Psychiatrists in 30309
Angela Jenkins Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
Not accepting new clients
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 caring and helping others. Amaka 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 caring and helping others. Amaka 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
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
Thomas Oden
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Thomas Oden, MD is an Atlanta-based Board Certified Psychiatrist specializing in Integrative Health, Medication Management, and Civil/Criminal Forensic Evaluations. Dr. Oden also offers treatment via Telemedicine to his patients in Georgia, California, New Hampshire, and Louisiana creating flexibility for those not available for traditional office visits. As a Psychiatrist, he is also able to recommend, prescribe, and monitor medications when needed to assist in various mental health disorders that impact his patient's well-being and ability to manage stress.
Dr. Thomas Oden, MD is an Atlanta-based Board Certified Psychiatrist specializing in Integrative Health, Medication Management, and Civil/Criminal Forensic Evaluations. Dr. Oden also offers treatment via Telemedicine to his patients in Georgia, California, New Hampshire, and Louisiana creating flexibility for those not available for traditional office visits. As a Psychiatrist, he is also able to recommend, prescribe, and monitor medications when needed to assist in various mental health disorders that impact his patient's well-being and ability to manage stress.
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.
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.
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.
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.
See more therapy options for 30309
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 30309
30+
Average cost per session
$237
Psychiatrists in 30309 who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Medication Management |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
70% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 30309 see their clients
81% | In Person and Online | |
19% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 30309?
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.