Psychiatrists in Cumming, GA
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist specializing in diagnostic assessments, medication management, and psychotherapy for ages 3 and above. I believe in comprehensive care that extends beyond medication use and am a proponent of incorporating family, academic, and social support.
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist specializing in diagnostic assessments, medication management, and psychotherapy for ages 3 and above. I believe in comprehensive care that extends beyond medication use and am a proponent of incorporating family, academic, and social support.
As a dedicated psychiatric physician assistant, my foremost goal is to ensure that each patient feels genuinely heard and understood. I am committed to providing care with empathy and compassion, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of every individual. My expertise encompasses a wide range of mental health conditions, including generalized anxiety disorder and depression, as well as many other less common diagnoses.
As a dedicated psychiatric physician assistant, my foremost goal is to ensure that each patient feels genuinely heard and understood. I am committed to providing care with empathy and compassion, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of every individual. My expertise encompasses a wide range of mental health conditions, including generalized anxiety disorder and depression, as well as many other less common diagnoses.
Windermere Medical Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30041
Windermere Medical Group (WMG) was established in 2009. Our goal is to ensure we do everything possible to help our patients maintain happy, productive and successful lives. Please visit one of our 3 locations in North Georgia: Cumming, Canton and Baldwin. WMG prides itself on having Providers (MD, PMHNP, NP/PA) that are dedicated, compassionate, and innovative. Our excellent reputation is a reflection of our commitment to actively support continuous quality improvement and providing exceptional care via proven treatments. We specialize in all ages (children, teens, adults, and seniors).
Windermere Medical Group (WMG) was established in 2009. Our goal is to ensure we do everything possible to help our patients maintain happy, productive and successful lives. Please visit one of our 3 locations in North Georgia: Cumming, Canton and Baldwin. WMG prides itself on having Providers (MD, PMHNP, NP/PA) that are dedicated, compassionate, and innovative. Our excellent reputation is a reflection of our commitment to actively support continuous quality improvement and providing exceptional care via proven treatments. We specialize in all ages (children, teens, adults, and seniors).
Carolyn Mwangi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC, FNP, C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30041 (Online Only)
Carolyn Mwangi is a highly experienced Nurse Practitioner, dual-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine, with over 20 years of expertise in the medical field.
Carolyn Mwangi is a highly experienced Nurse Practitioner, dual-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine, with over 20 years of expertise in the medical field.
I am an advanced practice registered nurse with a variety of experiences in medical/surgical, psychiatric and project management experience in the arena of nursing care and administration in both civilian and military populations. I graduated from the University of South Caroline for my undergraduate degree in 1979, worked in patient care in Charleston, SC in a variety of hospital settings until I entered into the USAF in 1988, I served on Active Duty until 1991.
I am an advanced practice registered nurse with a variety of experiences in medical/surgical, psychiatric and project management experience in the arena of nursing care and administration in both civilian and military populations. I graduated from the University of South Caroline for my undergraduate degree in 1979, worked in patient care in Charleston, SC in a variety of hospital settings until I entered into the USAF in 1988, I served on Active Duty until 1991.
Pristella Ohanaja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30041 (Online Only)
Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
Bel Healthcare Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AP-NP, MSN
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
In my practice, I perform psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups on diverse mental health disorders like Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorders, Psychosis, Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective disorders and ADHD. My expertise is acquired through 10 years of experience in the medical field and rigorous educational trainings at the University of West Georgia where I obtained my Bachelors in Nursing then I proceeded for my Masters in Nursing at the University of Alabama “Roll Tide”.
In my practice, I perform psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups on diverse mental health disorders like Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorders, Psychosis, Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective disorders and ADHD. My expertise is acquired through 10 years of experience in the medical field and rigorous educational trainings at the University of West Georgia where I obtained my Bachelors in Nursing then I proceeded for my Masters in Nursing at the University of Alabama “Roll Tide”.
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.
Erika Kang, RN, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC is a graduate from the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she received her Masters as an FNP and Augusta University where she received her PMHNP as a Post Masters. While Psychiatry is her true passion, she loves being able to incorporate a comprehensive treatment plan using her background as an FNP by helping clients understand how untreated or unmanaged physical illnesses can exacerbate mental illness. She enjoys working with her clients to help them achieve the goals they are seeking, whether through medication alone or a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
Erika Kang, RN, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC is a graduate from the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she received her Masters as an FNP and Augusta University where she received her PMHNP as a Post Masters. While Psychiatry is her true passion, she loves being able to incorporate a comprehensive treatment plan using her background as an FNP by helping clients understand how untreated or unmanaged physical illnesses can exacerbate mental illness. She enjoys working with her clients to help them achieve the goals they are seeking, whether through medication alone or a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
New Focus is committed to providing addiction and psychiatric services in addition to restoring harmony between the mind, body and spirit. We are in the business of assisting individuals with restoring “wholeness” by channeling serenity and peace to those who struggle with addiction and mental illness. Our goals do not end with recovery. We strive to reconnect our clients with the possibilities of a life filled with meaning, happiness and self-actualization.
New Focus is committed to providing addiction and psychiatric services in addition to restoring harmony between the mind, body and spirit. We are in the business of assisting individuals with restoring “wholeness” by channeling serenity and peace to those who struggle with addiction and mental illness. Our goals do not end with recovery. We strive to reconnect our clients with the possibilities of a life filled with meaning, happiness and self-actualization.
Barry Jones, M.D., is a licensed psychiatrist at Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals working in the Cumming office. My training as a medical doctor, addictionologist, psychiatrist and psychoanalyst has given me a unique background for the evaluation and treatment of patients. My education has spanned a period of almost 38 years, and continues so that I may always remain abreast of the latest developments. As with any medical specialty, psychiatry is always changing. New and better approaches to solving problems are being developed.
Barry Jones, M.D., is a licensed psychiatrist at Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals working in the Cumming office. My training as a medical doctor, addictionologist, psychiatrist and psychoanalyst has given me a unique background for the evaluation and treatment of patients. My education has spanned a period of almost 38 years, and continues so that I may always remain abreast of the latest developments. As with any medical specialty, psychiatry is always changing. New and better approaches to solving problems are being developed.
Azeezat A. Samuel is a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and mental health. She holds a Master of Nursing degree from Walden University and is board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She began her training earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain College of Nursing. She went on to her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. After graduating she worked as a Nurse Practitioner in an outpatient clinic.
Azeezat A. Samuel is a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and mental health. She holds a Master of Nursing degree from Walden University and is board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She began her training earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain College of Nursing. She went on to her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. After graduating she worked as a Nurse Practitioner in an outpatient clinic.
Dr. Vanessa Ragukonis is the cofounder of Lanier Family Psychiatry. She specializes in the following services for ages 18 and above: comprehensive diagnostic assessments, medication management, and psychotherapy. Dr. Ragukonis aims to improve daily functioning, so individuals are better able to accomplish their social, academic, occupational, and personal goals. She believes symptomatic relief is best accomplished by addressing each individual’s unique emotional, mental, social, and physical challenges.
Dr. Vanessa Ragukonis is the cofounder of Lanier Family Psychiatry. She specializes in the following services for ages 18 and above: comprehensive diagnostic assessments, medication management, and psychotherapy. Dr. Ragukonis aims to improve daily functioning, so individuals are better able to accomplish their social, academic, occupational, and personal goals. She believes symptomatic relief is best accomplished by addressing each individual’s unique emotional, mental, social, and physical challenges.
Shannon Hummel builds therapeutic relationships in a holistic approach to treatment. She considers mind, body, and spirit elements to get to a patient’s core, addressing every aspect of their depression, anxiety, or trauma. Her approach is to integrate nutrition, exercise, spirituality, self-care, and mindfulness into the examination of all factors influencing a patient’s mood. She conducts in-depth listening, helping patients pull back each emotional layer. Through her compassionate and patient-centered care, patients feel heard and understood so they can believe in their strengths and reach a better quality of life.
Shannon Hummel builds therapeutic relationships in a holistic approach to treatment. She considers mind, body, and spirit elements to get to a patient’s core, addressing every aspect of their depression, anxiety, or trauma. Her approach is to integrate nutrition, exercise, spirituality, self-care, and mindfulness into the examination of all factors influencing a patient’s mood. She conducts in-depth listening, helping patients pull back each emotional layer. Through her compassionate and patient-centered care, patients feel heard and understood so they can believe in their strengths and reach a better quality of life.
Hannah Brooks, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Nursing where she received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees, graduating with Honors in Nursing. After completing her undergraduate degree, she accepted a position at UAB Hospital inpatient psychiatry where she worked in the Emergency Department and Inpatient Adult Psychiatric Units. While working towards her graduate degree, Ms. Brooks trained at UAB Hospital, Cooper Green Community Clinic, and the Birmingham VA.
Hannah Brooks, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Nursing where she received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees, graduating with Honors in Nursing. After completing her undergraduate degree, she accepted a position at UAB Hospital inpatient psychiatry where she worked in the Emergency Department and Inpatient Adult Psychiatric Units. While working towards her graduate degree, Ms. Brooks trained at UAB Hospital, Cooper Green Community Clinic, and the Birmingham VA.
Jill Webb believes in providing compassionate, patient centered care. Jill’s goal is to ensure patients feel heard in an environment of warmth, understanding, and trust. She offers comprehensive care through evidence-based medication management as well as brief supportive and solution-focused psychotherapy. She assists individuals to achieve the highest quality of life by utilizing their strengths.
Jill Webb believes in providing compassionate, patient centered care. Jill’s goal is to ensure patients feel heard in an environment of warmth, understanding, and trust. She offers comprehensive care through evidence-based medication management as well as brief supportive and solution-focused psychotherapy. She assists individuals to achieve the highest quality of life by utilizing their strengths.
Ronald Soelimto is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2023. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from California State University, Northridge, a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from Azusa Pacific University, and a Post-Master's Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Purdue University Global. Ronald always wanted to challenge himself and expand his knowledge of practice. His learning did not stop at school. Ronald is always looking at the newest research to better help his clients.
Ronald Soelimto is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2023. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from California State University, Northridge, a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from Azusa Pacific University, and a Post-Master's Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Purdue University Global. Ronald always wanted to challenge himself and expand his knowledge of practice. His learning did not stop at school. Ronald is always looking at the newest research to better help his clients.
Welcome to Atlanta Tele-psychiatry!! We believe in recovery from mental illness that goes beyond the absence of symptoms, and we will work with you to establish and maintain your recovery journey. Our ultimate goal is to help you regain a rich, rewarding, and meaningful life in our community.
Welcome to Atlanta Tele-psychiatry!! We believe in recovery from mental illness that goes beyond the absence of symptoms, and we will work with you to establish and maintain your recovery journey. Our ultimate goal is to help you regain a rich, rewarding, and meaningful life in our community.
I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have over 10 years of nursing experience. I have been providing individualized quality psychiatric care consisting of comprehensive assessments, medication management, and individualized psychosocial therapy to clients suffering from numerous chronic conditions such as, ADHD, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, PTSD etc, for the past 5 years. My therapeutic approach entails offering active communication, patient-center and holistic care. I am 100% dedicated in the delivery of quality care utilizing evidence-based practice. I believe in working close
I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have over 10 years of nursing experience. I have been providing individualized quality psychiatric care consisting of comprehensive assessments, medication management, and individualized psychosocial therapy to clients suffering from numerous chronic conditions such as, ADHD, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, PTSD etc, for the past 5 years. My therapeutic approach entails offering active communication, patient-center and holistic care. I am 100% dedicated in the delivery of quality care utilizing evidence-based practice. I believe in working close
Empower Psychiatry & Sleep LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FAASM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30040
Dr. Singareddy has expertise in treating individuals with depression, OCD and anxiety disorders who are not improving despite multiple medication trials and therapy. He offers innovative FDA approved treatments including TMS and Spravato (Es-Ketamine). He is board certified in psychiatry and has published in the area of depression and anxiety disorders. Prior to coming to private practice he worked at Penn State Univ. Med Ctr. for almost 10 year and was involved in clinical work, education and research.
Dr. Singareddy has expertise in treating individuals with depression, OCD and anxiety disorders who are not improving despite multiple medication trials and therapy. He offers innovative FDA approved treatments including TMS and Spravato (Es-Ketamine). He is board certified in psychiatry and has published in the area of depression and anxiety disorders. Prior to coming to private practice he worked at Penn State Univ. Med Ctr. for almost 10 year and was involved in clinical work, education and research.
See more therapy options for Cumming
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Cumming, GA
30+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Cumming, GA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
92% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | ADHD |
62% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
81% | Cigna and Evernorth |
69% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Cumming, GA see their clients
57% | In Person and Online | |
43% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
32% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Cumming?
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.