Psychiatrists in Rome, GA

Photo of Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, DOT-CME, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Judith Ngulefac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, DOT-CME
Verified Verified
Rome, GA 30165
Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, DOT-CME is an experienced doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with over 14 years of experience in diverse health care settings providing high-quality care to clients. Dr. Ngulefac believes that your mental health is as important as your physical health and requires the same attention. She provides an initial psychiatric evaluation that will enable her to diagnose & develop an individualized treatment plan with routine follow-up visits to monitor symptoms and medication effectiveness.
Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, DOT-CME is an experienced doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with over 14 years of experience in diverse health care settings providing high-quality care to clients. Dr. Ngulefac believes that your mental health is as important as your physical health and requires the same attention. She provides an initial psychiatric evaluation that will enable her to diagnose & develop an individualized treatment plan with routine follow-up visits to monitor symptoms and medication effectiveness.
(706) 710-8892 View (706) 710-8892
Photo of Amber Gravitt - Mindset & Body Reset, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mindset & Body Reset
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rome, GA 30165
Amber is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated in May 2024, bringing nearly a decade of experience as a Women’s Health Registered Nurse. Her background in women’s health provides her with a unique perspective and specialized expertise in addressing the emotional and mental health needs of women. Passionate about delivering holistic, and patient-centered care, she is committed to supporting the emotional well-being of individuals across all stages of life.
Amber is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated in May 2024, bringing nearly a decade of experience as a Women’s Health Registered Nurse. Her background in women’s health provides her with a unique perspective and specialized expertise in addressing the emotional and mental health needs of women. Passionate about delivering holistic, and patient-centered care, she is committed to supporting the emotional well-being of individuals across all stages of life.
(762) 550-2853 View (762) 550-2853
Photo of Amy Herzog, MSN, MPH, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Herzog
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MPH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rome, GA 30165
You can easily book with me by clicking on my website. In my psychiatric practice, I focus on treating the whole person. I take a collaborative approach to care, working alongside my patients to create personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, trauma response, and neurodivergence in relationship to psychoneuroimmunology and holistic care; emphasizing the deep connections between mental health, physical health, and overall well-being.
You can easily book with me by clicking on my website. In my psychiatric practice, I focus on treating the whole person. I take a collaborative approach to care, working alongside my patients to create personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, trauma response, and neurodivergence in relationship to psychoneuroimmunology and holistic care; emphasizing the deep connections between mental health, physical health, and overall well-being.
(762) 667-2289 View (762) 667-2289
Photo of Lori Leonard, MSN, APRN-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lori Leonard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rome, GA 30165
Feeling swamped by life's pressures? Unheard, misunderstood? There's often more beneath your mood swings. Through my in-depth evaluation, ill can help discover more about your symptoms. From anemia to vitamin deficits, I go beyond the surface. No rush for meds – we'll explore all avenues for your peace of mind. As your compassionate ally, I offer empathetic, patient-first care. Together, we'll tackle the physical and emotional strains holding you back, targeting the roots for lasting relief. Mental health shouldn't be sidelined. Elevate your well-being, function optimally, and defy mental health-induced weight challenge
Feeling swamped by life's pressures? Unheard, misunderstood? There's often more beneath your mood swings. Through my in-depth evaluation, ill can help discover more about your symptoms. From anemia to vitamin deficits, I go beyond the surface. No rush for meds – we'll explore all avenues for your peace of mind. As your compassionate ally, I offer empathetic, patient-first care. Together, we'll tackle the physical and emotional strains holding you back, targeting the roots for lasting relief. Mental health shouldn't be sidelined. Elevate your well-being, function optimally, and defy mental health-induced weight challenge
(762) 344-4474 View (762) 344-4474
Photo of Dr. Ezinne Kanu, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ezinne Kanu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I am happy to be in this wonderful and ever-expanding field of medicine. 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 happy to be in this wonderful and ever-expanding field of medicine. 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 La-Vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
(678) 840-8446 View (678) 840-8446
Photo of Dr. Panchajanya Paul Md, MD, ABPN, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Dr. Panchajanya Paul Md
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, FAPA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Panchajanya Paul, MD- Offering Telemedicine in Georgia. I am board certified in Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry. I see children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults in my office iand am accepting new patients. I specialize in the use of medications and other holistic approaches to treat mental health conditions. Treating clients with respect, integrity and compassion are my priorities. When managing medications, I have several books and research published concerning stress relief and sleep coaching with a holistic approach.
Dr. Panchajanya Paul, MD- Offering Telemedicine in Georgia. I am board certified in Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry. I see children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults in my office iand am accepting new patients. I specialize in the use of medications and other holistic approaches to treat mental health conditions. Treating clients with respect, integrity and compassion are my priorities. When managing medications, I have several books and research published concerning stress relief and sleep coaching with a holistic approach.
(404) 476-6842 View (404) 476-6842

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Iesha Vibert, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Iesha Vibert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am dedicated to providing high-quality care to my patients and am committed to continuously expanding my expertise in the field of mental health. In 2020, I received my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. My passion for mental health nursing drives me to stay current with the latest research, treatments, and interventions in the field. I take a patient-centered approach to care, working collaboratively with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals.
I am dedicated to providing high-quality care to my patients and am committed to continuously expanding my expertise in the field of mental health. In 2020, I received my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. My passion for mental health nursing drives me to stay current with the latest research, treatments, and interventions in the field. I take a patient-centered approach to care, working collaboratively with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals.
(678) 884-4141 View (678) 884-4141
Photo of Dr. Terrill Cooper - CareStop LLC, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
CareStop LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
You do not have to suffer in silence anymore. At CareStop, we want to help you feel better and get your life back on track as soon as possible. Imagine being able to see your mental health provider from the comfort of your home. Guess what? Dr. Cooper will come to you, virtually! All you need is a device with a speaker, camera, and internet connection to start your journey to smiling again.
You do not have to suffer in silence anymore. At CareStop, we want to help you feel better and get your life back on track as soon as possible. Imagine being able to see your mental health provider from the comfort of your home. Guess what? Dr. Cooper will come to you, virtually! All you need is a device with a speaker, camera, and internet connection to start your journey to smiling again.
(478) 209-2793 View (478) 209-2793
Photo of Ogochukwu Ojiaku, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ogochukwu Ojiaku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Ogochukwu Ojiaku is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health, and Family Nurse Practitioner, with about 10 years of experience at the VA Medical Center. She is very knowledgeable in providing patient-tailored treatment to clients across the lifespan. She uses her extensive Medical and Psychiatric expertise to assess, properly diagnose, and holistically treat clients with medical and psychiatric conditions. Dr. Ojiaku is focused on providing optimal, affordable, no-wait services. She understands that Mental Health is essential at all stages of life.
Dr. Ogochukwu Ojiaku is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health, and Family Nurse Practitioner, with about 10 years of experience at the VA Medical Center. She is very knowledgeable in providing patient-tailored treatment to clients across the lifespan. She uses her extensive Medical and Psychiatric expertise to assess, properly diagnose, and holistically treat clients with medical and psychiatric conditions. Dr. Ojiaku is focused on providing optimal, affordable, no-wait services. She understands that Mental Health is essential at all stages of life.
(470) 664-2925 View (470) 664-2925
Photo of Angela Jenkins-Jacobs, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Jenkins-Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Empowering Women's Mental Health. Hi, I'm Angela G. Jenkins-Jacobs DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC and have been working in Psychiatry for over 30 years in a variety of roles and specialties. I currently specialize in Telepsychiatry services across the lifespan with a holistic-functional focus in women’s mental health services. I strive to help women have joy in the journey of womanhood and make the most of every moment through MindBody connections.
Empowering Women's Mental Health. Hi, I'm Angela G. Jenkins-Jacobs DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC and have been working in Psychiatry for over 30 years in a variety of roles and specialties. I currently specialize in Telepsychiatry services across the lifespan with a holistic-functional focus in women’s mental health services. I strive to help women have joy in the journey of womanhood and make the most of every moment through MindBody connections.
(470) 619-5598 View (470) 619-5598
Photo of Nicole Williams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of nursing experience in psychiatry.
I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of nursing experience in psychiatry.
(470) 518-4840 View (470) 518-4840
Photo of Danielle Vann, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Vann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 1 year of experience in psychiatry and over 15 years in patient care. I am an ideal choice for adolescents and adults who are struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, or ADHD symptoms, are ready to begin treatment, and are seeking a provider with appointment times that support a busy life. I worked as a nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit for a decade and was active in healthcare throughout the pandemic. My priority now is to provide evidence-based care to patients of all ages.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 1 year of experience in psychiatry and over 15 years in patient care. I am an ideal choice for adolescents and adults who are struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, or ADHD symptoms, are ready to begin treatment, and are seeking a provider with appointment times that support a busy life. I worked as a nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit for a decade and was active in healthcare throughout the pandemic. My priority now is to provide evidence-based care to patients of all ages.
(470) 740-8683 View (470) 740-8683
Photo of Marcia Phillips, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marcia Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Marcia is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Downstate Medical Center; Brooklyn, NY, State with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Walden University with a Master of Science in Nursing with Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification.
Marcia is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Downstate Medical Center; Brooklyn, NY, State with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Walden University with a Master of Science in Nursing with Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification.
(678) 780-4471 View (678) 780-4471
Photo of Mahlet Abebe, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse
Mahlet Abebe
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN
Verified Verified
Acworth, GA 30101
Mahlet Abebe is dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of nursing experience. Mahlet has been working in collaboration with her supervising physician providing psychiatric evaluation, medication management and supportive therapy. She believes in providing patient centered, individualized, holistic care in way of promoting physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.
Mahlet Abebe is dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of nursing experience. Mahlet has been working in collaboration with her supervising physician providing psychiatric evaluation, medication management and supportive therapy. She believes in providing patient centered, individualized, holistic care in way of promoting physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.
(470) 745-7079 View (470) 745-7079
Photo of Sandra Thomas - Beacon Counseling, MD, Psychiatrist
Beacon Counseling
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We are Licensed Psychiatrist and Licensed Professional Counselors, who use our clinical training to address your body, soul, and mind. We use research-based interventions to help clients with various issues, including trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, relational struggles, attachment issues, etc. We treat children 8 years +, couples, and adults.
We are Licensed Psychiatrist and Licensed Professional Counselors, who use our clinical training to address your body, soul, and mind. We use research-based interventions to help clients with various issues, including trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, relational struggles, attachment issues, etc. We treat children 8 years +, couples, and adults.
(470) 280-7466 View (470) 280-7466
Photo of Pristella Ohanaja, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pristella Ohanaja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(470) 664-2692 View (470) 664-2692
Photo of Angela Danforth, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Danforth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a nurse practitioner (NP) with a focus in family medicine and psychiatry (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorder, etc.). I have 8 years of experience working in the healthcare field. I have an extensive background in women's health, but I later transitioned into psychiatry, working with patients with mental illness and substance abuse issues.
I am a nurse practitioner (NP) with a focus in family medicine and psychiatry (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorder, etc.). I have 8 years of experience working in the healthcare field. I have an extensive background in women's health, but I later transitioned into psychiatry, working with patients with mental illness and substance abuse issues.
(678) 535-2402 View (678) 535-2402
Photo of Schvon Bussey, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Schvon Bussey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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.
(470) 533-1986 View (470) 533-1986
Photo of La-Vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
(678) 840-8446 View (678) 840-8446

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Rome, GA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Rome, GA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Psychosis
86% Medication Management
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Rome, GA see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Rome?

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.