Psychiatrists in Tifton, GA
![Photo of Brandi C Lane, PMHNP, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7947f93d-e96f-4c78-b3bb-648419862b65/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brandi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who is board certified in psychiatry by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and certified in family medicine by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. She has practiced medicine in psychiatry for almost 7 years now. She obtained her Master of Science and Nursing degree from Chamberlain University in 2017 and her Post Masters Degree in Psychiatry in 2019 from Regis University. Brandi has specialized in treating all mental health disorders across the lifespan, such as ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
Brandi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who is board certified in psychiatry by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and certified in family medicine by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. She has practiced medicine in psychiatry for almost 7 years now. She obtained her Master of Science and Nursing degree from Chamberlain University in 2017 and her Post Masters Degree in Psychiatry in 2019 from Regis University. Brandi has specialized in treating all mental health disorders across the lifespan, such as ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Flora I Jones, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, MEd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d6ba24e-ad7f-4712-90b6-e1bd0dd400f7/1/320x400.png)
Flora I Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, MEd
Verified Verified
Tifton, GA 31793
Flora combines evidence-based practice with clinical experience, observation and listening to meet a patient “where they are” on their mental health journey. When patients feel heard and respected, they are empowered to view their practitioner as someone who partners with them as they work to improve their mental and behavioral health. Along with medication and psychotherapy, we offer long-acting injectable antipsychotics, urine/blood testing, collaboration with primary care provider, telemedicine, psychiatric evaluation for clearance, and school/sport physicals. Walk-ins are welcome, same day appointments are guaranteed.
Flora combines evidence-based practice with clinical experience, observation and listening to meet a patient “where they are” on their mental health journey. When patients feel heard and respected, they are empowered to view their practitioner as someone who partners with them as they work to improve their mental and behavioral health. Along with medication and psychotherapy, we offer long-acting injectable antipsychotics, urine/blood testing, collaboration with primary care provider, telemedicine, psychiatric evaluation for clearance, and school/sport physicals. Walk-ins are welcome, same day appointments are guaranteed.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jenny Yancey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8de0e986-6de4-4f39-981d-df75797de0c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenny Yancey, PMHNP Jenny Yancey is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Walden University. Jenny is committed to providing honest, respectful, and evidence-based treatment. She believes in forming partnerships with patients and allowing them to have an active voice in treatment and recovery options. In her spare time, Jenny enjoys church, spending time with family and friends, soccer, and horseback riding.
Jenny Yancey, PMHNP Jenny Yancey is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Walden University. Jenny is committed to providing honest, respectful, and evidence-based treatment. She believes in forming partnerships with patients and allowing them to have an active voice in treatment and recovery options. In her spare time, Jenny enjoys church, spending time with family and friends, soccer, and horseback riding.
![Photo of Felecia Brockington - VEMa Holistic Health, AGNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a9ca487-22c0-48dc-afe1-95b569507404/2/320x400.jpeg)
VEMa Holistic Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31605
My goal is to ensure that healthcare is reasonably priced and available to everyone, so I offer mobile services through in-home visits and Telehealth. The hours are flexible to accommodate the demands of a busy lifestyle, with availability in the evenings, weekends, and holidays.
My goal is to ensure that healthcare is reasonably priced and available to everyone, so I offer mobile services through in-home visits and Telehealth. The hours are flexible to accommodate the demands of a busy lifestyle, with availability in the evenings, weekends, and holidays.
![Photo of Ruth Osondu - Okorafor Psychiatry , MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60d798ff-c437-404b-8292-afac0586a29a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Our Moto at Okorafor Psychiatry is normalizing mental health through affirmation, therapy, and medication management. We believe in empowering our patients to becoming the best version of themselves. We also believe in enabling patients to recognize their weaknesses, which they can turn into strength(s). We are very positive and believe that with the right combination of therapy and medication you can begin your journey to healing.
Our Moto at Okorafor Psychiatry is normalizing mental health through affirmation, therapy, and medication management. We believe in empowering our patients to becoming the best version of themselves. We also believe in enabling patients to recognize their weaknesses, which they can turn into strength(s). We are very positive and believe that with the right combination of therapy and medication you can begin your journey to healing.
![Photo of Nurul Hoque, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/977202a1-c923-46aa-ab95-78b4f763e7b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Hoque is a board-certified psychiatrist with more than 15 years of experience in adult and child/adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Hoque has expertise in treating a variety of mental health conditions including depression, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions.
Dr. Hoque is a board-certified psychiatrist with more than 15 years of experience in adult and child/adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Hoque has expertise in treating a variety of mental health conditions including depression, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions.
![Photo of Stephanie Williams, NP-BC, MSN-RN, MBA-HA, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d22dcde0-581a-44ce-a853-a57b703ea68c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Williams
Psychiatric Nurse, NP-BC, MSN-RN, MBA-HA
Verified Verified
Warner Robins, GA 31088 (Online Only)
Stephanie started her nursing career in 2005 as a nurse extern on a med-surg unit at Medical Center Navient Health. Over the years she has been provided opportunities to gain knowledge and skill in several areas of nursing such as: labor and delivery, women's services, stroke/neuro, case management, and utilization reviews. She obtained her mental health experience providing treatment with community service board outpatient practices.
Stephanie started her nursing career in 2005 as a nurse extern on a med-surg unit at Medical Center Navient Health. Over the years she has been provided opportunities to gain knowledge and skill in several areas of nursing such as: labor and delivery, women's services, stroke/neuro, case management, and utilization reviews. She obtained her mental health experience providing treatment with community service board outpatient practices.
![Photo of Jason Wilcox, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89db0337-b203-40c0-ba91-a2ac4d37b773/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jason Wilcox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Georgia. I received my Master's from Walden University and have been practicing for one year. I look forward to helping those who have mental health problems become mentally healthy.
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Georgia. I received my Master's from Walden University and have been practicing for one year. I look forward to helping those who have mental health problems become mentally healthy.
![Photo of William Dwight, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7df5015-bd9e-4a99-a7bd-02aa273c4ec1/1/320x400.jpeg)
William Dwight is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2017. He obtained his Master's of Science in Nursing, specializing in Family Psychiatric Mental Health from Valdosta State University. He is qualified to treat children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics although he prefers treating adolescents, adults, and the geriatric. Some of William's practice specialties include (but not limited to) Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and ADHD. He prefers prescribing traditional up to date medications that are mostly affordable for the public.
William Dwight is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2017. He obtained his Master's of Science in Nursing, specializing in Family Psychiatric Mental Health from Valdosta State University. He is qualified to treat children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics although he prefers treating adolescents, adults, and the geriatric. Some of William's practice specialties include (but not limited to) Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and ADHD. He prefers prescribing traditional up to date medications that are mostly affordable for the public.
![Photo of Mandy Hubbard, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c750e1c3-749a-487f-bb49-9c362bf7493a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mandy Hubbard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jesup, GA 31546
As a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing holistic and patient-centered care to individuals struggling with mental illness. My journey in the field of mental health began with a deep rooted desire to understand the complexities of the human mind and to alleviate the suffering associated with mental health disorders. My mission is to be a beacon of hope for those in need, offering compassionate care, unwavering support, and the tools necessary for individuals to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. I am dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of my patients.
As a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing holistic and patient-centered care to individuals struggling with mental illness. My journey in the field of mental health began with a deep rooted desire to understand the complexities of the human mind and to alleviate the suffering associated with mental health disorders. My mission is to be a beacon of hope for those in need, offering compassionate care, unwavering support, and the tools necessary for individuals to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. I am dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of my patients.
![Photo of Patricia Morris, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/272434e3-deff-43ee-9df9-71ce17c598f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Morris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cairo, GA 39828 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in FL and GA. My practice provides medication management and therapy, providing holistic mental health care to our clients.
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in FL and GA. My practice provides medication management and therapy, providing holistic mental health care to our clients.
![Photo of Edyn McKinnon, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19a7a4ef-78b7-47c8-bf61-3d6e83d3b390/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edyn McKinnon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Axson, GA 31624 (Online Only)
I work with individuals from the age of 6 to geriatrics. I have had the pleasure to work on several inpatient crisis stability units for adult age patients 18-55 years old as well as geriatric units for patients ages 55 years and older. I have also worked in a private practice setting for the past 3 years that I just recently left. I felt it was time to move out more on my own. So here I am, I have come to realize when you love what you do it no longer truly is work.
I work with individuals from the age of 6 to geriatrics. I have had the pleasure to work on several inpatient crisis stability units for adult age patients 18-55 years old as well as geriatric units for patients ages 55 years and older. I have also worked in a private practice setting for the past 3 years that I just recently left. I felt it was time to move out more on my own. So here I am, I have come to realize when you love what you do it no longer truly is work.
![Photo of Jacqueline Yvette Holloway, PMHNP, DOT-ME, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93a76aa5-aad8-4b0e-81e6-03e78b95baaa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Yvette Holloway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DOT-ME
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, GA 31701
I believe that every client deserves quality care, with the focus on wellness, which includes their family and community. The perfect treatment environment requires 3 elements: Respect, Commitment, and Loyalty. I will do my best to integrate these three in to the treatment experience.
I believe that every client deserves quality care, with the focus on wellness, which includes their family and community. The perfect treatment environment requires 3 elements: Respect, Commitment, and Loyalty. I will do my best to integrate these three in to the treatment experience.
![Photo of David Sogbamu, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e34c75e-6b20-4e8d-a6dd-30671f3739d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
David Sogbamu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Warner Robins, GA 31088
David Sogbamu, APRN, PMHNP–BC, stands at the forefront of psychiatric and Mental Health care, bringing a wealth of expertise and a compassionate approach to his practice. As a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on the entire lifespan, David has dedicated his career to the comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. With specialized training covering a diverse range of issues, David is adept at addressing the unique
David Sogbamu, APRN, PMHNP–BC, stands at the forefront of psychiatric and Mental Health care, bringing a wealth of expertise and a compassionate approach to his practice. As a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on the entire lifespan, David has dedicated his career to the comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. With specialized training covering a diverse range of issues, David is adept at addressing the unique
![Photo of Cassandra Gilliam - A New You Psychiatric Care LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12ce18f3-773f-43b7-81ee-00b115d0a618/2/320x400.jpeg)
A New You Psychiatric Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31206 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in anxiety and panic disorders, mood disorders and trauma. If you are feeling tearful, irritable or having issues with attention and focus, allow me to help you determine a course of treatment that can help you feel more like yourself. I will use a combination of assessment, evaluation and talk therapy to ascertain any underlying mental health alterations to develop a diagnosis and care plan to promote positive behavioral changes. As a mental health advocate my goal is to ensure that each client receives individualized, and patient centered care.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in anxiety and panic disorders, mood disorders and trauma. If you are feeling tearful, irritable or having issues with attention and focus, allow me to help you determine a course of treatment that can help you feel more like yourself. I will use a combination of assessment, evaluation and talk therapy to ascertain any underlying mental health alterations to develop a diagnosis and care plan to promote positive behavioral changes. As a mental health advocate my goal is to ensure that each client receives individualized, and patient centered care.
![Photo of Dr. Terrill Cooper - CareStop LLC, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eccee0bb-83bb-42fe-a5b1-9b428d52c0af/1/320x400.jpeg)
CareStop LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Warner Robins, GA 31093 (Online Only)
You do not have to suffer in silence anymore. At CareStop, we want to help you feel better and get your life back on track as soon as possible. Imagine being able to see your mental health provider from the comfort of your home. Guess what? Dr. Cooper will come to you, virtually! All you need is a device with a speaker, camera, and internet connection to start your journey to smiling again.
You do not have to suffer in silence anymore. At CareStop, we want to help you feel better and get your life back on track as soon as possible. Imagine being able to see your mental health provider from the comfort of your home. Guess what? Dr. Cooper will come to you, virtually! All you need is a device with a speaker, camera, and internet connection to start your journey to smiling again.
![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
Macon, GA 31206
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 Daniel B Wright - Daniel B Wright DNP LLC., DNP, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, MSA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eece114a-631a-4865-87c8-ffcaa9d92d8c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel B Wright DNP LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, MSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moultrie, GA 31788 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga.
Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga.
![Photo of Sabitha Aligeti, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c667168-8db3-48e7-8517-f80ddc849d19/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Sabitha Aligeti is a board-certified psychiatrist who joined Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals in August 2018. Dr. Aligeti has clinical experience working with adults and veteran populations in inpatient, outpatient, community and multi-disciplinary settings. Dr. Aligeti's treatment services include: conventional and evidence-based approaches such as pharmacogenetic testing, neurology treatments like TMS, integration mental health care, and telepsychiatry.
Dr. Sabitha Aligeti is a board-certified psychiatrist who joined Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals in August 2018. Dr. Aligeti has clinical experience working with adults and veteran populations in inpatient, outpatient, community and multi-disciplinary settings. Dr. Aligeti's treatment services include: conventional and evidence-based approaches such as pharmacogenetic testing, neurology treatments like TMS, integration mental health care, and telepsychiatry.
![Photo of Tuvia Breuer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22ab1dd0-09e3-4eac-9be5-23fa02d07ecb/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Breuer is a Doctor of Osteopathy. He is up to date with the latest research and has the ability to put patients at ease. Dr. Breuer has 6 children. He enjoys jogging, planting flowers, and is a fan of the NY Mets.
Dr. Breuer is a Doctor of Osteopathy. He is up to date with the latest research and has the ability to put patients at ease. Dr. Breuer has 6 children. He enjoys jogging, planting flowers, and is a fan of the NY Mets.
See more therapy options for Tifton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Tifton, GA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Tifton, GA who prioritize treating:
50% | Depression |
50% | Anxiety |
50% | Child |
50% | ADHD |
50% | Chronic Pain |
50% | Eating Disorders |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Wellpoint | Amerigroup |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Tifton, GA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Tifton?
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.