Psychiatrists in 30309
![Photo of Lisa Mann, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39f767c8-42a7-47e9-9182-54b255ea9026/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Mann, PA-C Lisa Mann is a Physician Assistant in Georgia who has been practicing since 2018. She graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor's of Science in Neuroscience, received a Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University, and has a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) from the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). Lisa's approach to patient care is thorough evaluation of the genetic, situational, and medical factors that may be contributing to a patient's mental health concerns.
Lisa Mann, PA-C Lisa Mann is a Physician Assistant in Georgia who has been practicing since 2018. She graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor's of Science in Neuroscience, received a Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University, and has a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) from the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). Lisa's approach to patient care is thorough evaluation of the genetic, situational, and medical factors that may be contributing to a patient's mental health concerns.
![Photo of Sandra Thomas - Beacon Counseling, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4036c20-7094-4edb-a26b-f3ef4332376f/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are Licensed Psychiatrist and Licensed Professional Counselors, who use our clinical training to address your body, soul, and mind. We use research-based interventions to help clients with various issues, including trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, relational struggles, attachment issues, etc. We treat children 8 years +, couples, and adults.
We are Licensed Psychiatrist and Licensed Professional Counselors, who use our clinical training to address your body, soul, and mind. We use research-based interventions to help clients with various issues, including trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, relational struggles, attachment issues, etc. We treat children 8 years +, couples, and adults.
![Photo of John Tumeh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbf1f0af-73bc-42b8-973b-cc5dd5020974/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is someone battling Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), or major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts. They seek compassionate care, innovative treatments like TMS and Spravato (esketamine), and a personalized approach to find relief and regain a fulfilling life. Their goal is not just recovery but to reclaim life's richness and build emotional resilience. They want to break free from suffering and embrace purpose, joy, and growth, driven by a deep desire for transformation.
My ideal client is someone battling Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), or major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts. They seek compassionate care, innovative treatments like TMS and Spravato (esketamine), and a personalized approach to find relief and regain a fulfilling life. Their goal is not just recovery but to reclaim life's richness and build emotional resilience. They want to break free from suffering and embrace purpose, joy, and growth, driven by a deep desire for transformation.
![Photo of Richa Maheshwari, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45a31b24-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist licensed in both New York and Georgia. I enjoy working with people at every life stage, and I believe psychotherapy is an effective tool to help us lead more meaningful and productive lives. As a physician I also prescribe medications when appropriate.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist licensed in both New York and Georgia. I enjoy working with people at every life stage, and I believe psychotherapy is an effective tool to help us lead more meaningful and productive lives. As a physician I also prescribe medications when appropriate.
![Photo of LaShonda Richards - Positive Mind & Body LLC, APRN, PMHNP, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f66fdcbf-7ce1-4992-97d9-c03834a2791a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Positive Mind & Body LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309 (Online Only)
Positive Mind & Body provides innovative mental healthcare to adult individuals. My telemedicine practice offers a convenient and secure way to access psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, medication management and follow-up appointments from the comfort of your own home. I utilize a holistic approach when it comes to providing care for clients which ensures their mental health needs are met.
Positive Mind & Body provides innovative mental healthcare to adult individuals. My telemedicine practice offers a convenient and secure way to access psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, medication management and follow-up appointments from the comfort of your own home. I utilize a holistic approach when it comes to providing care for clients which ensures their mental health needs are met.
![Photo of Omotayo Abdul, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba7a3958-1e14-41a9-80a2-057070952553/1/320x400.jpeg)
My nursing career started in 1980 from Nigeria, where I worked in all areas of nursing. Moved to the United States in 1984, I was in Los Angeles, California for 10 years, and in 1994 I relocated to Atlanta, Georgia. In 1997, I focused mainly on mental health conditions in our state psychiatry hospital, later transition to the Federal level at the Atlanta VA mostly with the adult populations. I consider myself a compassionate and caring individual with a special passion for those who serve our nation, as I am a mother of two Air Force Veterans.
My nursing career started in 1980 from Nigeria, where I worked in all areas of nursing. Moved to the United States in 1984, I was in Los Angeles, California for 10 years, and in 1994 I relocated to Atlanta, Georgia. In 1997, I focused mainly on mental health conditions in our state psychiatry hospital, later transition to the Federal level at the Atlanta VA mostly with the adult populations. I consider myself a compassionate and caring individual with a special passion for those who serve our nation, as I am a mother of two Air Force Veterans.
![Photo of Maima Fortune, MSN, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d1fb7f0-cd3a-4b52-84d1-4bdfcf5bb068/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maima Fortune
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing and Psychology from The University of Rhode Island in 2010, then went on to get my Master’s in Nursing from Drexel University, graduating as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2018. I have worked in variety of inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as telemedicine. For 4 years, I have care for and provided psychotropic medication management to children, adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients in a variety of settings including hospital, outpatient, nursing home and state psychiatric facilities.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing and Psychology from The University of Rhode Island in 2010, then went on to get my Master’s in Nursing from Drexel University, graduating as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2018. I have worked in variety of inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as telemedicine. For 4 years, I have care for and provided psychotropic medication management to children, adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients in a variety of settings including hospital, outpatient, nursing home and state psychiatric facilities.
![Photo of Gilda Moss-Traore, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d22cbd46-7761-493d-b74d-1f8f1b2f1fb6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gilda Moss-Traore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
Hi! I am Gilda Moss-Traore a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C, PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience working with a variety of clients living with ADHD, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, as well as adjustment disorders and substance use disorders. I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse looking forward to providing individualized quality psychiatric care consisting of comprehensive assessments, medication management, and individualized psychosocial therapy to my clients.
Hi! I am Gilda Moss-Traore a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C, PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience working with a variety of clients living with ADHD, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, as well as adjustment disorders and substance use disorders. I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse looking forward to providing individualized quality psychiatric care consisting of comprehensive assessments, medication management, and individualized psychosocial therapy to my clients.
![Photo of Funmilayo C Rachal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce51cb6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified adult and forensic psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, professionals in crisis, and the issues of intimacy and sexual dysfunction. I have a specific interest in treating those who struggle with problems related to poor self esteem, assertiveness,and relationship dysfunction. In addition I provide anxiety and/or depression counseling to those struggling with transitioning in college or careers. After an initial consultation, an individualized treatment plan is designed to address your treatment needs including individual and couples therapy and psychiatric medication management.
I am a board certified adult and forensic psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, professionals in crisis, and the issues of intimacy and sexual dysfunction. I have a specific interest in treating those who struggle with problems related to poor self esteem, assertiveness,and relationship dysfunction. In addition I provide anxiety and/or depression counseling to those struggling with transitioning in college or careers. After an initial consultation, an individualized treatment plan is designed to address your treatment needs including individual and couples therapy and psychiatric medication management.
![Photo of Amaka Anara, BSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b54b63de-6c9d-4061-9115-3ee403f5f1d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amaka Anara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30309
Amaka is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University in Minneapolis Minnesota. She has always had a passion for helping and caring for others. She returned to school to obtain a Bachelor of Science in nursing after completing her initial bachelor’s degree in business administration and management. Her desire to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care to individuals across the lifespan propelled her into pursing a master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health. Amaka has worked in a variety of healthcare settings, from Medical Surgical to behavioral health and believes that achieving
Amaka is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University in Minneapolis Minnesota. She has always had a passion for helping and caring for others. She returned to school to obtain a Bachelor of Science in nursing after completing her initial bachelor’s degree in business administration and management. Her desire to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care to individuals across the lifespan propelled her into pursing a master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health. Amaka has worked in a variety of healthcare settings, from Medical Surgical to behavioral health and believes that achieving
![Photo of Tondalaya Sanford, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2fee629d-1c5b-4263-b3bc-1d8beddef779/1/320x400.png)
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has treated an array of clients as well as geriatric clients. I have treated clients who suffer from anxiety, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, substance abuse, addiction, and personality disorder, also schizoaffective and sleep disorders. I am a dedicated healthcare provider who works very hard to help each and every client heal and become a functioning member of society through education, therapy, non-medicinal therapies, and medication as needed. Together, we will decide on a plan of care that will give you the best results and help you thrive once again.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has treated an array of clients as well as geriatric clients. I have treated clients who suffer from anxiety, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, substance abuse, addiction, and personality disorder, also schizoaffective and sleep disorders. I am a dedicated healthcare provider who works very hard to help each and every client heal and become a functioning member of society through education, therapy, non-medicinal therapies, and medication as needed. Together, we will decide on a plan of care that will give you the best results and help you thrive once again.
15 Second Videos
Amaka Anara
Tondalaya Sanford
Fatimat Olumayowa Olufunmilayo Agbojeyin
![Photo of Kendra Jo Back, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40d590e0-ebb6-4e2d-9b99-1576fc09c883/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kendra Jo Back
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309 (Online Only)
Mental health affects many people. My primary experience has been with anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, and bipolar. The utilization of medications when necessary, nutrition, exercise, and counseling will help you take charge of your mental health. The ultimate goal is to learn effective coping skills that will allow you to be in control.
Mental health affects many people. My primary experience has been with anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, and bipolar. The utilization of medications when necessary, nutrition, exercise, and counseling will help you take charge of your mental health. The ultimate goal is to learn effective coping skills that will allow you to be in control.
![Photo of Ross F Grumet, MD, LFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce8fb5e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My psychiatric practice handles wide range of adult issues such as depression, ADHD (Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse, Focalin, etc), bipolar, addictions (Suboxone buprenorphine for pain opioid medication problems)alcohol (naltrexone, acamprosate,etc.) I use medication in combination with brief therapy (cognitive, hypnosis, ACT) and coordinate with other therapists if necessary.. For insomnia, insufficient sleep, fatigue see SleepAdvocate.com. See my blogs at psychiatryatlanta.com. At first visit we usually discuss findings, alternative treatment options, your preferences, and start or continue medication with your informed consent. OK to bring another person if you believe this will be useful.
My psychiatric practice handles wide range of adult issues such as depression, ADHD (Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse, Focalin, etc), bipolar, addictions (Suboxone buprenorphine for pain opioid medication problems)alcohol (naltrexone, acamprosate,etc.) I use medication in combination with brief therapy (cognitive, hypnosis, ACT) and coordinate with other therapists if necessary.. For insomnia, insufficient sleep, fatigue see SleepAdvocate.com. See my blogs at psychiatryatlanta.com. At first visit we usually discuss findings, alternative treatment options, your preferences, and start or continue medication with your informed consent. OK to bring another person if you believe this will be useful.
![Photo of Diana Woodall, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bc17119-cdeb-4ac7-a21f-fbf52e51c720/2/320x400.jpeg)
SAME/ NEXT Week Appointments - I am a board certified psychiatrist committed to providing individualized care to each patient, with an emphasis on empathetic listening and collaboration. My goal in working with patients is to empower each individual to harness their unique strengths and to foster self-actualization and resiliency. My treatment approach is integrative, often combining various modalities including medications, psychotherapy, medical/diagnostic labwork, nutrition, exercise, and other wellness focused approaches catered to each individual's values.
SAME/ NEXT Week Appointments - I am a board certified psychiatrist committed to providing individualized care to each patient, with an emphasis on empathetic listening and collaboration. My goal in working with patients is to empower each individual to harness their unique strengths and to foster self-actualization and resiliency. My treatment approach is integrative, often combining various modalities including medications, psychotherapy, medical/diagnostic labwork, nutrition, exercise, and other wellness focused approaches catered to each individual's values.
![Photo of Dr. Debbie Stevens, PhD, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/295abe18-a365-4da1-8b7d-014f1778e6a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Debbie Stevens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
I knew from my first day of my psychiatric clinical rotation during my junior year of nursing school that I wanted to commit my career to helping people with their mental health problems. I realized I found a true joy in sitting with individuals experiencing a crisis and helping others battling a myriad of issues. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina, before completing a Master of Science in Nursing at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. After obtaining nearly a decade of clinical practice, I return to Emory to earn a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing.
I knew from my first day of my psychiatric clinical rotation during my junior year of nursing school that I wanted to commit my career to helping people with their mental health problems. I realized I found a true joy in sitting with individuals experiencing a crisis and helping others battling a myriad of issues. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina, before completing a Master of Science in Nursing at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. After obtaining nearly a decade of clinical practice, I return to Emory to earn a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing.
![Photo of D. Diane Wilson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/180c75aa-4235-4b1c-a4f5-547c3b485c91/2/320x400.jpeg)
D. Diane Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
Not accepting new clients
Mental health disorders truly impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. Years of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders may result in adverse health behaviors like a sedentary lifestyle, inadequate eating and sleeping habits, difficulty in relationships, and negative coping skills such as smoking and substance use. I practice a holistic approach to treatment, utilizing medication management as needed and a focus on lifestyle changes such as improved nutrition, adequate sleep, and exercise. I am committed to reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues.
Mental health disorders truly impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. Years of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders may result in adverse health behaviors like a sedentary lifestyle, inadequate eating and sleeping habits, difficulty in relationships, and negative coping skills such as smoking and substance use. I practice a holistic approach to treatment, utilizing medication management as needed and a focus on lifestyle changes such as improved nutrition, adequate sleep, and exercise. I am committed to reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues.
![Photo of Sarah Cook, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c98e04e2-8f16-41d2-9204-d0e03d7b035d/2/320x400.jpeg)
We all struggle with challenges that impact us significantly at some time in our lives – relationships, feeling stagnant or stressed at work, grief, or simply feeling dissatisfied with life. You might struggle with depression, anxiety or panic or other mental health concerns and feel your symptoms are not well-controlled. As an adult psychiatrist, I can help you achieve relief from symptoms, clarity on your goals and relationships, and improved self-compassion.
We all struggle with challenges that impact us significantly at some time in our lives – relationships, feeling stagnant or stressed at work, grief, or simply feeling dissatisfied with life. You might struggle with depression, anxiety or panic or other mental health concerns and feel your symptoms are not well-controlled. As an adult psychiatrist, I can help you achieve relief from symptoms, clarity on your goals and relationships, and improved self-compassion.
![Photo of Ebele Compean, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f34d3ded-5d26-46e2-98d7-35aa3496e4bb/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Compean is proud to be a part of patient's journey. She is privileged to be one of the few (or in some cases the only person) in their life to see the real person. There are many things medications itself cannot fix such as the the doctor, psychiatrist really listening to you and being an advocate for your mental wellness. Dr. Compean loves spending time with her husband and their two beautiful dogs as well as cooking authentic Nigerian cuisine.
Dr. Compean is proud to be a part of patient's journey. She is privileged to be one of the few (or in some cases the only person) in their life to see the real person. There are many things medications itself cannot fix such as the the doctor, psychiatrist really listening to you and being an advocate for your mental wellness. Dr. Compean loves spending time with her husband and their two beautiful dogs as well as cooking authentic Nigerian cuisine.
![Photo of Angela Jenkins Jacobs, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/442584c9-bdca-4ba2-8ebf-049bb03a367e/2/320x400.png)
Angela Jenkins Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
Angela Jenkins-Jacobs is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Angela provides non-judgmental, evidence-based services. Each visit focuses on how medication, supplements, and other holistic approaches can combine with psychotherapy to meet patient needs.
Angela Jenkins-Jacobs is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Angela provides non-judgmental, evidence-based services. Each visit focuses on how medication, supplements, and other holistic approaches can combine with psychotherapy to meet patient needs.
![Photo of Larrice Gorley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2840c325-c22f-4c04-8ffd-e1424c148721/1/320x400.png)
Larrice Gorley is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Valdosta State University. Her background includes child and adult psychiatry and substance abuse treatment. Mrs. Gorley clinical career took her on a journey through the healthcare system, from inpatient to outpatient settings, managing the care of everyone from children with autism to older adults with dementia. Her expertise lies in psychopharmacology across the lifespan, acute and chronic mental health issues, and acute and chronic substance abuse treatment.
Larrice Gorley is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Valdosta State University. Her background includes child and adult psychiatry and substance abuse treatment. Mrs. Gorley clinical career took her on a journey through the healthcare system, from inpatient to outpatient settings, managing the care of everyone from children with autism to older adults with dementia. Her expertise lies in psychopharmacology across the lifespan, acute and chronic mental health issues, and acute and chronic substance abuse treatment.
See more therapy options for 30309
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 30309
30+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 30309 who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
91% | Anxiety |
79% | ADHD |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Medication Management |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
68% | Cigna and Evernorth |
63% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 30309 see their clients
79% | In Person and Online | |
21% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
76% | Female | |
24% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 30309?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.