Psychiatrists in Lawrenceville, GA
![Photo of Judith Egbe, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a547c906-02f3-4b81-8e62-26896363fc13/2/320x400.jpeg)
Judith Egbe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30044 (Online Only)
Dr. Egbe is a doctoral-prepared, dual-board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. I have an extensive background in providing healthcare services across the lifespan using evidence-based psychiatric treatment focusing on individualized, holistic care. My practice style involves getting to know you, listening to the foundation of problems, and finding a lasting solution. Your mood or whatever diagnosis is/are identified does not define you as a person but rather guides me to tailor your treatment to your unique needs. So, if you feel sad, irritable, or hear/see strange things, join Me.
Dr. Egbe is a doctoral-prepared, dual-board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. I have an extensive background in providing healthcare services across the lifespan using evidence-based psychiatric treatment focusing on individualized, holistic care. My practice style involves getting to know you, listening to the foundation of problems, and finding a lasting solution. Your mood or whatever diagnosis is/are identified does not define you as a person but rather guides me to tailor your treatment to your unique needs. So, if you feel sad, irritable, or hear/see strange things, join Me.
![Photo of Dr. Joy Ibeh - Salient Health and Wellness, LLC, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d294fb4-86a5-4ed4-81d0-0c8d77712b34/2/320x400.png)
Salient Health and Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30043 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Patients! VIRTUAL appointments in GA, WA, OR, FL & IA. Meet Dr. Joy Ibeh, a doctoral trained, double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC), with over 15 combined years of clinical experience. In Salient Health and Wellness, we are patient-centered, and our services include Psych assessments, Medication Management, and Individualized Treatment Plans. She approaches her patients with focus in understanding the peculiarity of their psychiatric & mental health needs. Her goal is to cut through various barriers that may place limitation in getting Mental Health Care.
Accepting NEW Patients! VIRTUAL appointments in GA, WA, OR, FL & IA. Meet Dr. Joy Ibeh, a doctoral trained, double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC), with over 15 combined years of clinical experience. In Salient Health and Wellness, we are patient-centered, and our services include Psych assessments, Medication Management, and Individualized Treatment Plans. She approaches her patients with focus in understanding the peculiarity of their psychiatric & mental health needs. Her goal is to cut through various barriers that may place limitation in getting Mental Health Care.
![Photo of Maureen Obiofuma, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d1c6e9a-0c4a-4f71-8199-c2a6249e1846/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maureen Obiofuma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046 (Online Only)
Meet Maureen Obiofuma, a distinguished Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a wealth of experience and expertise. Maureen began with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Emory University, where she graduated with distinction. Building upon this foundation, she pursued her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Augusta University, achieving top honors (summa cum laude). With over 11 years of hands-on patient care experience, including specialized work with postpartum and mental health populations. Maureen Obiofuma cares for people with mental illness across the lifespan.
Meet Maureen Obiofuma, a distinguished Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a wealth of experience and expertise. Maureen began with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Emory University, where she graduated with distinction. Building upon this foundation, she pursued her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Augusta University, achieving top honors (summa cum laude). With over 11 years of hands-on patient care experience, including specialized work with postpartum and mental health populations. Maureen Obiofuma cares for people with mental illness across the lifespan.
![Photo of Dr. Ezinne Kanu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed27ee76-ecf5-4d30-8314-12599c9c47b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ezinne Kanu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I am happy to be in this wonderful and ever-expanding field of medicine. I am captivated by the exploration of the mental and behavioral factors that contribute to one’s unique makeup. I love this personal approach to medicine, and I hope to bring my love of this field to help as many people as I can.
Hello! I am happy to be in this wonderful and ever-expanding field of medicine. I am captivated by the exploration of the mental and behavioral factors that contribute to one’s unique makeup. I love this personal approach to medicine, and I hope to bring my love of this field to help as many people as I can.
![Photo of Gifty Ntiamoah, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77729edb-7191-4f91-b16b-02812ca451fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gifty Ntiamoah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30046 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Gifty Ntiamoah, a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialized in depression, anxiety and weight loss. With years of experience, I've had the privilege of providing comprehensive care to individuals across all stages of life—from the vibrant energy of children to the rich wisdom of our elders. My journey in healthcare has been diverse, allowing me to hone my skills in both primary and behavioral health.
Welcome! I'm Gifty Ntiamoah, a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialized in depression, anxiety and weight loss. With years of experience, I've had the privilege of providing comprehensive care to individuals across all stages of life—from the vibrant energy of children to the rich wisdom of our elders. My journey in healthcare has been diverse, allowing me to hone my skills in both primary and behavioral health.
![Photo of Taheerah Demby, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1884ca0a-d448-4b2d-a5e5-b7d1ab6d9649/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taheerah Demby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043 (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.
![Photo of Dr. O Semore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3039634f-b107-4e6b-88c3-1f557b3571ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dual Board Certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 16 years of combined work experience and have acquired an extensive background in telepsychiatry, impatient, and outpatient mental health over the last 9 years.
Dual Board Certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 16 years of combined work experience and have acquired an extensive background in telepsychiatry, impatient, and outpatient mental health over the last 9 years.
![Photo of Monica Odelus, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/831dd1b0-63f8-44c4-9ce7-80d5b38c14d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Monica Odelus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30045 (Online Only)
Greetings! Here's a brief introduction to my professional background: I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a wealth of experience. My practice includes providing care to individuals aged 12 and above, encompassing both adolescents and adults. My expertise lies in offering specialized treatment and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions, such as depression, various anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD, along with other mood-related disorders. Since obtaining my license in 2021, post my graduation from Walden University where I earned a Master's Degree in N
Greetings! Here's a brief introduction to my professional background: I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a wealth of experience. My practice includes providing care to individuals aged 12 and above, encompassing both adolescents and adults. My expertise lies in offering specialized treatment and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions, such as depression, various anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD, along with other mood-related disorders. Since obtaining my license in 2021, post my graduation from Walden University where I earned a Master's Degree in N
![Photo of Marva Calder, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7c9e270-c775-4502-be87-22107561f0cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marva Calder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043 (Online Only)
Marva Calder is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 22 years of experience. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and other conditions in adults and seniors.
Marva Calder is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 22 years of experience. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and other conditions in adults and seniors.
![Photo of Debra D Harvey Stewart - JS Healthcare, LLC, MHA, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f588672d-b64d-4bb8-9e63-d06ff05ba1bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
JS Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHA, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Same or Next Day appointments available. Our experienced mental health professionals work closely with you to find the most effective medication plan. Regular follow-ups, whether in person or via telehealth, ensure your treatment is continuously optimized for your well-being. For those requiring injectable medications, we provide a safe and comfortable setting for administration. Our licensed therapists offer individual and family therapy sessions. We address a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more. Our therapeutic approaches are evidence-based. Call Today!
Same or Next Day appointments available. Our experienced mental health professionals work closely with you to find the most effective medication plan. Regular follow-ups, whether in person or via telehealth, ensure your treatment is continuously optimized for your well-being. For those requiring injectable medications, we provide a safe and comfortable setting for administration. Our licensed therapists offer individual and family therapy sessions. We address a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more. Our therapeutic approaches are evidence-based. Call Today!
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d91f2ce8-e34f-463b-914a-6353e13ac4cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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![Photo of Dr. Chasity J. Carswell, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4836bf96-9773-41cc-b3e4-fb5f9511b9fa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
![Photo of Dr. Chasity J Carswell, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b219856-85b9-4db0-93f5-1900006b10f4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chasity J Carswell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
![Photo of Kimberly Drummond, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4708fc7-952e-48c6-9d6f-a9ce38e23f0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 1 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mood Disorder, Opioid Use Disorder.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 1 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mood Disorder, Opioid Use Disorder.
![Photo of Dr. Chasity J. Carswell, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c293ef7c-75da-412b-a760-e99d33e43a24/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
Dr. Chasity J. Carswell is a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder and owner of Collaborating Minds LLC. Dr. Chasity received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in May 2014. She then went on to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in August 2019. Dr. Chasity has worked in a variety of settings to include outpatient, crisis stabilization units, substance abuse detoxification and psychiatric consult liaison.
![Photo of Evelyn Booker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da5545d7-b391-4e49-a85e-ce90c616c51f/1/320x400.png)
Evelyn Booker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043 (Online Only)
Evelyn Booker is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in the treatment and management of ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions in adolescents and adults. She looks forward to assisting you to reach your life goals and live your best life.
Evelyn Booker is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in the treatment and management of ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions in adolescents and adults. She looks forward to assisting you to reach your life goals and live your best life.
![Photo of Deborah Obinwa - Deborah Obinwa @ Psychiatric and Wellness Connect , PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MHA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92e19a93-a179-498c-8080-39e721c3e188/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Obinwa @ Psychiatric and Wellness Connect
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MHA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30046 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified PMHNP, and I am currently accepting new patients virtually in GA, WA, & FL. I treat patients across the lifespan with a greater emphasis on adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population. At Psychiatric and Wellness Connect, our mission is to empower individuals and families on their journey to mental wellness by providing evidence-based, compassionate, and personalized psychiatric care, fostering resilience, and promoting a holistic approach to mental well-being. Some of the conditions I treat include Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar, psychosis, Substance Use, and Sleep Disorders.
I am a board-certified PMHNP, and I am currently accepting new patients virtually in GA, WA, & FL. I treat patients across the lifespan with a greater emphasis on adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population. At Psychiatric and Wellness Connect, our mission is to empower individuals and families on their journey to mental wellness by providing evidence-based, compassionate, and personalized psychiatric care, fostering resilience, and promoting a holistic approach to mental well-being. Some of the conditions I treat include Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar, psychosis, Substance Use, and Sleep Disorders.
![Photo of Bisi Yinusa - Divive Mind Solution, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58b7711b-f6e3-49ad-8533-92acf540e6a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Divive Mind Solution
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
This is my personal link to register: www.growtherapy.com/provider/w8xybfxhgrku/bisi-yinusa
This is my personal link to register: www.growtherapy.com/provider/w8xybfxhgrku/bisi-yinusa
![Photo of Mahendra Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb6c010e-8e4a-43dd-8493-70488632bf33/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 30 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD / ADHD), Panic Attacks.
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 30 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD / ADHD), Panic Attacks.
![Photo of Lucy Mayers, DNP, PMHRN, FCN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e2363e2-432c-488e-8ce8-6fc9e39f53a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric nurse counselor certified in SOZO inner healing, psychotherapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy with over thirty years of experience counseling clients in hospitals, churches, and private practice. I have experience in trauma, inner healing, depression, and anxiety. I want to see people walking in freedom and enjoying the life that God has given them. I have seen many people set free from addictions and other life-affecting issues such as depression and anxiety. I work with people of all backgrounds and faith.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric nurse counselor certified in SOZO inner healing, psychotherapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy with over thirty years of experience counseling clients in hospitals, churches, and private practice. I have experience in trauma, inner healing, depression, and anxiety. I want to see people walking in freedom and enjoying the life that God has given them. I have seen many people set free from addictions and other life-affecting issues such as depression and anxiety. I work with people of all backgrounds and faith.
See more therapy options for Lawrenceville
Nearby Searches for Lawrenceville
- Buford
- Dacula
- Doraville
- Duluth
- Grayson
- Johns Creek
- Lilburn
- Loganville
- Norcross
- Snellville
- Stone Mountain
- Suwanee
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lawrenceville, GA
70+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Lawrenceville, GA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
84% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
78% | Cigna and Evernorth |
74% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Lawrenceville, GA see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
21% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lawrenceville?
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.