Psychiatrists in Fayetteville, GA

Photo of Omolola Otubaga - MindSet Healthcare, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MindSet Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30215
Mental Health is defined as a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully and is able to make a contribution to his or her community (WHO). It affects everyone, but a mental disorder is your mental health out of balance. As humans we want our mental health to be in balance or in sync with life, but many times stressors arise and cause an imbalance. Mindset is here to help with that imbalance by resetting your mind, which will change your life. It is important to focus on balance through knowledge and education.
Mental Health is defined as a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully and is able to make a contribution to his or her community (WHO). It affects everyone, but a mental disorder is your mental health out of balance. As humans we want our mental health to be in balance or in sync with life, but many times stressors arise and cause an imbalance. Mindset is here to help with that imbalance by resetting your mind, which will change your life. It is important to focus on balance through knowledge and education.
(404) 777-1151 View (404) 777-1151
Photo of Jabari Dobson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jabari Dobson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30214
I am currently a ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner here at Tranquility Telepsychiatry. I am a Savannah, GA native with over 5 years in psychiatric nursing experience ranging from forensic, inpatient crisis stabilization and travel. My specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse, Major Depression and Anxiety. I enjoy my free time shopping and traveling for leisure.
I am currently a ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner here at Tranquility Telepsychiatry. I am a Savannah, GA native with over 5 years in psychiatric nursing experience ranging from forensic, inpatient crisis stabilization and travel. My specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse, Major Depression and Anxiety. I enjoy my free time shopping and traveling for leisure.
(206) 203-3561 View (206) 203-3561
Photo of Stacey LaSandra Mitchell - Beautiful Minds of Fayetteville, LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Beautiful Minds of Fayetteville, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, GA 30214
Ms. Stacey L. Coleman-Mitchell is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and she is licensed in the states of California, Georgia, Arizona, Florida and New York. She is committed to working together with her clients to ensure they are receiving the best care possible. Stacey decided to become a nurse because she wanted to have a positive impact on the lives of her clients – whether it is addressing an overlooked complaint or educating clients about diagnoses and medication management, Stacey takes great pride in caring for her clients. Her belief: “Your illness does not define you. Your strength and courage does." - Unknown.
Ms. Stacey L. Coleman-Mitchell is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and she is licensed in the states of California, Georgia, Arizona, Florida and New York. She is committed to working together with her clients to ensure they are receiving the best care possible. Stacey decided to become a nurse because she wanted to have a positive impact on the lives of her clients – whether it is addressing an overlooked complaint or educating clients about diagnoses and medication management, Stacey takes great pride in caring for her clients. Her belief: “Your illness does not define you. Your strength and courage does." - Unknown.
(678) 403-6481 x30214 View (678) 403-6481 x30214
Photo of Joan Aina - Tradeot Healthcare LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tradeot Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30214
Hello everyone, My name is Dr. Joan O. Aina, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CWON. I am currently in Fayetteville (south of Atlanta) Georgia.
Hello everyone, My name is Dr. Joan O. Aina, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CWON. I am currently in Fayetteville (south of Atlanta) Georgia.
(470) 594-3368 View (470) 594-3368
Photo of Myrtle Davenport, MSN, APRN, NP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Myrtle Davenport
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30215
As a mother, wife, and working professional, I understand the overwhelming feeling of being pulled in many directions all at once, while trying to manage life challenges. All of this can cause stress and mental imbalance. As a mental health provider, it is my duty to provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment. You can expect to be heard, emotionally validated, and supported. With my knowledge and clinical background, I can assist you in achieving optimal mental health and well-being. My mission is to promote mental health awareness within the community to reduce the stigma associated with mental health.
As a mother, wife, and working professional, I understand the overwhelming feeling of being pulled in many directions all at once, while trying to manage life challenges. All of this can cause stress and mental imbalance. As a mental health provider, it is my duty to provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment. You can expect to be heard, emotionally validated, and supported. With my knowledge and clinical background, I can assist you in achieving optimal mental health and well-being. My mission is to promote mental health awareness within the community to reduce the stigma associated with mental health.
(786) 509-6734 View (786) 509-6734
Photo of Okah Anyokwu - Avant Interventional Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Avant Interventional Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30214
At Avant Interventional Psychiatry we have a passion for clear minds and better lives. Our interdisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, therapists, and medical assistant staff are here to serve all of your psychiatric needs. We see children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients who are dealing with any psychiatric conditions or behavioral disorders.
At Avant Interventional Psychiatry we have a passion for clear minds and better lives. Our interdisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, therapists, and medical assistant staff are here to serve all of your psychiatric needs. We see children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients who are dealing with any psychiatric conditions or behavioral disorders.
(678) 580-6836 x113 View (678) 580-6836 x113
Photo of Okah Justin Anyokwu - Avant Interventional Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Avant Interventional Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30214
At Avant Interventional Psychiatry we have a passion for clear minds and better lives. We specialize in TMS Therapy for Treatment Resistant Depression. We also specialize in Addiction and Suboxone Therapy. Our interdisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, therapists, and medical assistant staff are here to serve all of your psychiatric needs. We see children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients who are dealing with any psychiatric conditions or behavioral disorders. We currently have three (3) office locations in Georgia: Austell, Fayetteville, and Marietta.
At Avant Interventional Psychiatry we have a passion for clear minds and better lives. We specialize in TMS Therapy for Treatment Resistant Depression. We also specialize in Addiction and Suboxone Therapy. Our interdisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, therapists, and medical assistant staff are here to serve all of your psychiatric needs. We see children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients who are dealing with any psychiatric conditions or behavioral disorders. We currently have three (3) office locations in Georgia: Austell, Fayetteville, and Marietta.
(678) 607-9135 View (678) 607-9135
Photo of Anthony J. Hall, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anthony J. Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, GA 30214  (Online Only)
At Ascension Psychiatric Services we believe that emotional wellness is complex and often misunderstood. It is a result of the combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. We employ the use of evidenced based therapeutic techniques along with judicious use of medication to address each of these components. It is our mission to Ascend above expectations by providing compassionate and personalized care to all, while building relationships and trust.
At Ascension Psychiatric Services we believe that emotional wellness is complex and often misunderstood. It is a result of the combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. We employ the use of evidenced based therapeutic techniques along with judicious use of medication to address each of these components. It is our mission to Ascend above expectations by providing compassionate and personalized care to all, while building relationships and trust.
(404) 737-3006 View (404) 737-3006
Photo of Naureen Munawar, MD, Psychiatrist
Naureen Munawar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30214
As one of 3 Psychiatrist of Apex Family Healthcare Services, our focus is on meeting the Comprehensive Psychological Needs of the Patient. I am on site 5 days weekly. We collaborate with PCP's, Specialty MD's and other Health Professionals to ensure that our patients treatment is Comprehensive and Effective. We offer medication management, psycho-therapy, substance abuse treatment, individual, family, marriage counseling all in one location. We service children, adolescents and adults. W
As one of 3 Psychiatrist of Apex Family Healthcare Services, our focus is on meeting the Comprehensive Psychological Needs of the Patient. I am on site 5 days weekly. We collaborate with PCP's, Specialty MD's and other Health Professionals to ensure that our patients treatment is Comprehensive and Effective. We offer medication management, psycho-therapy, substance abuse treatment, individual, family, marriage counseling all in one location. We service children, adolescents and adults. W
(678) 883-7724 View (678) 883-7724
Photo of Rebekah Brown, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebekah Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fayetteville, GA 30214  (Online Only)
Are you ready to make positive changes in your life but don’t know where to begin? Is anxiety or depression holding you back from truly living and not just existing? Maybe you want to feel more peace in your life? I am Rebekah Brown, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of comprehensive nursing experience, and I would love to help.
Are you ready to make positive changes in your life but don’t know where to begin? Is anxiety or depression holding you back from truly living and not just existing? Maybe you want to feel more peace in your life? I am Rebekah Brown, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of comprehensive nursing experience, and I would love to help.
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Photo of Fatimat Olumayowa O Agbojeyin, PMHNP, MSN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fatimat Olumayowa O Agbojeyin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, NP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30215  (Online Only)
(770) 796-4563 View (770) 796-4563

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Samantha Zeisloft, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Zeisloft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2022. I provide inclusive, patient-centered care. Patient demographics-20s to 40s. I care for patients in alternative lifestyles polyamory and other underserved populations. Practice largely focuses on PTSD, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, Anxiety, and Trauma. I empower informed decisions & holistic treatment (meds, therapy, lifestyle changes). Telehealth M-F evenings & Sun GA & WA licensed. I do not prescribe controlled substances.
Hello! I am a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2022. I provide inclusive, patient-centered care. Patient demographics-20s to 40s. I care for patients in alternative lifestyles polyamory and other underserved populations. Practice largely focuses on PTSD, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, Anxiety, and Trauma. I empower informed decisions & holistic treatment (meds, therapy, lifestyle changes). Telehealth M-F evenings & Sun GA & WA licensed. I do not prescribe controlled substances.
(678) 345-6372 View (678) 345-6372
Photo of Crystal L Nelson, MD, Psychiatrist
Crystal L Nelson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269
Each client is unique and their treatment should be as well. Clients visiting me can receive a full range of psychiatric services including Genetic testing , Nutritional Psychiatry and TMS for treatment resistant depression. I am committed to educating my clients about their mental health and empowering them in the healing process. I believe mental health is mental power when clients understand how to use it, which can create a positive outcome.
Each client is unique and their treatment should be as well. Clients visiting me can receive a full range of psychiatric services including Genetic testing , Nutritional Psychiatry and TMS for treatment resistant depression. I am committed to educating my clients about their mental health and empowering them in the healing process. I believe mental health is mental power when clients understand how to use it, which can create a positive outcome.
(678) 552-1002 View (678) 552-1002
Photo of Louis Barton, MD, Psychiatrist
Louis Barton
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269
Louis Barton is a Psychiatrist with more than 40 years of experience. He started UCLA when he was 16 and by 18 was working as an EEG technician in a sleep research lab. In his senior year of medical school, Louis completed a student clinical research fellowship at the NIMH in psychopharmacology. Louis believes it is important to understand the patient's context of their symptoms and the impact they have on the whole person, as the same symptom can be from very different and overlapping issues. He strives to use fewer medications, prescribed at doses based on the science.
Louis Barton is a Psychiatrist with more than 40 years of experience. He started UCLA when he was 16 and by 18 was working as an EEG technician in a sleep research lab. In his senior year of medical school, Louis completed a student clinical research fellowship at the NIMH in psychopharmacology. Louis believes it is important to understand the patient's context of their symptoms and the impact they have on the whole person, as the same symptom can be from very different and overlapping issues. He strives to use fewer medications, prescribed at doses based on the science.
(706) 916-3505 View (706) 916-3505
Photo of Sabitha Aligeti, MD, Psychiatrist
Sabitha Aligeti
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269
Dr. Sabitha Aligeti is a board-certified psychiatrist who joined Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals in August 2018. Dr. Aligeti has clinical experience working with adults and veteran populations in inpatient, outpatient, community and multi-disciplinary settings. Dr. Aligeti's treatment services include: conventional and evidence-based approaches such as pharmacogenetic testing, neurology treatments like TMS, integration mental health care, and telepsychiatry.
Dr. Sabitha Aligeti is a board-certified psychiatrist who joined Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals in August 2018. Dr. Aligeti has clinical experience working with adults and veteran populations in inpatient, outpatient, community and multi-disciplinary settings. Dr. Aligeti's treatment services include: conventional and evidence-based approaches such as pharmacogenetic testing, neurology treatments like TMS, integration mental health care, and telepsychiatry.
(770) 762-3912 View (770) 762-3912
Photo of Franklin Ezeh - Mental Wealth Resources, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Mental Wealth Resources, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyrone, GA 30290  (Online Only)
I have your attention! Thanks for looking this way! My name is Dr. Franklin Ezeh and I'm passionate about helping people achieve mental wellness through psychotherapy and/or pharmacotherapy. Feelings of depression, anxiety, guilt or anger can be overwhelming and greatly impact your quality of life. Here, you will find a psychiatrist that is intentional about connecting with you, validating your experiences and working towards your defined goals. Great outcomes begin with great therapeutic alliance. Together, we can tackle your unique circumstances and get you to Mental Wealth! Please, visit our website & Book an appointment today!
I have your attention! Thanks for looking this way! My name is Dr. Franklin Ezeh and I'm passionate about helping people achieve mental wellness through psychotherapy and/or pharmacotherapy. Feelings of depression, anxiety, guilt or anger can be overwhelming and greatly impact your quality of life. Here, you will find a psychiatrist that is intentional about connecting with you, validating your experiences and working towards your defined goals. Great outcomes begin with great therapeutic alliance. Together, we can tackle your unique circumstances and get you to Mental Wealth! Please, visit our website & Book an appointment today!
(678) 605-9062 View (678) 605-9062
Photo of Zane McCarthy, MD, Psychiatrist
Zane McCarthy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peachtree City, GA 30269
A well-adjusted life is a balance between mind, body, spirit, and environment. I believe quality care can come in the form of therapy, medication, or a combination of both. I believe in prescribing medications only when clinically indicated.
A well-adjusted life is a balance between mind, body, spirit, and environment. I believe quality care can come in the form of therapy, medication, or a combination of both. I believe in prescribing medications only when clinically indicated.
(470) 288-1864 View (470) 288-1864
Photo of Laura Guinade, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laura Guinade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269  (Online Only)
Hi. I am Laura Guinade, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia College and State University and a certification through the American Nursing Credentialing Center, as a PMHNP. I offer a caring, nonjudgmental, and laid back atmosphere empowering my patients to reach their optimal mental health goals. It is my belief to approach each patient's mental health individually and use an evidence based holistic approach incorporating all avenues that may effect one's mental state.
Hi. I am Laura Guinade, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia College and State University and a certification through the American Nursing Credentialing Center, as a PMHNP. I offer a caring, nonjudgmental, and laid back atmosphere empowering my patients to reach their optimal mental health goals. It is my belief to approach each patient's mental health individually and use an evidence based holistic approach incorporating all avenues that may effect one's mental state.
(770) 762-2492 View (770) 762-2492
Photo of Olumayowa Agbojeyin, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olumayowa Agbojeyin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269
Mayo Agbojeyin, NP is board certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 16 years of nursing experience pediatric nursing, supportive and palliative care, and pain management. Her areas of clinical interest and expertise include addiction medicine. Mayo enjoys music and travelling.
Mayo Agbojeyin, NP is board certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 16 years of nursing experience pediatric nursing, supportive and palliative care, and pain management. Her areas of clinical interest and expertise include addiction medicine. Mayo enjoys music and travelling.
(770) 525-5042 View (770) 525-5042
Photo of Shane Savage, MD, Psychiatrist
Shane Savage
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269
I employ evidence-based, research-driven services to evaluate and treat various mental health disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. I am conservative with the use of psychotropic medications and work closely with my clients to address biological, medical, social, and environmental aspects affecting mental health. I enjoy collaborating with clients and their families, with the goal of improving overall health.
I employ evidence-based, research-driven services to evaluate and treat various mental health disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. I am conservative with the use of psychotropic medications and work closely with my clients to address biological, medical, social, and environmental aspects affecting mental health. I enjoy collaborating with clients and their families, with the goal of improving overall health.
(770) 766-0422 View (770) 766-0422

See more therapy options for Fayetteville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Fayetteville, GA

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Fayetteville, GA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
91% Depression
91% Trauma and PTSD
82% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
82% Medication Management
73% ADHD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
90% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Fayetteville, GA see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Fayetteville?

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.