Psychiatrists in Norcross, GA

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.

I am a Physician Assistant and have been providing mental health services for 6 years in outpatient and in home settings.
I am a Physician Assistant and have been providing mental health services for 6 years in outpatient and in home settings.

Dr. Elmer L. Quintero is a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for delivering exceptional health care to his patients. With over 10 years of experience, Dr. Quintero has earned a reputation for his humanity, empathy, and deep understanding of his patients' unique needs.
Dr. Elmer L. Quintero is a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for delivering exceptional health care to his patients. With over 10 years of experience, Dr. Quintero has earned a reputation for his humanity, empathy, and deep understanding of his patients' unique needs.

I am a a bilingual psychiatrist with a license in Georgia and Florida. I am originally from Venezuela and have been living in the United States for many years. I completed medical school in Venezuela and training at the University of Miami- Jackson Memorial Hospital. I and my team are available to help you in our office in Norcross, Georgia. My assistant Leydi Espinosa (Nurse Practitioner), and I are ready to help. We work with children and adults. I have a passion for my field in medicine and the ability to take care of persons with neuropsychiatric conditions.
I am a a bilingual psychiatrist with a license in Georgia and Florida. I am originally from Venezuela and have been living in the United States for many years. I completed medical school in Venezuela and training at the University of Miami- Jackson Memorial Hospital. I and my team are available to help you in our office in Norcross, Georgia. My assistant Leydi Espinosa (Nurse Practitioner), and I are ready to help. We work with children and adults. I have a passion for my field in medicine and the ability to take care of persons with neuropsychiatric conditions.

Natacha Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norcross, GA 30093
Dr. Smith is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She received her nurse practitioner degree from the University of South Alabama and has been in practice for eight years. She provides evidence-based holistic mental health care to individuals of all ages. She is committed to helping patients reach their goals. She also believes in establishing a long-lasting rapport with her patients. Her objective is to ensure her patients’ needs and concerns are being heard and their needs and purposes are being met.
Dr. Smith is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She received her nurse practitioner degree from the University of South Alabama and has been in practice for eight years. She provides evidence-based holistic mental health care to individuals of all ages. She is committed to helping patients reach their goals. She also believes in establishing a long-lasting rapport with her patients. Her objective is to ensure her patients’ needs and concerns are being heard and their needs and purposes are being met.

I am a Physician Assistant and have been providing mental health services for 3 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see individuals and I address Anxiety, Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Mood Disorder, Panic Attacks, LGBTQ+-friendly care to adults and adolescents. I started my medicine career working in family medicine, where I saw that there was an intense need not only for more psychiatric providers, but also for more understanding and compassion in general for the mental health field.
I am a Physician Assistant and have been providing mental health services for 3 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see individuals and I address Anxiety, Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Mood Disorder, Panic Attacks, LGBTQ+-friendly care to adults and adolescents. I started my medicine career working in family medicine, where I saw that there was an intense need not only for more psychiatric providers, but also for more understanding and compassion in general for the mental health field.

As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my practice is rooted in mutual respect and trust. I take pride in fostering therapeutic relationships with all my patients, ensuring they feel heard and supported. My goal is to provide culturally competent, non-judgmental care that meets each individual's needs.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my practice is rooted in mutual respect and trust. I take pride in fostering therapeutic relationships with all my patients, ensuring they feel heard and supported. My goal is to provide culturally competent, non-judgmental care that meets each individual's needs.

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.

Antoinette Theodore is a board-certified Physician Assistant with a Certificate of Added Qualifications specialization in Psychiatry. Her experience includes outpatient medication management, inpatient (dual diagnosis) treatment, and drug and alcohol treatment. Areas of special interest include depression, anxiety, panic, ADHD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, sleep disorders, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Initial Evaluations, and Electroconvulsive Therapy Initial Evaluations. Antoinette is compassionate, uses a collaborative, non-judgmental approach.
Antoinette Theodore is a board-certified Physician Assistant with a Certificate of Added Qualifications specialization in Psychiatry. Her experience includes outpatient medication management, inpatient (dual diagnosis) treatment, and drug and alcohol treatment. Areas of special interest include depression, anxiety, panic, ADHD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, sleep disorders, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Initial Evaluations, and Electroconvulsive Therapy Initial Evaluations. Antoinette is compassionate, uses a collaborative, non-judgmental approach.

Dr. Chadha is Board certified in General Adult Psychiatry. She has 15 years of practice experience in diverse clinical settings. She makes a genuine effort to facilitate a comfortable environment for patients. That allows her to create a connection with patients that is so important for a healing relationship and quality care.
Dr. Chadha is Board certified in General Adult Psychiatry. She has 15 years of practice experience in diverse clinical settings. She makes a genuine effort to facilitate a comfortable environment for patients. That allows her to create a connection with patients that is so important for a healing relationship and quality care.

Cheryl Gregory, PMHNP, is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across Georgia. With a focus on both mental and emotional wellbeing, Cheryl helps clients navigate their mental health journeys by offering thorough assessments, accurate diagnoses, and personalized treatment plans. Serving a diverse range of clients, Cheryl specializes in treating children, adolescents, and adults, ensuring that each individual receives the care they need, whether inperson or through convenient telehealth options.
Cheryl Gregory, PMHNP, is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across Georgia. With a focus on both mental and emotional wellbeing, Cheryl helps clients navigate their mental health journeys by offering thorough assessments, accurate diagnoses, and personalized treatment plans. Serving a diverse range of clients, Cheryl specializes in treating children, adolescents, and adults, ensuring that each individual receives the care they need, whether inperson or through convenient telehealth options.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

The decision to start medication for your mental health is a big step to creating the life you deserve. Dr. Notini is specialized in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and PTSD. Dr. Notini has experience serving veterans and active duty military individuals as well.
The decision to start medication for your mental health is a big step to creating the life you deserve. Dr. Notini is specialized in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and PTSD. Dr. Notini has experience serving veterans and active duty military individuals as well.

Meet Linda Octavien, FNP, a seasoned healthcare professional with nearly two decades of experience.
Meet Linda Octavien, FNP, a seasoned healthcare professional with nearly two decades of experience.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
See more therapy options for Norcross
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Norcross, GA
30+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Norcross, GA who prioritize treating:
91% | Depression |
85% | Anxiety |
73% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | ADHD |
70% | Medication Management |
64% | Trauma and PTSD |
58% | Grief |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
97% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Norcross, GA see their clients
88% | In Person and Online | |
12% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
57% | Female | |
43% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Norcross?
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.