Psychiatrists in Walton County, GA

View cities in Walton County
Photo of Caroline Waithaka, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Caroline Waithaka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Psychiatric Nurse practitioner, I received my Masters from Walden University in 2022 and I have been in Mental health care Profession for the last 11 years both as a Psychiatric Registered Nurse and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have experience working in outpatient, inpatient, group homes, behavior crisis settings and detoxing inpatient clients from alcohol, and opioids.
I am a Licensed Psychiatric Nurse practitioner, I received my Masters from Walden University in 2022 and I have been in Mental health care Profession for the last 11 years both as a Psychiatric Registered Nurse and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have experience working in outpatient, inpatient, group homes, behavior crisis settings and detoxing inpatient clients from alcohol, and opioids.
(470) 523-1288 View (470) 523-1288
Photo of Chinara Smith, - BC, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chinara Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, - BC, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Renewed Focus Psychiatric Services where we discover transformation by the "Renewing of your Mind." With each individual, my goal is to first provide a safe, confidential space to address concerns, while ensuring you receive competent, prompt and compassionate care. I provide treatment to clients across the lifespan, children and adults who suffer from mental illness with goals to reduce healthcare disparities. My areas of expertise include but are not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Sexual Abuse, Schizophrenia, Addictions, Personality Disorders, Grief/Loss, Medication Management and Talk Therapy.
Welcome to Renewed Focus Psychiatric Services where we discover transformation by the "Renewing of your Mind." With each individual, my goal is to first provide a safe, confidential space to address concerns, while ensuring you receive competent, prompt and compassionate care. I provide treatment to clients across the lifespan, children and adults who suffer from mental illness with goals to reduce healthcare disparities. My areas of expertise include but are not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Sexual Abuse, Schizophrenia, Addictions, Personality Disorders, Grief/Loss, Medication Management and Talk Therapy.
(770) 802-2570 View (770) 802-2570
Photo of Sharon Chapman-Bonilla, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sharon Chapman-Bonilla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you feeling frustrated ? Feeling overwhelmed and discouraged ? Do you lack the motivation to accomplish your goals? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I'm here to help. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow.
Are you feeling frustrated ? Feeling overwhelmed and discouraged ? Do you lack the motivation to accomplish your goals? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I'm here to help. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow.
(770) 415-1576 View (770) 415-1576
Photo of Stephanie Abel - Total Care Behavioral Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Total Care Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loganville, GA 30052
Our practice specialize in treating adults and adolescents with a range of mental health concerns. Stephanie treat clients in a professional and confidential setting that feels safe and non-judgmental. Her strengths include working with vulnerable populations, those with severe and persistent mental illness, psychotic disorders, ADHD diagnosed patients, and individuals affected by traumatic experiences, Stephanie enjoy giving clients individualized attention, and the personalized care they deserved.
Our practice specialize in treating adults and adolescents with a range of mental health concerns. Stephanie treat clients in a professional and confidential setting that feels safe and non-judgmental. Her strengths include working with vulnerable populations, those with severe and persistent mental illness, psychotic disorders, ADHD diagnosed patients, and individuals affected by traumatic experiences, Stephanie enjoy giving clients individualized attention, and the personalized care they deserved.
(678) 203-9802 View (678) 203-9802
Photo of Obianuju Okpala, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Obianuju Okpala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is licensed and nationally board certified to provide psychiatric care for patients with mental illness. I am trained to care for patients with mental health issues across the lifespan. I have competence in prescribing and monitoring medications used in the treatment of mental health disorders such as Depression and anxiety, Bipolar, Psychosis, Personality disorder, Disruptive behavior.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is licensed and nationally board certified to provide psychiatric care for patients with mental illness. I am trained to care for patients with mental health issues across the lifespan. I have competence in prescribing and monitoring medications used in the treatment of mental health disorders such as Depression and anxiety, Bipolar, Psychosis, Personality disorder, Disruptive behavior.
(770) 343-5901 View (770) 343-5901
Photo of Sylvie Shiwiri, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sylvie Shiwiri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, GA 30655
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have over 20 years working as a health care professional specializing in mental health and developmental disabilities. I enjoy working with clientele from various cultures, socioeconomic statuses, and mental health backgrounds. I am here to work with you to help you live a well deserve life through communication, education, empathy, and understanding. I am always ready to help you!
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have over 20 years working as a health care professional specializing in mental health and developmental disabilities. I enjoy working with clientele from various cultures, socioeconomic statuses, and mental health backgrounds. I am here to work with you to help you live a well deserve life through communication, education, empathy, and understanding. I am always ready to help you!
(470) 660-3107 View (470) 660-3107
Photo of Omar Fuller, MSN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Omar Fuller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Healthy Minds and Wellness was established to create an opportunity for me to carry out my passion for helping individuals restore their minds and live normal and fulfilling lives. With over 10 solid years of experience in the medical field, I specialize in medication management for treating individuals experiencing mental health issues.
Healthy Minds and Wellness was established to create an opportunity for me to carry out my passion for helping individuals restore their minds and live normal and fulfilling lives. With over 10 solid years of experience in the medical field, I specialize in medication management for treating individuals experiencing mental health issues.
(770) 697-0739 View (770) 697-0739
Photo of Karen B Stevenson, MD, MDiv, Psychiatrist
Karen B Stevenson
Psychiatrist, MD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Online Only
You are a professional woman, and you’ve carried the weight of your world for too long. You have achieved worldly success, yet you feel your life spiraling out of control. Overwhelmed by the demands of work and you can’t seem to meet the needs of your family. You smile outwardly, yet you’re crumbling inside. You are tired of wearing a superhero cape, yet you fear your faults will be exposed. You’re exhausted, trying to be please everyone, with no time or energy left to take care of YOU. it’s taking everything you’ve got. You’ve reached the point where you just need someone to see you—to recognize your pain and say, “I understand.”
You are a professional woman, and you’ve carried the weight of your world for too long. You have achieved worldly success, yet you feel your life spiraling out of control. Overwhelmed by the demands of work and you can’t seem to meet the needs of your family. You smile outwardly, yet you’re crumbling inside. You are tired of wearing a superhero cape, yet you fear your faults will be exposed. You’re exhausted, trying to be please everyone, with no time or energy left to take care of YOU. it’s taking everything you’ve got. You’ve reached the point where you just need someone to see you—to recognize your pain and say, “I understand.”
(470) 785-8587 View (470) 785-8587
Photo of Stephanie Abel, MSN, APRN, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Abel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
Loganville, GA 30052
Stephanie is a certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with 10+years' experience in psychiatry. I work with various populations and has worked in a variety of levels of care, including outpatient clinic, partial hospital program, dual diagnosis treatment, adult memory care, assisted living and inpatient units. My strengths include working with vulnerable populations, those with severe and persistent mental illness, psychotic disorders, dually diagnosed patients, and individuals affected by traumatic experiences.
Stephanie is a certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with 10+years' experience in psychiatry. I work with various populations and has worked in a variety of levels of care, including outpatient clinic, partial hospital program, dual diagnosis treatment, adult memory care, assisted living and inpatient units. My strengths include working with vulnerable populations, those with severe and persistent mental illness, psychotic disorders, dually diagnosed patients, and individuals affected by traumatic experiences.
(678) 839-7041 View (678) 839-7041
Photo of Dr. Panchajanya Paul Md, MD, FAPA, ABPN, Psychiatrist
Dr. Panchajanya Paul Md
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, ABPN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am board certified in Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry. I see children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults through telemedicine. 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 incorporate the most current and best evidence based practices. I have several books and research published concerning stress relief and sleep coaching with a holistic approach .
I am board certified in Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry. I see children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults through telemedicine. 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 incorporate the most current and best evidence based practices. I have several books and research published concerning stress relief and sleep coaching with a holistic approach .
(678) 892-6669 View (678) 892-6669
Photo of Lavern Novia Palmer - Ornaldo Swift Healthcare, AGPCNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ornaldo Swift Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGPCNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a dedicated professional with more than two decades of clinical experience practicing across various cultures. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. Our practice, Ornaldo Swift Healthcare, specializes in treating teenagers, adults, the elderly and the underserved population, providing evidenced based psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapeutic counselling. We treat a wide range of psychiatric illnesses . We treat everyone with compassion and care is individualized
I am a dedicated professional with more than two decades of clinical experience practicing across various cultures. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. Our practice, Ornaldo Swift Healthcare, specializes in treating teenagers, adults, the elderly and the underserved population, providing evidenced based psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapeutic counselling. We treat a wide range of psychiatric illnesses . We treat everyone with compassion and care is individualized
(678) 582-1116 View (678) 582-1116
Photo of Dartiss Chevalier, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dartiss Chevalier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Loganville, GA 30052
Dartiss Chevalier is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2019. Dartiss believes in listening to a patient, validating their worries and fears, encouraging treatment, and helping them choose the right treatment. Outside of work, Dartiss is passionate about living and enjoying life, especially vacationing.
Dartiss Chevalier is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2019. Dartiss believes in listening to a patient, validating their worries and fears, encouraging treatment, and helping them choose the right treatment. Outside of work, Dartiss is passionate about living and enjoying life, especially vacationing.
(470) 536-8905 View (470) 536-8905
Photo of Chiriyankandat Sebastian, MD, Psychiatrist
Chiriyankandat Sebastian
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Loganville, GA 30052
Dr. Sebastian works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Dr. Sebastian believes that establishing a strong alliance with his clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, he partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Dr. Sebastian works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Dr. Sebastian believes that establishing a strong alliance with his clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, he partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
(770) 501-6653 View (770) 501-6653
Photo of Esther Narhmartey-Darku, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Esther Narhmartey-Darku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Loganville, GA 30052
Esther is a Family Nurse Practitioner certified by the ANCC. Esther has a strong rapport with patients of all ages, specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents.
Esther is a Family Nurse Practitioner certified by the ANCC. Esther has a strong rapport with patients of all ages, specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents.
(770) 758-2057 View (770) 758-2057
Photo of Rashelle Browne-Tomlinson, MD, Psychiatrist
Rashelle Browne-Tomlinson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Loganville, GA 30052
Dr. Browne-Tomlinson (or Dr. BT) is board certified with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology with psychiatric residency training, as well as, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship training completed at the University of South Florida. She received her medical degree from the University of Virginia, School of Medicine, and Bachelor's of Science degree from the College of William and Mary.
Dr. Browne-Tomlinson (or Dr. BT) is board certified with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology with psychiatric residency training, as well as, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship training completed at the University of South Florida. She received her medical degree from the University of Virginia, School of Medicine, and Bachelor's of Science degree from the College of William and Mary.
(678) 661-5172 View (678) 661-5172
Photo of Hawah Guar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hawah Guar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Loganville, GA 30052
As a bedside ICU nurse of 25 years while caring for the critically ill patients, I realized the psychological and physiological burdens placed on the patients and their families. I wanted to provide more than just bedside care for my patient. As a provider I could provide holistic care: physiological, and spiritual care to my patients so I obtained my master specializing family nurse practitioner. For the last four years I have been providing care as a hospitalist mid-level to acutely ill patients and their families.
As a bedside ICU nurse of 25 years while caring for the critically ill patients, I realized the psychological and physiological burdens placed on the patients and their families. I wanted to provide more than just bedside care for my patient. As a provider I could provide holistic care: physiological, and spiritual care to my patients so I obtained my master specializing family nurse practitioner. For the last four years I have been providing care as a hospitalist mid-level to acutely ill patients and their families.
(678) 607-8379 View (678) 607-8379
Photo of Zicole Browne, DO, Psychiatrist
Zicole Browne
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Loganville, GA 30052
Dr. Zicole Browne is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 2018. As an adult psychiatrist, Dr. Browne is trained to treat an array of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. His approach to patient care is a joint venture. Dr. Browne envisions a safe and nonjudgmental environment in order to build a strong therapeutic alliance which will facilitate positive outcomes. While utilizing a combination of medications and therapeutic interventions, Dr. Browne likes to discuss the diagnosis and management plan together after sharing all treatment options.
Dr. Zicole Browne is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 2018. As an adult psychiatrist, Dr. Browne is trained to treat an array of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. His approach to patient care is a joint venture. Dr. Browne envisions a safe and nonjudgmental environment in order to build a strong therapeutic alliance which will facilitate positive outcomes. While utilizing a combination of medications and therapeutic interventions, Dr. Browne likes to discuss the diagnosis and management plan together after sharing all treatment options.
(770) 697-0846 View (770) 697-0846
Photo of Steve Brogdon, MD, Psychiatrist
Steve Brogdon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Loganville, GA 30052
Dr. Steve Brogdon is a board-certified psychiatrist recognized by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). He brings extensive experience in advanced neuromodulation treatments and is a leading expert in psychopharmacology.
Dr. Steve Brogdon is a board-certified psychiatrist recognized by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). He brings extensive experience in advanced neuromodulation treatments and is a leading expert in psychopharmacology.
(470) 616-7616 View (470) 616-7616
Photo of Dr. Zicole Browne - LifeStance Health, DO, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Loganville, GA 30052
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 Charles Guillaume, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Charles Guillaume
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Loganville, GA 30052
Charles Guillaume is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2014. Charles graduated from the University of Cincinnati and obtained a post master's certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Charles believes in helping his client gain better insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. His main areas of focus include Mood disorders, cognitive disorders and psychotic disorders.
Charles Guillaume is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2014. Charles graduated from the University of Cincinnati and obtained a post master's certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Charles believes in helping his client gain better insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. His main areas of focus include Mood disorders, cognitive disorders and psychotic disorders.
(770) 562-7966 View (770) 562-7966
1

See more therapy options for Walton County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Walton County, GA

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Walton County, GA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
96% Depression
92% ADHD
88% Bipolar Disorder
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
79% Medication Management
75% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
77% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Walton County, GA see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Walton County?

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.