Psychiatrists in Conyers, GA
![Photo of Olasimbo Babatope - Atlanta Telepsychiatry, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c8a1866-a51c-4ae7-8d44-3cc713cbaa49/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Atlanta Tele-psychiatry!! We believe in recovery from mental illness that goes beyond the absence of symptoms, and we will work with you to establish and maintain your recovery journey. Our ultimate goal is to help you regain a rich, rewarding, and meaningful life in our community.
Welcome to Atlanta Tele-psychiatry!! We believe in recovery from mental illness that goes beyond the absence of symptoms, and we will work with you to establish and maintain your recovery journey. Our ultimate goal is to help you regain a rich, rewarding, and meaningful life in our community.
![Photo of Joanne B Harris, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f062924-aa2b-4415-b867-9fc65ad69029/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joanne B Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conyers, GA 30094
My guiding principle in psychiatric treatment is that you should be heard and respected as an individual. We'll work together to develop a strategy that's attainable and tailored made for you.
My guiding principle in psychiatric treatment is that you should be heard and respected as an individual. We'll work together to develop a strategy that's attainable and tailored made for you.
![Photo of Lori Darnelle Lewis, MBA, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f80c0f5-e5c7-429f-915c-ceceb1b106f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lori Darnelle Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Conyers, GA 30094 (Online Only)
I am Lori Lewis, a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For years, I have been committed to making a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges. With a diverse background in healthcare, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my practice. My decision to specialize in mental health nursing came after a personal experience that transformed my life. As a survivor of sexual assault, I spent years running away from my own mental health struggles. As a mental health advocate, I strongly believe the significance of facing your fears while allowing yourself grace.
I am Lori Lewis, a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For years, I have been committed to making a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges. With a diverse background in healthcare, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my practice. My decision to specialize in mental health nursing came after a personal experience that transformed my life. As a survivor of sexual assault, I spent years running away from my own mental health struggles. As a mental health advocate, I strongly believe the significance of facing your fears while allowing yourself grace.
![Photo of Donna Cross - Tranquility Behavioral Services LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d8a98f8-03bd-4e38-afef-e8f4a1f5689d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tranquility Behavioral Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Conyers, GA 30013
The clients that I am best positioned to serve are clients with mental health disorders. I provide comprehensive care to individuals and families. I form strong therapeutic relationships with individuals across the lifespan- becoming familiar with their stories and challenges. I promote well-being through prevention and education, and collaboration with patient and family. I want my clients to have the aspirations, desires, and a vision that will allow them to grow and thrive in their respective communities.
The clients that I am best positioned to serve are clients with mental health disorders. I provide comprehensive care to individuals and families. I form strong therapeutic relationships with individuals across the lifespan- becoming familiar with their stories and challenges. I promote well-being through prevention and education, and collaboration with patient and family. I want my clients to have the aspirations, desires, and a vision that will allow them to grow and thrive in their respective communities.
![Photo of Dartiss Chevalier, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84bbc319-8579-4c9b-9b39-c22cadb8a3cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dartiss Chevalier is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2019. Dartiss believes in listening to a patient, validating their worries and fears, encouraging treatment, and helping them choose the right treatment. Outside of work, Dartiss is passionate about living and enjoying life, especially vacationing.
Dartiss Chevalier is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2019. Dartiss believes in listening to a patient, validating their worries and fears, encouraging treatment, and helping them choose the right treatment. Outside of work, Dartiss is passionate about living and enjoying life, especially vacationing.
![Photo of Riuyinosa Elema - Overflowing Health Behavioral , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3343d8a-624a-4775-9369-b3252e86bba3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Overflowing Health Behavioral
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conyers, GA 30013 (Online Only)
At Overflowing Health Behavioral, we believe there is no health without mental health. Our mission is to provide compassionate high quality care and support to all of our clients. We are a 100% tele-medicine practice with both weekend and weekday availability. We understand our clients live busy lives and that work and home life may make it difficult to schedule appointments during traditional office hours (8a-5p) as a solution, we offer flexible alternatives such as same day or after hours appointments (5p-8p). Our goal is to work closely with the patient to figure out what works best.
At Overflowing Health Behavioral, we believe there is no health without mental health. Our mission is to provide compassionate high quality care and support to all of our clients. We are a 100% tele-medicine practice with both weekend and weekday availability. We understand our clients live busy lives and that work and home life may make it difficult to schedule appointments during traditional office hours (8a-5p) as a solution, we offer flexible alternatives such as same day or after hours appointments (5p-8p). Our goal is to work closely with the patient to figure out what works best.
![Photo of Tresa Morris-Simpkins - Mind Over Matter Psychiatric Services, LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62173fee-99d9-48a2-b200-2cdba7d8c7d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mind Over Matter Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Conyers, GA 30013 (Online Only)
Our provider is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan, currently focusing on adolescents and geriatrics. Tresa acquired a Master’s degree with a focus in Mental Health Nursing and Psychiatry from Walden University, Minnesota.
Our provider is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan, currently focusing on adolescents and geriatrics. Tresa acquired a Master’s degree with a focus in Mental Health Nursing and Psychiatry from Walden University, Minnesota.
![Photo of Donna Cross, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e112b0f-07d1-4ccc-b1ee-bcbb93eb494c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Pract. The clients that I am best positioned to serve are clients with mental health issues and life stressors. I provide comprehensive care to individuals and families. I form strong therapeutic relationships with individuals across the lifespan- becoming familiar with their stories and challenges to transform their lives in a productive way. I promote well-being through prevention and education, and collaboration with patient and family. I want my clients to have the aspirations, desires, and a vision that will allow them to grow and thrive in their respective communities.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Pract. The clients that I am best positioned to serve are clients with mental health issues and life stressors. I provide comprehensive care to individuals and families. I form strong therapeutic relationships with individuals across the lifespan- becoming familiar with their stories and challenges to transform their lives in a productive way. I promote well-being through prevention and education, and collaboration with patient and family. I want my clients to have the aspirations, desires, and a vision that will allow them to grow and thrive in their respective communities.
![Photo of Shuconda Sturdivant - Apex Integrative Health and Wellness, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6919d193-172a-4648-a2f2-69505b29a28c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Apex Integrative Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Conyers, GA 30013 (Online Only)
At Apex Integrative Health our goal is to empower individuals to achieve balance and inner peace. We are board certified psychiatric nurse practitioners with over 20 years of health care experience. Our treatment approach is integrative, blending medication management, nutrition counseling, psychotherapy, exercise, and other wellness focused approaches catered to each individual's needs. We believe in treating the whole person, addressing underlying issues and promoting long-term healing and resilience.
At Apex Integrative Health our goal is to empower individuals to achieve balance and inner peace. We are board certified psychiatric nurse practitioners with over 20 years of health care experience. Our treatment approach is integrative, blending medication management, nutrition counseling, psychotherapy, exercise, and other wellness focused approaches catered to each individual's needs. We believe in treating the whole person, addressing underlying issues and promoting long-term healing and resilience.
![Photo of Selma Ali Yallah, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e264b54-6633-47ed-b62a-84d4353bd531/3/320x400.jpeg)
Selma Ali Yallah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Conyers, GA 30012
Selma Ali Yallah is a board-certified nurse practitioner with expertise in Psychiatric Mental Health. She got her Associate Degree in Nursing from Georgia Perimeter College and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of West Georgia. After 10 years of working in the field as RN, Selma decided to pursue a master’s degree, specializing in psychiatric mental health at the Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, Georgia.
Selma Ali Yallah is a board-certified nurse practitioner with expertise in Psychiatric Mental Health. She got her Associate Degree in Nursing from Georgia Perimeter College and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of West Georgia. After 10 years of working in the field as RN, Selma decided to pursue a master’s degree, specializing in psychiatric mental health at the Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, Georgia.
![Photo of Olasimbo Babatope, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4092b5f2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Atlanta Tele-psychiatry! We believe in recovery from mental illness that goes beyond the absence of symptoms, and we will work with you to establish and maintain your recovery journey. Our ultimate goal is to help you regain a rich, rewarding, and meaningful life in our community.
Welcome to Atlanta Tele-psychiatry! We believe in recovery from mental illness that goes beyond the absence of symptoms, and we will work with you to establish and maintain your recovery journey. Our ultimate goal is to help you regain a rich, rewarding, and meaningful life in our community.
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![Photo of Shnarika Simone Powell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae33d568-08c0-48eb-ad27-5b6dea22476e/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Champion Wellness, Inc. we provide care for all mental health disorders including bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, depression, Tourette's, PMDD, intellectual disabilities, personality disorders and more. We see both pediatric and adult clients, Saturday and Sunday from 0830a to 530p. Our practice offers clinical visits that are both in person and online. We provide medication management and psychotherapy in treatment of the above conditions. Please call 706-489-4719 or click on the website link on this page to schedule an appointment.
At Champion Wellness, Inc. we provide care for all mental health disorders including bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, depression, Tourette's, PMDD, intellectual disabilities, personality disorders and more. We see both pediatric and adult clients, Saturday and Sunday from 0830a to 530p. Our practice offers clinical visits that are both in person and online. We provide medication management and psychotherapy in treatment of the above conditions. Please call 706-489-4719 or click on the website link on this page to schedule an appointment.
![Photo of Lavern Novia Palmer - Ornaldo Swift Healthcare, AGPCNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23863ab5-2861-480c-95ea-6f8227c51712/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ornaldo Swift Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGPCNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conyers, GA 30012
I am a dedicated professional with more than two decades of clinical experience practicing across various cultures. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. Our practice, Ornaldo Swift Healthcare, specializes in treating teenagers, adults, the elderly and the underserved population, providing evidenced based psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapeutic counselling. We treat a wide range of psychiatric illnesses . We treat everyone with compassion and care is individualized
I am a dedicated professional with more than two decades of clinical experience practicing across various cultures. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. Our practice, Ornaldo Swift Healthcare, specializes in treating teenagers, adults, the elderly and the underserved population, providing evidenced based psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapeutic counselling. We treat a wide range of psychiatric illnesses . We treat everyone with compassion and care is individualized
![Photo of Naureen Munawar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f4bb462-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As one of 3 Psychiatrist of Apex Family Healthcare Services, our focus is on meeting the Comprehensive Psychological Needs of the Patient. I am on site 5 days weekly. We collaborate with PCP's, Specialty MD's and other Health Professionals to ensure that our patients treatment is Comprehensive and Effective. We offer medication management, psycho-therapy, substance abuse treatment, individual, family, marriage counseling all in one location. We service children, adolescents and adults. W
As one of 3 Psychiatrist of Apex Family Healthcare Services, our focus is on meeting the Comprehensive Psychological Needs of the Patient. I am on site 5 days weekly. We collaborate with PCP's, Specialty MD's and other Health Professionals to ensure that our patients treatment is Comprehensive and Effective. We offer medication management, psycho-therapy, substance abuse treatment, individual, family, marriage counseling all in one location. We service children, adolescents and adults. W
![Photo of Rholonda Adams, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/444ccb18-1d6b-45b0-83fe-5a34edfa2ba7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi I'm Rho! I'm a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that treats mental health disorders via medication management and brief psychotherapy skills review. Some of my interests include treating general mental health disorders, optimizing medication regimens utilizing the fewest effective medications, and helping people learn/implement coping skills to utilize alongside their medications to improve mental wellness. My goal when working with any client is to provide care that enables them to decrease distress and live the life they envision for themselves!
Hi I'm Rho! I'm a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that treats mental health disorders via medication management and brief psychotherapy skills review. Some of my interests include treating general mental health disorders, optimizing medication regimens utilizing the fewest effective medications, and helping people learn/implement coping skills to utilize alongside their medications to improve mental wellness. My goal when working with any client is to provide care that enables them to decrease distress and live the life they envision for themselves!
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Ogochukwu Ojiaku, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9f9560d-d04b-4540-a009-168dc14d0c74/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ogochukwu Ojiaku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Covington, GA 30016 (Online Only)
Dr. Ogochukwu Ojiaku is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health, and Family Nurse Practitioner, with about 10 years of experience at the VA Medical Center. She is very knowledgeable in providing patient-tailored treatment to clients across the lifespan. She uses her extensive Medical and Psychiatric expertise to assess, properly diagnose, and holistically treat clients with medical and psychiatric conditions. Dr. Ojiaku is focused on providing optimal, affordable, no-wait services. She understands that Mental Health is essential at all stages of life.
Dr. Ogochukwu Ojiaku is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health, and Family Nurse Practitioner, with about 10 years of experience at the VA Medical Center. She is very knowledgeable in providing patient-tailored treatment to clients across the lifespan. She uses her extensive Medical and Psychiatric expertise to assess, properly diagnose, and holistically treat clients with medical and psychiatric conditions. Dr. Ojiaku is focused on providing optimal, affordable, no-wait services. She understands that Mental Health is essential at all stages of life.
![Photo of Ogochukwu N Ojiaku - Prime Treatment & Wellness Center, LLC, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64a0bb32-a2e5-4d72-8f9c-d36d1f203408/1/320x400.jpeg)
Prime Treatment & Wellness Center, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Covington, GA 30014 (Online Only)
Meet Dr. Ogochukwu Ojiaku, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, a dedicated professional with dual Board Certifications in Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nursing, bringing over a decade of valuable experience from the VA Medical Center. With a profound understanding of diverse needs across the lifespan, Dr. Ojiaku uses her extensive expertise for meticulous assessments, accurate diagnoses, and holistic treatments. Committed to prompt, affordable services, she recognizes the paramount importance of mental health at every life stage. Dr. Ojiaku offers virtual appointments, catering to residents of GA, CA, CO, DE, NM, MD, IA, WA state, & FL.
Meet Dr. Ogochukwu Ojiaku, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, a dedicated professional with dual Board Certifications in Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nursing, bringing over a decade of valuable experience from the VA Medical Center. With a profound understanding of diverse needs across the lifespan, Dr. Ojiaku uses her extensive expertise for meticulous assessments, accurate diagnoses, and holistic treatments. Committed to prompt, affordable services, she recognizes the paramount importance of mental health at every life stage. Dr. Ojiaku offers virtual appointments, catering to residents of GA, CA, CO, DE, NM, MD, IA, WA state, & FL.
![Photo of Veronica Pentecost, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce1d933e-00d4-411b-bc0b-365bb1825c51/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Pentecost
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lithonia, GA 30038 (Online Only)
I am a skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I am capable of building strong patient rapport through therapeutic skills, including empathic listening, reflection, and validation. Collaborated on medication adjustments based on patient-reported symptoms and reactions to maximize medication benefits and effects.
I am a skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I am capable of building strong patient rapport through therapeutic skills, including empathic listening, reflection, and validation. Collaborated on medication adjustments based on patient-reported symptoms and reactions to maximize medication benefits and effects.
![Photo of Mercy Oyerinde, NP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87e207a8-fa79-46e2-ad6f-9de443056239/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mercy Oyerinde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Stonecrest, GA 30038 (Online Only)
Mercy Oyerinde is a Nurse Practitioner, now providing Psychiatric-Mental Health Care to the general population. she is a board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by American Nurses Credentialing Centers (ANCC). Education History Columbus State University, 2010 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Walden University: 2015, MSN, Liberty University, 2021, PMHNP. She is experienced in caring for pediatrics (ages 13 and above), adults, and the aging.
Mercy Oyerinde is a Nurse Practitioner, now providing Psychiatric-Mental Health Care to the general population. she is a board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by American Nurses Credentialing Centers (ANCC). Education History Columbus State University, 2010 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Walden University: 2015, MSN, Liberty University, 2021, PMHNP. She is experienced in caring for pediatrics (ages 13 and above), adults, and the aging.
![Photo of Stefanie Solomon, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71776dd9-36e0-4943-9045-17ab3460a26e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stefanie Solomon
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Porterdale, GA 30070 (Online Only)
My ideal client is one who is looking to make the necessary changes in order to improve their own life. Their goal is to thrive, and they want a partner that they can collaborate with so that they can become their best self.
My ideal client is one who is looking to make the necessary changes in order to improve their own life. Their goal is to thrive, and they want a partner that they can collaborate with so that they can become their best self.
See more therapy options for Conyers
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Conyers, GA
10+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in Conyers, GA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
93% | Bipolar Disorder |
93% | Medication Management |
87% | Depression |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Psychosis |
60% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
73% | Aetna |
73% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Conyers, GA see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Conyers?
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.