Psychiatrists in Lawrenceville, GA

Photo of Dr. Chasity J Carswell - Collaborating Minds LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Collaborating Minds LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 11 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 11 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
(678) 932-0393 View (678) 932-0393
Photo of Monica Odelus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Monica Odelus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Greetings! Here's a brief introduction to my professional background: I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a wealth of experience. My practice includes providing care to individuals aged 12 and above, encompassing both adolescents and adults. My expertise lies in offering specialized treatment and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions, such as depression, various anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD, along with other mood-related disorders. Since obtaining my license in 2021, post my graduation from Walden University where I earned a Master's Degree in N
Greetings! Here's a brief introduction to my professional background: I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a wealth of experience. My practice includes providing care to individuals aged 12 and above, encompassing both adolescents and adults. My expertise lies in offering specialized treatment and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions, such as depression, various anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD, along with other mood-related disorders. Since obtaining my license in 2021, post my graduation from Walden University where I earned a Master's Degree in N
(470) 288-1567 View (470) 288-1567
Photo of Dr. Chasity J. Carswell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
(470) 450-6533 View (470) 450-6533
Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
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Photo of Deborah Obinwa - Deborah Obinwa @ Psychiatric and Wellness Connect , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MHA
Deborah Obinwa @ Psychiatric and Wellness Connect
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MHA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified PMHNP, and I am currently accepting new patients virtually in GA, WA, & FL. I treat patients across the lifespan with a greater emphasis on adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population. At Psychiatric and Wellness Connect, our mission is to empower individuals and families on their journey to mental wellness by providing evidence-based, compassionate, and personalized psychiatric care, fostering resilience, and promoting a holistic approach to mental well-being. Some of the conditions I treat include Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar, psychosis, Substance Use, and Sleep Disorders.
I am a board-certified PMHNP, and I am currently accepting new patients virtually in GA, WA, & FL. I treat patients across the lifespan with a greater emphasis on adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population. At Psychiatric and Wellness Connect, our mission is to empower individuals and families on their journey to mental wellness by providing evidence-based, compassionate, and personalized psychiatric care, fostering resilience, and promoting a holistic approach to mental well-being. Some of the conditions I treat include Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar, psychosis, Substance Use, and Sleep Disorders.
(678) 736-6143 x4549 View (678) 736-6143 x4549
Photo of Ann Marie Buchanan-Cummings - Welina Psychiatric Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Welina Psychiatric Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
7 Endorsed
Online Only
You deserve to live a life of stability, peace, and joy that leaves you excited to wake up daily. I am Dr. Ann Marie Buchanan-Cummings, DNP, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in healthcare and a passion for helping individuals thrive emotionally and mentally. Through my virtual practice, Welina PHS, I offer comprehensive telepsychiatry care—ranging from psychiatric evaluations and medication management to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) support. My approach is warm, solution-focused, and culturally sensitive.
You deserve to live a life of stability, peace, and joy that leaves you excited to wake up daily. I am Dr. Ann Marie Buchanan-Cummings, DNP, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in healthcare and a passion for helping individuals thrive emotionally and mentally. Through my virtual practice, Welina PHS, I offer comprehensive telepsychiatry care—ranging from psychiatric evaluations and medication management to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) support. My approach is warm, solution-focused, and culturally sensitive.
(678) 293-7821 View (678) 293-7821
Photo of Richard Onoja, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Richard Onoja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Lawrenceville, GA 30044
Richard Onoja, DNP, PMHNP-BC Richard Onoja is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia and has been practicing since 2018. He has a Bachelor of Nursing from Kennesaw State University, a Post-Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from Georgia State University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Augusta University. Richard is passionate about helping clients move toward better perceptions of themselves. He utilizes compassion; affirmation of individual belief system; academic understanding of chemical brain functions; and evidence-based research to empower clients.
Richard Onoja, DNP, PMHNP-BC Richard Onoja is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia and has been practicing since 2018. He has a Bachelor of Nursing from Kennesaw State University, a Post-Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from Georgia State University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Augusta University. Richard is passionate about helping clients move toward better perceptions of themselves. He utilizes compassion; affirmation of individual belief system; academic understanding of chemical brain functions; and evidence-based research to empower clients.
(678) 616-2971 View (678) 616-2971
Photo of Ifeoma Osijo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Ifeoma Osijo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing holistic, patient-centered psychiatric care that supports both mental and emotional well-being. With experience across diverse mental health settings—including inpatient, outpatient, and telehealth—I bring a comprehensive approach to treating individuals of all ages, from children as young as five years old to adults, who are facing mental health challenges. I have a special interest in treating mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing holistic, patient-centered psychiatric care that supports both mental and emotional well-being. With experience across diverse mental health settings—including inpatient, outpatient, and telehealth—I bring a comprehensive approach to treating individuals of all ages, from children as young as five years old to adults, who are facing mental health challenges. I have a special interest in treating mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
(470) 709-0593 View (470) 709-0593
Photo of Dr. Ezinne Kanu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ezinne Kanu
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I am captivated by the exploration of the mental and behavioral factors that contribute to one’s unique makeup. I love this personal approach to medicine, and I hope to bring my love of this field to help as many people as I can.
Hello! I am captivated by the exploration of the mental and behavioral factors that contribute to one’s unique makeup. I love this personal approach to medicine, and I hope to bring my love of this field to help as many people as I can.
(706) 510-3337 View (706) 510-3337
Photo of Shripal Makim, Psychiatrist, MD
Shripal Makim
Psychiatrist, MD
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
I utilize a holistic patient-centered approach in delivering empathetic care. This approach involves collaborative treatment with other mental health providers to ensure that patients receive well-rounded care.
I utilize a holistic patient-centered approach in delivering empathetic care. This approach involves collaborative treatment with other mental health providers to ensure that patients receive well-rounded care.
(470) 619-5808 View (470) 619-5808
Photo of Evelyn Booker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Evelyn Booker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in the treatment and management of ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions in adolescents and adults. I look forward to assisting you in reaching your life goals and living your best life.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in the treatment and management of ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions in adolescents and adults. I look forward to assisting you in reaching your life goals and living your best life.
(470) 619-2593 View (470) 619-2593
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Mahendra Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Mahendra Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 30 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD / ADHD), Panic Attacks.
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 30 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD / ADHD), Panic Attacks.
(470) 592-8653 View (470) 592-8653
Photo of Obianuju Okpala, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Obianuju Okpala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I have competence in prescribing and monitoring medications used in the treatment of mental health disorders such as Depression and anxiety, Bipolar, Psychosis, Personality disorder, Disruptive behavior. My client should expect a therapeutic environment warm, empathetic and compassionate. My client leaves with good insights into their experiences; gets well informed on how to handle issues which will help clients feel less stressed, more confident and more in control. I use Patient-centered care approach which recognizes my client's needs and respects their right to make health decisions and choices.
I have competence in prescribing and monitoring medications used in the treatment of mental health disorders such as Depression and anxiety, Bipolar, Psychosis, Personality disorder, Disruptive behavior. My client should expect a therapeutic environment warm, empathetic and compassionate. My client leaves with good insights into their experiences; gets well informed on how to handle issues which will help clients feel less stressed, more confident and more in control. I use Patient-centered care approach which recognizes my client's needs and respects their right to make health decisions and choices.
(470) 780-5781 View (470) 780-5781
Photo of Dr. Diana Jubilee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMNP-BC, FNP-C, CME
Dr. Diana Jubilee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMNP-BC, FNP-C, CME
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Dr. Diana Jubilee Awuah. I am the founder of Jubilee Healthcare Providers LLC. I have over 11 years of combined experience as a healthcare provider. Do you feel pulled in many directions and unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Are you feeling lost? I help men, women, and children who are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, and other mental health problems to finally get a breakthrough so they can reclaim their joy, restore their confidence, and improve their overall health. Together, we can identify what is not working and get you back to balance.
Hi there, I'm Dr. Diana Jubilee Awuah. I am the founder of Jubilee Healthcare Providers LLC. I have over 11 years of combined experience as a healthcare provider. Do you feel pulled in many directions and unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Are you feeling lost? I help men, women, and children who are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, and other mental health problems to finally get a breakthrough so they can reclaim their joy, restore their confidence, and improve their overall health. Together, we can identify what is not working and get you back to balance.
(470) 458-2539 View (470) 458-2539
Photo of Dr. Joy Ibeh - Salient Health and Wellness, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Salient Health and Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting NEW Patients! VIRTUAL appointments in GA, WA, OR, FL & IA. Meet Dr. Joy Ibeh, a doctoral trained, double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC), with over 15 combined years of clinical experience. In Salient Health and Wellness, we are patient-centered, and our services include Psych assessments, Medication Management, and Individualized Treatment Plans. She approaches her patients with focus in understanding the peculiarity of their psychiatric & mental health needs. Her goal is to cut through various barriers that may place limitation in getting Mental Health Care.
Accepting NEW Patients! VIRTUAL appointments in GA, WA, OR, FL & IA. Meet Dr. Joy Ibeh, a doctoral trained, double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC), with over 15 combined years of clinical experience. In Salient Health and Wellness, we are patient-centered, and our services include Psych assessments, Medication Management, and Individualized Treatment Plans. She approaches her patients with focus in understanding the peculiarity of their psychiatric & mental health needs. Her goal is to cut through various barriers that may place limitation in getting Mental Health Care.
(470) 458-3875 View (470) 458-3875
Photo of Lola Ogunniyi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, RN, MBA, PMHNP
Lola Ogunniyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, RN, MBA, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Our focus is to provide a comprehensive solution for managing your mental well-being and empowering you to take pride in your physical appearance. While managing your mental health wellness, we also provide microchanneling spa treatment. This service rejuvenates your body, and contribute to enhancing your overall sense of well-being. By actively listening and collaborating with you, we devise effective strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. We also offer techniques to boost your self-esteem and self-confidence which enables you to view yourself positively.
Our focus is to provide a comprehensive solution for managing your mental well-being and empowering you to take pride in your physical appearance. While managing your mental health wellness, we also provide microchanneling spa treatment. This service rejuvenates your body, and contribute to enhancing your overall sense of well-being. By actively listening and collaborating with you, we devise effective strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. We also offer techniques to boost your self-esteem and self-confidence which enables you to view yourself positively.
(678) 562-6948 View (678) 562-6948
Photo of Panchajanya Paul - Holistic Family Psychiatry - Panchajanya Paul, MD, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
I work in partnership with my clients. I empower my patients with greater understanding of the psychopathology, and work with them to come at the treatment options. I prefer to use the least amount of medicine, to minimize the side effects and dependency. I also provide holistic approaches in addition to medicaitons. I use controlled substances as well as non-controlled medications for stabilization.
I work in partnership with my clients. I empower my patients with greater understanding of the psychopathology, and work with them to come at the treatment options. I prefer to use the least amount of medicine, to minimize the side effects and dependency. I also provide holistic approaches in addition to medicaitons. I use controlled substances as well as non-controlled medications for stabilization.
(470) 458-2856 View (470) 458-2856
Photo of Dr. O Semore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. O Semore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Dual Board Certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 16 years of combined work experience and have acquired an extensive background in telepsychiatry, impatient, and outpatient mental health over the last 9 years.
Dual Board Certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 16 years of combined work experience and have acquired an extensive background in telepsychiatry, impatient, and outpatient mental health over the last 9 years.
(678) 605-9447 View (678) 605-9447
Photo of Maureen Obiofuma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maureen Obiofuma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 11 years of patient care experience, specializing in postpartum and general mental health populations. I earned my BSN with distinction from Emory University and later a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatry, graduating summa cum laude from Augusta University.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 11 years of patient care experience, specializing in postpartum and general mental health populations. I earned my BSN with distinction from Emory University and later a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatry, graduating summa cum laude from Augusta University.
(470) 410-6461 View (470) 410-6461
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See more therapy options for Lawrenceville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lawrenceville, GA

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Lawrenceville, GA who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
83% Bipolar Disorder
75% ADHD
74% Trauma and PTSD
66% Medication Management
61% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

99% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
84% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Lawrenceville, GA see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lawrenceville?

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.