Psychiatrists in Douglasville, GA

Photo of Kelley Jenkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Kelley Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Peace of Mind Psychiatry! We enjoy educating patients about their mental health and treatment options so we can work together to create a treatment plan you will love. We feel it’s extremely important to understand the whole person when providing mental health care. This means I want to get to know you very well and have a full understanding of who you are and the experiences that made you who you are. I want to understand your symptoms, but more importantly I want to understand how those symptoms are affecting your life so we can help move you toward mental wellness in a goal-oriented way.
Welcome to Peace of Mind Psychiatry! We enjoy educating patients about their mental health and treatment options so we can work together to create a treatment plan you will love. We feel it’s extremely important to understand the whole person when providing mental health care. This means I want to get to know you very well and have a full understanding of who you are and the experiences that made you who you are. I want to understand your symptoms, but more importantly I want to understand how those symptoms are affecting your life so we can help move you toward mental wellness in a goal-oriented way.
(470) 206-5640 View (470) 206-5640
Photo of Taiwo Soluade, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Taiwo Soluade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Taiwo is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received Doctorate in Nursing Practitioner in 2024, and my Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University with a specialty in psychiatry in 2022. She earned an associate degree in Nursing from Chattahoochee Technical College in 2016; she continued her education by completing a bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of West Georgia in 2018.
Taiwo is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received Doctorate in Nursing Practitioner in 2024, and my Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University with a specialty in psychiatry in 2022. She earned an associate degree in Nursing from Chattahoochee Technical College in 2016; she continued her education by completing a bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of West Georgia in 2018.
(770) 343-4747 View (770) 343-4747
Photo of Nicole Stallworth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nicole Stallworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping Individuals navigate with empathy and expertise. I've been assisting individuals with mental/behavioral health diagnosis, struggles for 20+ years. Mental health matters to me personally and professionally. Treatment should be accessible to all, and tailored for each individual. I am just me and I give all I can to those would want my help.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping Individuals navigate with empathy and expertise. I've been assisting individuals with mental/behavioral health diagnosis, struggles for 20+ years. Mental health matters to me personally and professionally. Treatment should be accessible to all, and tailored for each individual. I am just me and I give all I can to those would want my help.
(770) 869-2972 View (770) 869-2972
Photo of Kierston Wiman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Kierston Wiman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Douglasville, GA 30135
Welcome to Peace of Mind Psychiatry! I enjoy educating my patients about their mental health and treatment options so we can work together to create a treatment plan you will love. I feel it’s extremely important to understand the whole person when providing mental health care. This means I want to get to know you very well and have a full understanding of who you are and the experiences that made you who you are. I want to understand your symptoms, but more importantly I want to understand how those symptoms are affecting your life so we can help move you toward mental wellness in a goal-oriented way.
Welcome to Peace of Mind Psychiatry! I enjoy educating my patients about their mental health and treatment options so we can work together to create a treatment plan you will love. I feel it’s extremely important to understand the whole person when providing mental health care. This means I want to get to know you very well and have a full understanding of who you are and the experiences that made you who you are. I want to understand your symptoms, but more importantly I want to understand how those symptoms are affecting your life so we can help move you toward mental wellness in a goal-oriented way.
(470) 206-5640 View (470) 206-5640
Photo of Dr. Tina Williams @ Vital Integrative Solutions, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CNM
Dr. Tina Williams @ Vital Integrative Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CNM
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
Clients at Vital Integrative Solutions are 6 thru 95 years of age and experience various mental health conditions, including mood disorders, depression, anxiety, insomnia, phobias, OCD, schizophrenia, trauma, and neurodevelopmental disorders like autism/ADHD. At Vital Integrative Solutions, we care for everyone, but specialize in caring for women and minors, tailoring individualized treatment plans to meet their unique needs and help achieve stability safely and efficiently.
Clients at Vital Integrative Solutions are 6 thru 95 years of age and experience various mental health conditions, including mood disorders, depression, anxiety, insomnia, phobias, OCD, schizophrenia, trauma, and neurodevelopmental disorders like autism/ADHD. At Vital Integrative Solutions, we care for everyone, but specialize in caring for women and minors, tailoring individualized treatment plans to meet their unique needs and help achieve stability safely and efficiently.
(470) 693-9004 View (470) 693-9004
Photo of Shiy Ajao, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Shiy Ajao
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I prioritize a holistic and patient-centered approach, recognizing the importance of mental health is just as crucial as physical well-being (Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, across all life stages). I am dedicated to provide comprehensive care, that focuses on the individual's unique needs. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of an initial psychiatric evaluation to gain a deep understanding of a patient's mental health status. I am committed to taking the time necessary to listen attentively to my patients, fostering a secure environment for open communication and trust-building.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I prioritize a holistic and patient-centered approach, recognizing the importance of mental health is just as crucial as physical well-being (Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, across all life stages). I am dedicated to provide comprehensive care, that focuses on the individual's unique needs. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of an initial psychiatric evaluation to gain a deep understanding of a patient's mental health status. I am committed to taking the time necessary to listen attentively to my patients, fostering a secure environment for open communication and trust-building.
(908) 739-6638 View (908) 739-6638
Photo of Randy T. Warner, Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Randy T. Warner
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Inc. after having passed a stringent written examination in the subject matter of Psychiatry and Neurology. As well, oral examination with actual patients under the scrutiny of experts in the field. I have 23 years of experience in treating children, adolescents, and adults; inpatient and outpatient. I am trained and familiar with various modalities of psychotherapy; however, I am not currently a primary therapist as I coordinate care. I provide Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for treatment-resistant depression which can be life-changing for resistant depression.
I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Inc. after having passed a stringent written examination in the subject matter of Psychiatry and Neurology. As well, oral examination with actual patients under the scrutiny of experts in the field. I have 23 years of experience in treating children, adolescents, and adults; inpatient and outpatient. I am trained and familiar with various modalities of psychotherapy; however, I am not currently a primary therapist as I coordinate care. I provide Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for treatment-resistant depression which can be life-changing for resistant depression.
(404) 476-7196 View (404) 476-7196
Photo of Olajide Opaleye - Sophroneo Behavioral Health & TMS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHMNP
Sophroneo Behavioral Health & TMS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(678) 390-3636 View (678) 390-3636
Photo of Chinwe U Okafor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Chinwe U Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with mood changes? At View Point Behavioral Health, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help you regain balance and improve your well-being. I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered in your healing journey
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with mood changes? At View Point Behavioral Health, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help you regain balance and improve your well-being. I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered in your healing journey
(770) 762-0190 View (770) 762-0190
Photo of Nicole Stallworth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Nicole Stallworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Any person with mental health issues, whether acute or chronic.
Any person with mental health issues, whether acute or chronic.
(470) 735-7737 View (470) 735-7737

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of La-Vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Villa Rica, GA 30180
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
(678) 840-8446 View (678) 840-8446
Photo of Diana Manjarres - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, Psychiatrist, APRN, PMHNPBC
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatrist, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Villa Rica, GA 30180
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
(470) 470-9169 View (470) 470-9169
Photo of Diana Manjarres - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PHMNP
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Villa Rica, GA 30180
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
(678) 840-8446 View (678) 840-8446
Photo of Danielle Vann, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Danielle Vann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
Austell, GA 30106
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about delivering comprehensive psychiatric mental health care to individuals across all age groups. With over 15 years of nursing experience, my primary focus has been on pediatric care, complemented by extensive work with adolescents and adults.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about delivering comprehensive psychiatric mental health care to individuals across all age groups. With over 15 years of nursing experience, my primary focus has been on pediatric care, complemented by extensive work with adolescents and adults.
(470) 748-6904 View (470) 748-6904
Photo of Cynthia McNeill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Cynthia McNeill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. McNeill, NP, specializes in family medicine and psychiatry in adults (18+), focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. She holds a PhD in Human Services (Health Care Administration) from Capella University, an MSN in family practice from the University of South Alabama, an MBA and BsIT from AIU, and a BSN from Emory University, along with a post-masters certificate in psychiatric mental health from Washburn University.
Dr. McNeill, NP, specializes in family medicine and psychiatry in adults (18+), focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. She holds a PhD in Human Services (Health Care Administration) from Capella University, an MSN in family practice from the University of South Alabama, an MBA and BsIT from AIU, and a BSN from Emory University, along with a post-masters certificate in psychiatric mental health from Washburn University.
(770) 249-5506 View (770) 249-5506
Photo of La-Vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Villa Rica, GA 30180
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
(678) 840-8446 View (678) 840-8446
Photo of Diana Manjarres - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Villa Rica, GA 30180
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
(678) 840-8446 View (678) 840-8446
Photo of Chiazor Irene Eziakor - Healing Hands Integrated Psychiatric Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Healing Hands Integrated Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a highly experienced psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner, I am committed to offering personalized and affordable tele-psychiatry services. With over 20 years in healthcare, my goal is to provide convenient care tailored to your needs. We use a collaborative approach to mental health care, working closely with you. Our services are designed to be affordable and accessible, providing quality mental health care from the comfort of your home. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, we support your journey toward better mental health. Give us a trial!
As a highly experienced psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner, I am committed to offering personalized and affordable tele-psychiatry services. With over 20 years in healthcare, my goal is to provide convenient care tailored to your needs. We use a collaborative approach to mental health care, working closely with you. Our services are designed to be affordable and accessible, providing quality mental health care from the comfort of your home. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, we support your journey toward better mental health. Give us a trial!
(678) 672-3309 View (678) 672-3309
Photo of Diana Manjarres - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Villa Rica, GA 30180
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
(678) 840-8446 View (678) 840-8446
Photo of Carla Renae Odeniyi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carla Renae Odeniyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach to therapy is client-centered, empowering individuals to actively participate in their treatment plans and fostering a collaborative environment that enhances compliance and outcomes. Driven by a passion for destigmatizing mental illness, I believe in the power of education and a supportive, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship. My goal is to ensure my clients feel heard, understood, and equipped with the tools they need to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. My Ideal client is seeking a healthcare professional that they can relate to and they can feel like they are having a conversation with a friend.
My approach to therapy is client-centered, empowering individuals to actively participate in their treatment plans and fostering a collaborative environment that enhances compliance and outcomes. Driven by a passion for destigmatizing mental illness, I believe in the power of education and a supportive, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship. My goal is to ensure my clients feel heard, understood, and equipped with the tools they need to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. My Ideal client is seeking a healthcare professional that they can relate to and they can feel like they are having a conversation with a friend.
(470) 536-4806 View (470) 536-4806

See more therapy options for Douglasville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Douglasville, GA

10+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in Douglasville, GA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
90% Bipolar Disorder
90% Medication Management
80% ADHD
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
78% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in Douglasville, GA see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Douglasville?

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.