Psychiatrists in Barrow County, GA
![Photo of Ganiat Jaiyesinmi Ajayi - Hope & Faith Wellness Clinic , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8075747e-6007-4c7a-b03c-daa7c05d108d/1/320x400.jpeg)
The ultimate goal of patients with mental illness and substance abuse is to achieve the optimal level of their functionality. My practice aims at helping patients achieve their goals by promoting comprehensive care focusing on the whole person at all ages and stages of life. Providing a caring and compassionate care is paramount to our practice. I am a Licensed Psychiatrist with over 20 years experience & the Medical Director of Hope & Faith Wellness Clinic. I obtained my Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Clark Atlanta University & my Doctor of Medicine degree from Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN.
The ultimate goal of patients with mental illness and substance abuse is to achieve the optimal level of their functionality. My practice aims at helping patients achieve their goals by promoting comprehensive care focusing on the whole person at all ages and stages of life. Providing a caring and compassionate care is paramount to our practice. I am a Licensed Psychiatrist with over 20 years experience & the Medical Director of Hope & Faith Wellness Clinic. I obtained my Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Clark Atlanta University & my Doctor of Medicine degree from Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN.
![Photo of Ablavi Adodo Agomessou - Ivydale Wellness center, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77f12b02-b234-414b-a55a-7d38b6477c6c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ivydale Wellness center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winder, GA 30680
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Each person present with unique nuances as to how a problem behaviorally reveals itself in his or her life. I am a doctoral-prepared dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and as such, every client treatment is individualized and holistic at the same time. I use an integrated approach to care with aims to empower individual's authenticity to make proactive decisions, and enhance his or her ability to effectively cope with the full variety of life's circumstances with using evidence-based practice.
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Each person present with unique nuances as to how a problem behaviorally reveals itself in his or her life. I am a doctoral-prepared dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and as such, every client treatment is individualized and holistic at the same time. I use an integrated approach to care with aims to empower individual's authenticity to make proactive decisions, and enhance his or her ability to effectively cope with the full variety of life's circumstances with using evidence-based practice.
![Photo of Clara Huff - Visionary Behavioral Health Services, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38829db7-fcde-4fbe-87d3-894afb9f439d/2/320x400.png)
Visionary Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winder, GA 30680
It is my pleasure and divine intervention to work with individuals in the community that have dealt with disparities in care for treatment of mental health disorders, substance abuse treatment, and struggles with addiction. I want to revolutionize the way mental health care is delivered, and provide each individual with an exceptional experience. I am a licensed prescriber in the State of Georgia, some of the conditions I treat are, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD. Currently offering, initiation of medication therapy, medication management, MAT, and Psychotherapy.
It is my pleasure and divine intervention to work with individuals in the community that have dealt with disparities in care for treatment of mental health disorders, substance abuse treatment, and struggles with addiction. I want to revolutionize the way mental health care is delivered, and provide each individual with an exceptional experience. I am a licensed prescriber in the State of Georgia, some of the conditions I treat are, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD. Currently offering, initiation of medication therapy, medication management, MAT, and Psychotherapy.
![Photo of Cinandra Sweatman, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddf6ffec-36ff-4cfa-843d-910bf0e37446/1/320x400.png)
Cinandra Sweatman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Auburn, GA 30011 (Online Only)
Cinandra is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specializing in a variety of disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorder, and behavioral disturbance. Cinandra's primary goal is to establish relationships with her patients that are both empowering as well as educational. Cinandra treats both adolescents as well as adults, covering the various issues experienced across the lifespan. Her role as a PMHNP is a multifaceted one, in which Cinandra works as an advocate, educator, and collaborator.
Cinandra is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specializing in a variety of disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorder, and behavioral disturbance. Cinandra's primary goal is to establish relationships with her patients that are both empowering as well as educational. Cinandra treats both adolescents as well as adults, covering the various issues experienced across the lifespan. Her role as a PMHNP is a multifaceted one, in which Cinandra works as an advocate, educator, and collaborator.
![Photo of Sylvie Shiwiri, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/486bcdca-4ddd-4691-8e38-e2457d2109e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sylvie Shiwiri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winder, GA 30680
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have over 20 years working as a health care professional specializing in mental health and developmental disabilities. I enjoy working with clientele from various cultures, socioeconomic statuses, and mental health backgrounds. I am here to work with you to help you live a well deserve life through communication, education, empathy, and understanding. I am always ready to help you!
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have over 20 years working as a health care professional specializing in mental health and developmental disabilities. I enjoy working with clientele from various cultures, socioeconomic statuses, and mental health backgrounds. I am here to work with you to help you live a well deserve life through communication, education, empathy, and understanding. I am always ready to help you!
![Photo of Taheerah Demby, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1884ca0a-d448-4b2d-a5e5-b7d1ab6d9649/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taheerah Demby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Winder, GA 30680 (Online Only)
Greetings! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I enjoy identifying and addressing mental health conditions that often impact an individual from living their best life.
Greetings! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I enjoy identifying and addressing mental health conditions that often impact an individual from living their best life.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Catherine Russell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7b59884-f632-40bf-9e28-89e39f7cd5c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Catherine believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Catherine works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Catherine believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
![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 Cassandra Gilliam - A New You Psychiatric Care LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12ce18f3-773f-43b7-81ee-00b115d0a618/2/320x400.jpeg)
A New You Psychiatric Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31206 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in anxiety and panic disorders, mood disorders and trauma. If you are feeling tearful, irritable or having issues with attention and focus, allow me to help you determine a course of treatment that can help you feel more like yourself. I will use a combination of assessment, evaluation and talk therapy to ascertain any underlying mental health alterations to develop a diagnosis and care plan to promote positive behavioral changes. As a mental health advocate my goal is to ensure that each client receives individualized, and patient centered care.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in anxiety and panic disorders, mood disorders and trauma. If you are feeling tearful, irritable or having issues with attention and focus, allow me to help you determine a course of treatment that can help you feel more like yourself. I will use a combination of assessment, evaluation and talk therapy to ascertain any underlying mental health alterations to develop a diagnosis and care plan to promote positive behavioral changes. As a mental health advocate my goal is to ensure that each client receives individualized, and patient centered care.
![Photo of Niclaire Neely, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9db023d0-5e7c-454c-a75f-0a6e8b6efa9a/3/320x400.jpeg)
People come to me for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes people just know "I don't feel like myself." We work together to figure out what the issues are and make a treatment plan that meets your goals.
People come to me for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes people just know "I don't feel like myself." We work together to figure out what the issues are and make a treatment plan that meets your goals.
![Photo of Alicia Canzius - Unique Euphoria , RN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f79587ef-269b-4730-b434-810e02ab2e30/1/320x400.jpeg)
Congratulations on taking the first step to living today! Life is full of challenges that can cause you reoccurring and painful thoughts that can last for years. Challenges can include work burnout, family, finances, intimate partner relationships, depression, anxiety, and many more. Let me help you find your way out of the constant cycle of negative ruminating thoughts. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy does not focus on the traumatizing events of your life. Instead, I will help you move past negative reoccurring thoughts by helping you focus on a life that is worth living today!
Congratulations on taking the first step to living today! Life is full of challenges that can cause you reoccurring and painful thoughts that can last for years. Challenges can include work burnout, family, finances, intimate partner relationships, depression, anxiety, and many more. Let me help you find your way out of the constant cycle of negative ruminating thoughts. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy does not focus on the traumatizing events of your life. Instead, I will help you move past negative reoccurring thoughts by helping you focus on a life that is worth living today!
![Photo of Brandi Starks, MSN, PMHNP, CLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49c2f5b6-a289-4836-b759-bace18ecc586/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brandi Starks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Powder Springs, GA 30127
Are you a woman that typically has it all together, but recently you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. The joys of life have been wiped out by anxiety and depression. Maybe you are a mother who is struggling to manage your new normal and you feel disconnected from your baby and family? Possibly you have trauma surrounding your birth experience. Perhaps you’re a father who can’t seem to control your mood swings, and you’ve found yourself constantly on “edge”. Maybe a parent struggling and seeking help for a child that has ADHD and behavioral issues.
Are you a woman that typically has it all together, but recently you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. The joys of life have been wiped out by anxiety and depression. Maybe you are a mother who is struggling to manage your new normal and you feel disconnected from your baby and family? Possibly you have trauma surrounding your birth experience. Perhaps you’re a father who can’t seem to control your mood swings, and you’ve found yourself constantly on “edge”. Maybe a parent struggling and seeking help for a child that has ADHD and behavioral issues.
![Photo of Ravi Singareddy, MD, FAPA, FAASM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4500875a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Singareddy has expertise in treating individuals with depression, OCD and anxiety disorders who are not improving despite multiple medication trials and therapy. He offers innovative FDA approved treatments including TMS and Spravato (Es-Ketamine). He is board certified in psychiatry and has published in the area of depression and anxiety disorders. Prior to coming to private practice he worked at Penn State Univ. Med Ctr. for almost 10 year and was involved in clinical work, education and research.
Dr. Singareddy has expertise in treating individuals with depression, OCD and anxiety disorders who are not improving despite multiple medication trials and therapy. He offers innovative FDA approved treatments including TMS and Spravato (Es-Ketamine). He is board certified in psychiatry and has published in the area of depression and anxiety disorders. Prior to coming to private practice he worked at Penn State Univ. Med Ctr. for almost 10 year and was involved in clinical work, education and research.
![Photo of Nina J Mena, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe0daa5b-f9f7-4117-89e3-495eced5e90a/1/320x400.png)
At NJoy LIFE, I envision an ideal client who seeks a holistic approach to mental wellness including, but not limited to, therapeutic strategies and medication when necessary. They may have various challenges, from stress/anxiety to navigating major life transitions or depression. Their needs include a supportive, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions and develop coping strategies. Their goals revolve around achieving mental resilience, fostering self-discovery, and embracing joy in their lives. Ultimately, they seek a psychiatric partnership to navigate their unique journey toward well-being and personal empowerment.
At NJoy LIFE, I envision an ideal client who seeks a holistic approach to mental wellness including, but not limited to, therapeutic strategies and medication when necessary. They may have various challenges, from stress/anxiety to navigating major life transitions or depression. Their needs include a supportive, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions and develop coping strategies. Their goals revolve around achieving mental resilience, fostering self-discovery, and embracing joy in their lives. Ultimately, they seek a psychiatric partnership to navigate their unique journey toward well-being and personal empowerment.
Asata V Kamara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Asata Kamara AGNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a noteworthy and highly experienced medical professional with over 20 years of experience. As a Doctoring Prepared Nurse (DNP) as well as 9 years of experience as a Certified Adult Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Kamara has vast experience in the treatment and management of anxiety disorder, mood disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), insomnia, and schizophrenia. She also has immense experience in the treatment and management of chronic diseases such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes type 2.
Asata Kamara AGNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a noteworthy and highly experienced medical professional with over 20 years of experience. As a Doctoring Prepared Nurse (DNP) as well as 9 years of experience as a Certified Adult Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Kamara has vast experience in the treatment and management of anxiety disorder, mood disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), insomnia, and schizophrenia. She also has immense experience in the treatment and management of chronic diseases such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes type 2.
![Photo of Panchajanya Paul, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bc8d667-6be3-46d3-b551-d540e4861588/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am board certified in Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry. I see children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults in my office in Dunwoody and am accepting new patients. I specialize in the use of medications and other holistic approaches to treat mental health conditions. I am also the Medical Director of Southern Live Oak Wellness. Treating clients with respect, integrity and compassion are my priorities. When managing medications, I incorporate the most current and best evidence based practices.
I am board certified in Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry. I see children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults in my office in Dunwoody and am accepting new patients. I specialize in the use of medications and other holistic approaches to treat mental health conditions. I am also the Medical Director of Southern Live Oak Wellness. Treating clients with respect, integrity and compassion are my priorities. When managing medications, I incorporate the most current and best evidence based practices.
![Photo of Erika Kang, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8decdfd-756f-46ed-a9c3-1ac1efeaa251/2/320x400.png)
Erika Kang, RN, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC is a graduate from the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she received her Masters as an FNP and Augusta University where she received her PMHNP as a Post Masters. While Psychiatry is her true passion, she loves being able to incorporate a comprehensive treatment plan using her background as an FNP by helping clients understand how untreated or unmanaged physical illnesses can exacerbate mental illness. She enjoys working with her clients to help them achieve the goals they are seeking, whether through medication alone or a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
Erika Kang, RN, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC is a graduate from the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she received her Masters as an FNP and Augusta University where she received her PMHNP as a Post Masters. While Psychiatry is her true passion, she loves being able to incorporate a comprehensive treatment plan using her background as an FNP by helping clients understand how untreated or unmanaged physical illnesses can exacerbate mental illness. She enjoys working with her clients to help them achieve the goals they are seeking, whether through medication alone or a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Lola Ogunniyi, BSN, RN, MBA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3f0a78b-2ca0-4e7d-b379-6712dbfb2772/1/320x400.png)
Lola Ogunniyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, RN, MBA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30044 (Online Only)
Our focus is to provide a comprehensive solution for managing your mental well-being and empowering you to take pride in your physical appearance. While managing your mental health wellness, we provide spa treatments such as neurotoxins, dermal fillers, and microchanneling. These services rejuvenate your body, and contribute to enhancing your overall sense of well-being. By actively listening and collaborating with you, we devise effective strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. We also offer techniques to boost your self-esteem and self-confidence which enables you to view yourself positively.
Our focus is to provide a comprehensive solution for managing your mental well-being and empowering you to take pride in your physical appearance. While managing your mental health wellness, we provide spa treatments such as neurotoxins, dermal fillers, and microchanneling. These services rejuvenate your body, and contribute to enhancing your overall sense of well-being. By actively listening and collaborating with you, we devise effective strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. We also offer techniques to boost your self-esteem and self-confidence which enables you to view yourself positively.
![Photo of Oksana Kershteyn, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fa776e7-1816-48e1-8221-606fa90476f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Oksana Kershteyn is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 2005. She earned her medical degree from Russia's top medical school, the Siberian State Medical University, where she also completed her general adult neurology residency. After moving to United States, she completed her general psychiatry residency at Albany Medical College in NY. While there she was a Chief Resident. Dr. Kershteyn truly believes that appropriate and timely treatment of emotional illness and substance use disorders can restore patient's health, productivity, social and family life to the fullest.
Dr. Oksana Kershteyn is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 2005. She earned her medical degree from Russia's top medical school, the Siberian State Medical University, where she also completed her general adult neurology residency. After moving to United States, she completed her general psychiatry residency at Albany Medical College in NY. While there she was a Chief Resident. Dr. Kershteyn truly believes that appropriate and timely treatment of emotional illness and substance use disorders can restore patient's health, productivity, social and family life to the fullest.
![Photo of La-vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c0d0988-4fe8-439c-95fc-6ce1ee2fa932/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Villa Rica, GA 30180
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
La-Vonnie Joiner, APRN, PMHNP-BC adept at building strong therapeutic alliances with clients, cultivating a compassionate and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their mental health goals. I prioritize holistic wellness and strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health challenges, advocating for a biopsychosocial-spiritual model of care that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. With over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I possess a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health disorders.
See more therapy options for Barrow County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Barrow County, GA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Barrow County, GA who prioritize treating:
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Depression |
83% | Anxiety |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Substance Use |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
83% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Barrow County, GA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Barrow County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.