Psychiatrists in Guyton, GA
Jeffrey Harris is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2017. Jeffrey helps clients through psychopharmacology. Outside of work, Jeffrey enjoys spending time with family.
Jeffrey Harris is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2017. Jeffrey helps clients through psychopharmacology. Outside of work, Jeffrey enjoys spending time with family.
Windy Meadows is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2015. She has an ASN in Sociology, a BSN from College of Coastal Georgia, an MSN as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Georgia Southern University, and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Georgia Southern University. Windy's treatment philosophy is patient centered. She meets the patient where they are in life and treats the patient as a whole. All aspects of the person's life effect mental health and mental health effects all aspects of their life.
Windy Meadows is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2015. She has an ASN in Sociology, a BSN from College of Coastal Georgia, an MSN as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Georgia Southern University, and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Georgia Southern University. Windy's treatment philosophy is patient centered. She meets the patient where they are in life and treats the patient as a whole. All aspects of the person's life effect mental health and mental health effects all aspects of their life.
Alivia McMahan is a Psychiatric Physician Assistant in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology at Georgia Southern University and her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at South University in Savannah, Georgia. She is a member of the Georgia Association of Physician Assistants and American Academy of Physician Assistants. Alivia specializes in treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions and is passionate about helping patients to feel their best and improve their quality of life.
Alivia McMahan is a Psychiatric Physician Assistant in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology at Georgia Southern University and her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at South University in Savannah, Georgia. She is a member of the Georgia Association of Physician Assistants and American Academy of Physician Assistants. Alivia specializes in treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions and is passionate about helping patients to feel their best and improve their quality of life.
Online Psychiatrists
Dr. Angelique Lawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30901 (Online Only)
Hello, I’m so glad you are here! I’m Dr. Angelique Lawson, a doctoral prepared board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) & want to welcome you to our telepsychiatry practice, Inner Strength Psychiatry LLC! In our fast-paced world, I understand how challenging it can be to prioritize your mental health. That is why I am here to offer you accessible & compassionate telepsychiatry services right from the comfort of your own space. With years of experience & a passion for mental wellness, I’m dedicated to providing personalized care that meets your unique needs. Book with me today by clicking on my website!
Hello, I’m so glad you are here! I’m Dr. Angelique Lawson, a doctoral prepared board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) & want to welcome you to our telepsychiatry practice, Inner Strength Psychiatry LLC! In our fast-paced world, I understand how challenging it can be to prioritize your mental health. That is why I am here to offer you accessible & compassionate telepsychiatry services right from the comfort of your own space. With years of experience & a passion for mental wellness, I’m dedicated to providing personalized care that meets your unique needs. Book with me today by clicking on my website!
Break free from Opioid addiction, Reclaim back your glorious life. We offer Suboxone treatment for both new and existing patients. Our program has a high success rate for those that complies with treatment. Begin your treatment today with only $99 Our payment is very flexible and affordable. We do not accept any form of insurance payment. The clinic accepts only self-pay patients only. Glory Recovery Solutions now provides personalized on-line treatment consultations for prescription pain/heroin addiction and co-occurring psychiatric conditions. This is offered to you in the comfort of your own familiar environment.
Break free from Opioid addiction, Reclaim back your glorious life. We offer Suboxone treatment for both new and existing patients. Our program has a high success rate for those that complies with treatment. Begin your treatment today with only $99 Our payment is very flexible and affordable. We do not accept any form of insurance payment. The clinic accepts only self-pay patients only. Glory Recovery Solutions now provides personalized on-line treatment consultations for prescription pain/heroin addiction and co-occurring psychiatric conditions. This is offered to you in the comfort of your own familiar environment.
I've been a psychiatrist for over 30 years and have worked in many areas within the field. I trained during the era when psychiatrists still saw people in psychotherapy and treated them with medications when necessary. Gradually, the psychiatrist's role has shifted away from one as a psychotherapist toward one as a specialist in biological interventions, usually medications. Certainly not every patient asking for help from mental health professionals needs medication, but most patients who need medication or who can benefit from medication can also benefit from focused psychotherapy. I still have this perspective and utilize it as much as possible.
I've been a psychiatrist for over 30 years and have worked in many areas within the field. I trained during the era when psychiatrists still saw people in psychotherapy and treated them with medications when necessary. Gradually, the psychiatrist's role has shifted away from one as a psychotherapist toward one as a specialist in biological interventions, usually medications. Certainly not every patient asking for help from mental health professionals needs medication, but most patients who need medication or who can benefit from medication can also benefit from focused psychotherapy. I still have this perspective and utilize it as much as possible.
CareStop LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30901 (Online Only)
You do not have to suffer in silence anymore. At CareStop, we want to help you feel better and get your life back on track as soon as possible. Imagine being able to see your mental health provider from the comfort of your home. Guess what? Dr. Cooper will come to you, virtually! All you need is a device with a speaker, camera, and internet connection to start your journey to smiling again.
You do not have to suffer in silence anymore. At CareStop, we want to help you feel better and get your life back on track as soon as possible. Imagine being able to see your mental health provider from the comfort of your home. Guess what? Dr. Cooper will come to you, virtually! All you need is a device with a speaker, camera, and internet connection to start your journey to smiling again.
Dr. Shevitz has been in Augusta since 1992. After obtaining his BA from the University of Virginia in Psychology, Dr. Shevitz attended the University of Maryland School of Medicine, and then went on to do his psychiatric training at Dartmouth Medical School. He has worked in a variety of settings including the Navajo Indian Reservation, Vanderbilt University, and served as Director of Psychiatry at a large general hospital in Eugene, OR before coming to Augusta.
Dr. Shevitz has been in Augusta since 1992. After obtaining his BA from the University of Virginia in Psychology, Dr. Shevitz attended the University of Maryland School of Medicine, and then went on to do his psychiatric training at Dartmouth Medical School. He has worked in a variety of settings including the Navajo Indian Reservation, Vanderbilt University, and served as Director of Psychiatry at a large general hospital in Eugene, OR before coming to Augusta.
Chelsea Owen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30901 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience with the clinical treatment of psychiatric/mental health patients, offering an individualized approach to management and treatment. Additionally, I have over a decade of experience as a registered nurse working in acute care hospital facilities.
I have extensive experience with the clinical treatment of psychiatric/mental health patients, offering an individualized approach to management and treatment. Additionally, I have over a decade of experience as a registered nurse working in acute care hospital facilities.
Joseph Walker is welcoming new patients for video appointments. It is easy to make an appointment simply go to his website and click book appointment at the top of the screen. As a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner he specializes in the treatment of anxiety and depression for both children and adults. He has treated children and adults in inpatient crisis stabilization units, community mental health centers, small group practice, and in private practice.
Joseph Walker is welcoming new patients for video appointments. It is easy to make an appointment simply go to his website and click book appointment at the top of the screen. As a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner he specializes in the treatment of anxiety and depression for both children and adults. He has treated children and adults in inpatient crisis stabilization units, community mental health centers, small group practice, and in private practice.
Seeking help with medication management and supportive counseling? You have come to the right place. We put you first, while we focus on quality care and convenience. As a Certified Physician Assistant in Psychiatry, I am not only knowledgeable, I also have a deep personal connection to the challenges of mental health. Growing up with close family and friends who battled depression and anxiety, I witnessed firsthand the impact these conditions can have on you and your loved ones. This experience has ignited my passion for psychiatry and set me on a path to help anyone interested in making a better life for themselves.
Seeking help with medication management and supportive counseling? You have come to the right place. We put you first, while we focus on quality care and convenience. As a Certified Physician Assistant in Psychiatry, I am not only knowledgeable, I also have a deep personal connection to the challenges of mental health. Growing up with close family and friends who battled depression and anxiety, I witnessed firsthand the impact these conditions can have on you and your loved ones. This experience has ignited my passion for psychiatry and set me on a path to help anyone interested in making a better life for themselves.
I'm an integrative psychiatrist who believes that mental health is not achieved with medication or talk therapy alone, and that lasting wellness requires deep exploration of the whole person. I seek to provide a truly integrated experience, one that blends the science of medicine with the art of healing, while honoring the power of intuition, spirit and human connection. I spend time exploring things that many psychiatrists don't have time for, like getting to know your life story, values, goals, and challenges to create a plan for healing. I also help you develop skills and resilience to meet life with confidence and balance.
I'm an integrative psychiatrist who believes that mental health is not achieved with medication or talk therapy alone, and that lasting wellness requires deep exploration of the whole person. I seek to provide a truly integrated experience, one that blends the science of medicine with the art of healing, while honoring the power of intuition, spirit and human connection. I spend time exploring things that many psychiatrists don't have time for, like getting to know your life story, values, goals, and challenges to create a plan for healing. I also help you develop skills and resilience to meet life with confidence and balance.
DPS Health and Wellness is an outpatient mental health practice owned by Dr. David Samuels. With two Psychiatrists, 5 Mid-levels and 6 Counselors, the providers at DPS strive to provide quality, caring, person-based mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults. DPS offers evaluations, medication management and counseling. We have three locations for in office visits, as well as offering virtual appointments to accommodate patients throughout the state of Georgia. We don’t just speak your language, we listen to your concerns!
DPS Health and Wellness is an outpatient mental health practice owned by Dr. David Samuels. With two Psychiatrists, 5 Mid-levels and 6 Counselors, the providers at DPS strive to provide quality, caring, person-based mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults. DPS offers evaluations, medication management and counseling. We have three locations for in office visits, as well as offering virtual appointments to accommodate patients throughout the state of Georgia. We don’t just speak your language, we listen to your concerns!
Global Mentality Mental Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Evans, GA 30809
I believe in providing the best care possible to all clients. Everyone should leave my office, feeling better than before. Together, we will develop treatment plans that work for you.
I believe in providing the best care possible to all clients. Everyone should leave my office, feeling better than before. Together, we will develop treatment plans that work for you.
Manifesting Minds, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30901 (Online Only)
I am Lori Lewis, a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For years, I have been committed to making a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges. With a diverse background in healthcare, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my practice. My decision to specialize in mental health nursing came after a personal experience that transformed my life. As a survivor of sexual assault, I spent years running away from my own mental health struggles. As a mental health advocate, I strongly believe the significance of facing your fears while allowing yourself grace.
I am Lori Lewis, a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For years, I have been committed to making a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges. With a diverse background in healthcare, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my practice. My decision to specialize in mental health nursing came after a personal experience that transformed my life. As a survivor of sexual assault, I spent years running away from my own mental health struggles. As a mental health advocate, I strongly believe the significance of facing your fears while allowing yourself grace.
Erica is a dual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNPBC) and family nurse practitioner (FNPC), with a PhD in behavioral neuroendocrinology. She is passionate about providing quality, collaborative, and comprehensive mental health services to patients across the life span. Erica possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She follows evidencebased guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Erica's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and prescriber.
Erica is a dual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNPBC) and family nurse practitioner (FNPC), with a PhD in behavioral neuroendocrinology. She is passionate about providing quality, collaborative, and comprehensive mental health services to patients across the life span. Erica possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She follows evidencebased guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Erica's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and prescriber.
Hi, I'm Dr. Anna Jackson. I am passionate about helping patients overcome anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, and burnout. Whether you are feeling stuck and trying to find your path, a new mom dealing with anxiety and overwhelm, or feeling burned out from the demands of your busy life, I would love to help! I use an integrative approach to care including medication, therapy, nutritional guidance, lifestyle coaching, sleep hygiene, meditation, and more.
Hi, I'm Dr. Anna Jackson. I am passionate about helping patients overcome anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, and burnout. Whether you are feeling stuck and trying to find your path, a new mom dealing with anxiety and overwhelm, or feeling burned out from the demands of your busy life, I would love to help! I use an integrative approach to care including medication, therapy, nutritional guidance, lifestyle coaching, sleep hygiene, meditation, and more.
Dr. Noushin N Vastani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, APRN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30901 (Online Only)
Through personal and professional experiences, Dr. Vastani saw a need for therapeutic spaces that not only recognized but celebrated all parts of clients’ identities. She is passionate about dismantling negative stigmas surrounding mental health care and providing safe spaces for those who have been negatively impacted. Dr. Vastani is passionate about repairing and healing, through a collaborative, trauma-informed approach. She also strives for advocacy inside and outside of the therapeutic space, dedicated to making long-lasting change. She practices cultural humility and growth, by exercising curiosity and an eagerness to learn.
Through personal and professional experiences, Dr. Vastani saw a need for therapeutic spaces that not only recognized but celebrated all parts of clients’ identities. She is passionate about dismantling negative stigmas surrounding mental health care and providing safe spaces for those who have been negatively impacted. Dr. Vastani is passionate about repairing and healing, through a collaborative, trauma-informed approach. She also strives for advocacy inside and outside of the therapeutic space, dedicated to making long-lasting change. She practices cultural humility and growth, by exercising curiosity and an eagerness to learn.
Dr. Nawar's focus is the establishment of a strong therapeutic working relationship to develop assessments and treatment plans in alliance with her clients and their recovery goals. Her experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry grounds her practice, assisting individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia spectrum. Dr. Nawar feels particularly grateful in her work with the LGBTQ+ individuals as an ally and fellow learner. She enjoys mentoring Emory Medical students and has supervised fellow psychiatrists and advanced level practitioners in her past roles.
Dr. Nawar's focus is the establishment of a strong therapeutic working relationship to develop assessments and treatment plans in alliance with her clients and their recovery goals. Her experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry grounds her practice, assisting individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia spectrum. Dr. Nawar feels particularly grateful in her work with the LGBTQ+ individuals as an ally and fellow learner. She enjoys mentoring Emory Medical students and has supervised fellow psychiatrists and advanced level practitioners in her past roles.
Nicole Silvernail is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in anxiety, depression and PTSD. Nicole has a Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia Southern University. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Georgia State University. Nicole is the award recipient of 'Best of Savannah in Psychiatry' in 2024.
Nicole Silvernail is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in anxiety, depression and PTSD. Nicole has a Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia Southern University. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Georgia State University. Nicole is the award recipient of 'Best of Savannah in Psychiatry' in 2024.
See more therapy options for Guyton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Guyton, GA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Guyton, GA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum |
67% | Relationship Issues |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
67% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Guyton, GA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Guyton?
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.