Psychiatrists in Johns Creek, GA

Photo of Piyush Patel, Psychiatrist, MD
Piyush Patel
Psychiatrist, MD
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Dr. Piyush C. Patel is a board-certified Psychiatrist practicing in the Atlanta area since 2005. He received his medical degree from the N.H.L Municipal Medical College, Gujarat university of India, completed his Adult Psychiatry Residency from East Tennessee State University-James H. Quillen College of Medicine, and completed his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Training from Emory University School of Medicine.
Dr. Piyush C. Patel is a board-certified Psychiatrist practicing in the Atlanta area since 2005. He received his medical degree from the N.H.L Municipal Medical College, Gujarat university of India, completed his Adult Psychiatry Residency from East Tennessee State University-James H. Quillen College of Medicine, and completed his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Training from Emory University School of Medicine.
(470) 634-8904 View (470) 634-8904
Photo of Jeffrey Rausch, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeffrey Rausch
Psychiatrist, MD
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Dr. Jeffrey Rausch is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 1982. He obtained his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia, completed his psychiatry residency at University of South Carolina, and took a fellowship in Psychopharmacology Research at University of California School of Medicine, San Diego having since served then on faculties of UCSD, MCG, and Emory University, previously as Professor and Case Distinguished Chair of Psychiatry and Health Behavior at the Medical College of Georgia.
Dr. Jeffrey Rausch is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 1982. He obtained his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia, completed his psychiatry residency at University of South Carolina, and took a fellowship in Psychopharmacology Research at University of California School of Medicine, San Diego having since served then on faculties of UCSD, MCG, and Emory University, previously as Professor and Case Distinguished Chair of Psychiatry and Health Behavior at the Medical College of Georgia.
(470) 570-6138 View (470) 570-6138
Photo of Akeela Dossa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Akeela Dossa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Akeela Dossa is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. She is passionate about providing holistic care and sees patients 6-65 years old. She strives to provide the best care that she can provide for her patients. She graduated with Distinction from the University of Virginia with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, then from Emory University with her Master of Science in Nursing, and then graduated with a certificate of excellence from Augusta University with a Post-Master's certificate in Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse practitioner across the Lifespan.
Akeela Dossa is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. She is passionate about providing holistic care and sees patients 6-65 years old. She strives to provide the best care that she can provide for her patients. She graduated with Distinction from the University of Virginia with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, then from Emory University with her Master of Science in Nursing, and then graduated with a certificate of excellence from Augusta University with a Post-Master's certificate in Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse practitioner across the Lifespan.
(470) 722-8198 View (470) 722-8198
Photo of Naveed Ummed, Psychiatrist, MD
Naveed Ummed
Psychiatrist, MD
Johns Creek, GA 30097
I am board certified in Psychiatry. I see adults 18 and up in my office in John's Creek and Dunwoody. I am also part of Emory Health Network. Treating clients with respect, integrity and compassion are my priorities. I collaboratively create an individualized and humanistic treatment plan tailored to each client's own specific needs and goals. When managing medications, I incorporate the most current and best evidence based practices.
I am board certified in Psychiatry. I see adults 18 and up in my office in John's Creek and Dunwoody. I am also part of Emory Health Network. Treating clients with respect, integrity and compassion are my priorities. I collaboratively create an individualized and humanistic treatment plan tailored to each client's own specific needs and goals. When managing medications, I incorporate the most current and best evidence based practices.
(678) 607-8364 View (678) 607-8364
Photo of Folashade Taiwo Umoren - Global Outreach Medical and Behavioral LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Global Outreach Medical and Behavioral LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Hello, I'm Folashade Umoren. If you are feeling overwhelmed, struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I want you to know- you are not alone. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Geriatric Psychiatry. My role is not just to treat symptoms, but to walk alongside you with compassion, respect, and understanding. I take the time to truly listen- to hear your story, your struggles, and your strengths-so that together, we can create a path toward healing that feels right for you.
Hello, I'm Folashade Umoren. If you are feeling overwhelmed, struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I want you to know- you are not alone. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Geriatric Psychiatry. My role is not just to treat symptoms, but to walk alongside you with compassion, respect, and understanding. I take the time to truly listen- to hear your story, your struggles, and your strengths-so that together, we can create a path toward healing that feels right for you.
(678) 580-4422 View (678) 580-4422
Photo of Samantha Day, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Samantha Day
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Samantha Day is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who started practicing in 2014. She obtained her Master of Sciences in Nursing and furthered her education as an Adult Nurse Practitioner, and later completed education and licensure to include Psychiatric-Mental Health and Board Certification as a Nurse Practitioner. Samantha believes in a holistic, evidenced-based approach to patient care.
Samantha Day is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who started practicing in 2014. She obtained her Master of Sciences in Nursing and furthered her education as an Adult Nurse Practitioner, and later completed education and licensure to include Psychiatric-Mental Health and Board Certification as a Nurse Practitioner. Samantha believes in a holistic, evidenced-based approach to patient care.
(470) 863-1881 View (470) 863-1881
Photo of Joan Bourne - Wonderland Behavioral & Mental Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LMSW
Wonderland Behavioral & Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LMSW
14 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with children, teens, and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and relationship issues. They may feel overwhelmed by school, relationships, or life transitions, unsure of how to manage their emotions or move forward. They want relief from stress, clarity in their thoughts, and confidence in themselves. More than anything, they seek understanding and the tools to thrive. I help by providing a safe, judgment-free space where we work together to build resilience, develop healthy coping strategies, and create a plan that supports their mental and emotional well-being.
I work with children, teens, and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and relationship issues. They may feel overwhelmed by school, relationships, or life transitions, unsure of how to manage their emotions or move forward. They want relief from stress, clarity in their thoughts, and confidence in themselves. More than anything, they seek understanding and the tools to thrive. I help by providing a safe, judgment-free space where we work together to build resilience, develop healthy coping strategies, and create a plan that supports their mental and emotional well-being.
(770) 766-0589 View (770) 766-0589
Photo of Valentina Asamaigor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Valentina Asamaigor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Valentina Asamaigor is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2021. She is a graduate of Walden University, South University, and Herzing University. She earned an MSN and specialized in Psychiatry. Valentina believes in providing care with a premier focus on safety. In her spare time, Valentina enjoys outdoor activities, especially gardening and hiking.
Valentina Asamaigor is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2021. She is a graduate of Walden University, South University, and Herzing University. She earned an MSN and specialized in Psychiatry. Valentina believes in providing care with a premier focus on safety. In her spare time, Valentina enjoys outdoor activities, especially gardening and hiking.
(470) 688-3528 View (470) 688-3528
Photo of Shakaola Pinero, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Shakaola Pinero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Shakaola is a Board Certified Adult Health Nurse Practitioner with an extensive background in Mental Health. She has worked both inpatient, outpatient, and consulting services for the adult population. Combing clinical education and experience has molded her into a well-rounded Practitioner. It has also provided a strong foundation for optimum patient care and improving patient outcomes. She is dedicated to improving access to emotional and behavioral health services and providing individualized care that addresses the whole person.
Shakaola is a Board Certified Adult Health Nurse Practitioner with an extensive background in Mental Health. She has worked both inpatient, outpatient, and consulting services for the adult population. Combing clinical education and experience has molded her into a well-rounded Practitioner. It has also provided a strong foundation for optimum patient care and improving patient outcomes. She is dedicated to improving access to emotional and behavioral health services and providing individualized care that addresses the whole person.
(470) 745-7082 View (470) 745-7082
Photo of Jean Cadet, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jean Cadet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Jean is an addiction specialist who will lead you on the road to recovery. Jean also treats Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder. He works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach.
Jean is an addiction specialist who will lead you on the road to recovery. Jean also treats Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder. He works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach.
(470) 722-8262 View (470) 722-8262
Photo of Jose I. Reyes - Turnwell Mental Health of Alpharetta, Psychiatrist, MD
Now open and accepting patients! Turnwell Mental Health provides comprehensive mental health services in Alpharetta and the greater Atlanta area. We are dedicated to fostering a supportive environment where every patient receives individualized treatment tailored to their unique needs, promoting overall well-being and resilience.
Now open and accepting patients! Turnwell Mental Health provides comprehensive mental health services in Alpharetta and the greater Atlanta area. We are dedicated to fostering a supportive environment where every patient receives individualized treatment tailored to their unique needs, promoting overall well-being and resilience.
(770) 288-5777 View (770) 288-5777
Photo of Seong Shim, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Seong Shim
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Dr. Seong Shim is a board-certified psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 1995. He earned his M.D. at Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, South Korea, his Ph.D. at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology/Psychopharmacology, and completed his Residency and Schizophrenia Research Fellowship at Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Shim has provided psychiatric service, education and conducted neuroscience research for mental health on faculties of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and the Chicago Medical School over 20 years.
Dr. Seong Shim is a board-certified psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 1995. He earned his M.D. at Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, South Korea, his Ph.D. at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology/Psychopharmacology, and completed his Residency and Schizophrenia Research Fellowship at Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Shim has provided psychiatric service, education and conducted neuroscience research for mental health on faculties of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and the Chicago Medical School over 20 years.
(470) 470-8974 View (470) 470-8974
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(470) 516-2424 View (470) 516-2424
Photo of Moshe Bachar, Psychiatrist, MD
Moshe Bachar
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Johns Creek, GA 30097
My ideal client is someone ready to take the courageous step toward recovery. They may struggle with addiction, withdrawal symptoms, or co-occurring issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. They feel overwhelmed, ashamed, or stuck in destructive patterns, yet they deeply desire change. Their goals include achieving sobriety, improving mental health, rebuilding relationships, and reclaiming a sense of purpose. They want compassionate, expert care to help them heal and create lasting transformation.
My ideal client is someone ready to take the courageous step toward recovery. They may struggle with addiction, withdrawal symptoms, or co-occurring issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. They feel overwhelmed, ashamed, or stuck in destructive patterns, yet they deeply desire change. Their goals include achieving sobriety, improving mental health, rebuilding relationships, and reclaiming a sense of purpose. They want compassionate, expert care to help them heal and create lasting transformation.
(470) 348-1993 View (470) 348-1993
Photo of Armeshia Lawrence, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Armeshia Lawrence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m Armeshia Lawrence, a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I’m licensed to provide a wide range of services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families in outpatient mental health clinics, psychiatric emergency services, private practice, or in hospital and community health center settings.
I’m Armeshia Lawrence, a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I’m licensed to provide a wide range of services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families in outpatient mental health clinics, psychiatric emergency services, private practice, or in hospital and community health center settings.
(470) 202-3646 View (470) 202-3646
Photo of Holly Hart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Holly Hart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Holly Hart graduated from Vanderbilt University with a Master’s of Science in Nursing and is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She treats adults with a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, substance abuse, and eating disorders using a combination of treatment options, including medication, supplements, therapy, psycho-education, and more. Services offered include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
Holly Hart graduated from Vanderbilt University with a Master’s of Science in Nursing and is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She treats adults with a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, substance abuse, and eating disorders using a combination of treatment options, including medication, supplements, therapy, psycho-education, and more. Services offered include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
(678) 929-5776 View (678) 929-5776
Photo of Simone Graham-Murray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Simone Graham-Murray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I primarily work in substance abuse treatment with clients who also experience mental disorders.
Hello! I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I primarily work in substance abuse treatment with clients who also experience mental disorders.
(706) 690-3632 View (706) 690-3632
Photo of Athena Nawar, Psychiatrist, MD
Athena Nawar
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Nawar's focus is the establishment of a strong therapeutic working relationship to develop assessments and treatment plans in alliance with her clients and their recovery goals. Her experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry grounds her practice, assisting individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia spectrum. Dr. Nawar feels particularly grateful in her work with the LGBTQ+ individuals as an ally and fellow learner. She enjoys mentoring Emory Medical students and has supervised fellow psychiatrists and advanced level practitioners in her past roles.
Dr. Nawar's focus is the establishment of a strong therapeutic working relationship to develop assessments and treatment plans in alliance with her clients and their recovery goals. Her experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry grounds her practice, assisting individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia spectrum. Dr. Nawar feels particularly grateful in her work with the LGBTQ+ individuals as an ally and fellow learner. She enjoys mentoring Emory Medical students and has supervised fellow psychiatrists and advanced level practitioners in her past roles.
(470) 722-8144 View (470) 722-8144
Photo of Jessica Boyle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jessica Boyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 1 year in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals, couples, families and I address alcohol use disorder, Bipolar Disorder, depression, grief/bereavement, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD/ADHD).
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 1 year in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals, couples, families and I address alcohol use disorder, Bipolar Disorder, depression, grief/bereavement, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD/ADHD).
(678) 203-9526 View (678) 203-9526
Photo of Shahnaz Mulla, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shahnaz Mulla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I graduated as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2021. I’ve also worked as a mental health nurse at a psychiatric facility for more than 13 years. I’m skilled in diagnosing psychiatric illnesses, initiating and management of psychiatric medications in patients across the lifespan.
I graduated as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2021. I’ve also worked as a mental health nurse at a psychiatric facility for more than 13 years. I’m skilled in diagnosing psychiatric illnesses, initiating and management of psychiatric medications in patients across the lifespan.
(678) 582-2359 View (678) 582-2359
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See more therapy options for Johns Creek

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Johns Creek, GA

30+

Average cost per session

$190

Psychiatrists in Johns Creek, GA who prioritize treating:

86% Depression
86% Anxiety
77% Medication Management
74% Bipolar Disorder
66% ADHD
66% Trauma and PTSD
57% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
97% Cigna and Evernorth
85% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Johns Creek, GA see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Johns Creek?

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.