Psychiatrists in Winder, GA
The ultimate goal of patients with mental illness and substance abuse is to achieve the optimal level of their functionality. My practice aims at helping patients achieve their goals by promoting comprehensive care focusing on the whole person at all ages and stages of life. Providing a caring and compassionate care is paramount to our practice. I am a Licensed Psychiatrist with over 20 years experience & the Medical Director of Hope & Faith Wellness Clinic. I obtained my Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Clark Atlanta University & my Doctor of Medicine degree from Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN.
The ultimate goal of patients with mental illness and substance abuse is to achieve the optimal level of their functionality. My practice aims at helping patients achieve their goals by promoting comprehensive care focusing on the whole person at all ages and stages of life. Providing a caring and compassionate care is paramount to our practice. I am a Licensed Psychiatrist with over 20 years experience & the Medical Director of Hope & Faith Wellness Clinic. I obtained my Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Clark Atlanta University & my Doctor of Medicine degree from Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN.
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.
Visionary Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winder, GA 30680
It is my honor and calling to serve individuals in our community who have faced disparities in accessing quality care for mental health disorders, substance abuse treatment, and addiction struggles. My mission is to transform the delivery of mental health care, ensuring each individual receives an exceptional and personalized experience. As a licensed prescriber in the State of Georgia, my areas of expertise include treating mood disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD. My current services include: Initiation of medication, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for SUD, Weight management, Men's mental health and wellness.
It is my honor and calling to serve individuals in our community who have faced disparities in accessing quality care for mental health disorders, substance abuse treatment, and addiction struggles. My mission is to transform the delivery of mental health care, ensuring each individual receives an exceptional and personalized experience. As a licensed prescriber in the State of Georgia, my areas of expertise include treating mood disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD. My current services include: Initiation of medication, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for SUD, Weight management, Men's mental health and wellness.
Sylvie Shiwiri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winder, GA 30680
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have over 20 years working as a health care professional specializing in mental health and developmental disabilities. I enjoy working with clientele from various cultures, socioeconomic statuses, and mental health backgrounds. I am here to work with you to help you live a well deserve life through communication, education, empathy, and understanding. I am always ready to help you!
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have over 20 years working as a health care professional specializing in mental health and developmental disabilities. I enjoy working with clientele from various cultures, socioeconomic statuses, and mental health backgrounds. I am here to work with you to help you live a well deserve life through communication, education, empathy, and understanding. I am always ready to help you!
Taheerah Demby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Winder, GA 30680 (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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Cinandra Sweatman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Auburn, GA 30011 (Online Only)
Cinandra is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specializing in a variety of disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorder, and behavioral disturbance. Cinandra's primary goal is to establish relationships with her patients that are both empowering as well as educational. Cinandra treats both adolescents as well as adults, covering the various issues experienced across the lifespan. Her role as a PMHNP is a multifaceted one, in which Cinandra works as an advocate, educator, and collaborator.
Cinandra is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specializing in a variety of disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorder, and behavioral disturbance. Cinandra's primary goal is to establish relationships with her patients that are both empowering as well as educational. Cinandra treats both adolescents as well as adults, covering the various issues experienced across the lifespan. Her role as a PMHNP is a multifaceted one, in which Cinandra works as an advocate, educator, and collaborator.
I strive to gain a complete understanding of what is going on with my patients. I am always thorough in evaluating symptoms and explaining the treatment options that would best suit each individual. I make it a priority to help my patients understand why some medications are different from others in terms of side effects and how they work. I aim to be kind, knowledgeable, and helpful to all my patients, providing the best possible care and support.
I strive to gain a complete understanding of what is going on with my patients. I am always thorough in evaluating symptoms and explaining the treatment options that would best suit each individual. I make it a priority to help my patients understand why some medications are different from others in terms of side effects and how they work. I aim to be kind, knowledgeable, and helpful to all my patients, providing the best possible care and support.
Frantz Georges
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dacula, GA 30211 (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.
Dr Joanne Psychiatry NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Dacula, GA 30019 (Online Only)
We are always accepting new patients! Patients can self schedule at drjoannepsychiatry.com/book-now. Dr. Patterson offers modern, quality mental health treatment using a secure telepsychiatry platform. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she believes that the most important aspect of care is listening to the client's unique story. Dr. Patterson will assess your genetics, reproductive hormonal events, as well as life events/stressors and responses to them. Dr. Patterson also specializes in child and adolescent mental health.
We are always accepting new patients! Patients can self schedule at drjoannepsychiatry.com/book-now. Dr. Patterson offers modern, quality mental health treatment using a secure telepsychiatry platform. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she believes that the most important aspect of care is listening to the client's unique story. Dr. Patterson will assess your genetics, reproductive hormonal events, as well as life events/stressors and responses to them. Dr. Patterson also specializes in child and adolescent mental health.
Online Psychiatrists
At PsychMD Georgia, Dr Mehta treats patients who are age 18 and older all over Georgia via telemedicine and in-person. He specializes in treating Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, MDD, Bipolar and other psychotic spectrum disorders. Dr. Mehta utilizes a direct-patient care model and eliminates gatekeepers/insurance companies that pose other administrative burdens and friction between a doctor and their patient. Don't be surprised if he picks up the phone directly when you call the office. Its a direct relationship with your doctor with no front desk/insurance companies or gate keepers for a transparent and low price of $150/month.
At PsychMD Georgia, Dr Mehta treats patients who are age 18 and older all over Georgia via telemedicine and in-person. He specializes in treating Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, MDD, Bipolar and other psychotic spectrum disorders. Dr. Mehta utilizes a direct-patient care model and eliminates gatekeepers/insurance companies that pose other administrative burdens and friction between a doctor and their patient. Don't be surprised if he picks up the phone directly when you call the office. Its a direct relationship with your doctor with no front desk/insurance companies or gate keepers for a transparent and low price of $150/month.
Olusola Olawale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hampton, GA 30228 (Online Only)
Olusola is a certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with 10+years' experience in psychiatry. I work with various populations and has worked in a variety of levels of care, including outpatient clinic, partial hospital program, dual diagnosis treatment, adult memory care, assisted living and inpatient units. My strengths include working with vulnerable populations, those with severe and persistent mental illness, psychotic disorders, dually diagnosed patients, and individuals affected by traumatic experiences. We do not prescribe stimulants.
Olusola is a certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with 10+years' experience in psychiatry. I work with various populations and has worked in a variety of levels of care, including outpatient clinic, partial hospital program, dual diagnosis treatment, adult memory care, assisted living and inpatient units. My strengths include working with vulnerable populations, those with severe and persistent mental illness, psychotic disorders, dually diagnosed patients, and individuals affected by traumatic experiences. We do not prescribe stimulants.
Julie Greene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30519 (Online Only)
Our mental health is impacted by our genetics, stressors in our environments, and our physical health, and when our minds are not healthy, our physical health and relationships with others suffer.
Our mental health is impacted by our genetics, stressors in our environments, and our physical health, and when our minds are not healthy, our physical health and relationships with others suffer.
Margaret Ngumi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
I am an integrative psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to providing you with the support and empowerment you need to overcome depression, anxiety, mood problems, and past trauma. I'm here to help you achieve optimal mental health and well-being using a holistic approach that combines conventional and alternative therapies. Whether you're looking to achieve greater happiness, overcome mental health issues, or simply improve your overall well-being, I'm here to help you every step of the way.
I am an integrative psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to providing you with the support and empowerment you need to overcome depression, anxiety, mood problems, and past trauma. I'm here to help you achieve optimal mental health and well-being using a holistic approach that combines conventional and alternative therapies. Whether you're looking to achieve greater happiness, overcome mental health issues, or simply improve your overall well-being, I'm here to help you every step of the way.
ammy Denny-Smith is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia and seasoned in both medical and mental health domains. She believes in a collaborative approach to care when working with individuals and their families. She feels treatment is more successful when the person is an active participant in their treatment plan. Tammy provides empathetic care to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard and empowered in their journey towards holistic well-being. Tammy is passionate about participating in the Life is A Ride Charity that benefits Hooves for Hope Therapeutic riding program.
ammy Denny-Smith is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia and seasoned in both medical and mental health domains. She believes in a collaborative approach to care when working with individuals and their families. She feels treatment is more successful when the person is an active participant in their treatment plan. Tammy provides empathetic care to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard and empowered in their journey towards holistic well-being. Tammy is passionate about participating in the Life is A Ride Charity that benefits Hooves for Hope Therapeutic riding program.
Enika McClain is a Certified Dual Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing nursing for 21 years. She graduated from Albany Technical College with a degree in Licensed Practical Nursing in 2001. She then received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Albany State University in 2006. In 2017 she attained a Masters of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Family Nurse practitioner from South University. In August 2021 she received her Post Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Liberty University.
Enika McClain is a Certified Dual Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing nursing for 21 years. She graduated from Albany Technical College with a degree in Licensed Practical Nursing in 2001. She then received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Albany State University in 2006. In 2017 she attained a Masters of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Family Nurse practitioner from South University. In August 2021 she received her Post Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Liberty University.
Rebekah Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30354 (Online Only)
Are you ready to make positive changes in your life but don’t know where to begin? Is anxiety or depression holding you back from truly living and not just existing? Maybe you want to feel more peace in your life? I am Rebekah Brown, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of comprehensive nursing experience, and I would love to help.
Are you ready to make positive changes in your life but don’t know where to begin? Is anxiety or depression holding you back from truly living and not just existing? Maybe you want to feel more peace in your life? I am Rebekah Brown, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of comprehensive nursing experience, and I would love to help.
Olumayowa Agbojeyin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269
Mayo Agbojeyin, NP is board certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 16 years of nursing experience pediatric nursing, supportive and palliative care, and pain management. Her areas of clinical interest and expertise include addiction medicine. Mayo enjoys music and travelling.
Mayo Agbojeyin, NP is board certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 16 years of nursing experience pediatric nursing, supportive and palliative care, and pain management. Her areas of clinical interest and expertise include addiction medicine. Mayo enjoys music and travelling.
Chelsea Owen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience with the clinical treatment of psychiatric/mental health patients, offering an individualized approach to management and treatment. Additionally, I have over a decade of experience as a registered nurse working in acute care hospital facilities.
I have extensive experience with the clinical treatment of psychiatric/mental health patients, offering an individualized approach to management and treatment. Additionally, I have over a decade of experience as a registered nurse working in acute care hospital facilities.
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.
Dr. Debbie Stevens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
I knew from my first day of my psychiatric clinical rotation during my junior year of nursing school that I wanted to commit my career to helping people with their mental health problems. I realized I found a true joy in sitting with individuals experiencing a crisis and helping others battling a myriad of issues. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina, before completing a Master of Science in Nursing at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. After obtaining nearly a decade of clinical practice, I return to Emory to earn a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing.
I knew from my first day of my psychiatric clinical rotation during my junior year of nursing school that I wanted to commit my career to helping people with their mental health problems. I realized I found a true joy in sitting with individuals experiencing a crisis and helping others battling a myriad of issues. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina, before completing a Master of Science in Nursing at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. After obtaining nearly a decade of clinical practice, I return to Emory to earn a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing.
See more therapy options for Winder
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Winder, GA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Winder, GA who prioritize treating:
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
80% | Depression |
80% | Anxiety |
80% | Addiction |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Substance Use |
80% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Winder, GA see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Winder?
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.