Psychiatrists in Floyd County, GA
![Photo of Lori Leonard, MSN, APRN-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83c468ad-dec7-4b16-84db-81f613866710/1/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling swamped by life's pressures? Unheard, misunderstood? There's often more beneath your mood swings. Through my in-depth analysis, I'll uncover the hidden reasons behind your symptoms. From anemia to vitamin deficits, I go beyond the surface. No rush for meds – we'll explore all avenues for your peace of mind. As your steadfast ally, I offer empathetic, patient-first care. Together, we'll tackle the physical and emotional strains holding you back, targeting the roots for lasting relief. Mental health shouldn't be sidelined. Elevate your well-being, function optimally, and defy mental health-induced weight challenge
Feeling swamped by life's pressures? Unheard, misunderstood? There's often more beneath your mood swings. Through my in-depth analysis, I'll uncover the hidden reasons behind your symptoms. From anemia to vitamin deficits, I go beyond the surface. No rush for meds – we'll explore all avenues for your peace of mind. As your steadfast ally, I offer empathetic, patient-first care. Together, we'll tackle the physical and emotional strains holding you back, targeting the roots for lasting relief. Mental health shouldn't be sidelined. Elevate your well-being, function optimally, and defy mental health-induced weight challenge
![Photo of Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, DOT-CME, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b90496e0-fc5d-4193-b92d-8aa19ecde5a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Judith Ngulefac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, DOT-CME
Verified Verified
Rome, GA 30165
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. Dr. Ngulefac 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 with routine follow-up visits to monitor symptoms and medication effectiveness.
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. Dr. Ngulefac 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 with routine follow-up visits to monitor symptoms and medication effectiveness.
![Photo of Deborah Ford - Psychiatric Healing for All, LLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7eb880b8-f3d8-4f85-adf8-392a93ce6da2/1/320x400.png)
Psychiatric Healing for All, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Rome, GA 30161
SAME Day or Next Day appointments.Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar, Panic, or other mental health disorders.Together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome challenges. Please understand you matter. I offer encouragement and understanding. Any mental health can lead to physical problems, trouble with sleep, lack of appetite, weight loss, muscle tension and headaches. I want to help you and work as a team, putting together a treatment plan and offering support. I believe that medication and therapy go hand in hand.
SAME Day or Next Day appointments.Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar, Panic, or other mental health disorders.Together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome challenges. Please understand you matter. I offer encouragement and understanding. Any mental health can lead to physical problems, trouble with sleep, lack of appetite, weight loss, muscle tension and headaches. I want to help you and work as a team, putting together a treatment plan and offering support. I believe that medication and therapy go hand in hand.
![Photo of Dr. Panchajanya Paul - Phoenix Holistic Psychiatry, MD, ABPN, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c106d9a1-827e-4306-b7f4-ed32da33ed10/1/320x400.jpeg)
Phoenix Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, FAPA
Verified Verified
Rome, GA 30164 (Online Only)
Dr. Panchajanya Paul, MD- Offering Telemedicine in Georgia. I am board certified in Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry. I see children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults in my office iand am accepting new patients. I specialize in the use of medications and other holistic approaches to treat mental health conditions. Treating clients with respect, integrity and compassion are my priorities. When managing medications, I have several books and research published concerning stress relief and sleep coaching with a holistic approach.
Dr. Panchajanya Paul, MD- Offering Telemedicine in Georgia. I am board certified in Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry. I see children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults in my office iand am accepting new patients. I specialize in the use of medications and other holistic approaches to treat mental health conditions. Treating clients with respect, integrity and compassion are my priorities. When managing medications, I have several books and research published concerning stress relief and sleep coaching with a holistic approach.
![Photo of La-Vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d596087-02a1-4da0-be76-3df140a5110f/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Rome, GA 30161
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.
![Photo of Jessica Scott, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5089a272-2e3a-42fd-b088-a9588dd1a68d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about improving the mental and emotional well-being of patients. I specialize in mental health services (assessment/evaluation, diagnosis, medication management, and brief psychotherapy) for children, adolescences, and adults.
I am passionate about improving the mental and emotional well-being of patients. I specialize in mental health services (assessment/evaluation, diagnosis, medication management, and brief psychotherapy) for children, adolescences, and adults.
Online Psychiatrists
![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
Atlanta, GA 30303 (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 Eman Haddad, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0972fce2-5f09-42e2-8277-cc07a9a523ba/1/320x400.png)
Hello! My name is Eman, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner currently living in the Atlanta area. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from August University in 2018. Previously I worked as a Registered Nurse with children and adolescents in the residential setting. I have been working as a nurse practitioner since 2021 treat a wide range of diagnoses among chil
Hello! My name is Eman, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner currently living in the Atlanta area. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from August University in 2018. Previously I worked as a Registered Nurse with children and adolescents in the residential setting. I have been working as a nurse practitioner since 2021 treat a wide range of diagnoses among chil
![Photo of La-Vonnie Joiner - The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16d2f9c4-07ce-457e-83b6-357f9a2eb5e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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.
![Photo of Corey Allen Beck, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5487a271-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that a combination of skilled psychotherapy and proper medication management helps people recover faster. My goal is to get you back to living your life to its fullest as quickly as possible.
I believe that a combination of skilled psychotherapy and proper medication management helps people recover faster. My goal is to get you back to living your life to its fullest as quickly as possible.
![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 Dr. O Semore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3039634f-b107-4e6b-88c3-1f557b3571ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dual Board Certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 16 years of combined work experience and have acquired an extensive background in telepsychiatry, impatient, and outpatient mental health over the last 9 years.
Dual Board Certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 16 years of combined work experience and have acquired an extensive background in telepsychiatry, impatient, and outpatient mental health over the last 9 years.
![Photo of Elizabeth Kortu Jallah, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ba500b9-e558-4d98-964e-8bb230354c07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Kortu Jallah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lithonia, GA 30058 (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Elizabeth; I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My practice specializes in outpatient psychotherapy and Medication management for Psychiatric/Mental Illnesses such as Anxiety, Panic Attacks, ADHD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and more. I see all age groups (Children, Adolescents, and Adults). I provide Telehealth to Georgia individuals. My healthcare career started over 15 years ago caring for critically ill individuals. As a PMHNP, I will help you achieve your goal of functioning to your highest capabilities.
Hello, My name is Elizabeth; I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My practice specializes in outpatient psychotherapy and Medication management for Psychiatric/Mental Illnesses such as Anxiety, Panic Attacks, ADHD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and more. I see all age groups (Children, Adolescents, and Adults). I provide Telehealth to Georgia individuals. My healthcare career started over 15 years ago caring for critically ill individuals. As a PMHNP, I will help you achieve your goal of functioning to your highest capabilities.
![Photo of Jasmine Munroe, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f31e5ebb-c9c6-4996-a7ab-cef667164a23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Jasmine Bryant I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who possesses exceptional clinical skills and expertise, but more importantly, I demonstrate genuine empathy and understanding towards the clients' needs. I tailor my therapeutic approach to the unique needs and preferences of each patient, integrating evidence-based practices with empathy, compassion, and cultural sensitivity. I collaborate closely with patients to foster trust and empowerment in the therapeutic process. The most common theoretical approach in the work of psychiatric nurse practitioners is the biopsychosocial model.
Hello, my name is Jasmine Bryant I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who possesses exceptional clinical skills and expertise, but more importantly, I demonstrate genuine empathy and understanding towards the clients' needs. I tailor my therapeutic approach to the unique needs and preferences of each patient, integrating evidence-based practices with empathy, compassion, and cultural sensitivity. I collaborate closely with patients to foster trust and empowerment in the therapeutic process. The most common theoretical approach in the work of psychiatric nurse practitioners is the biopsychosocial model.
![Photo of Louise Wise, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cb5eab6-d2f5-4d31-8366-7bc7bf4e7ace/2/320x400.jpeg)
Offering flexible EVENING, WEEKEND, & DAY appointments! Find solace with our empathetic mental health services. Specializing in anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis, insomnia, and alcohol addiction. When emotions persist and affect daily life, it's time for healthful solutions. Our approach focuses on individualized options, combining traditional and nutritional treatment plans. Affordable, evidence-based, and holistic care is tailored to patients of all ages. Explore the benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for comprehensive care. Your well-being is our priority, guiding you towards a healthier and balanced life.
Offering flexible EVENING, WEEKEND, & DAY appointments! Find solace with our empathetic mental health services. Specializing in anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis, insomnia, and alcohol addiction. When emotions persist and affect daily life, it's time for healthful solutions. Our approach focuses on individualized options, combining traditional and nutritional treatment plans. Affordable, evidence-based, and holistic care is tailored to patients of all ages. Explore the benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for comprehensive care. Your well-being is our priority, guiding you towards a healthier and balanced life.
![Photo of Tremeze Jackson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46b84e27-16fc-4c25-8316-4bc44e8dc9a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tremeze Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
Hello, I'm Tremeze. Do you suffer from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, etc? Do you need help with your medication management needs? If so, allow me to help you reach your best self. I am based in the Atlanta Metropolitan area but am working on becoming available in multiple states via telemedicine. I currently provide psychiatric care to individuals 12 years and up.
Hello, I'm Tremeze. Do you suffer from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, etc? Do you need help with your medication management needs? If so, allow me to help you reach your best self. I am based in the Atlanta Metropolitan area but am working on becoming available in multiple states via telemedicine. I currently provide psychiatric care to individuals 12 years and up.
![Photo of Connected Minds - Connected Minds, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad119db2-dabc-44b6-9ef8-a49358761216/2/320x400.jpeg)
Connected Minds is currently welcoming new clients for video appointments! We are a virtual practice licensed in the state of Georgia, California, New York, and Alabama (accepting Alabama clients beginning September 2024 for medication visits only). Our providers include a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, Licensed Psychologist, and other mental health experts who specialize in providing psychiatric diagnostic assessments, therapy, medication management, and treatment recommendations for a wide range of psychological concerns.
Connected Minds is currently welcoming new clients for video appointments! We are a virtual practice licensed in the state of Georgia, California, New York, and Alabama (accepting Alabama clients beginning September 2024 for medication visits only). Our providers include a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, Licensed Psychologist, and other mental health experts who specialize in providing psychiatric diagnostic assessments, therapy, medication management, and treatment recommendations for a wide range of psychological concerns.
![Photo of Garrett Ransom, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9754cb9-46c1-462c-a52b-9924c2f9fc1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Garrett Ransom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hiram, GA 30141 (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Garrett Ransom and I am psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I love working with clients of all ages and to help them overcome whatever challenges they face.
Hi there! My name is Garrett Ransom and I am psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I love working with clients of all ages and to help them overcome whatever challenges they face.
![Photo of Sophia Robinson-Harris - Mindcare Wellness, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54d3bb8d-305f-4e70-ab10-f68fb5bfe70e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindcare Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30144
My philosophy centers around the belief that everyone has the capacity to heal and grow. I am dedicated to creating a compassionate and empathetic therapeutic environment where individuals can feel seen, heard, and validated. I strive to support my clients in rediscovering their inner strength and resilience, empowering them to overcome obstacles and achieve lasting positive change.
My philosophy centers around the belief that everyone has the capacity to heal and grow. I am dedicated to creating a compassionate and empathetic therapeutic environment where individuals can feel seen, heard, and validated. I strive to support my clients in rediscovering their inner strength and resilience, empowering them to overcome obstacles and achieve lasting positive change.
![Photo of Gilda Moss-Traore, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d22cbd46-7761-493d-b74d-1f8f1b2f1fb6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gilda Moss-Traore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
Hi! I am Gilda Moss-Traore a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C, PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience working with a variety of clients living with ADHD, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, as well as adjustment disorders and substance use disorders. I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse looking forward to providing individualized quality psychiatric care consisting of comprehensive assessments, medication management, and individualized psychosocial therapy to my clients.
Hi! I am Gilda Moss-Traore a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C, PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience working with a variety of clients living with ADHD, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, as well as adjustment disorders and substance use disorders. I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse looking forward to providing individualized quality psychiatric care consisting of comprehensive assessments, medication management, and individualized psychosocial therapy to my clients.
See more therapy options for Floyd County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Floyd County, GA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Floyd County, GA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Anxiety |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Psychosis |
83% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Floyd County, GA see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Floyd 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.