Psychiatrists in Bibb County, GA
![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 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 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 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 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 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 Patrick Notini - Pacifica Counseling & Psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f19a7f4-6595-42f2-9567-fc2d6b3b8a9e/1/320x400.png)
The decision to start medication for your mental health is a big step to creating the life you deserve. Dr. Notini is specialized in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and PTSD. Dr. Notini has experience serving veterans and active duty military individuals as well.
The decision to start medication for your mental health is a big step to creating the life you deserve. Dr. Notini is specialized in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and PTSD. Dr. Notini has experience serving veterans and active duty military individuals as well.
![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 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 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 Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, BCMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6474cdcf-fc11-4a85-8446-84a04e4e5cd4/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Judith Ngulefac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BCMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31206
Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, DOT-CME is an experienced doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with over 14 years of experience in diverse health care settings providing high-quality care to clients. She believes that your mental health is as important as your physical health and requires the same attention. She provides an initial psychiatric evaluation that will enable her to diagnose & develop an individualized treatment plan.
Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, DOT-CME is an experienced doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with over 14 years of experience in diverse health care settings providing high-quality care to clients. She believes that your mental health is as important as your physical health and requires the same attention. She provides an initial psychiatric evaluation that will enable her to diagnose & develop an individualized treatment plan.
15 Second Videos
Gregory Claxton
Diana Jubilee Awuah
Kevin LaNeal Buford
Overflowing Health Behavioral
Latrina Walden
![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 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 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 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.
![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 Samuel Inimbom Samuel, MD, FASAM, DFAACAP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf35e07-a564-492c-82d7-46ad240c1dfd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samuel Inimbom Samuel
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, DFAACAP
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31211 (Online Only)
Dr. Samuel is Board Certified in the Specialty of General Adult Psychiatry,and the Sub-Specialty of Pediatric (C & A) Psychiatry (ABPN). Dr. Samuel also holds two additional Board Certifications in Addiction Medicine (ABPM), and in Brain Injury Medicine (ABPN), by the American Board of Medical Specialties. His past institutions of training include, The Northeast London Hospitals, London, England, Great Britain; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai/Saint Luke's & Roosevelt Hospitals, New York, (Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons); and Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, NY (Albert Einstein College of Medicine).
Dr. Samuel is Board Certified in the Specialty of General Adult Psychiatry,and the Sub-Specialty of Pediatric (C & A) Psychiatry (ABPN). Dr. Samuel also holds two additional Board Certifications in Addiction Medicine (ABPM), and in Brain Injury Medicine (ABPN), by the American Board of Medical Specialties. His past institutions of training include, The Northeast London Hospitals, London, England, Great Britain; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai/Saint Luke's & Roosevelt Hospitals, New York, (Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons); and Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, NY (Albert Einstein College of Medicine).
![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 Dr. Chasity J Carswell, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b219856-85b9-4db0-93f5-1900006b10f4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chasity J Carswell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31201
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
![Photo of Ruth Osondu - Okorafor Psychiatry , MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60d798ff-c437-404b-8292-afac0586a29a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Our Moto at Okorafor Psychiatry is normalizing mental health through affirmation, therapy, and medication management. We believe in empowering our patients to becoming the best version of themselves. We also believe in enabling patients to recognize their weaknesses, which they can turn into strength(s). We are very positive and believe that with the right combination of therapy and medication you can begin your journey to healing.
Our Moto at Okorafor Psychiatry is normalizing mental health through affirmation, therapy, and medication management. We believe in empowering our patients to becoming the best version of themselves. We also believe in enabling patients to recognize their weaknesses, which they can turn into strength(s). We are very positive and believe that with the right combination of therapy and medication you can begin your journey to healing.
See more therapy options for Bibb County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bibb County, GA
20+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Bibb County, GA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
86% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
64% | ADHD |
64% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
96% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Bibb County, GA see their clients
60% | Online Only | |
40% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bibb County?
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.