Psychiatrists in Georgia
Evans Mental Health Associates is a psychiatric private practice offering services to the child and adolescent population. Dr. Lisa Sheehan provides psychiatric assessments and treatment to children and teens locally in Augusta, GA and throughout the state of GA and SC through telemedicine services. Dr. Sheehan evaluates and treats anxiety, depression, attention deficit and hyperactivity, disruptive mood dysregulation, oppositional defiance, and behavioral expressions of autism spectrum disorders as well as other mental health conditions. Give us a call to discuss how we can help your child shine.
Evans Mental Health Associates is a psychiatric private practice offering services to the child and adolescent population. Dr. Lisa Sheehan provides psychiatric assessments and treatment to children and teens locally in Augusta, GA and throughout the state of GA and SC through telemedicine services. Dr. Sheehan evaluates and treats anxiety, depression, attention deficit and hyperactivity, disruptive mood dysregulation, oppositional defiance, and behavioral expressions of autism spectrum disorders as well as other mental health conditions. Give us a call to discuss how we can help your child shine.
Flora I Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, MEd
Verified Verified
Albany, GA 31701
Flora combines evidence-based practice with clinical experience, observation and listening to meet a patient “where they are” on their mental health journey. When patients feel heard and respected, they are empowered to view their practitioner as someone who partners with them as they work to improve their mental and behavioral health. Along with medication and psychotherapy, we offer long-acting injectable antipsychotics, urine/blood testing, collaboration with primary care provider, telemedicine, psychiatric evaluation for clearance, and school/sport physicals. Walk-ins are welcome, same day appointments are guaranteed.
Flora combines evidence-based practice with clinical experience, observation and listening to meet a patient “where they are” on their mental health journey. When patients feel heard and respected, they are empowered to view their practitioner as someone who partners with them as they work to improve their mental and behavioral health. Along with medication and psychotherapy, we offer long-acting injectable antipsychotics, urine/blood testing, collaboration with primary care provider, telemedicine, psychiatric evaluation for clearance, and school/sport physicals. Walk-ins are welcome, same day appointments are guaranteed.
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.
Marva Calder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043 (Online Only)
Marva Calder is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 22 years of experience. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and other conditions in adults and seniors.
Marva Calder is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 22 years of experience. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and other conditions in adults and seniors.
Accepting NEW clients! As a dedicated practitioner, I prioritize providing holistic care, treating each individual as a whole person rather than merely addressing isolated symptoms. My approach is rooted in values of integrity, transparency, and thoroughness, ensuring that every client receives the utmost attention and personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can just be yourself. Incorporated into my practice is a Lifestyle Medicine perspective to include nutrition, social connection, exercise, sleep, and stress management to optimize overall health.
Accepting NEW clients! As a dedicated practitioner, I prioritize providing holistic care, treating each individual as a whole person rather than merely addressing isolated symptoms. My approach is rooted in values of integrity, transparency, and thoroughness, ensuring that every client receives the utmost attention and personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can just be yourself. Incorporated into my practice is a Lifestyle Medicine perspective to include nutrition, social connection, exercise, sleep, and stress management to optimize overall health.
Sydney Rae Rosen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer medication management, diagnosis and evaluation. You can look forward to seeing actual progress in your mental health goals. Whether it's making sure your meds are working right, dealing with any side effects, or just feeling better overall. I treat a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, insomnia, ADHD, eating disorders, and women’s mental health, with a particular focus on the perinatal period.
Welcome! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer medication management, diagnosis and evaluation. You can look forward to seeing actual progress in your mental health goals. Whether it's making sure your meds are working right, dealing with any side effects, or just feeling better overall. I treat a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, insomnia, ADHD, eating disorders, and women’s mental health, with a particular focus on the perinatal period.
Jasmine Young has successfully completed 17 years of nursing and psychiatry has become her passion. She is skilled in delivery, genius, quality, and patient-centered care. Graduated from Georgia State University Suma Cum Laude in December 2018 and works to reduce the stigma associated with mental health disorders in the community, at church, and in my sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, INC.
Jasmine Young has successfully completed 17 years of nursing and psychiatry has become her passion. She is skilled in delivery, genius, quality, and patient-centered care. Graduated from Georgia State University Suma Cum Laude in December 2018 and works to reduce the stigma associated with mental health disorders in the community, at church, and in my sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, INC.
I am a compassionate, responsible and experienced board certified psychiatrist. After graduated from Xiangya School of Medicine China, I worked at UT Southwestern Medical Center conducting neuroscience projects. I then completed my psychiatric resident training in Delaware Psychiatric Center and Emory University. I have acquired diverse clinic experience through the past 10 years working in different settings, including outpatient clinics and inpatient units with patients from diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Education & Certifications Doctor of Medicine and Bachelor of Medicine Sept.
I am a compassionate, responsible and experienced board certified psychiatrist. After graduated from Xiangya School of Medicine China, I worked at UT Southwestern Medical Center conducting neuroscience projects. I then completed my psychiatric resident training in Delaware Psychiatric Center and Emory University. I have acquired diverse clinic experience through the past 10 years working in different settings, including outpatient clinics and inpatient units with patients from diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Education & Certifications Doctor of Medicine and Bachelor of Medicine Sept.
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.
Are you struggling with symptoms of anxiety and depression? Feeling overwhelmed on most days, with lack of motivation to accomplish your daily routine? Has fear of judgment kept you from seeking mental health treatment? Here at Unashamed Minds, LLC we are committed to helping guide you out of that dark place and releasing the shame that comes with coping with mental health issues. We strive to create an environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and understood. We will assist you understanding the root cause of your symptoms. Whether it is trauma related, low self esteem, depression or anxiety, we can help you to Overcome!
Are you struggling with symptoms of anxiety and depression? Feeling overwhelmed on most days, with lack of motivation to accomplish your daily routine? Has fear of judgment kept you from seeking mental health treatment? Here at Unashamed Minds, LLC we are committed to helping guide you out of that dark place and releasing the shame that comes with coping with mental health issues. We strive to create an environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and understood. We will assist you understanding the root cause of your symptoms. Whether it is trauma related, low self esteem, depression or anxiety, we can help you to Overcome!
Hi, I'm Dr. Anna Jackson. I am passionate about helping patients overcome anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, and burnout. Whether you are feeling stuck and trying to find your path, a new mom dealing with anxiety and overwhelm, or feeling burned out from the demands of your busy life, I would love to help! I use an integrative approach to care including medication, therapy, nutritional guidance, lifestyle coaching, sleep hygiene, meditation, and more.
Hi, I'm Dr. Anna Jackson. I am passionate about helping patients overcome anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, and burnout. Whether you are feeling stuck and trying to find your path, a new mom dealing with anxiety and overwhelm, or feeling burned out from the demands of your busy life, I would love to help! I use an integrative approach to care including medication, therapy, nutritional guidance, lifestyle coaching, sleep hygiene, meditation, and more.
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I have over 12 years of adult nursing experience. I have spent the last 10 years in an adult medical ICU treating the oncology population. My focus is communication and active listening to understand their concern. Educating patients on their diagnosis with individualized treatment plans provide better outcomes.
I have over 12 years of adult nursing experience. I have spent the last 10 years in an adult medical ICU treating the oncology population. My focus is communication and active listening to understand their concern. Educating patients on their diagnosis with individualized treatment plans provide better outcomes.
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.
Lindsay Blair Fuson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30309
Accepting new patients! You are knowledgable, seek out information and desire to be actively involved in your mental health care, but every time you talk to your healthcare provider it feels like they really aren't hearing you or you are being hurried through appointments. Maybe you have experienced side effects or are apprehensive about medications altogether. I understand that reaching out to mental health provider can take courage and I am here to listen and work with you to help you become your best self! Please note I work for a self-pay integrative practice and a non-profit that accepts insurance and reduced rate fees.
Accepting new patients! You are knowledgable, seek out information and desire to be actively involved in your mental health care, but every time you talk to your healthcare provider it feels like they really aren't hearing you or you are being hurried through appointments. Maybe you have experienced side effects or are apprehensive about medications altogether. I understand that reaching out to mental health provider can take courage and I am here to listen and work with you to help you become your best self! Please note I work for a self-pay integrative practice and a non-profit that accepts insurance and reduced rate fees.
As a double board certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, I provide clinical care in Georgia and will be providing tele-psychiatry in Texas. My mantra is MENTAL HEALTH which, for many, is achieved through forgiveness, healthy living, psychotherapy, spirituality, and pharmacotherapy as needed. I enjoy working with individuals and families whom are open to the often very emotional, slow and complicated therapeutic work required for change, recovery and healing. I recognize the healing power of Jesus, creativity, and healthy living; my therapeutic approach incorporates the interface of the mind, brain and spirit.
As a double board certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, I provide clinical care in Georgia and will be providing tele-psychiatry in Texas. My mantra is MENTAL HEALTH which, for many, is achieved through forgiveness, healthy living, psychotherapy, spirituality, and pharmacotherapy as needed. I enjoy working with individuals and families whom are open to the often very emotional, slow and complicated therapeutic work required for change, recovery and healing. I recognize the healing power of Jesus, creativity, and healthy living; my therapeutic approach incorporates the interface of the mind, brain and spirit.
I am a a bilingual psychiatrist with a license in Georgia and Florida. I am originally from Venezuela and have been living in the United States for many years. I completed medical school in Venezuela and training at the University of Miami- Jackson Memorial Hospital. I and my team are available to help you in our office in Norcross, Georgia. My assistant Leydi Espinosa (Nurse Practitioner), and I are ready to help. We work with children and adults. I have a passion for my field in medicine and the ability to take care of persons with neuropsychiatric conditions.
I am a a bilingual psychiatrist with a license in Georgia and Florida. I am originally from Venezuela and have been living in the United States for many years. I completed medical school in Venezuela and training at the University of Miami- Jackson Memorial Hospital. I and my team are available to help you in our office in Norcross, Georgia. My assistant Leydi Espinosa (Nurse Practitioner), and I are ready to help. We work with children and adults. I have a passion for my field in medicine and the ability to take care of persons with neuropsychiatric conditions.
Jason Wilcox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Georgia. I received my Master's from Walden University and have been practicing for one year. I look forward to helping those who have mental health problems become mentally healthy.
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Georgia. I received my Master's from Walden University and have been practicing for one year. I look forward to helping those who have mental health problems become mentally healthy.
DPS Health and Wellness is an outpatient mental health practice owned by Dr. David Samuels. With two Psychiatrists, 5 Mid-levels and 6 Counselors, the providers at DPS strive to provide quality, caring, person-based mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults. DPS offers evaluations, medication management and counseling. We have three locations for in office visits, as well as offering virtual appointments to accommodate patients throughout the state of Georgia. We don’t just speak your language, we listen to your concerns!
DPS Health and Wellness is an outpatient mental health practice owned by Dr. David Samuels. With two Psychiatrists, 5 Mid-levels and 6 Counselors, the providers at DPS strive to provide quality, caring, person-based mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults. DPS offers evaluations, medication management and counseling. We have three locations for in office visits, as well as offering virtual appointments to accommodate patients throughout the state of Georgia. We don’t just speak your language, we listen to your concerns!
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ga
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ga
Edyn McKinnon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Axson, GA 31624 (Online Only)
I work with individuals from the age of 6 to geriatrics. I have had the pleasure to work on several inpatient crisis stability units for adult age patients 18-55 years old as well as geriatric units for patients ages 55 years and older. I have also worked in a private practice setting for the past 3 years that I just recently left. I felt it was time to move out more on my own. So here I am, I have come to realize when you love what you do it no longer truly is work.
I work with individuals from the age of 6 to geriatrics. I have had the pleasure to work on several inpatient crisis stability units for adult age patients 18-55 years old as well as geriatric units for patients ages 55 years and older. I have also worked in a private practice setting for the past 3 years that I just recently left. I felt it was time to move out more on my own. So here I am, I have come to realize when you love what you do it no longer truly is work.
See more therapy options for Georgia
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Georgia who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Medication Management |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | ADHD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
82% | Cigna and Evernorth |
76% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Georgia see their clients
68% | In Person and Online | |
32% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
76% | Female | |
24% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Georgia?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.