care plan to promote positive behavioral changes. As a mental health advocate my goal is to ensure that each client receives individualized, and patient centered care.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in anxiety and panic disorders, mood disorders and trauma. If you are feeling tearful, irritable or having issues with attention and focus, allow me to help you determine a course of treatment that can help you feel more like yourself. I will use a combination of assessment, evaluation and talk therapy to ascertain any underlying mental health alterations to develop a diagnosis and care plan to promote positive behavioral changes. As a mental health advocate my goal is to ensure that each client receives individualized, and patient centered care.
(478) 210-3431 View (478) 210-3431
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 Felecia Brockington - VEMa Holistic Health, AGNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VEMa Holistic Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31605
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
Photo of Courtney Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Courtney Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31904
I have 9 years of nursing experience with 8 of those years being in mental and behavioral health. I am very passionate about reducing the stigma associated with seeking mental health services. When the opportunity presents I advocate for increasing the availability of mental and behavioral health services. Many would say my approach to providing mental health services is patient centered. I value my patients' input when planning the most appropriate treatment plans.
I have 9 years of nursing experience with 8 of those years being in mental and behavioral health. I am very passionate about reducing the stigma associated with seeking mental health services. When the opportunity presents I advocate for increasing the availability of mental and behavioral health services. Many would say my approach to providing mental health services is patient centered. I value my patients' input when planning the most appropriate treatment plans.
(706) 903-9407 View (706) 903-9407
Photo of Gregory Claxton, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gregory Claxton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210  (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 Mercy Oyerinde, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mercy Oyerinde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901  (Online Only)
I'm Mercy and i am a Nurse Practitioner, providing Psychiatric-Mental Health Care to the general population. I am board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by American Nurses Credentialing Centers (ANCC). I have years of experience in caring for pediatrics (ages 13 and above), adults, and the aging.
I'm Mercy and i am a Nurse Practitioner, providing Psychiatric-Mental Health Care to the general population. I am board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by American Nurses Credentialing Centers (ANCC). I have years of experience in caring for pediatrics (ages 13 and above), adults, and the aging.
(470) 648-4840 View (470) 648-4840
Photo of Michael Anderson, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Anderson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210
Dr. Michael Anderson is a Psychiatrist in Macon who has been practicing since 2024. Dr. Anderson provides treatment of mental health disorders with medication management and psychotherapy. He has specialized training in child and adolescent psychiatry. Outside of work, Dr. Anderson enjoys trampoline and power tumbling gymnastics, cooking, and being a member of book clubs.
Dr. Michael Anderson is a Psychiatrist in Macon who has been practicing since 2024. Dr. Anderson provides treatment of mental health disorders with medication management and psychotherapy. He has specialized training in child and adolescent psychiatry. Outside of work, Dr. Anderson enjoys trampoline and power tumbling gymnastics, cooking, and being a member of book clubs.
(478) 377-5545 View (478) 377-5545
Photo of Shikira Woods, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shikira Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210  (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.
(678) 712-5914 View (678) 712-5914
Photo of David Metheny, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
David Metheny
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is David Metheny. I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I am also a board-certified family nurse practitioner. I have over 30 years of experience in the mental health profession, and for the past 17 years, I have been working as a nurse practitioner in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care. I am offering telehealth medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions, emphasizing the importance of mindset and coping skills in achieving holistic well-being.
Hello, my name is David Metheny. I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I am also a board-certified family nurse practitioner. I have over 30 years of experience in the mental health profession, and for the past 17 years, I have been working as a nurse practitioner in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care. I am offering telehealth medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions, emphasizing the importance of mindset and coping skills in achieving holistic well-being.
(470) 523-3112 View (470) 523-3112
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 Sameer Dongre, MD, Psychiatrist
Sameer Dongre
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31904
Sameer works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Sameer believes that establishing a strong alliance with his clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, He partners with his clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Sameer works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Sameer believes that establishing a strong alliance with his clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, He partners with his clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
(706) 899-3469 View (706) 899-3469

See more therapy options for Dougherty County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Dougherty County, GA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Dougherty County, GA who prioritize treating:

67% Anxiety
67% Addiction
67% ADHD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Psychosis
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Dougherty County, GA see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Dougherty 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.