Psychiatrists in Sandy Springs, GA

Photo of Dr. Christopher Hoffman, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Christopher Hoffman
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Christopher Hoffman is an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certified psychiatrist with three years experience. Dr. Hoffman provides patient-centered treatment using medication management, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Typically, medication management appointments are 30 mins, and therapy appointments are 45 minutes. Psychotherapy slots with Dr. Hoffman are limited, so he often brings another therapist to the treatment team.
Dr. Christopher Hoffman is an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certified psychiatrist with three years experience. Dr. Hoffman provides patient-centered treatment using medication management, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Typically, medication management appointments are 30 mins, and therapy appointments are 45 minutes. Psychotherapy slots with Dr. Hoffman are limited, so he often brings another therapist to the treatment team.
(470) 777-6825 View (470) 777-6825
Photo of Dr. Brian Bortnick - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
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.
(404) 383-6497 View (404) 383-6497
Photo of Katherine Vital-Daley, Psychiatrist, MD
Katherine Vital-Daley
Psychiatrist, MD
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Dr. Katherine Vital-Daley is an adult psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She treats all adults and her passion lies in providing accessible care for women facing challenges throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum and in reproductive psychiatry. Dr. Vital-Daley's academic background is rooted in science, with an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of California, Merced. She then pursued her medical doctorate at the Medical University of the Americas. Following medical school, she completed her psychiatry residency training.
Dr. Katherine Vital-Daley is an adult psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She treats all adults and her passion lies in providing accessible care for women facing challenges throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum and in reproductive psychiatry. Dr. Vital-Daley's academic background is rooted in science, with an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of California, Merced. She then pursued her medical doctorate at the Medical University of the Americas. Following medical school, she completed her psychiatry residency training.
(678) 616-8158 View (678) 616-8158
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Myrtil, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jonathan Myrtil
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Jonathan Myrtil is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He received his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine and completed his Residency in Adult Psychiatry at the University of Central Florida affiliated with North Florida Regional Medical Center. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Myrtil stayed on at North Florida Regional as an Adult Psychiatrist and supervising physician where he treated patients from diverse settings including inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization and IOP.
Dr. Jonathan Myrtil is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He received his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine and completed his Residency in Adult Psychiatry at the University of Central Florida affiliated with North Florida Regional Medical Center. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Myrtil stayed on at North Florida Regional as an Adult Psychiatrist and supervising physician where he treated patients from diverse settings including inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization and IOP.
(678) 712-5001 View (678) 712-5001
Photo of Tondalaya Sanford, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Tondalaya Sanford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has treated an array of clients as well as geriatric clients. I have treated clients who suffer from anxiety, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, substance abuse, addiction, and personality disorder, also schizoaffective and sleep disorders. I am a dedicated healthcare provider who works very hard to help each and every client heal and become a functioning member of society through education, therapy, non-medicinal therapies, and medication as needed. Together, we will decide on a plan of care that will give you the best results and help you thrive once again.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has treated an array of clients as well as geriatric clients. I have treated clients who suffer from anxiety, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, substance abuse, addiction, and personality disorder, also schizoaffective and sleep disorders. I am a dedicated healthcare provider who works very hard to help each and every client heal and become a functioning member of society through education, therapy, non-medicinal therapies, and medication as needed. Together, we will decide on a plan of care that will give you the best results and help you thrive once again.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Angela Danforth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angela Danforth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a nurse practitioner (NP) with a focus on psychiatry and family medicine (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, etc.). I have 9 years of experience working in the healthcare field. I have an extensive background in women's health and family medicine, but I later transitioned into psychiatry, working with patients with mental illness and substance abuse issues. My patient focus is centered on individuals grappling with a spectrum of mental health challenges.
I am a nurse practitioner (NP) with a focus on psychiatry and family medicine (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, etc.). I have 9 years of experience working in the healthcare field. I have an extensive background in women's health and family medicine, but I later transitioned into psychiatry, working with patients with mental illness and substance abuse issues. My patient focus is centered on individuals grappling with a spectrum of mental health challenges.
(470) 722-8396 View (470) 722-8396
Photo of Kathleen L Schaaf, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Kathleen L Schaaf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Kathy is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (ANCC) who enriches her practice with a broad range of culturally diverse experiences gained from years of international community-based healthcare service. Kathy is dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey toward mental wellness in mind, body and spirit. She employs a collaborative, compassionate, and trauma-informed approach in her practice, emphasizing the significance of mental health resources in preempting future complications.
Kathy is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (ANCC) who enriches her practice with a broad range of culturally diverse experiences gained from years of international community-based healthcare service. Kathy is dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey toward mental wellness in mind, body and spirit. She employs a collaborative, compassionate, and trauma-informed approach in her practice, emphasizing the significance of mental health resources in preempting future complications.
(404) 480-3409 View (404) 480-3409
Photo of LaToyia Neal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, NP, RXN
LaToyia Neal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, NP, RXN
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
About I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have over 10 years of nursing experience. I have been providing individualized quality psychiatric care consisting of comprehensive assessments, medication management, and individualized psychosocial therapy to clients suffering from numerous chronic conditions such as, ADHD, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, PTSD etc, for the past 5 years. My therapeutic approach entails offering active communication, patient-center and holistic care. I am 100% dedicated in the delivery of quality care utilizing evidence-based practice.
About I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have over 10 years of nursing experience. I have been providing individualized quality psychiatric care consisting of comprehensive assessments, medication management, and individualized psychosocial therapy to clients suffering from numerous chronic conditions such as, ADHD, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, PTSD etc, for the past 5 years. My therapeutic approach entails offering active communication, patient-center and holistic care. I am 100% dedicated in the delivery of quality care utilizing evidence-based practice.
(678) 726-1923 View (678) 726-1923
Photo of Dr. Toya Clay, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Toya Clay
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am Board Certified in both general adult psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. I earned my medical degree from Harvard, completed psychiatry training at Columbia University, and served as chief fellow during my child psychiatry fellowship at the University of Illinois. I use my expertise in psychiatric medications and psychotherapy, along with my personal experiences overcoming challenges, including parenting a child on the Autism Spectrum, to help patients gain lasting insights and make positive changes in their lives.
I am Board Certified in both general adult psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. I earned my medical degree from Harvard, completed psychiatry training at Columbia University, and served as chief fellow during my child psychiatry fellowship at the University of Illinois. I use my expertise in psychiatric medications and psychotherapy, along with my personal experiences overcoming challenges, including parenting a child on the Autism Spectrum, to help patients gain lasting insights and make positive changes in their lives.
(470) 837-2581 View (470) 837-2581
Photo of Vivian Chioma Akabueze, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vivian Chioma Akabueze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Vivan Akabueze, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified. I believe in patient-centered care, focusing on my patient's history, strengths, values, beliefs, and so on, not just to inform decisions on their diagnosis and treatment but to help and guide them to live the life they hope to. I believe in a patient-centered empathetic approach to communication style, utilizing active listening, asking questions that encourage detailed responses, and allowing my patients to explain their thoughts and feelings properly.
My name is Vivan Akabueze, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified. I believe in patient-centered care, focusing on my patient's history, strengths, values, beliefs, and so on, not just to inform decisions on their diagnosis and treatment but to help and guide them to live the life they hope to. I believe in a patient-centered empathetic approach to communication style, utilizing active listening, asking questions that encourage detailed responses, and allowing my patients to explain their thoughts and feelings properly.
(470) 570-9289 View (470) 570-9289
Photo of Dr. Karen Giles, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Dr. Karen Giles
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Dr. Giles is an interventional psychiatrist passionate about supporting patients suffering from treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Specializing in patients who have tried 3+ antidepressants without improvement, Breakthru offers next-level treatments when the pharmaceutical approach doesn’t serve you well. Dr. Giles does not do medication management and takes a comprehensive and collaborative approach with the support of your primary psychiatrist or PCP.
Dr. Giles is an interventional psychiatrist passionate about supporting patients suffering from treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Specializing in patients who have tried 3+ antidepressants without improvement, Breakthru offers next-level treatments when the pharmaceutical approach doesn’t serve you well. Dr. Giles does not do medication management and takes a comprehensive and collaborative approach with the support of your primary psychiatrist or PCP.
(949) 771-8965 View (949) 771-8965
Photo of Dr. Gideon Matzkin, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Gideon Matzkin
Psychiatrist, MD
5 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
Dr. Matzkin specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic mental health conditions. Dr. Matzkin's approach combines thoughtful medication management with psychodynamic therapy to foster deep self-understanding, improve relationships, and help you move toward lasting change.
Dr. Matzkin specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic mental health conditions. Dr. Matzkin's approach combines thoughtful medication management with psychodynamic therapy to foster deep self-understanding, improve relationships, and help you move toward lasting change.
(678) 932-1767 View (678) 932-1767
Photo of Luis Espinosa, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, RN, CPH
Luis Espinosa
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, RN, CPH
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
I am a dedicated healthcare professional with a diverse background, currently pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner studies. I am interning at Attuned Psychiatry under the direct supervision of Dr. Gideon Matzkin. My journey in healthcare began as a U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman in 2008, where I gained hands-on experience providing medical care in high-pressure environments. With over a decade of experience, I have worked as a Public Health Nurse in Georgia, providing case management, disease prevention, and health education to diverse populations. I also speak Spanish.
I am a dedicated healthcare professional with a diverse background, currently pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner studies. I am interning at Attuned Psychiatry under the direct supervision of Dr. Gideon Matzkin. My journey in healthcare began as a U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman in 2008, where I gained hands-on experience providing medical care in high-pressure environments. With over a decade of experience, I have worked as a Public Health Nurse in Georgia, providing case management, disease prevention, and health education to diverse populations. I also speak Spanish.
(404) 882-3657 View (404) 882-3657
Photo of Dr. Joyln Ferrell, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Joyln Ferrell
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Joyln Ferrell is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in providing patient-centered care to treat depression and anxiety disorders. She enjoys working with patients to improve their quality of life and helping them reach their specific treatment goals. She received her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine, and completed her residency training in psychiatry at VA Boston/Harvard Medical School with significant training experiences at McLean Hospital. She additionally completed a fellowship in psychoanalytic psychotherapy at Columbia University Center for Psychoanalytic Training and Research.
Dr. Joyln Ferrell is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in providing patient-centered care to treat depression and anxiety disorders. She enjoys working with patients to improve their quality of life and helping them reach their specific treatment goals. She received her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine, and completed her residency training in psychiatry at VA Boston/Harvard Medical School with significant training experiences at McLean Hospital. She additionally completed a fellowship in psychoanalytic psychotherapy at Columbia University Center for Psychoanalytic Training and Research.
(770) 758-9353 View (770) 758-9353
Photo of Dr. Staffel Strong, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Staffel Strong
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I believe psychiatry should seek to examine the neurologic, genetic, and environmental conditions that contribute to child, adolescent and adult development. Be Strong Wellness Clinic was founded to incorporate the interaction of these components to provide comprehensive care, diagnostic clarity and individualized treatment to meet patient's needs.
I believe psychiatry should seek to examine the neurologic, genetic, and environmental conditions that contribute to child, adolescent and adult development. Be Strong Wellness Clinic was founded to incorporate the interaction of these components to provide comprehensive care, diagnostic clarity and individualized treatment to meet patient's needs.
(470) 928-5191 View (470) 928-5191
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Ford, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Kimberly Ford
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Kimberly Ford completed her psychiatry residency training at Harvard University in Boston Massachusetts. She has enjoyed treating patients for over 25 years in a variety of settings such as inpatient, outpatient mental health clinics, emergency room, and multidisciplinary clinics.
Dr. Kimberly Ford completed her psychiatry residency training at Harvard University in Boston Massachusetts. She has enjoyed treating patients for over 25 years in a variety of settings such as inpatient, outpatient mental health clinics, emergency room, and multidisciplinary clinics.
(678) 919-8388 View (678) 919-8388
Photo of Edyn McKinnon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Edyn McKinnon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Dr. Edyn McKinnon, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC. I received my Associate of Science Degree from South Georgia College in 2009. I then went to Georgia Southern University where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2011. I then earned my Family Nurse Practitioner degree and started working in psychiatry. I worked in psychiatry for the past 9 years. In July of 2021, I went back to school and earned a Post Masters Certificate for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Valdosta State University. And I later obtained my Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree (DNP) in May of 2024 from Valdosta State University.
My name is Dr. Edyn McKinnon, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC. I received my Associate of Science Degree from South Georgia College in 2009. I then went to Georgia Southern University where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2011. I then earned my Family Nurse Practitioner degree and started working in psychiatry. I worked in psychiatry for the past 9 years. In July of 2021, I went back to school and earned a Post Masters Certificate for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Valdosta State University. And I later obtained my Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree (DNP) in May of 2024 from Valdosta State University.
(470) 516-6092 View (470) 516-6092
Photo of Ashlee Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashlee Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Ashlee Anderson and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my Masters Degree from Walden University. I have been a Registered Nurse for 12 years. I have been practicing as Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 2 years. I help adolescents , adults, and geriatrics with medication management for mental health illness , and individuals struggling with sobriety and recovery.
Hello, my name is Ashlee Anderson and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my Masters Degree from Walden University. I have been a Registered Nurse for 12 years. I have been practicing as Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 2 years. I help adolescents , adults, and geriatrics with medication management for mental health illness , and individuals struggling with sobriety and recovery.
(470) 339-7943 View (470) 339-7943
Photo of Diana Santiago, Psychiatrist, MD
Diana Santiago
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Dr. Santiago is a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. Her treatment is provided in English or Spanish. Serving the States of Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. Appointments are available via telemedicine, at the comfort of your home or your own space. In Person appointments available in GA only.
Dr. Santiago is a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. Her treatment is provided in English or Spanish. Serving the States of Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. Appointments are available via telemedicine, at the comfort of your home or your own space. In Person appointments available in GA only.
(678) 647-6396 View (678) 647-6396
Photo of Olawunmi Ogun-Semore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olawunmi Ogun-Semore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dr. L.A, with DNP, PMHNP-BC, AGPCNP-CB, and MHCA. Dual Board Certified Adults Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of combined work experience and have acquired an extensive background in telepsychiatry, inpatient, and outpatient mental health over the last 10 years.
Hello, my name is Dr. L.A, with DNP, PMHNP-BC, AGPCNP-CB, and MHCA. Dual Board Certified Adults Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of combined work experience and have acquired an extensive background in telepsychiatry, inpatient, and outpatient mental health over the last 10 years.
(470) 327-9076 View (470) 327-9076
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See more therapy options for Sandy Springs

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Sandy Springs, GA

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Sandy Springs, GA who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
84% Depression
76% Trauma and PTSD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Bipolar Disorder
71% ADHD
69% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
89% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Sandy Springs, GA see their clients

51% Online Only
49% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Sandy Springs?

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.