Psychiatrists in 30122
![Photo of Randy T. Warner, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/956d8125-5b0e-4c38-ba31-4f19453fef94/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Inc. after having passed a stringent written examination in the subject matter of Psychiatry and Neurology. As well, oral examination with actual patients under the scrutiny of experts in the field. I have 23 years of experience in treating children, adolescents, and adults; inpatient and outpatient. I am trained and familiar with various modalities of psychotherapy; however, I am not currently a primary therapist as I coordinate care. I provide Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for treatment-resistant depression which can be life-changing for resistant depression.
I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Inc. after having passed a stringent written examination in the subject matter of Psychiatry and Neurology. As well, oral examination with actual patients under the scrutiny of experts in the field. I have 23 years of experience in treating children, adolescents, and adults; inpatient and outpatient. I am trained and familiar with various modalities of psychotherapy; however, I am not currently a primary therapist as I coordinate care. I provide Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for treatment-resistant depression which can be life-changing for resistant depression.
![Photo of La-Vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/385d2a04-0e30-4e8e-9a16-4d5971a34e72/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
![Photo of La-Vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d596087-02a1-4da0-be76-3df140a5110f/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
![Photo of La-vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c0d0988-4fe8-439c-95fc-6ce1ee2fa932/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
![Photo of La-Vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16d2f9c4-07ce-457e-83b6-357f9a2eb5e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
![Photo of Diana Manjarres - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e439f33c-fed5-41bc-9e08-9a3b614726a2/2/320x400.png)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatrist, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
![Photo of Diana Manjarres - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cb68e07-044a-44b6-b17b-3765baea7a32/1/320x400.png)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
![Photo of Diana Manjarres - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc36276a-1baa-4bcf-b535-28487f066e9b/1/320x400.png)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
![Photo of La-Vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7157e328-0038-43b7-bb24-470a68fd42e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
![Photo of Diana Manjarres - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9350386-35d6-481a-b284-962624c93631/1/320x400.png)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
![Photo of Diana Manjarres - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a5f0d53-2e52-4c08-8a9b-d939d68eaa83/1/320x400.png)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
![Photo of Diana Manjarres - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3eec6bc-265e-481c-add1-7f78ee6e7dc5/1/320x400.png)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
![Photo of La-Vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50a9514b-652f-453e-b620-bcc54a581b0d/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
![Photo of Nicole Stallworth, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/351445a6-95db-4e70-9b73-5df6b272693a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Stallworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
Any person with mental health issues, whether acute or chronic.
Any person with mental health issues, whether acute or chronic.
![Photo of Cynthia McNeill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/528c9a95-ee20-4ac2-9d73-e89819c7b49b/1/320x400.png)
Cynthia McNeill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122 (Online Only)
Dr. McNeill, NP, specializes in family medicine and psychiatry in adults (18+), focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. She holds a PhD in Human Services (Health Care Administration) from Capella University, an MSN in family practice from the University of South Alabama, an MBA and BsIT from AIU, and a BSN from Emory University, along with a post-masters certificate in psychiatric mental health from Washburn University.
Dr. McNeill, NP, specializes in family medicine and psychiatry in adults (18+), focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. She holds a PhD in Human Services (Health Care Administration) from Capella University, an MSN in family practice from the University of South Alabama, an MBA and BsIT from AIU, and a BSN from Emory University, along with a post-masters certificate in psychiatric mental health from Washburn University.
![Photo of Chiazor Irene Eziakor - Healing Hands Integrated Psychiatric Services, LLC, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1ceafc4-a81d-4887-b92e-4b45a1baa2ec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Healing Hands Integrated Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lithia Springs, GA 30122 (Online Only)
As a doctoral trained psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner as well as family nurse practitioner with combined 18 years of experience in providing healthcare and mental health services; I will like to work one-on-one with you in providing an affordable tele-psychiatry care to you in the privacy of your own chosen location, reduce avoidable trip to the emergency room due to crisis, reduce delay in your mental health care, improve continuity of care and follow up needs, reduce the need to take time off from work and childcare, and reduce potential transportation barriers. Give us a trial!
As a doctoral trained psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner as well as family nurse practitioner with combined 18 years of experience in providing healthcare and mental health services; I will like to work one-on-one with you in providing an affordable tele-psychiatry care to you in the privacy of your own chosen location, reduce avoidable trip to the emergency room due to crisis, reduce delay in your mental health care, improve continuity of care and follow up needs, reduce the need to take time off from work and childcare, and reduce potential transportation barriers. Give us a trial!
![Photo of Danielle Vann, PMHNP, CPNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32ecd967-658b-47d5-99d1-afeb0a89beab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Vann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about delivering comprehensive psychiatric mental health care to individuals across all age groups. With over 15 years of nursing experience, my primary focus has been on pediatric care, complemented by extensive work with adolescents and adults.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about delivering comprehensive psychiatric mental health care to individuals across all age groups. With over 15 years of nursing experience, my primary focus has been on pediatric care, complemented by extensive work with adolescents and adults.
See more therapy options for 30122
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 30122
10+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in 30122 who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
94% | Trauma and PTSD |
94% | Psychosis |
94% | Bipolar Disorder |
94% | Sleep or Insomnia |
88% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
22 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | Aetna |
94% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 30122 see their clients
89% | In Person and Online | |
11% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 30122?
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.