Psychiatrists in Stockbridge, GA

Photo of Beatrice Okoye, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Beatrice Okoye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Beatrice Okoye, CFNP, is a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner working in the Stockbridge office of Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals. Beatrice displays kindness and compassion to all of her patients and is a patient advocate that strives to understand all their needs and concerns. She uses a therapeutic approach in providing treatment for adolescents and adults suffering from ADHD, bipolar, depression, anxiety and many more.
Beatrice Okoye, CFNP, is a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner working in the Stockbridge office of Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals. Beatrice displays kindness and compassion to all of her patients and is a patient advocate that strives to understand all their needs and concerns. She uses a therapeutic approach in providing treatment for adolescents and adults suffering from ADHD, bipolar, depression, anxiety and many more.
(770) 758-8834 View (770) 758-8834
Photo of Dr. Gary Matthews - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
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.
(888) 230-3466 View (888) 230-3466
Photo of Brenda Smith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brenda Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
As one of the Prescribers of Medication of Apex Family Healthcare Services, our focus is on meeting the Comprehensive Psychological Need of the Patient. It is our philosophy that health and healing comes from a combination of an effective medication regimen, psycho-therapy and learned social skills. Our Psychological Services Center offers medication management, psycho-therapy, substance abuse treatment, individual, family, marriage counseling all in one location.
As one of the Prescribers of Medication of Apex Family Healthcare Services, our focus is on meeting the Comprehensive Psychological Need of the Patient. It is our philosophy that health and healing comes from a combination of an effective medication regimen, psycho-therapy and learned social skills. Our Psychological Services Center offers medication management, psycho-therapy, substance abuse treatment, individual, family, marriage counseling all in one location.
(678) 506-7164 View (678) 506-7164
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 Ifeoma Adazi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ifeoma Adazi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Ifeoma Adazi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She has a BSN from University of West GA, an MSN from Walden University, and an ANCC-PMHNP. Ifeoma provides counseling, a therapeutic approach, medication management, and psychiatric assessment. In her free time, Ifeoma enjoys traveling, shopping, politics, and sports, especially tennis.
Ifeoma Adazi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She has a BSN from University of West GA, an MSN from Walden University, and an ANCC-PMHNP. Ifeoma provides counseling, a therapeutic approach, medication management, and psychiatric assessment. In her free time, Ifeoma enjoys traveling, shopping, politics, and sports, especially tennis.
(770) 501-7840 View (770) 501-7840
Photo of Darin Williams, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Darin Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Darin Williams is Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2019. He graduated from Georgia College & State University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Walden University with a Master of Science in Nursing with Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification. Darin believes in providing patient-centered, holistic care to his clients. Darin Williams has been a mental health nurse for over 21 years. He has been working with patients across the lifespan in multiple settings.
Darin Williams is Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2019. He graduated from Georgia College & State University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Walden University with a Master of Science in Nursing with Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification. Darin believes in providing patient-centered, holistic care to his clients. Darin Williams has been a mental health nurse for over 21 years. He has been working with patients across the lifespan in multiple settings.
(770) 758-7370 View (770) 758-7370
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 Veronica Pentecost, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Veronica Pentecost
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I am capable of building strong patient rapport through therapeutic skills, including empathic listening, reflection, and validation. Collaborated on medication adjustments based on patient-reported symptoms and reactions to maximize medication benefits and effects.
I am a skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I am capable of building strong patient rapport through therapeutic skills, including empathic listening, reflection, and validation. Collaborated on medication adjustments based on patient-reported symptoms and reactions to maximize medication benefits and effects.
(770) 697-0720 View (770) 697-0720
Photo of Naureen Munawar - Apex Family Healthcare Services, Psychiatrist
Apex Family Healthcare Services
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
We are a Full Service Psychological Services Center with a large team of therapist to fit your needs and help you throughout your journey of recovery. Our facility offers 16 suites with Clinicians trained in every area of psychotherapy to serve you regardless of your diagnosis. We are able to accommodate multiple family members for same day appointments with therapist and doctors reducing your travel time between multiple offices for different appointments. We are a One-Stop-Shop providing excellent care, quality services and an array of skilled professionals of all ages, ethnicities and gender.
We are a Full Service Psychological Services Center with a large team of therapist to fit your needs and help you throughout your journey of recovery. Our facility offers 16 suites with Clinicians trained in every area of psychotherapy to serve you regardless of your diagnosis. We are able to accommodate multiple family members for same day appointments with therapist and doctors reducing your travel time between multiple offices for different appointments. We are a One-Stop-Shop providing excellent care, quality services and an array of skilled professionals of all ages, ethnicities and gender.
(678) 782-7272 View (678) 782-7272
Photo of Dr. Olaocha B. Okwuadigbo, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Olaocha B. Okwuadigbo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Dr. Olaocha Okwuadigbo is a Licensed adult Psychiatrist, specialized in evaluating, diagnosing & management of various mental health illnesses: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, insomnia, OCD, as well as medication management. She is result oriented medical professional consistently motivated and committed to improving the health of her patients.
Dr. Olaocha Okwuadigbo is a Licensed adult Psychiatrist, specialized in evaluating, diagnosing & management of various mental health illnesses: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, insomnia, OCD, as well as medication management. She is result oriented medical professional consistently motivated and committed to improving the health of her patients.
(470) 441-7187 View (470) 441-7187
Photo of Gary Matthews, MD, Psychiatrist
Gary Matthews
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Dr. Matthews holds a bachelor's degree with a major in political science from Tulane University, where he attended from 1989-1993. At Tulane University, Dr. Matthews maintained a full tuition Dean's Honors academic scholarship while volunteering his time tutoring at nearby schools and participating in the African-American Congress at Tulane. Dr. Matthews' Residency rotations included internal medicine, psychiatry - inpatient/outpatient/consults, ER, neurology, VA psychiatry, geriatrics, Child and Adolescent, ECT/TMS, addiction, and research.
Dr. Matthews holds a bachelor's degree with a major in political science from Tulane University, where he attended from 1989-1993. At Tulane University, Dr. Matthews maintained a full tuition Dean's Honors academic scholarship while volunteering his time tutoring at nearby schools and participating in the African-American Congress at Tulane. Dr. Matthews' Residency rotations included internal medicine, psychiatry - inpatient/outpatient/consults, ER, neurology, VA psychiatry, geriatrics, Child and Adolescent, ECT/TMS, addiction, and research.
(770) 501-8194 View (770) 501-8194
Photo of Tiffany C. Mason, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany C. Mason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Hello! and welcome. My name is Tiffany Mason. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) focused on providing integrative care for my patients. My passion is to restore hope, achieve balance, promote overall wellness and well-being. I recognize the affiliation of the biological, socioeconomic, psychological stress, nutritional, and lifestyle factors that impact the lives of our patients, which means each treatment plan will be unique and created collaboratively to fit you.
Hello! and welcome. My name is Tiffany Mason. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) focused on providing integrative care for my patients. My passion is to restore hope, achieve balance, promote overall wellness and well-being. I recognize the affiliation of the biological, socioeconomic, psychological stress, nutritional, and lifestyle factors that impact the lives of our patients, which means each treatment plan will be unique and created collaboratively to fit you.
(470) 465-5406 View (470) 465-5406
Photo of Omobolaji Oluseyi Oyebanjo Popoola, MD, ABPN, ABPM, Psychiatrist
Omobolaji Oluseyi Oyebanjo Popoola
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABPM
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
The mind set of a man determines the outcome of his life and the quality of relationships he enjoys. Hence the need for us to guard and nurture our minds with the best of cutting edge science and faith tools. My philosophy is that whatever affects your thinking, affects your life, your relationships, your God-given potential and ultimately your contributions to the society at large, the world needs you and we can't afford to miss out on your contribution to life! I am of the strong belief that not every disorder requires medications. Hence only after a thorough objective medical work up, will I consider a variety of treatments.
The mind set of a man determines the outcome of his life and the quality of relationships he enjoys. Hence the need for us to guard and nurture our minds with the best of cutting edge science and faith tools. My philosophy is that whatever affects your thinking, affects your life, your relationships, your God-given potential and ultimately your contributions to the society at large, the world needs you and we can't afford to miss out on your contribution to life! I am of the strong belief that not every disorder requires medications. Hence only after a thorough objective medical work up, will I consider a variety of treatments.
(770) 762-0525 View (770) 762-0525
Photo of Naureen Munawar, MD, Psychiatrist
Naureen Munawar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
As one of 3 Psychiatrist of Apex Family Healthcare Services, our focus is on meeting the Comprehensive Psychological Needs of the Patient. I am on site 5 days weekly. We collaborate with PCP's, Specialty MD's and other Health Professionals to ensure that our patients treatment is Comprehensive and Effective. We offer medication management, psycho-therapy, substance abuse treatment, individual, family, marriage counseling all in one location. We service children, adolescents and adults. W
As one of 3 Psychiatrist of Apex Family Healthcare Services, our focus is on meeting the Comprehensive Psychological Needs of the Patient. I am on site 5 days weekly. We collaborate with PCP's, Specialty MD's and other Health Professionals to ensure that our patients treatment is Comprehensive and Effective. We offer medication management, psycho-therapy, substance abuse treatment, individual, family, marriage counseling all in one location. We service children, adolescents and adults. W
(678) 883-7724 View (678) 883-7724
Photo of Tiffany Bates, APRN, NP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Bates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NP-BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
(470) 275-2358 View (470) 275-2358
Photo of Robert Hunter, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert Hunter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. Highly skilled at working closely with parents to ensure that through proper diagnosis, treatment, and medication management that children and adolescents can live healthier and happier lives. I also enjoy working with adults to assist them with finding the proper medication treatment to assist them in managing better in their day to day with minimal disruptions due to mental illness. Very outgoing and personable.
Enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. Highly skilled at working closely with parents to ensure that through proper diagnosis, treatment, and medication management that children and adolescents can live healthier and happier lives. I also enjoy working with adults to assist them with finding the proper medication treatment to assist them in managing better in their day to day with minimal disruptions due to mental illness. Very outgoing and personable.
(470) 264-4269 View (470) 264-4269
Photo of Lori Darnelle Lewis, MBA, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lori Darnelle Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Lori Lewis, a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For years, I have been committed to making a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges. With a diverse background in healthcare, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my practice. My decision to specialize in mental health nursing came after a personal experience that transformed my life. As a survivor of sexual assault, I spent years running away from my own mental health struggles. As a mental health advocate, I strongly believe the significance of facing your fears while allowing yourself grace.
I am Lori Lewis, a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For years, I have been committed to making a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges. With a diverse background in healthcare, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my practice. My decision to specialize in mental health nursing came after a personal experience that transformed my life. As a survivor of sexual assault, I spent years running away from my own mental health struggles. As a mental health advocate, I strongly believe the significance of facing your fears while allowing yourself grace.
(770) 562-7345 View (770) 562-7345
Photo of Millicent Ogoo, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Millicent Ogoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Millicent Ogoo DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a board certified nurse practitioner with vast years of experience in treating adults and children with both physical mental health illness.
Dr. Millicent Ogoo DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a board certified nurse practitioner with vast years of experience in treating adults and children with both physical mental health illness.
(678) 252-6283 View (678) 252-6283
Photo of Cecile Pasion-Bregman, MD, Psychiatrist
Cecile Pasion-Bregman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Cecile Pasion-Bregman is a psychiatrist treating patients in Stockbridge, Georgia at Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals. Patients visiting Dr. Pasion-Bregman, can receive a full range of psychiatric services. She provides general consultations, as well as treatment for specific conditions and issues such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and mood disorders, PTSD, behavioral issues, anger, etc.
Cecile Pasion-Bregman is a psychiatrist treating patients in Stockbridge, Georgia at Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals. Patients visiting Dr. Pasion-Bregman, can receive a full range of psychiatric services. She provides general consultations, as well as treatment for specific conditions and issues such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and mood disorders, PTSD, behavioral issues, anger, etc.
(770) 758-1695 View (770) 758-1695
Marcia Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Marcia Phillips is an MSN, PMHNP- BC (Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). Her background includes child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry, and substance abuse. Ms. Phillips clinical career took her on a journey twenty plus years through the healthcare system mental health from inpatient crisis stabilization, outpatient settings, managing the care of everyone from toddlers with autism, adults, and older adults included dementia.
Marcia Phillips is an MSN, PMHNP- BC (Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). Her background includes child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry, and substance abuse. Ms. Phillips clinical career took her on a journey twenty plus years through the healthcare system mental health from inpatient crisis stabilization, outpatient settings, managing the care of everyone from toddlers with autism, adults, and older adults included dementia.
(470) 570-6167 View (470) 570-6167
1

See more therapy options for Stockbridge

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Stockbridge, GA

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Stockbridge, GA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
93% Bipolar Disorder
89% Depression
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Medication Management
70% ADHD
59% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
62% BlueCross and BlueShield
62% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Stockbridge, GA see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Stockbridge?

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.