Psychiatrists in 31210
![Photo of Tuvia Breuer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22ab1dd0-09e3-4eac-9be5-23fa02d07ecb/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Breuer is a Doctor of Osteopathy. He is up to date with the latest research and has the ability to put patients at ease. Dr. Breuer has 6 children. He enjoys jogging, planting flowers, and is a fan of the NY Mets.
Dr. Breuer is a Doctor of Osteopathy. He is up to date with the latest research and has the ability to put patients at ease. Dr. Breuer has 6 children. He enjoys jogging, planting flowers, and is a fan of the NY Mets.
![Photo of Stephanie Williams, NP-BC, MSN-RN, MBA-HA, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d22dcde0-581a-44ce-a853-a57b703ea68c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Williams
Psychiatric Nurse, NP-BC, MSN-RN, MBA-HA
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210 (Online Only)
Stephanie started her nursing career in 2005 as a nurse extern on a med-surg unit at Medical Center Navient Health. Over the years she has been provided opportunities to gain knowledge and skill in several areas of nursing such as: labor and delivery, women's services, stroke/neuro, case management, and utilization reviews. She obtained her mental health experience providing treatment with community service board outpatient practices.
Stephanie started her nursing career in 2005 as a nurse extern on a med-surg unit at Medical Center Navient Health. Over the years she has been provided opportunities to gain knowledge and skill in several areas of nursing such as: labor and delivery, women's services, stroke/neuro, case management, and utilization reviews. She obtained her mental health experience providing treatment with community service board outpatient practices.
![Photo of Briana Hall, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7b45fd0-c070-44b9-94cc-e1f98a057e49/2/320x400.jpeg)
Briana Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Macon, GA 31210 (Online Only)
As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my goal to help you find your balance in life and achieve your best version of self. To do this, I am prepared to diagnose and treat a multitude of mental and behavioral health disorders using medication, counseling, and other forms of therapy. Treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar, and many other disorders are my specialties. I believe building a healthy, trusting relationship with you and your support system is ideal to meeting your goals and achieving your best outcomes. I see all ages, all races, all genders....all people are welcome!
As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my goal to help you find your balance in life and achieve your best version of self. To do this, I am prepared to diagnose and treat a multitude of mental and behavioral health disorders using medication, counseling, and other forms of therapy. Treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar, and many other disorders are my specialties. I believe building a healthy, trusting relationship with you and your support system is ideal to meeting your goals and achieving your best outcomes. I see all ages, all races, all genders....all people are welcome!
![Photo of Jenny Yancey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8de0e986-6de4-4f39-981d-df75797de0c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenny Yancey, PMHNP Jenny Yancey is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Walden University. Jenny is committed to providing honest, respectful, and evidence-based treatment. She believes in forming partnerships with patients and allowing them to have an active voice in treatment and recovery options. In her spare time, Jenny enjoys church, spending time with family and friends, soccer, and horseback riding.
Jenny Yancey, PMHNP Jenny Yancey is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Walden University. Jenny is committed to providing honest, respectful, and evidence-based treatment. She believes in forming partnerships with patients and allowing them to have an active voice in treatment and recovery options. In her spare time, Jenny enjoys church, spending time with family and friends, soccer, and horseback riding.
![Photo of Michael Anderson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51101565-bf65-4cf4-9bae-d0dfef157643/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michael Anderson is a Psychiatrist in Macon who has been practicing since 2024. Dr. Anderson provides treatment of mental health disorders with medication management and psychotherapy. He has specialized training in child and adolescent psychiatry. Outside of work, Dr. Anderson enjoys trampoline and power tumbling gymnastics, cooking, and being a member of book clubs.
Dr. Michael Anderson is a Psychiatrist in Macon who has been practicing since 2024. Dr. Anderson provides treatment of mental health disorders with medication management and psychotherapy. He has specialized training in child and adolescent psychiatry. Outside of work, Dr. Anderson enjoys trampoline and power tumbling gymnastics, cooking, and being a member of book clubs.
![Photo of William Dwight, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7df5015-bd9e-4a99-a7bd-02aa273c4ec1/1/320x400.jpeg)
William Dwight is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2017. He obtained his Master's of Science in Nursing, specializing in Family Psychiatric Mental Health from Valdosta State University. He is qualified to treat children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics although he prefers treating adolescents, adults, and the geriatric. Some of William's practice specialties include (but not limited to) Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and ADHD. He prefers prescribing traditional up to date medications that are mostly affordable for the public.
William Dwight is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2017. He obtained his Master's of Science in Nursing, specializing in Family Psychiatric Mental Health from Valdosta State University. He is qualified to treat children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics although he prefers treating adolescents, adults, and the geriatric. Some of William's practice specialties include (but not limited to) Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and ADHD. He prefers prescribing traditional up to date medications that are mostly affordable for the public.
![Photo of Edyn McKinnon, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19a7a4ef-78b7-47c8-bf61-3d6e83d3b390/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edyn McKinnon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210 (Online Only)
I work with individuals from the age of 6 to geriatrics. I have had the pleasure to work on several inpatient crisis stability units for adult age patients 18-55 years old as well as geriatric units for patients ages 55 years and older. I have also worked in a private practice setting for the past 3 years that I just recently left. I felt it was time to move out more on my own. So here I am, I have come to realize when you love what you do it no longer truly is work.
I work with individuals from the age of 6 to geriatrics. I have had the pleasure to work on several inpatient crisis stability units for adult age patients 18-55 years old as well as geriatric units for patients ages 55 years and older. I have also worked in a private practice setting for the past 3 years that I just recently left. I felt it was time to move out more on my own. So here I am, I have come to realize when you love what you do it no longer truly is work.
![Photo of Gregory Claxton, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa6e0954-f209-4967-ab49-ec7c652d124b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with anxiety? Moodiness? Restlessness? Feeling down? Can't focus? I'd love to work with you to see if we can find solutions together. My main goal is to help YOU decide a mental health treatment that will be safe and most effective for you. My role is not to simply prescribe medication. My role is to be your collaborator and resource for information about medication options and prescribe them as appropriate!
Are you struggling with anxiety? Moodiness? Restlessness? Feeling down? Can't focus? I'd love to work with you to see if we can find solutions together. My main goal is to help YOU decide a mental health treatment that will be safe and most effective for you. My role is not to simply prescribe medication. My role is to be your collaborator and resource for information about medication options and prescribe them as appropriate!
![Photo of Dr. Diana Jubilee Awuah, DNP, PMNP-BC, FNP-C, CME, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b3fce7b-b33f-49dd-8c19-ac2664f5eff9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Diana Jubilee Awuah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMNP-BC, FNP-C, CME
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210 (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Dr. Diana Jubilee Awuah. I am the founder of Jubilee Healthcare Providers LLC. I have over 11 years of combined experience as a healthcare provider. Do you feel pulled in many directions and unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Are you feeling lost? I help men, women, and children who are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, and other mental health problems to finally get a breakthrough so they can reclaim their joy, restore their confidence, and improve their overall health. Together, we can identify what is not working and get you back to balance.
Hi there, I'm Dr. Diana Jubilee Awuah. I am the founder of Jubilee Healthcare Providers LLC. I have over 11 years of combined experience as a healthcare provider. Do you feel pulled in many directions and unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Are you feeling lost? I help men, women, and children who are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, and other mental health problems to finally get a breakthrough so they can reclaim their joy, restore their confidence, and improve their overall health. Together, we can identify what is not working and get you back to balance.
![Photo of Shikira Woods, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39b34451-728d-4821-9076-1518d98609fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Shikira. I’m a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with a doctorate degree in nursing practice. I’m originally from Ohio. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, sports, travel, community service activities, and my beloved fur babies. My experience is in medical/surgical nursing, brief counseling, and adult/child/adolescent mental health care. I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential treatment settings throughout my 10+ years in healthcare.
Hi! My name is Shikira. I’m a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with a doctorate degree in nursing practice. I’m originally from Ohio. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, sports, travel, community service activities, and my beloved fur babies. My experience is in medical/surgical nursing, brief counseling, and adult/child/adolescent mental health care. I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential treatment settings throughout my 10+ years in healthcare.
![Photo of Santissa T Clapp, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a96f206e-d3f2-465d-b128-0525452d5820/1/320x400.jpeg)
Santissa T Clapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210 (Online Only)
I am truly passionate about being a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and believe it to be my calling and purpose in life. While mental health is often overlooked or avoided in the realm of healthcare, I have been drawn to it. I know that every patient is unique and I take pride in tailoring each experience to suit their specific needs. My approach focuses on equipping patients with the necessary tools to long term manage their mental health. I also offer psychotherapy and help with natural alternatives to prescribed medications, like vitamins and supplements. Schedule today to embark on your mental health journey.
I am truly passionate about being a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and believe it to be my calling and purpose in life. While mental health is often overlooked or avoided in the realm of healthcare, I have been drawn to it. I know that every patient is unique and I take pride in tailoring each experience to suit their specific needs. My approach focuses on equipping patients with the necessary tools to long term manage their mental health. I also offer psychotherapy and help with natural alternatives to prescribed medications, like vitamins and supplements. Schedule today to embark on your mental health journey.
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![Photo of Evelyn Dennis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72b84d19-5aa8-4a25-8bed-33caf0f1b6f2/1/320x400.png)
Evelyn Dennis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating teen and adult mental health issues such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder ), and depression. I'm a board-certified advanced psychiatrist Nurse practitioner with experience in inpatient, outpatient, and community settings, as well as a strong track record of building solid relationships with clients, their families, and colleagues, with high expertise in assessment, evaluation, diagnosis, medication management, and treatment in a variety of mental health conditions and across the lifespan.
I specialize in treating teen and adult mental health issues such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder ), and depression. I'm a board-certified advanced psychiatrist Nurse practitioner with experience in inpatient, outpatient, and community settings, as well as a strong track record of building solid relationships with clients, their families, and colleagues, with high expertise in assessment, evaluation, diagnosis, medication management, and treatment in a variety of mental health conditions and across the lifespan.
![Photo of Korinne Edwards, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f389e2c-4aad-4bf4-9354-e65cefaf54ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Korinne Edwards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Georgia. I received my Masters and Doctorate from Columbia University School of Nursing in New York City and have been practicing for the last 5 years. I help teens and adults struggling with mental health concerns become the best version of themselves with the use of medication and psychoeducation. I hope to see you soon!
Hello! I'm a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Georgia. I received my Masters and Doctorate from Columbia University School of Nursing in New York City and have been practicing for the last 5 years. I help teens and adults struggling with mental health concerns become the best version of themselves with the use of medication and psychoeducation. I hope to see you soon!
![Photo of Laura Guinade, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e454dd4f-d0d2-4885-804f-4788a127cbd6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Guinade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210 (Online Only)
Hi. I am Laura Guinade, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia College and State University and a certification through the American Nursing Credentialing Center, as a PMHNP. I offer a caring, nonjudgmental, and laid back atmosphere empowering my patients to reach their optimal mental health goals. It is my belief to approach each patient's mental health individually and use an evidence based holistic approach incorporating all avenues that may effect one's mental state.
Hi. I am Laura Guinade, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia College and State University and a certification through the American Nursing Credentialing Center, as a PMHNP. I offer a caring, nonjudgmental, and laid back atmosphere empowering my patients to reach their optimal mental health goals. It is my belief to approach each patient's mental health individually and use an evidence based holistic approach incorporating all avenues that may effect one's mental state.
![Photo of Nurul Hoque, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/977202a1-c923-46aa-ab95-78b4f763e7b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Hoque is a board-certified psychiatrist with more than 15 years of experience in adult and child/adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Hoque has expertise in treating a variety of mental health conditions including depression, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions.
Dr. Hoque is a board-certified psychiatrist with more than 15 years of experience in adult and child/adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Hoque has expertise in treating a variety of mental health conditions including depression, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions.
![Photo of Brave Health - Brave Health, MD, FNP-C, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/286ac30c-eaaf-4293-9c58-6a0e968fd661/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brave Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, FNP-C, PhD
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210 (Online Only)
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists and nurse practitioners with expertise in treating mental health. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists and nurse practitioners with expertise in treating mental health. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
![Photo of Latrina Walden, PMHNP, FNP-C, MHA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43bc3176-c635-459e-8f88-39a731d2780e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Latrina Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, MHA
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210 (Online Only)
Go to the Website area and make an appointment! At Little by Little Therapy, we believe in the power of gradual progress to make meaningful changes in your life. Our approach is rooted in the understanding that small, incremental choices can move the needle toward positive transformation. Whether you're facing the challenges of adjusting to new surroundings or navigating difficult life situations, we're here to offer you support and guidance.
Go to the Website area and make an appointment! At Little by Little Therapy, we believe in the power of gradual progress to make meaningful changes in your life. Our approach is rooted in the understanding that small, incremental choices can move the needle toward positive transformation. Whether you're facing the challenges of adjusting to new surroundings or navigating difficult life situations, we're here to offer you support and guidance.
See more therapy options for 31210
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 31210
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 31210 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
88% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
88% | Trauma and PTSD |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
59% | ADHD |
47% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 31210 see their clients
70% | Online Only | |
30% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 31210?
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.