Psychiatrists in 30004
![Photo of Dr. Pristella Ohanaja - Adventist Behavioral Health, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14a3b5ef-eddc-4716-b5a3-5c726ef774ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adventist Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30004
My name is Dr. Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
My name is Dr. Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
![Photo of Jeré Cooper - Elevated Mental Health and Wellness Center, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14719ad9-747a-4023-8551-438a32076f47/1/320x400.png)
Elevated Mental Health and Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30004
We are a Mental Health Practice with a great passion for comprehensive and patient centered care. As psychiatric Nurse practitioners, we are able to diagnose and treat a multitude of mental health disorders. We utilize a variety of strategies and techniques to treat the patient as a whole; as we believe treatment for mental health is beyond medication management alone.
We are a Mental Health Practice with a great passion for comprehensive and patient centered care. As psychiatric Nurse practitioners, we are able to diagnose and treat a multitude of mental health disorders. We utilize a variety of strategies and techniques to treat the patient as a whole; as we believe treatment for mental health is beyond medication management alone.
![Photo of Dana Reid, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54e95dfe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of various psychiatric conditions including ADHD, mood and anxiety disorders, behavioral and emotional problems and relationship issues. My approach is comprehensive, thoughtful and highly individualized. I will take the time to get to know you and understand your specific concerns and goals. Together we will work to address your goals so you can have more fulfilling relationships and life experiences.
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of various psychiatric conditions including ADHD, mood and anxiety disorders, behavioral and emotional problems and relationship issues. My approach is comprehensive, thoughtful and highly individualized. I will take the time to get to know you and understand your specific concerns and goals. Together we will work to address your goals so you can have more fulfilling relationships and life experiences.
![Photo of Ayman Fareed, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0f8c5c3-1720-4a70-af97-b6ce2fddd8d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Ayman Fareed and I am a board-certified, Harvard-trained clinical psychiatrist taking new clients at our Alpharetta location. I worked as an Associate Professor and Director of Addiction Fellowship Program in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University School of Medicine. I currently hold the title of Staff Psychiatrist/Medical Director at Atlanta Veterans Administration Medical Center (VAMC).
My name is Ayman Fareed and I am a board-certified, Harvard-trained clinical psychiatrist taking new clients at our Alpharetta location. I worked as an Associate Professor and Director of Addiction Fellowship Program in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University School of Medicine. I currently hold the title of Staff Psychiatrist/Medical Director at Atlanta Veterans Administration Medical Center (VAMC).
![Photo of Lakia Davis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e598ada9-1d9a-41c2-a401-93143ab84cb6/2/320x400.png)
I developed a passion for caring for others at a very young age and knew very early on in life that I wanted to be a healthcare provider. I have experience as a medical/surgical nurse and also have many years of experience as a critical care nurse. However, throughout my years of nursing, I developed a love for psychiatry and decided to pursue an advanced nursing degree specializing in psychiatry. I truly enjoy helping people feel better mentally, physically, and emotionally.
I developed a passion for caring for others at a very young age and knew very early on in life that I wanted to be a healthcare provider. I have experience as a medical/surgical nurse and also have many years of experience as a critical care nurse. However, throughout my years of nursing, I developed a love for psychiatry and decided to pursue an advanced nursing degree specializing in psychiatry. I truly enjoy helping people feel better mentally, physically, and emotionally.
![Photo of Lola Adeboye - Bel Healthcare Behavioral Health Services, PMHNP, AP-NP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97ead0cd-fee7-4bad-99a4-f6a04da1995e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bel Healthcare Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AP-NP, MSN
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30004
In my practice, I perform psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups on diverse mental health disorders like Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorders, Psychosis, Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective disorders and ADHD. My expertise is acquired through 10 years of experience in the medical field and rigorous educational trainings at the University of West Georgia where I obtained my Bachelors in Nursing then I proceeded for my Masters in Nursing at the University of Alabama “Roll Tide”.
In my practice, I perform psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups on diverse mental health disorders like Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorders, Psychosis, Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective disorders and ADHD. My expertise is acquired through 10 years of experience in the medical field and rigorous educational trainings at the University of West Georgia where I obtained my Bachelors in Nursing then I proceeded for my Masters in Nursing at the University of Alabama “Roll Tide”.
![Photo of Jacqueline Williams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0653005-d369-4685-8d61-aba0665b7f18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Williams, PMHNP Jacqueline Williams is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia. She has a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the College of Charleston, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Marymount University, a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from Howard University, and a Post Master's Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University.
Jacqueline Williams, PMHNP Jacqueline Williams is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia. She has a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the College of Charleston, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Marymount University, a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from Howard University, and a Post Master's Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University.
![Photo of Kimberly Thompson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff7bbc49-768a-40a5-9343-8fc0b2ed6222/1/320x400.jpeg)
After several years in North Carolina working as a nurse and wanting to do more, I decided to become a nurse practitioner. Relocating to Georgia afforded me the opportunity to become an NP and begin my career working in women’s health and family medicine. In my daily work, I could not ignore the impact chronic physical conditions had on the mental health of my patients. This experience led me to making a change working with individuals struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. It was here I found my niche, leading me back to school for a psychiatric mental health degree.
After several years in North Carolina working as a nurse and wanting to do more, I decided to become a nurse practitioner. Relocating to Georgia afforded me the opportunity to become an NP and begin my career working in women’s health and family medicine. In my daily work, I could not ignore the impact chronic physical conditions had on the mental health of my patients. This experience led me to making a change working with individuals struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. It was here I found my niche, leading me back to school for a psychiatric mental health degree.
![Photo of Katie Butler, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91c2f17f-b991-4940-893e-9518aa03959c/1/320x400.jpeg)
As an Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the Perimeter and Alpharetta areas, Katie Butler specializes in prescribing and managing medication for clients with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and substance abuse.
As an Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the Perimeter and Alpharetta areas, Katie Butler specializes in prescribing and managing medication for clients with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and substance abuse.
![Photo of Jordan Stumph, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45912953-b2a2-4a9d-96ca-a654f0b8861f/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to make every patient feel that they are heard and understood. I believe in treating each person with empathy and compassion while also recognizing that every patient needs individualized care.
My goal is to make every patient feel that they are heard and understood. I believe in treating each person with empathy and compassion while also recognizing that every patient needs individualized care.
![Photo of Alexis Kessen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e49b70b4-3e50-480f-a787-9b027946a0f5/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Kessen graduated from the University of Nevada School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Utah. She enjoys taking a personalized approach to each patient she sees, taking into account their unique life experiences. Dr. Kessen focuses on medication management of adult patients ages 18 and older with mood and anxiety disorders, as well as others falling under general psychiatry. Dr. Kessen is known to be a good listener who cares greatly for her patients. Outside of work she enjoys spending time with family and friends, cooking and traveling.
Dr. Kessen graduated from the University of Nevada School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Utah. She enjoys taking a personalized approach to each patient she sees, taking into account their unique life experiences. Dr. Kessen focuses on medication management of adult patients ages 18 and older with mood and anxiety disorders, as well as others falling under general psychiatry. Dr. Kessen is known to be a good listener who cares greatly for her patients. Outside of work she enjoys spending time with family and friends, cooking and traveling.
![Photo of Allison leigh Freeman, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abc213a4-d97e-4660-860b-bcf3de9513f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Allison leigh Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30004
Allison Freeman is a psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has had the privilege of working with individuals throughout all stages of life. The majority of her time as a nurse was spent caring for infants and families in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. It was during this time she recognized a significant gap in care available to families. Caring for individuals who are going through life transitions, starting families or working through the stress of parenting at all stages has become her passion.
Allison Freeman is a psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has had the privilege of working with individuals throughout all stages of life. The majority of her time as a nurse was spent caring for infants and families in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. It was during this time she recognized a significant gap in care available to families. Caring for individuals who are going through life transitions, starting families or working through the stress of parenting at all stages has become her passion.
![Photo of Elizabeth Licalzi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85e0cd87-196c-4b18-86ec-7dd02e16426c/1/320x400.png)
Dr. LiCalzi graduated with her Bachelor's degree from Colgate University in Hamilton, NY and received her medical degree from SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY. She completed her psychiatry residency training at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, TN.
Dr. LiCalzi graduated with her Bachelor's degree from Colgate University in Hamilton, NY and received her medical degree from SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY. She completed her psychiatry residency training at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, TN.
![Photo of Shahnaz Mulla, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef2b7c75-169a-4a5f-8cf7-6c9f6293f9cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
I graduated as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2021. I’ve also worked as a mental health nurse at a psychiatric facility for more than 13 years. I’m skilled in diagnosing psychiatric illnesses, initiating and management of psychiatric medications in patients across the lifespan.
I graduated as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2021. I’ve also worked as a mental health nurse at a psychiatric facility for more than 13 years. I’m skilled in diagnosing psychiatric illnesses, initiating and management of psychiatric medications in patients across the lifespan.
![Photo of Lindsay Blair Fuson, MSN, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84c7c2a3-328f-4e4d-9268-d8e4593d3fa5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay Blair Fuson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milton, GA 30004
I am currently accepting new patients and I prioritize getting you scheduled ASAP. Please note that this practice does not accept insurance. 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!
I am currently accepting new patients and I prioritize getting you scheduled ASAP. Please note that this practice does not accept insurance. 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!
![Photo of Nirupama Natarajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e234fa4e-2c40-426e-aac4-a9da3f1957f2/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Niru Natarajan obtained her Medical Degree from The Tamilnadu Dr. MGR University Medical University at Chennai, India after completing Medical school education from Coimbatore Medical College. She then Completed her Adult Psychiatry ResidencyTraining at Louisiana State University, Shreveport, LA and her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Carilion Clinic Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine in Roanoke, VA. Dr. Natarajan is Double board certified by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology In Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
Dr. Niru Natarajan obtained her Medical Degree from The Tamilnadu Dr. MGR University Medical University at Chennai, India after completing Medical school education from Coimbatore Medical College. She then Completed her Adult Psychiatry ResidencyTraining at Louisiana State University, Shreveport, LA and her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Carilion Clinic Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine in Roanoke, VA. Dr. Natarajan is Double board certified by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology In Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
![Photo of Amelia Mathew, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ad054d4-5611-4ee9-9c3d-86261b2a9000/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a special interest and training in integrating live style changes and the use of supplements in the overall treatment plan. I believe better mental health is not just isolated to brain health, it involves the body as a whole and emotional resilience.
I have a special interest and training in integrating live style changes and the use of supplements in the overall treatment plan. I believe better mental health is not just isolated to brain health, it involves the body as a whole and emotional resilience.
![Photo of Dr. Chasity J Carswell, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b219856-85b9-4db0-93f5-1900006b10f4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chasity J Carswell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30004
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
![Photo of Holly Hart, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38406d44-1fb7-48e7-b50a-1113d4026137/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Hart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, GA 30004
Holly Hart graduated from Vanderbilt University with a Master’s of Science in Nursing and is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She treats adults with a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, substance abuse, and eating disorders using a combination of treatment options, including medication, supplements, therapy, psycho-education, and more. Services offered include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
Holly Hart graduated from Vanderbilt University with a Master’s of Science in Nursing and is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She treats adults with a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, substance abuse, and eating disorders using a combination of treatment options, including medication, supplements, therapy, psycho-education, and more. Services offered include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
![Photo of Teresa Lane, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8ab2f90-73b3-4acb-8b0f-c8c68bc389e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa Lane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30004
Teresa is a seasoned, consummate mental health professional who has dedicated her entire 40 year career to the care and treatment of mental health patients. She sees each encounter as sacred and seeks to honor the sacred stories of those entrusted to her care. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She then went on to obtain a Master of Nursing in Gerontology/Mental Health. At 44, she entered the University of North Georgia to obtain a Family Nurse Practitioner post Master's certificate.
Teresa is a seasoned, consummate mental health professional who has dedicated her entire 40 year career to the care and treatment of mental health patients. She sees each encounter as sacred and seeks to honor the sacred stories of those entrusted to her care. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She then went on to obtain a Master of Nursing in Gerontology/Mental Health. At 44, she entered the University of North Georgia to obtain a Family Nurse Practitioner post Master's certificate.
See more therapy options for 30004
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 30004
20+
Average cost per session
$192
Psychiatrists in 30004 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | ADHD |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
83% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
75% | Elevance |
How Psychiatrists in 30004 see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 30004?
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.