Psychiatrists in Harlem, GA
![Photo of Stefanie Livingston, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/704f985f-54d6-4062-a716-f2fe8dc2ff66/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mrs. Stefanie Livingston is a compassionate adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. As a part of her formal education, she attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Here, she received her master's degree specializing in psychiatric/mental health nursing. Based in Augusta, GA, Mrs. Livingston is an integral member of LifeStance Health - Georgia. She provides each client with the professional concern and attention needed to attain an improved quality of life. Mrs. Livingston treats anxiety, depression, post-partum depression, bipolar disorders, anger management concerns and PTSD, etc.
Mrs. Stefanie Livingston is a compassionate adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. As a part of her formal education, she attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Here, she received her master's degree specializing in psychiatric/mental health nursing. Based in Augusta, GA, Mrs. Livingston is an integral member of LifeStance Health - Georgia. She provides each client with the professional concern and attention needed to attain an improved quality of life. Mrs. Livingston treats anxiety, depression, post-partum depression, bipolar disorders, anger management concerns and PTSD, etc.
![Photo of Jennifer Logan, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c31d74d9-dc2e-43ad-ad0e-ef4e9f6d7852/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jennifer Logan attended Augusta University where she received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health. While her clinical experience covers the lifespan, she has a grounded combination of clinical, research and educational experience in working with the adult and veteran population. Dr. Logan has a solid and diverse background in leadership and academic excellence. She is a member of Phi Kappa Phi honor society and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
Dr. Jennifer Logan attended Augusta University where she received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health. While her clinical experience covers the lifespan, she has a grounded combination of clinical, research and educational experience in working with the adult and veteran population. Dr. Logan has a solid and diverse background in leadership and academic excellence. She is a member of Phi Kappa Phi honor society and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Linda Y. Evans, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a490f554-96cd-4904-bc7f-d5defeb11d67/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Linda Y. Evans is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 1987. Dr. Evans is very thorough in her assessments. She does not just give a pill for a symptom. Dr. Evans strives to understand the person as an individual and tries to see their problems in the context of their life experiences. The trusting relationship between doctor and patient is necessary for effective and safe treatment. Outside of work, Dr. Evans loves to read, do Pilates, try new recipes (especially cakes and cookies), walk, travel, and spend time with her family.
Dr. Linda Y. Evans is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 1987. Dr. Evans is very thorough in her assessments. She does not just give a pill for a symptom. Dr. Evans strives to understand the person as an individual and tries to see their problems in the context of their life experiences. The trusting relationship between doctor and patient is necessary for effective and safe treatment. Outside of work, Dr. Evans loves to read, do Pilates, try new recipes (especially cakes and cookies), walk, travel, and spend time with her family.
![Photo of Harriet Kay, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de52a54c-3b27-4b65-b15c-732caba13cb0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science from University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have been a provider for over 25 years first as an RN working with clients having experienced catastrophic injuries or life-limiting disease in palliative care and trauma and then as a Nurse Practitioner in both Psychiatry and Palliative Care. I have followed clients in residential, PHP/IOP, and outpatient levels of care for mental health and alcohol/substance use treatment.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science from University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have been a provider for over 25 years first as an RN working with clients having experienced catastrophic injuries or life-limiting disease in palliative care and trauma and then as a Nurse Practitioner in both Psychiatry and Palliative Care. I have followed clients in residential, PHP/IOP, and outpatient levels of care for mental health and alcohol/substance use treatment.
![Photo of Andrea R. Jackson, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c09bd787-489e-4ef8-85ec-bbf4104c6b76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea R. Jackson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2023. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor's degree in Health Promotion and Education. She went on to obtain a Bachelor's of Nursing from Valdosta State University and a Master's of Nursing degree from Rutgers University, followed by a post-graduate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate from Wilkes University. Andrea provides evidence-based, patient-centered care to individuals seeking to improve and maintain their mental health.
Andrea R. Jackson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2023. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor's degree in Health Promotion and Education. She went on to obtain a Bachelor's of Nursing from Valdosta State University and a Master's of Nursing degree from Rutgers University, followed by a post-graduate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate from Wilkes University. Andrea provides evidence-based, patient-centered care to individuals seeking to improve and maintain their mental health.
![Photo of Kathy Dexter, MLS, MHA, MPA, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b64e4d42-ce66-4b89-bf1a-1a4dc4a0dd2f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathy Dexter
Physician Assistant, MLS, MHA, MPA, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Not Verified Not Verified
Grovetown, GA 30813
Ms. Dexter focuses on supporting the adult patient’s total mental health and emotional well-being. She encourages family involvement in the therapeutic process. Discovering the optimal medication regimen for each patient is her goal. She believes that psychotherapy is an essential adjunct to medication in improving each person’s quality of life.
Ms. Dexter focuses on supporting the adult patient’s total mental health and emotional well-being. She encourages family involvement in the therapeutic process. Discovering the optimal medication regimen for each patient is her goal. She believes that psychotherapy is an essential adjunct to medication in improving each person’s quality of life.
![Photo of India Williams - Lotus Health and Wellness Inc , MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38119b65-e1e5-4ed6-b639-932a3709142f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lotus Health and Wellness Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909 (Online Only)
Have you ever felt that life is pulling you in every direction possible; between work, relationships, friendships, parenting and you're struggling to keep your head above water to breathe? I can help you understand what anxiety symptoms look like in the physical form, and together we can help identify your triggers, formulate a plan to balance it all, and discuss medication management. Are you self isolating? Neglecting yourself? Have you noticed that you cry more more so than not? Are you having trouble sleeping? Depression may show up different for everyone, but the aching pain that it delivers is the same.
Have you ever felt that life is pulling you in every direction possible; between work, relationships, friendships, parenting and you're struggling to keep your head above water to breathe? I can help you understand what anxiety symptoms look like in the physical form, and together we can help identify your triggers, formulate a plan to balance it all, and discuss medication management. Are you self isolating? Neglecting yourself? Have you noticed that you cry more more so than not? Are you having trouble sleeping? Depression may show up different for everyone, but the aching pain that it delivers is the same.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Stephanie Abel - Total Care Behavioral Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c4240b4-36a5-4233-99d9-aeed3e3e0d97/2/320x400.jpeg)
Total Care Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loganville, GA 30052
Our practice specialize in treating adults and adolescents with a range of mental health concerns. Stephanie treat clients in a professional and confidential setting that feels safe and non-judgmental. Her strengths include working with vulnerable populations, those with severe and persistent mental illness, psychotic disorders, ADHD diagnosed patients, and individuals affected by traumatic experiences, Stephanie enjoy giving clients individualized attention, and the personalized care they deserved.
Our practice specialize in treating adults and adolescents with a range of mental health concerns. Stephanie treat clients in a professional and confidential setting that feels safe and non-judgmental. Her strengths include working with vulnerable populations, those with severe and persistent mental illness, psychotic disorders, ADHD diagnosed patients, and individuals affected by traumatic experiences, Stephanie enjoy giving clients individualized attention, and the personalized care they deserved.
![Photo of Dr. Demetrice Grier - Affordable Mental Health, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72456e32-8e2d-4efe-a460-37f0085e8fb9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Affordable Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30901 (Online Only)
We are all human and go through life challenges. I am confident that I can provide empathy and support with the challenges you face, and offer various approaches to overcome them.
We are all human and go through life challenges. I am confident that I can provide empathy and support with the challenges you face, and offer various approaches to overcome them.
![Photo of Schvon Bussey, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7767d65c-5001-42a9-946f-72f2d5a20464/1/320x400.jpeg)
Schvon Bussey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30901 (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed, down or stress? Are you struggling to find your inner you? Is it hard to forgive yourself? I am here to help you develop a sense of self needs and self purpose. Together, we can identify the tools to help you get back in balance. We'll use a holistic approach, addressing the needs of your whole person.
Do you feel overwhelmed, down or stress? Are you struggling to find your inner you? Is it hard to forgive yourself? I am here to help you develop a sense of self needs and self purpose. Together, we can identify the tools to help you get back in balance. We'll use a holistic approach, addressing the needs of your whole person.
![Photo of Dr. Pristella Ohanaja - Adventist Behavioral Health, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14a3b5ef-eddc-4716-b5a3-5c726ef774ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adventist Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30601
My name is Dr. Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
My name is Dr. Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
![Photo of Jocelyn Kelly Bayliss, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b27daf3-b0a6-4365-b82e-6a2837185826/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jocelyn Kelly Bayliss
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30904 (Online Only)
We are committed to helping children, adolescents, adults and families achieve behavioral health solutions in a supportive, comforting and confidential setting. We envision to hear our patients say that we provide compassionate care in improving their lives, that we are respectful of everyone’s unique path towards their own healing, and we enhance the health of our community. We strive to instill hope, to restore and rebuild the lives of our patients and their families by partnering so that every individual assisted can achieve what is possible.
We are committed to helping children, adolescents, adults and families achieve behavioral health solutions in a supportive, comforting and confidential setting. We envision to hear our patients say that we provide compassionate care in improving their lives, that we are respectful of everyone’s unique path towards their own healing, and we enhance the health of our community. We strive to instill hope, to restore and rebuild the lives of our patients and their families by partnering so that every individual assisted can achieve what is possible.
![Photo of Donna Londino, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/080ad25a-5fbd-4681-9e19-794e13408a1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Donna L. Londino is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 2000. She has a BS from Augusta College with Medical Training through the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta and completed her Internship, Residency, and Fellowship training through the Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior at the Medical College of Georgia. To promote optimal growth and development to children and adolescents, Donna offers strategies that enhance healthy family functioning and also assists individuals transitioning to young adulthood or making other transitions in their lives.
Donna L. Londino is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 2000. She has a BS from Augusta College with Medical Training through the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta and completed her Internship, Residency, and Fellowship training through the Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior at the Medical College of Georgia. To promote optimal growth and development to children and adolescents, Donna offers strategies that enhance healthy family functioning and also assists individuals transitioning to young adulthood or making other transitions in their lives.
![Photo of Shuconda Sturdivant - Apex Integrative Health and Wellness, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6919d193-172a-4648-a2f2-69505b29a28c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Apex Integrative Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Conyers, GA 30013 (Online Only)
At Apex Integrative Health our goal is to empower individuals to achieve balance and inner peace. We are board certified psychiatric nurse practitioners with over 20 years of health care experience. Our treatment approach is integrative, blending medication management, nutrition counseling, psychotherapy, exercise, and other wellness focused approaches catered to each individual's needs. We believe in treating the whole person, addressing underlying issues and promoting long-term healing and resilience.
At Apex Integrative Health our goal is to empower individuals to achieve balance and inner peace. We are board certified psychiatric nurse practitioners with over 20 years of health care experience. Our treatment approach is integrative, blending medication management, nutrition counseling, psychotherapy, exercise, and other wellness focused approaches catered to each individual's needs. We believe in treating the whole person, addressing underlying issues and promoting long-term healing and resilience.
![Photo of Hawah Guar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38a9a8b8-6726-4a6f-b2aa-0ff01237cc6a/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a bedside ICU nurse of 25 years while caring for the critically ill patients, I realized the psychological and physiological burdens placed on the patients and their families. I wanted to provide more than just bedside care for my patient. As a provider I could provide holistic care: physiological, and spiritual care to my patients so I obtained my master specializing family nurse practitioner. For the last four years I have been providing care as a hospitalist mid-level to acutely ill patients and their families.
As a bedside ICU nurse of 25 years while caring for the critically ill patients, I realized the psychological and physiological burdens placed on the patients and their families. I wanted to provide more than just bedside care for my patient. As a provider I could provide holistic care: physiological, and spiritual care to my patients so I obtained my master specializing family nurse practitioner. For the last four years I have been providing care as a hospitalist mid-level to acutely ill patients and their families.
![Photo of Lindsay Thomas, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62edc350-8e5c-4c94-af0e-0717fba8e43a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dacula, GA 30019
I am a compassionate and patient focused psychiatric nurse practitioner. For many patients seeking help, there are times that you might struggle to want to get out of bed in the morning and face the day, or you feel anxious and worried about everything. You may feel shame and guilt for feeling this way, and I'm here to provide you support and guidance on your journey to better mental health. I want you to participate in your life again and enjoy the friends and family around you. It's important you know you aren't alone in this struggle.
I am a compassionate and patient focused psychiatric nurse practitioner. For many patients seeking help, there are times that you might struggle to want to get out of bed in the morning and face the day, or you feel anxious and worried about everything. You may feel shame and guilt for feeling this way, and I'm here to provide you support and guidance on your journey to better mental health. I want you to participate in your life again and enjoy the friends and family around you. It's important you know you aren't alone in this struggle.
![Photo of Ablavi Adodo Agomessou - Ivydale Wellness center, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77f12b02-b234-414b-a55a-7d38b6477c6c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ivydale Wellness center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winder, GA 30680
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Each person present with unique nuances as to how a problem behaviorally reveals itself in his or her life. I am a doctoral-prepared dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and as such, every client treatment is individualized and holistic at the same time. I use an integrated approach to care with aims to empower individual's authenticity to make proactive decisions, and enhance his or her ability to effectively cope with the full variety of life's circumstances with using evidence-based practice.
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Each person present with unique nuances as to how a problem behaviorally reveals itself in his or her life. I am a doctoral-prepared dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and as such, every client treatment is individualized and holistic at the same time. I use an integrated approach to care with aims to empower individual's authenticity to make proactive decisions, and enhance his or her ability to effectively cope with the full variety of life's circumstances with using evidence-based practice.
![Photo of Nurul Hoque, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c0bf0aa-dad7-47ed-8983-e6a08b47812e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical practice, specializing in a comprehensive range of psychiatric conditions including Schizophrenia spectrum, Psychotic disorders, Bipolar and related disorders, Depressive and Anxiety disorders, Trauma- and stressor-related disorders, Somatic symptom disorders, and Substance-related and addictive disorders.
I am an experienced psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical practice, specializing in a comprehensive range of psychiatric conditions including Schizophrenia spectrum, Psychotic disorders, Bipolar and related disorders, Depressive and Anxiety disorders, Trauma- and stressor-related disorders, Somatic symptom disorders, and Substance-related and addictive disorders.
![Photo of Donna Cross - Tranquility Behavioral Services LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d8a98f8-03bd-4e38-afef-e8f4a1f5689d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tranquility Behavioral Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Conyers, GA 30013
The clients that I am best positioned to serve are clients with mental health disorders. I provide comprehensive care to individuals and families. I form strong therapeutic relationships with individuals across the lifespan- becoming familiar with their stories and challenges. I promote well-being through prevention and education, and collaboration with patient and family. I want my clients to have the aspirations, desires, and a vision that will allow them to grow and thrive in their respective communities.
The clients that I am best positioned to serve are clients with mental health disorders. I provide comprehensive care to individuals and families. I form strong therapeutic relationships with individuals across the lifespan- becoming familiar with their stories and challenges. I promote well-being through prevention and education, and collaboration with patient and family. I want my clients to have the aspirations, desires, and a vision that will allow them to grow and thrive in their respective communities.
![Photo of Dr. Angelique Lawson, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6149796c-d997-4b6f-b79f-038a41ee3080/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Angelique Lawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30901 (Online Only)
Hello, I’m so glad you are here! I’m Dr. Angelique Lawson, a doctoral prepared board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) & want to welcome you to our telepsychiatry practice, Inner Strength Psychiatry LLC! In our fast-paced world, I understand how challenging it can be to prioritize your mental health. That is why I am here to offer you accessible & compassionate telepsychiatry services right from the comfort of your own space. With years of experience & a passion for mental wellness, I’m dedicated to providing personalized care that meets your unique needs. Book with me today by clicking on my website!
Hello, I’m so glad you are here! I’m Dr. Angelique Lawson, a doctoral prepared board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) & want to welcome you to our telepsychiatry practice, Inner Strength Psychiatry LLC! In our fast-paced world, I understand how challenging it can be to prioritize your mental health. That is why I am here to offer you accessible & compassionate telepsychiatry services right from the comfort of your own space. With years of experience & a passion for mental wellness, I’m dedicated to providing personalized care that meets your unique needs. Book with me today by clicking on my website!
See more therapy options for Harlem
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Harlem, GA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Harlem, GA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Humana |
How Psychiatrists in Harlem, GA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Harlem?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.