Psychiatrists in Stephens County, GA
![Photo of Ira Racadag - Abundant Life Psychiatric Services, LLC, MSN-RN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f9227d2-50f3-49af-bc0e-37b154fb8a4d/1/320x400.png)
Abundant Life Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-RN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Toccoa, GA 30577
Our goal at Abundant Life Psychiatric Services is to meet clients where they are in their current life circumstances and provide them with the support and resources they need to improve their quality of life. Whether it is an acute life circumstance that requires temporary management or a chronic, life long mental illness, we want our clients to be able to have a life of fulfillment and purpose.
Our goal at Abundant Life Psychiatric Services is to meet clients where they are in their current life circumstances and provide them with the support and resources they need to improve their quality of life. Whether it is an acute life circumstance that requires temporary management or a chronic, life long mental illness, we want our clients to be able to have a life of fulfillment and purpose.
![Photo of Taheerah Demby, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1884ca0a-d448-4b2d-a5e5-b7d1ab6d9649/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taheerah Demby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Toccoa, GA 30577 (Online Only)
Greetings! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I enjoy identifying and addressing mental health conditions that often impact an individual from living their best life.
Greetings! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I enjoy identifying and addressing mental health conditions that often impact an individual from living their best life.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Natacha Smith, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/564a9593-e65e-470f-b830-2115064520ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natacha Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norcross, GA 30093
Dr. Smith is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She received her nurse practitioner degree from the University of South Alabama and has been in practice for eight years. She provides evidence-based holistic mental health care to individuals of all ages. She is committed to helping patients reach their goals. She also believes in establishing a long-lasting rapport with her patients. Her objective is to ensure her patients’ needs and concerns are being heard and their needs and purposes are being met.
Dr. Smith is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She received her nurse practitioner degree from the University of South Alabama and has been in practice for eight years. She provides evidence-based holistic mental health care to individuals of all ages. She is committed to helping patients reach their goals. She also believes in establishing a long-lasting rapport with her patients. Her objective is to ensure her patients’ needs and concerns are being heard and their needs and purposes are being met.
![Photo of Kiana Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93129595-d4d6-4de1-8b7f-22ac6745bcec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with symptoms of anxiety and depression? Feeling overwhelmed on most days, with lack of motivation to accomplish your daily routine? Has fear of judgment kept you from seeking mental health treatment? Here at Unashamed Minds, LLC we are committed to helping guide you out of that dark place and releasing the shame that comes with coping with mental health issues. We strive to create an environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and understood. We will assist you understanding the root cause of your symptoms. Whether it is trauma related, low self esteem, depression or anxiety, we can help you to Overcome!
Are you struggling with symptoms of anxiety and depression? Feeling overwhelmed on most days, with lack of motivation to accomplish your daily routine? Has fear of judgment kept you from seeking mental health treatment? Here at Unashamed Minds, LLC we are committed to helping guide you out of that dark place and releasing the shame that comes with coping with mental health issues. We strive to create an environment where individuals feel heard, supported, and understood. We will assist you understanding the root cause of your symptoms. Whether it is trauma related, low self esteem, depression or anxiety, we can help you to Overcome!
![Photo of Ablavi Adodo Agomessou - Ivydale Wellness center, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77f12b02-b234-414b-a55a-7d38b6477c6c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ivydale Wellness center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winder, GA 30680
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Each person present with unique nuances as to how a problem behaviorally reveals itself in his or her life. I am a doctoral-prepared dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and as such, every client treatment is individualized and holistic at the same time. I use an integrated approach to care with aims to empower individual's authenticity to make proactive decisions, and enhance his or her ability to effectively cope with the full variety of life's circumstances with using evidence-based practice.
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Each person present with unique nuances as to how a problem behaviorally reveals itself in his or her life. I am a doctoral-prepared dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and as such, every client treatment is individualized and holistic at the same time. I use an integrated approach to care with aims to empower individual's authenticity to make proactive decisions, and enhance his or her ability to effectively cope with the full variety of life's circumstances with using evidence-based practice.
![Photo of Jessica Chang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dee4634a-8337-4600-bd06-8c234e338170/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist who created my private practice with the intention of creating a safe and collaborative environment for my patients. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals live meaningful lives by fostering curiosity and creatvity while exploring life experiences and relationship dynamics.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist who created my private practice with the intention of creating a safe and collaborative environment for my patients. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals live meaningful lives by fostering curiosity and creatvity while exploring life experiences and relationship dynamics.
![Photo of Darnae Lovett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/beb92d58-905d-43df-b4b6-cd1654897a4d/1/320x400.png)
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.
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 Ross F Grumet, MD, LFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce8fb5e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My psychiatric practice handles wide range of adult issues such as depression, ADHD (Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse, Focalin, etc), bipolar, addictions (Suboxone buprenorphine for pain opioid medication problems)alcohol (naltrexone, acamprosate,etc.) I use medication in combination with brief therapy (cognitive, hypnosis, ACT) and coordinate with other therapists if necessary.. For insomnia, insufficient sleep, fatigue see SleepAdvocate.com. See my blogs at psychiatryatlanta.com. At first visit we usually discuss findings, alternative treatment options, your preferences, and start or continue medication with your informed consent. OK to bring another person if you believe this will be useful.
My psychiatric practice handles wide range of adult issues such as depression, ADHD (Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse, Focalin, etc), bipolar, addictions (Suboxone buprenorphine for pain opioid medication problems)alcohol (naltrexone, acamprosate,etc.) I use medication in combination with brief therapy (cognitive, hypnosis, ACT) and coordinate with other therapists if necessary.. For insomnia, insufficient sleep, fatigue see SleepAdvocate.com. See my blogs at psychiatryatlanta.com. At first visit we usually discuss findings, alternative treatment options, your preferences, and start or continue medication with your informed consent. OK to bring another person if you believe this will be useful.
![Photo of Dr. Candace Giles, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a378a411-cf5e-4afc-a973-e9f2a9c150cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
NEW patients accepted starting April 2024! Visit website at www.psychsynergypractices.com for questions on services offered, appointment fees, and policies. Complete Pre-Screening Questionnaire on the website and get a response within 48hrs! PsychSynergy Practices provides mental health services Virtually and In-Person for kids, teens, and adults in Georgia. We recognize that all the different parts of you are uniquely important. PsychSynergy aims to identify and put all the missing pieces together whether psychiatrically or medically as well as in your home, school, or work environment to create a more Synergistically Stable YOU.
NEW patients accepted starting April 2024! Visit website at www.psychsynergypractices.com for questions on services offered, appointment fees, and policies. Complete Pre-Screening Questionnaire on the website and get a response within 48hrs! PsychSynergy Practices provides mental health services Virtually and In-Person for kids, teens, and adults in Georgia. We recognize that all the different parts of you are uniquely important. PsychSynergy aims to identify and put all the missing pieces together whether psychiatrically or medically as well as in your home, school, or work environment to create a more Synergistically Stable YOU.
![Photo of Kathy Dexter, MLS, MHA, MPA, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b64e4d42-ce66-4b89-bf1a-1a4dc4a0dd2f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathy Dexter
Physician Assistant, MLS, MHA, MPA, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Not Verified Not Verified
Evans, GA 30809
Ms. Dexter focuses on supporting the adult patient’s total mental health and emotional well-being. She encourages family involvement in the therapeutic process. Discovering the optimal medication regimen for each patient is her goal. She believes that psychotherapy is an essential adjunct to medication in improving each person’s quality of life.
Ms. Dexter focuses on supporting the adult patient’s total mental health and emotional well-being. She encourages family involvement in the therapeutic process. Discovering the optimal medication regimen for each patient is her goal. She believes that psychotherapy is an essential adjunct to medication in improving each person’s quality of life.
![Photo of Delquis Mendoza, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fdf5e2b-92d9-4437-9044-750a21460a76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Does it seem like your life is spiraling out of control? Are daily tasks and obligations becoming impossible to manage? Do you find yourself more distracted, annoyed, sad, crying more often, or even reverting to unhealthy ways of coping? Feeling depressed, anxious, and like nothing is working? Clients call when they are at or approaching their breaking point. I help my clients regain mental and emotional stability and then I send them back into the world to live the better quality life that they deserve.
Does it seem like your life is spiraling out of control? Are daily tasks and obligations becoming impossible to manage? Do you find yourself more distracted, annoyed, sad, crying more often, or even reverting to unhealthy ways of coping? Feeling depressed, anxious, and like nothing is working? Clients call when they are at or approaching their breaking point. I help my clients regain mental and emotional stability and then I send them back into the world to live the better quality life that they deserve.
![Photo of Tommie Richardson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5a2f646-9a15-487d-8f48-224259ff3d7b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tommie Richardson is a board-certified Addiction Medicine Physician at LifeStance Health. Dr. Richardson is a physician specializing in addiction medicine, recovery and psychopharmacology. Dr. Richardson has over thirty years of experience in identifying, diagnosing and treating chemical dependence and psychiatric illness. Dr. Richardson currently has his private practice at the Smyrna office of LifeStance Health. Dr. Richardson has also worked at Tangu, Inc. , a private counseling and therapy service center.
Tommie Richardson is a board-certified Addiction Medicine Physician at LifeStance Health. Dr. Richardson is a physician specializing in addiction medicine, recovery and psychopharmacology. Dr. Richardson has over thirty years of experience in identifying, diagnosing and treating chemical dependence and psychiatric illness. Dr. Richardson currently has his private practice at the Smyrna office of LifeStance Health. Dr. Richardson has also worked at Tangu, Inc. , a private counseling and therapy service center.
![Photo of Anthony J. Hall, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbe5aa40-7675-491a-94cd-ee00c334fc24/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anthony J. Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326 (Online Only)
At Ascension Psychiatric Services we believe that emotional wellness is complex and often misunderstood. It is a result of the combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. We employ the use of evidenced based therapeutic techniques along with judicious use of medication to address each of these components. It is our mission to Ascend above expectations by providing compassionate and personalized care to all, while building relationships and trust.
At Ascension Psychiatric Services we believe that emotional wellness is complex and often misunderstood. It is a result of the combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. We employ the use of evidenced based therapeutic techniques along with judicious use of medication to address each of these components. It is our mission to Ascend above expectations by providing compassionate and personalized care to all, while building relationships and trust.
![Photo of Akinlawon Ayeni, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3a13982-d501-48e8-abbe-88530af3edb1/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Akin Ayeni is an addiction disease specialist with special skill and interest in behavioral health with over 38 years in medical practice. Dr. Ayeni became an Oxford Scholar upon completion of the British Medical Practice program in Exeter, UK. Dr. Ayeni has been involved in the treatment of addiction both as a clinician and as a policy maker for several states including Maryland, Kansas, Delaware, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Georgia. While in Maryland he designed the Maryland Department of Safety Policy for the Re-entry Program. This program was so successful that the drug Czar under President George W.
Dr. Akin Ayeni is an addiction disease specialist with special skill and interest in behavioral health with over 38 years in medical practice. Dr. Ayeni became an Oxford Scholar upon completion of the British Medical Practice program in Exeter, UK. Dr. Ayeni has been involved in the treatment of addiction both as a clinician and as a policy maker for several states including Maryland, Kansas, Delaware, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Georgia. While in Maryland he designed the Maryland Department of Safety Policy for the Re-entry Program. This program was so successful that the drug Czar under President George W.
![Photo of Dr. Pristella Ohanaja - Adventist Behavioral Health, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14a3b5ef-eddc-4716-b5a3-5c726ef774ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adventist Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30004
My name is Dr. Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
My name is Dr. Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
![Photo of Adelle James, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/876d5972-6656-43b0-aebd-c6e82f4f67fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have called Georgia home from the age of three. However, since my parents are from Chicago and South Africa, I tasted grits for the first time as an adult, later learned that a couch in the back of a pick-up is “extra seating,” and found out (the hard way) that “Bless your heart” is not a compliment. But, in true Georgia fashion, I moved to Athens to complete a Bachelor of Science at the University of Georgia, studying Medical Science through the Honors Interdisciplinary Studies program. I, then, moved to St. Louis to pursue a Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at St. Louis University.
I have called Georgia home from the age of three. However, since my parents are from Chicago and South Africa, I tasted grits for the first time as an adult, later learned that a couch in the back of a pick-up is “extra seating,” and found out (the hard way) that “Bless your heart” is not a compliment. But, in true Georgia fashion, I moved to Athens to complete a Bachelor of Science at the University of Georgia, studying Medical Science through the Honors Interdisciplinary Studies program. I, then, moved to St. Louis to pursue a Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at St. Louis University.
![Photo of Shakaola Pinero, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8030214c-8789-4360-80c4-a2ec8df6745c/1/320x400.png)
Shakaola is a Board Certified Adult Health Nurse Practitioner with an extensive background in Mental Health. She has worked both inpatient, outpatient, and consulting services for the adult population. Combing clinical education and experience has molded her into a well-rounded Practitioner. It has also provided a strong foundation for optimum patient care and improving patient outcomes. She is dedicated to improving access to emotional and behavioral health services and providing individualized care that addresses the whole person.
Shakaola is a Board Certified Adult Health Nurse Practitioner with an extensive background in Mental Health. She has worked both inpatient, outpatient, and consulting services for the adult population. Combing clinical education and experience has molded her into a well-rounded Practitioner. It has also provided a strong foundation for optimum patient care and improving patient outcomes. She is dedicated to improving access to emotional and behavioral health services and providing individualized care that addresses the whole person.
![Photo of Hardi Calvert, MSN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ada26900-e2da-4988-b0c6-5fb9acaaf9ab/2/320x400.png)
Hardie Tatman is a Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing with LifeStance since 2014. She graduated from Washington and Lee University with a degree in psychology and completed her BSN (magna cum laude) and MSN (magna cum laude) at Emory University. In college, Hardie was involved in honor council, student government and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing and Omicron Delta Kappa the National Leadership Honor Society. Hardie believes in a patient-centered approach to care, recognizing that people have different needs and goals in their treatment plan.
Hardie Tatman is a Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing with LifeStance since 2014. She graduated from Washington and Lee University with a degree in psychology and completed her BSN (magna cum laude) and MSN (magna cum laude) at Emory University. In college, Hardie was involved in honor council, student government and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing and Omicron Delta Kappa the National Leadership Honor Society. Hardie believes in a patient-centered approach to care, recognizing that people have different needs and goals in their treatment plan.
![Photo of Cynthia McNeill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/528c9a95-ee20-4ac2-9d73-e89819c7b49b/1/320x400.png)
Dr. McNeill, NP, specializes in family medicine and psychiatry in adults (18+), focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. She holds a PhD in Human Services (Health Care Administration) from Capella University, an MSN in family practice from the University of South Alabama, an MBA and BsIT from AIU, and a BSN from Emory University, along with a post-masters certificate in psychiatric mental health from Washburn University.
Dr. McNeill, NP, specializes in family medicine and psychiatry in adults (18+), focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. She holds a PhD in Human Services (Health Care Administration) from Capella University, an MSN in family practice from the University of South Alabama, an MBA and BsIT from AIU, and a BSN from Emory University, along with a post-masters certificate in psychiatric mental health from Washburn University.
![Photo of Brian Teliho, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b34a93-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you're tired of searching for the right provider, don't settle. Dr. Teliho has more than 20 years of experience. Does your schedule or location prohibit you from getting quality care? Dr. Teliho is pioneering the advancement of telemedicine in psychiatry. Conduct appointments right from your own home or workplace, even after hours. The future of quality mental health care is already here. Ask for a referral from your current therapist or primary care physician, and visit his website for more information about his practice and how telemedicine may work for you.
If you're tired of searching for the right provider, don't settle. Dr. Teliho has more than 20 years of experience. Does your schedule or location prohibit you from getting quality care? Dr. Teliho is pioneering the advancement of telemedicine in psychiatry. Conduct appointments right from your own home or workplace, even after hours. The future of quality mental health care is already here. Ask for a referral from your current therapist or primary care physician, and visit his website for more information about his practice and how telemedicine may work for you.
See more therapy options for Stephens County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Stephens County, GA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Stephens County, GA who prioritize treating:
100% | Addiction |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Other |
100% | Substance Use |
100% | School Issues |
50% | Depression |
50% | Child |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Stephens County, GA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Stephens County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.