Psychiatrists in Pooler, GA
![Photo of Kasara Helou, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, MPH, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1c28346-8393-4c08-940f-e91996e1cc4c/2/320x400.png)
Kasara provides effective evidence-based medication management and brief therapeutic counseling for adults, adolescents and children. She treats a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, ADHD and autism. She coordinates care by working closely with psycho-therapists, counselors, and other health care providers. She has a strong background working with children and adolescents alongside Dr. Julie Jensen, but also has a longstanding history caring for adults, the elderly and underserved.
Kasara provides effective evidence-based medication management and brief therapeutic counseling for adults, adolescents and children. She treats a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, ADHD and autism. She coordinates care by working closely with psycho-therapists, counselors, and other health care providers. She has a strong background working with children and adolescents alongside Dr. Julie Jensen, but also has a longstanding history caring for adults, the elderly and underserved.
![Photo of Alivia McMahan, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bcaa6ef-2ec3-4378-8250-f2a7af71d224/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jeffrey Harris, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2ed683e-dc27-40f0-8e24-1e7501ae611b/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Windy Meadows, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/765268fc-6c47-4e88-84a3-1ed97a6599e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Emilie Taulbee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e0bed9a-b558-45a7-ad3f-6d02f207b88e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide effective evidence-based medication management and brief therapeutic counseling for adults. I treat a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. I coordinates care by working closely with psycho-therapists, counselors, and other health care providers. I have a strong background working with adults alongside Dr. Julie Jensen and 15 years of nursing experience.
I provide effective evidence-based medication management and brief therapeutic counseling for adults. I treat a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. I coordinates care by working closely with psycho-therapists, counselors, and other health care providers. I have a strong background working with adults alongside Dr. Julie Jensen and 15 years of nursing experience.
![Photo of Darnae Lovett, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5829efa-b816-4e6d-b4df-1f214932082f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Darnae Lovett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pooler, GA 31322 (Online Only)
Are you ready to take control and thrive? If so you are in the right place! Darnae Lovett APRN, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of South Carolina and then earned her Master of Science degree from South University. Darnae then received her Post Master certificate in Psychiatric Health from Valdosta State University. She holds two national board certifications with the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners(AANP) as a Family Nurse practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse practitioner
Are you ready to take control and thrive? If so you are in the right place! Darnae Lovett APRN, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of South Carolina and then earned her Master of Science degree from South University. Darnae then received her Post Master certificate in Psychiatric Health from Valdosta State University. She holds two national board certifications with the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners(AANP) as a Family Nurse practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse practitioner
![Photo of Ashley Lewis, MSN, CPNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6357d85-a41b-4bca-a353-31923fbfc250/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CPNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pooler, GA 31322
I provide psychiatric care for children and adults seeking help for emotional distress, mental health strain, or behavioral issues. Whether seeking support for yourself or a loved one, help is available to those hoping for change. My practice addresses mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, postpartum struggles, ADHD consultation, and other concerns. My treatment approach is mindful of the special considerations for those experiencing addictions or an eating disorder.
I provide psychiatric care for children and adults seeking help for emotional distress, mental health strain, or behavioral issues. Whether seeking support for yourself or a loved one, help is available to those hoping for change. My practice addresses mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, postpartum struggles, ADHD consultation, and other concerns. My treatment approach is mindful of the special considerations for those experiencing addictions or an eating disorder.
![Photo of David Paul Samuels - DPS Health and Wellness, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d43de5b9-5052-42a8-93c8-89595d4eee40/1/320x400.jpeg)
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!
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Eman Haddad, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0972fce2-5f09-42e2-8277-cc07a9a523ba/1/320x400.png)
Eman Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Savannah, GA 31405 (Online Only)
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 Santissa T Clapp, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a96f206e-d3f2-465d-b128-0525452d5820/1/320x400.jpeg)
Santissa T Clapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Savannah, GA 31405 (Online Only)
I am truly passionate about being a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and believe it to be my calling and purpose in life. While mental health is often overlooked or avoided in the realm of healthcare, I have been drawn to it. I know that every patient is unique and I take pride in tailoring each experience to suit their specific needs. My approach focuses on equipping patients with the necessary tools to long term manage their mental health. I also offer psychotherapy and help with natural alternatives to prescribed medications, like vitamins and supplements. Schedule today to embark on your mental health journey.
I am truly passionate about being a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and believe it to be my calling and purpose in life. While mental health is often overlooked or avoided in the realm of healthcare, I have been drawn to it. I know that every patient is unique and I take pride in tailoring each experience to suit their specific needs. My approach focuses on equipping patients with the necessary tools to long term manage their mental health. I also offer psychotherapy and help with natural alternatives to prescribed medications, like vitamins and supplements. Schedule today to embark on your mental health journey.
![Photo of Mir Wadud, MBBS, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff3ede2a-96c5-4d16-9a55-3221253238c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mir Wadud
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBBS, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Savannah, GA 31405 (Online Only)
Welcome to my profile. If you are looking for someone to listen to your needs and take the time to understand you and your situation, you have found the right provider who can actually help you. I have been practicing as a General Physician in Dhaka, Bangladesh since 1984, until I relocated to the USA in 2005. I became a certified Family Nurse Practitioner after receiving a Master’s degree from Kennesaw State University, GA. I worked with several psychiatrists and completed another Master's degree from the University of Cincinnati, OH to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Welcome to my profile. If you are looking for someone to listen to your needs and take the time to understand you and your situation, you have found the right provider who can actually help you. I have been practicing as a General Physician in Dhaka, Bangladesh since 1984, until I relocated to the USA in 2005. I became a certified Family Nurse Practitioner after receiving a Master’s degree from Kennesaw State University, GA. I worked with several psychiatrists and completed another Master's degree from the University of Cincinnati, OH to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Whitney Krawczyk, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1da09ce7-1617-4224-a1af-30a5c356e47d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whitney works with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder. She has 7 years of nursing experience in hospital and outpatient settings, working with patients from various backgrounds with chronic medical and mental health conditions. She develops clear concise treatment plans through a patient-centered approach, utilizing medications, lifestyle changes, and supportive psychotherapy as needed.
Whitney works with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder. She has 7 years of nursing experience in hospital and outpatient settings, working with patients from various backgrounds with chronic medical and mental health conditions. She develops clear concise treatment plans through a patient-centered approach, utilizing medications, lifestyle changes, and supportive psychotherapy as needed.
![Photo of Nicole Silvernail, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb582b0-fabc-4613-9486-d2d667ad0191/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Millicent Ogoo, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b41aa48e-ec67-4ed4-8ad2-ad2ebc6ff121/3/320x400.jpeg)
Millicent Ogoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Savannah, GA 31405 (Online Only)
Dr. Millicent Ogoo DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a board certified nurse practitioner with vast years of experience in treating adults and children with both physical mental health illness.
Dr. Millicent Ogoo DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a board certified nurse practitioner with vast years of experience in treating adults and children with both physical mental health illness.
![Photo of Pamela Mokoko - Dr. Pamela Mokoko, LLC, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c515ce1-3c03-4f20-b99e-1890ebda115f/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Pamela Mokoko, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Savannah, GA 31419
I am a board certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of various mental health disorder across life span, including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, substance abuse, oppositional defiant disorder and antisocial personality. Collaborating with other clinicians , I also provide Individual, Couples and Family psychotherapy. My approach is Patient Centered and Comprehensive. I will take the time to get to know you and understand your specific concerns and goals. Using motivational interview, together we will work to address your goals so that you can have a more fulfilling relationships and life experiences.
I am a board certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of various mental health disorder across life span, including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, substance abuse, oppositional defiant disorder and antisocial personality. Collaborating with other clinicians , I also provide Individual, Couples and Family psychotherapy. My approach is Patient Centered and Comprehensive. I will take the time to get to know you and understand your specific concerns and goals. Using motivational interview, together we will work to address your goals so that you can have a more fulfilling relationships and life experiences.
![Photo of Frantz Georges, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e8a1f2d-702a-4e38-bd0c-9349089f5426/2/320x400.jpeg)
Frantz Georges
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Savannah, GA 31405 (Online Only)
Hello this is Dr. Frantz Georges (psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I’ve been workinag as mental health nurse for over 25 years and as a practitioner the past 6 years. I treat patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychotic disorders. I treat each one of my patients individually and provide the best possible care to them. If you are looking for someone to listen to your needs and to take time to understand your problems (situation); you have found the right provider. Once again I treat individuals from 5-100 years old with a variety of mental health disorders.
Hello this is Dr. Frantz Georges (psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I’ve been workinag as mental health nurse for over 25 years and as a practitioner the past 6 years. I treat patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychotic disorders. I treat each one of my patients individually and provide the best possible care to them. If you are looking for someone to listen to your needs and to take time to understand your problems (situation); you have found the right provider. Once again I treat individuals from 5-100 years old with a variety of mental health disorders.
![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
Savannah, GA 31405 (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 Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, BCMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6474cdcf-fc11-4a85-8446-84a04e4e5cd4/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Judith Ngulefac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BCMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Savannah, GA 31401
Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, DOT-CME is an experienced doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with over 14 years of experience in diverse health care settings providing high-quality care to clients. She believes that your mental health is as important as your physical health and requires the same attention. She provides an initial psychiatric evaluation that will enable her to diagnose & develop an individualized treatment plan.
Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, DOT-CME is an experienced doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with over 14 years of experience in diverse health care settings providing high-quality care to clients. She believes that your mental health is as important as your physical health and requires the same attention. She provides an initial psychiatric evaluation that will enable her to diagnose & develop an individualized treatment plan.
![Photo of Stacey Fears, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d3838a3-293d-4a17-a352-358e99f82d33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Stacey Fears, and I want to personally welcome you to Sequence To Health, where my passion for mental healthcare and my commitment to your well-being intersect. With over 18 years of experience in healthcare, my journey began in family medicine, but it was eight years ago that I discovered my true calling in mental health care.
Hello, I'm Stacey Fears, and I want to personally welcome you to Sequence To Health, where my passion for mental healthcare and my commitment to your well-being intersect. With over 18 years of experience in healthcare, my journey began in family medicine, but it was eight years ago that I discovered my true calling in mental health care.
![Photo of India Williams - Lotus Health and Wellness Inc , MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38119b65-e1e5-4ed6-b639-932a3709142f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lotus Health and Wellness Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Savannah, GA 31405 (Online Only)
Have you ever felt that life is pulling you in every direction possible; between work, relationships, friendships, parenting and you're struggling to keep your head above water to breathe? I can help you understand what anxiety symptoms look like in the physical form, and together we can help identify your triggers, formulate a plan to balance it all, and discuss medication management. Are you self isolating? Neglecting yourself? Have you noticed that you cry more more so than not? Are you having trouble sleeping? Depression may show up different for everyone, but the aching pain that it delivers is the same.
Have you ever felt that life is pulling you in every direction possible; between work, relationships, friendships, parenting and you're struggling to keep your head above water to breathe? I can help you understand what anxiety symptoms look like in the physical form, and together we can help identify your triggers, formulate a plan to balance it all, and discuss medication management. Are you self isolating? Neglecting yourself? Have you noticed that you cry more more so than not? Are you having trouble sleeping? Depression may show up different for everyone, but the aching pain that it delivers is the same.
See more therapy options for Pooler
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Pooler, GA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Pooler, GA who prioritize treating:
88% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Pooler, GA see their clients
88% | In Person and Online | |
12% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Pooler?
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.