Psychiatrists in Gwinnett County, GA
![Photo of Olufunmilayo Ajala, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c54e2065-0405-4461-8be8-8de3ba956b7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Funmi Ajala is a Licensed Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in Psychiatric-Mental Health providing care for children, Adolescents, and Adults. Funmi is a board-certified Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), PMHNP-BC by American Credentialing Center (ANCC.) Funmi also holds a bachelor’s degree in medical Microbiology, Bachelor’s degree in nursing- at Chamberlain University Chicago and a master’s degree in Psychiatric-Mental Health – at Walden University.
Funmi Ajala is a Licensed Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in Psychiatric-Mental Health providing care for children, Adolescents, and Adults. Funmi is a board-certified Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), PMHNP-BC by American Credentialing Center (ANCC.) Funmi also holds a bachelor’s degree in medical Microbiology, Bachelor’s degree in nursing- at Chamberlain University Chicago and a master’s degree in Psychiatric-Mental Health – at Walden University.
![Photo of Glory Osadiaye - SoulCare Health, LLC, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6aa60a08-8d09-4646-b0c4-92a1026ad90e/2/320x400.jpeg)
SoulCare Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Welcome to SoulCare Health LLC, where we strive to provide comprehensive Psychiatric Mental Health Services to individuals age 7yrs to older adults. Our team of qualified mental health professionals provides compassionate and personalized care to help our clients improve their mental health and well-being. Soulcare Health is a dedicated to helping individuals achieve a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life. At SoulCare Health, we are passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of our clients and their families.
Welcome to SoulCare Health LLC, where we strive to provide comprehensive Psychiatric Mental Health Services to individuals age 7yrs to older adults. Our team of qualified mental health professionals provides compassionate and personalized care to help our clients improve their mental health and well-being. Soulcare Health is a dedicated to helping individuals achieve a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life. At SoulCare Health, we are passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of our clients and their families.
![Photo of Zicole Browne, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/680a48af-1d30-4398-9529-0b64c3d4fa19/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Zicole Browne is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 2018. As an adult psychiatrist, Dr. Browne is trained to treat an array of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. His approach to patient care is a joint venture. Dr. Browne envisions a safe and nonjudgmental environment in order to build a strong therapeutic alliance which will facilitate positive outcomes. While utilizing a combination of medications and therapeutic interventions, Dr. Browne likes to discuss the diagnosis and management plan together after sharing all treatment options.
Dr. Zicole Browne is a Psychiatrist in Georgia who has been practicing since 2018. As an adult psychiatrist, Dr. Browne is trained to treat an array of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. His approach to patient care is a joint venture. Dr. Browne envisions a safe and nonjudgmental environment in order to build a strong therapeutic alliance which will facilitate positive outcomes. While utilizing a combination of medications and therapeutic interventions, Dr. Browne likes to discuss the diagnosis and management plan together after sharing all treatment options.
![Photo of Esther Narhmartey-Darku, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b90ed7ed-c472-4e98-abd0-b9ab5a155e9d/1/320x400.png)
Esther is a Family Nurse Practitioner certified by the ANCC. Esther has a strong rapport with patients of all ages, specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents.
Esther is a Family Nurse Practitioner certified by the ANCC. Esther has a strong rapport with patients of all ages, specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents.
![Photo of Maureen Obiofuma, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d1c6e9a-0c4a-4f71-8199-c2a6249e1846/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maureen Obiofuma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046 (Online Only)
Meet Maureen Obiofuma, a distinguished Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a wealth of experience and expertise. Maureen began with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Emory University, where she graduated with distinction. Building upon this foundation, she pursued her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Augusta University, achieving top honors (summa cum laude). With over 11 years of hands-on patient care experience, including specialized work with postpartum and mental health populations. Maureen Obiofuma cares for people with mental illness across the lifespan.
Meet Maureen Obiofuma, a distinguished Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a wealth of experience and expertise. Maureen began with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Emory University, where she graduated with distinction. Building upon this foundation, she pursued her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Augusta University, achieving top honors (summa cum laude). With over 11 years of hands-on patient care experience, including specialized work with postpartum and mental health populations. Maureen Obiofuma cares for people with mental illness across the lifespan.
![Photo of Grace Fomunung - Jehovahs Behavioral Care LLC, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0121bed2-a014-4ad4-bae4-234028ae04ae/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jehovahs Behavioral Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lilburn, GA 30047
Hello! and welcome. I am Grace Fomunung. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a plethora of experience in the Mental Health field. I provide rapid results with Medication Management to enable my client to live their full potential. I provide specialized care for clients ranging from adolescents to seniors who struggle with anxiety, depression, and more in both in inpatient and outpatient mental health hospitals in crisis stabilization. I also work with clients who have schizophrenia, OCD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, dementia, PTSD, and substance abuse.
Hello! and welcome. I am Grace Fomunung. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a plethora of experience in the Mental Health field. I provide rapid results with Medication Management to enable my client to live their full potential. I provide specialized care for clients ranging from adolescents to seniors who struggle with anxiety, depression, and more in both in inpatient and outpatient mental health hospitals in crisis stabilization. I also work with clients who have schizophrenia, OCD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, dementia, PTSD, and substance abuse.
![Photo of Matachi Ughwanogho, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bfcb3f3-d321-4c7f-99ba-a19cfb5a0f5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matachi is a compassionate and experienced dual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. Friendly, easy to talk to, and a strong advocate of patients with mental illness and their families. Matachi believes in holistic, patient-centered, and family involved care approach that provides optimal wellness. She treats patients with dignity and respect, and committed to culturally competent care. She treats patients across lifespan with behavior and mental health disorders.
Matachi is a compassionate and experienced dual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. Friendly, easy to talk to, and a strong advocate of patients with mental illness and their families. Matachi believes in holistic, patient-centered, and family involved care approach that provides optimal wellness. She treats patients with dignity and respect, and committed to culturally competent care. She treats patients across lifespan with behavior and mental health disorders.
![Photo of Ireta Favors, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70869d6b-e896-451b-bd50-e6d5f8a4c335/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ireta Favors
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Grayson, GA 30017 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Ireta Favors and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I possess 10 years plus of diverse experience in the field of mental health. I chose and continue to choose the field of mental health because I have a genuine passion for listening, educating and assisting others in becoming the best version of themselves. I look forward to helping you become the best version of you!
Welcome! My name is Ireta Favors and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I possess 10 years plus of diverse experience in the field of mental health. I chose and continue to choose the field of mental health because I have a genuine passion for listening, educating and assisting others in becoming the best version of themselves. I look forward to helping you become the best version of you!
![Photo of Rashelle Browne-Tomlinson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6baa451f-eb0c-4206-9dfb-cd0ebf4da9db/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Browne-Tomlinson is board certified with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology with psychiatric residency training, as well as, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship training completed at the University of South Florida. She received her medical degree from the University of Virginia and she is licensed to practice medicine in several states which allow her to extend her reach to meet the mental health needs of the community through telemedicine. Dr. Browne-Tomlinson believes in the whole body approach to treatment and healing utilizing medication management and brief support of therapy.
Dr. Browne-Tomlinson is board certified with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology with psychiatric residency training, as well as, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship training completed at the University of South Florida. She received her medical degree from the University of Virginia and she is licensed to practice medicine in several states which allow her to extend her reach to meet the mental health needs of the community through telemedicine. Dr. Browne-Tomlinson believes in the whole body approach to treatment and healing utilizing medication management and brief support of therapy.
![Photo of Jennifer Bradley - The Carrington Clinic, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e8c07a-8128-49b1-b717-949195cf3a4c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hеllo, I'm Jеnnifеr Bradlеy, a compassionatе Nursе Practitionеr with ovеr two dеcadеs of еxpеriеncе in healthcare, with 7 of those years being strictly dedicated to mental health. Whеn I еnvision my idеal cliеnt, I sее somеonе grappling with the complexities of life. Thеy arе individuals sееking undеrstanding, rеliеf, and stratеgiеs to navigatе thе oftеn turbulеnt watеrs of thеir еmotions and thoughts. Thеir goal is simplе yеt profound – to find balancе, pеacе, and a sеnsе of control in thеir livеs. Thеy yеarn for a thеrapеutic rеlationship whеrе thеy fееl hеard, validatеd, and activеly supportеd in thеir quеst for mеntal wеllnеss.
Hеllo, I'm Jеnnifеr Bradlеy, a compassionatе Nursе Practitionеr with ovеr two dеcadеs of еxpеriеncе in healthcare, with 7 of those years being strictly dedicated to mental health. Whеn I еnvision my idеal cliеnt, I sее somеonе grappling with the complexities of life. Thеy arе individuals sееking undеrstanding, rеliеf, and stratеgiеs to navigatе thе oftеn turbulеnt watеrs of thеir еmotions and thoughts. Thеir goal is simplе yеt profound – to find balancе, pеacе, and a sеnsе of control in thеir livеs. Thеy yеarn for a thеrapеutic rеlationship whеrе thеy fееl hеard, validatеd, and activеly supportеd in thеir quеst for mеntal wеllnеss.
![Photo of Richard Onoja, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65c242e8-5b02-43da-ab43-59ed63da773b/2/320x400.png)
Richard Onoja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30044
Richard Onoja, DNP, PMHNP-BC Richard Onoja is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia and has been practicing since 2018. He has a Bachelor of Nursing from Kennesaw State University, a Post-Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from Georgia State University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Augusta University. Richard is passionate about helping clients move toward better perceptions of themselves. He utilizes compassion; affirmation of individual belief system; academic understanding of chemical brain functions; and evidence-based research to empower clients.
Richard Onoja, DNP, PMHNP-BC Richard Onoja is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia and has been practicing since 2018. He has a Bachelor of Nursing from Kennesaw State University, a Post-Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from Georgia State University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Augusta University. Richard is passionate about helping clients move toward better perceptions of themselves. He utilizes compassion; affirmation of individual belief system; academic understanding of chemical brain functions; and evidence-based research to empower clients.
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![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
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 9 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, inpatient 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 9 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, inpatient crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
![Photo of Latrina Walden, PMHNP, FNP-C, MHA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43bc3176-c635-459e-8f88-39a731d2780e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Latrina Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, MHA
Verified Verified
Norcross, GA 30093 (Online Only)
At Little by Little Therapy, we believe in the power of gradual progress to make meaningful changes in your life. Our approach is rooted in the understanding that small, incremental choices can move the needle toward positive transformation. Whether you're facing the challenges of adjusting to new surroundings or navigating difficult life situations, we're here to offer you support and guidance.
At Little by Little Therapy, we believe in the power of gradual progress to make meaningful changes in your life. Our approach is rooted in the understanding that small, incremental choices can move the needle toward positive transformation. Whether you're facing the challenges of adjusting to new surroundings or navigating difficult life situations, we're here to offer you support and guidance.
![Photo of Jasmine Kearse - Aligned Cognition Healthcare Services, PC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/038f4140-c28c-4c54-86f8-3cc9bb4f6d7c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Aligned Cognition Healthcare Services, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Snellville, GA 30078 (Online Only)
For far too long we have been ignoring our mental health needs. Whether it is because we feel we do not have time for ourselves or the stigma that goes along with seeing a psychiatrist. Whatever the case is, now is the time to let it go. At some point in everyone's life the experiences of sadness (depression?), nervousness (anxiety?), feeling judged (paranoia?), flighty (mania?), scared (PTSD?) and a whole host of other emotions have surfaced. Sometimes these feelings or emotions can get out of hand. Why let them? Let's explore healthy coping mechanisms. Reach out for an appointment!
For far too long we have been ignoring our mental health needs. Whether it is because we feel we do not have time for ourselves or the stigma that goes along with seeing a psychiatrist. Whatever the case is, now is the time to let it go. At some point in everyone's life the experiences of sadness (depression?), nervousness (anxiety?), feeling judged (paranoia?), flighty (mania?), scared (PTSD?) and a whole host of other emotions have surfaced. Sometimes these feelings or emotions can get out of hand. Why let them? Let's explore healthy coping mechanisms. Reach out for an appointment!
![Photo of Elmer L. Quintero, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea591063-da02-4005-8dbf-ddda9f23ea33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Elmer L. Quintero is a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for delivering exceptional health care to his patients. With over 10 years of experience, Dr. Quintero has earned a reputation for his humanity, empathy, and deep understanding of his patients' unique needs.
Dr. Elmer L. Quintero is a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for delivering exceptional health care to his patients. With over 10 years of experience, Dr. Quintero has earned a reputation for his humanity, empathy, and deep understanding of his patients' unique needs.
![Photo of Bisi Yinusa - Divive Mind Solution, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58b7711b-f6e3-49ad-8533-92acf540e6a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Divive Mind Solution
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
This is my personal link to register: www.growtherapy.com/provider/w8xybfxhgrku/bisi-yinusa
This is my personal link to register: www.growtherapy.com/provider/w8xybfxhgrku/bisi-yinusa
![Photo of Anicia Cross-Robinson, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6030d094-8d8b-4fe4-9cf2-3454f1259b5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anicia Cross-Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Snellville, GA 30078
I am Anicia Cross-Robinson, as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I understand that mental health and well-being can be challenging for many people. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, mood swings, or stress, you're not alone. My team and I are here to help you identify the root of your struggles and work towards creating a balance in your life that works for you. My practice believes in a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. Through medication management and personalized care, we'll help you manage anxiety, avoid burnout, and build a stronger relationship with yourself.
I am Anicia Cross-Robinson, as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I understand that mental health and well-being can be challenging for many people. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, mood swings, or stress, you're not alone. My team and I are here to help you identify the root of your struggles and work towards creating a balance in your life that works for you. My practice believes in a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. Through medication management and personalized care, we'll help you manage anxiety, avoid burnout, and build a stronger relationship with yourself.
![Photo of Julie Greene, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec9ecb35-2874-45da-9b6d-265d92289980/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Greene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30519 (Online Only)
Our mental health is impacted by our genetics, stressors in our environments, and our physical health, and when our minds are not healthy, our physical health and relationships with others suffer.
Our mental health is impacted by our genetics, stressors in our environments, and our physical health, and when our minds are not healthy, our physical health and relationships with others suffer.
![Photo of Tina Cherry - Cherry Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af59f2d6-06af-4f53-b8e0-3a43ba9de034/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cherry Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suwanee, GA 30024
Tina Cherry MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Nursing Science degree in psychiatric mental health nursing from Walden University. She is committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care honoring every individual's unique needs, strengths, and weaknesses. Tina Cherry specializes in providing psychotherapy and medication management services to individuals with psychiatric mental health issues.
Tina Cherry MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Nursing Science degree in psychiatric mental health nursing from Walden University. She is committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care honoring every individual's unique needs, strengths, and weaknesses. Tina Cherry specializes in providing psychotherapy and medication management services to individuals with psychiatric mental health issues.
![Photo of Jose Maria Artadi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/413aa9e4-c78b-450a-aed0-9b727e082325/1/320x400.png)
I am a a bilingual psychiatrist with a license in Georgia and Florida. I am originally from Venezuela and have been living in the United States for many years. I completed medical school in Venezuela and training at the University of Miami- Jackson Memorial Hospital. I and my team are available to help you in our office in Norcross, Georgia. My assistants Tulio Quevedo (Addictions counselor and Intake coordinator) and Leydi Espinosa (Nurse Practitioner), and I are ready to help. We work with children and adults. I have a passion for my field in medicine and the ability to take care of persons with neuropsychiatric conditions.
I am a a bilingual psychiatrist with a license in Georgia and Florida. I am originally from Venezuela and have been living in the United States for many years. I completed medical school in Venezuela and training at the University of Miami- Jackson Memorial Hospital. I and my team are available to help you in our office in Norcross, Georgia. My assistants Tulio Quevedo (Addictions counselor and Intake coordinator) and Leydi Espinosa (Nurse Practitioner), and I are ready to help. We work with children and adults. I have a passion for my field in medicine and the ability to take care of persons with neuropsychiatric conditions.
See more therapy options for Gwinnett County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Gwinnett County, GA
100+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Gwinnett County, GA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Medication Management |
72% | ADHD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Gwinnett County, GA see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Gwinnett County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.