Psychiatrists in Atlanta, GA
Ireta Favors
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Ireta Favors and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I possess 10 years plus of diverse experience in the field of mental health. I chose and continue to choose the field of mental health because I have a genuine passion for listening, educating and assisting others in becoming the best version of themselves. I look forward to helping you become the best version of you!
Welcome! My name is Ireta Favors and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I possess 10 years plus of diverse experience in the field of mental health. I chose and continue to choose the field of mental health because I have a genuine passion for listening, educating and assisting others in becoming the best version of themselves. I look forward to helping you become the best version of you!
Lola Sulaimon is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 12+ years of psychiatric experience. She manages a wide range of mental health concerns. She is skilled in medication management and utilizes aspects of psychodynamics, CBT, and stabilization while building a rapport, forming individualized treatment plans, and managing care. I aim to create a supportive and empathetic environment. I listen actively, validate their feelings, and provide information or guidance based on their needs. My approach is nonjudgmental and focused on collaboration.
Lola Sulaimon is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 12+ years of psychiatric experience. She manages a wide range of mental health concerns. She is skilled in medication management and utilizes aspects of psychodynamics, CBT, and stabilization while building a rapport, forming individualized treatment plans, and managing care. I aim to create a supportive and empathetic environment. I listen actively, validate their feelings, and provide information or guidance based on their needs. My approach is nonjudgmental and focused on collaboration.
I am an experienced psychiatrist committed to providing individualized care to each patient, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and shared decision making/informed consent. My goal in working with patients is to foster growth, strength and resiliency, while working together to manage underlying psychiatric and medical conditions impeding their progress. My treatment approach is integrative, often combining various modalities including medications, psychotherapy, medical/diagnostic labwork, nutrition, exercise, and other wellness focused approaches catered to each individual's values.
I am an experienced psychiatrist committed to providing individualized care to each patient, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and shared decision making/informed consent. My goal in working with patients is to foster growth, strength and resiliency, while working together to manage underlying psychiatric and medical conditions impeding their progress. My treatment approach is integrative, often combining various modalities including medications, psychotherapy, medical/diagnostic labwork, nutrition, exercise, and other wellness focused approaches catered to each individual's values.
Shakera Kathleen Snelling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
21 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308
Hello! You’re seeking help because it is needed. That’s huge! Many people don’t seek treatment or therapy but you’re already on this path. Some folks don’t find the path. You’ve got some idea of what you need and are ready for someone to be along with you on this journey. We both know humans succeed in a team not so much when we are alone. First, give yourself credit because it takes a lot of courage to not do things alone and to be willing to open up to someone you do not know. Your courage is where our journey together starts. It would be an honor to be a part of your team in life, for life!
Hello! You’re seeking help because it is needed. That’s huge! Many people don’t seek treatment or therapy but you’re already on this path. Some folks don’t find the path. You’ve got some idea of what you need and are ready for someone to be along with you on this journey. We both know humans succeed in a team not so much when we are alone. First, give yourself credit because it takes a lot of courage to not do things alone and to be willing to open up to someone you do not know. Your courage is where our journey together starts. It would be an honor to be a part of your team in life, for life!
Cindy Milligan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326 (Online Only)
As a Nurse Practitioner specializing in behavioral health and addiction treatment management, my top priority is to provide compassionate, comprehensive care to my patients. I understand that seeking help for mental health conditions can be daunting, overwhelming, and some feel hesitation taking the first step. I am dedicated to creating a safe supportive environment where my patients can feel comfortable expressing their feelings and concerns.
As a Nurse Practitioner specializing in behavioral health and addiction treatment management, my top priority is to provide compassionate, comprehensive care to my patients. I understand that seeking help for mental health conditions can be daunting, overwhelming, and some feel hesitation taking the first step. I am dedicated to creating a safe supportive environment where my patients can feel comfortable expressing their feelings and concerns.
My nursing career started in 1980 from Nigeria, where I worked in all areas of nursing. Moved to the United States in 1984, I was in Los Angeles, California for 10 years, and in 1994 I relocated to Atlanta, Georgia. In 1997, I focused mainly on mental health conditions in our state psychiatry hospital, later transition to the Federal level at the Atlanta VA mostly with the adult populations. I consider myself a compassionate and caring individual with a special passion for those who serve our nation, as I am a mother of two Air Force Veterans.
My nursing career started in 1980 from Nigeria, where I worked in all areas of nursing. Moved to the United States in 1984, I was in Los Angeles, California for 10 years, and in 1994 I relocated to Atlanta, Georgia. In 1997, I focused mainly on mental health conditions in our state psychiatry hospital, later transition to the Federal level at the Atlanta VA mostly with the adult populations. I consider myself a compassionate and caring individual with a special passion for those who serve our nation, as I am a mother of two Air Force Veterans.
Evelyn Dennis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30314 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating teen and adult mental health issues such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder ), and depression. I'm a board-certified advanced psychiatrist Nurse practitioner with experience in inpatient, outpatient, and community settings, as well as a strong track record of building solid relationships with clients, their families, and colleagues, with high expertise in assessment, evaluation, diagnosis, medication management, and treatment in a variety of mental health conditions and across the lifespan.
I specialize in treating teen and adult mental health issues such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder ), and depression. I'm a board-certified advanced psychiatrist Nurse practitioner with experience in inpatient, outpatient, and community settings, as well as a strong track record of building solid relationships with clients, their families, and colleagues, with high expertise in assessment, evaluation, diagnosis, medication management, and treatment in a variety of mental health conditions and across the lifespan.
Shelley Beaubrun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Georgia. I have been in the mental health field for over 17 yrs and practicing as a Nurse Practitioner for 10 years. I assess, diagnosis and treat psychiatric needs of patients. I take a holistic approach to medical care and understand the connection between mental and physical health. I motivate my clients to see themselves as more than a diagnosis.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Georgia. I have been in the mental health field for over 17 yrs and practicing as a Nurse Practitioner for 10 years. I assess, diagnosis and treat psychiatric needs of patients. I take a holistic approach to medical care and understand the connection between mental and physical health. I motivate my clients to see themselves as more than a diagnosis.
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.
Armeshia Brenae Lawrence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FPMHNP-
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30318 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families. These services include conducting brief solution therapy, EMDR psychotherapy, identifying and diagnosing mental health disorders, medical mental health conditions, or substance abuse, prescribing appropriate psychotropic medications, and referring patients to appropriate levels of care if needed. My primary focus is on promoting stabilization while building a rapport and forming individualized treatment plans with consideration of patient's needs and wants, while managing holistic care.
I am a board certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families. These services include conducting brief solution therapy, EMDR psychotherapy, identifying and diagnosing mental health disorders, medical mental health conditions, or substance abuse, prescribing appropriate psychotropic medications, and referring patients to appropriate levels of care if needed. My primary focus is on promoting stabilization while building a rapport and forming individualized treatment plans with consideration of patient's needs and wants, while managing holistic care.
Welcome to my practice! I am Dr. Allen, MD, an integrative psychiatrist dedicated to the well-being of children, adolescents, and adults. With specialized clinical expertise in ADHD, treatment-resistant depression, mood and anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and trauma, I bring a compassionate and individualized approach to each patient's care. Here, you are never just a number. I take the time to understand your unique needs and craft a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your best possible mental health. I believe in the power of a tailored approach to support and guide you through your journey.
Welcome to my practice! I am Dr. Allen, MD, an integrative psychiatrist dedicated to the well-being of children, adolescents, and adults. With specialized clinical expertise in ADHD, treatment-resistant depression, mood and anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and trauma, I bring a compassionate and individualized approach to each patient's care. Here, you are never just a number. I take the time to understand your unique needs and craft a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your best possible mental health. I believe in the power of a tailored approach to support and guide you through your journey.
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Lisa Mann, PA-C Lisa Mann is a Physician Assistant in Georgia who has been practicing since 2018. She graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor's of Science in Neuroscience, received a Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University, and has a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) from the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). Lisa's approach to patient care is thorough evaluation of the genetic, situational, and medical factors that may be contributing to a patient's mental health concerns.
Lisa Mann, PA-C Lisa Mann is a Physician Assistant in Georgia who has been practicing since 2018. She graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor's of Science in Neuroscience, received a Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University, and has a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) from the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). Lisa's approach to patient care is thorough evaluation of the genetic, situational, and medical factors that may be contributing to a patient's mental health concerns.
Anna Elizabeth Hurlebaus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326
Many people seeking psychiatric treatment can benefit from medication therapy. Managing medications by yourself can be complex and confusing. I can assess your medication needs, educate you about the medications and monitor your progress. This will further your progress toward good health. Clients are treated as individuals with unique needs, and I prescribe the best medications available. You can reach your goals while working together.
Many people seeking psychiatric treatment can benefit from medication therapy. Managing medications by yourself can be complex and confusing. I can assess your medication needs, educate you about the medications and monitor your progress. This will further your progress toward good health. Clients are treated as individuals with unique needs, and I prescribe the best medications available. You can reach your goals while working together.
Since beginning my nursing career in 2015, I have worked with patients of all ages and backgrounds. Throughout my experience as a nurse, I recognized a significant need for quality mental health care, which led me to transition into psychiatry. I became a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My nursing background has equipped me with the skills to connect with patients and build therapeutic relationships.
Since beginning my nursing career in 2015, I have worked with patients of all ages and backgrounds. Throughout my experience as a nurse, I recognized a significant need for quality mental health care, which led me to transition into psychiatry. I became a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My nursing background has equipped me with the skills to connect with patients and build therapeutic relationships.
Keldreca Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30318 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, sexual disorders, intimacy concerns, trauma and behavioral issues. I understand that it can be difficult to make positive changes in your life, but I am here to support you. My focus is on serving clients who are open-minded, solution-focused, and ready to take control of their personal growth and development.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, sexual disorders, intimacy concerns, trauma and behavioral issues. I understand that it can be difficult to make positive changes in your life, but I am here to support you. My focus is on serving clients who are open-minded, solution-focused, and ready to take control of their personal growth and development.
Intown Atlanta Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30307
At Intown Atlanta Psychiatry our goal is to provide holistic and integrative care to patients with psychiatric needs. We strive to help patients identify the “root” causes of their symptoms and guide them in improving their current state of functioning. In addition to medication management, we focus on life skills, conflict resolution, nutrition, and exercise.
At Intown Atlanta Psychiatry our goal is to provide holistic and integrative care to patients with psychiatric needs. We strive to help patients identify the “root” causes of their symptoms and guide them in improving their current state of functioning. In addition to medication management, we focus on life skills, conflict resolution, nutrition, and exercise.
My ideal client is motivated to get better and get better now. This includes individuals and people with families. I offer initial and followup evening and weekend appointments within 2 weeks to best accommodate students and professionals working towards personal improvement while continuing their professional lives.
My ideal client is motivated to get better and get better now. This includes individuals and people with families. I offer initial and followup evening and weekend appointments within 2 weeks to best accommodate students and professionals working towards personal improvement while continuing their professional lives.
Edith Arterberry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30316 (Online Only)
My name is Edith Arterberry, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in virtual and in-person consultations for patients with depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. I work with individuals to gain a comprehensive understanding of their unique needs, experiences, and goals. My treatment approach is focused on providing person-centered and holistic care. My treatment modalities include a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and holistic approaches.
My name is Edith Arterberry, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in virtual and in-person consultations for patients with depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. I work with individuals to gain a comprehensive understanding of their unique needs, experiences, and goals. My treatment approach is focused on providing person-centered and holistic care. My treatment modalities include a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and holistic approaches.
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.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to take control of their mental health and make positive changes in their life. They may be struggling with symptoms that interfere with their daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being. My goal is to empower them to achieve their goals and improve their quality of life by providing compassionate and effective care.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to take control of their mental health and make positive changes in their life. They may be struggling with symptoms that interfere with their daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being. My goal is to empower them to achieve their goals and improve their quality of life by providing compassionate and effective care.
See more therapy options for Atlanta
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Atlanta, GA
200+
Average cost per session
$187
Psychiatrists in Atlanta, GA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Medication Management |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Atlanta, GA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
76% | Female | |
24% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Atlanta?
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.