Psychiatrists in Lagrange, GA
Jessica Harrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lagrange, GA 30240 (Online Only)
I am a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have an extensive medical background that includes primary care, urgent care, internal medicine and hospital medicine. My psychiatric experience includes substance abuse, eating disorders, crisis stabilization, and outpatient services caring for individuals with depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, women's mental health, and bipolar disorder II.
I am a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have an extensive medical background that includes primary care, urgent care, internal medicine and hospital medicine. My psychiatric experience includes substance abuse, eating disorders, crisis stabilization, and outpatient services caring for individuals with depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, women's mental health, and bipolar disorder II.
Kimberly Clayton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, NP
Verified Verified
Lagrange, GA 30240 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
WALK IN CLINIC: One of our regions biggest issues with mental health is the absence of a psychiatrist when a patient decides to see one. No more 1-2 month waits for appointments. By having a walk-in clinic available, we are here when you most need us! MISSION STATEMENT : To provide professional and compassionate evaluation and continuing care to adults, children and families with psychiatric issues in a confidential and caring environment. To achieve this we incorporate both physician and nurse practitioners in our practice who are Board Certified Psychiatrically specialized providers who essentially can provide medications and psychotherapy.
WALK IN CLINIC: One of our regions biggest issues with mental health is the absence of a psychiatrist when a patient decides to see one. No more 1-2 month waits for appointments. By having a walk-in clinic available, we are here when you most need us! MISSION STATEMENT : To provide professional and compassionate evaluation and continuing care to adults, children and families with psychiatric issues in a confidential and caring environment. To achieve this we incorporate both physician and nurse practitioners in our practice who are Board Certified Psychiatrically specialized providers who essentially can provide medications and psychotherapy.
Mental Wealth Resources, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lagrange, GA 30240 (Online Only)
I have your attention! Thanks for looking this way! My name is Dr. Franklin Ezeh and I'm passionate about helping people achieve mental wellness through psychotherapy and/or pharmacotherapy. Feelings of depression, anxiety, guilt or anger can be overwhelming and greatly impact your quality of life. Here, you will find a psychiatrist that is intentional about connecting with you, validating your experiences and working towards your defined goals. Great outcomes begin with great therapeutic alliance. Together, we can tackle your unique circumstances and get you to Mental Wealth! Please, visit our website & Book an appointment today!
I have your attention! Thanks for looking this way! My name is Dr. Franklin Ezeh and I'm passionate about helping people achieve mental wellness through psychotherapy and/or pharmacotherapy. Feelings of depression, anxiety, guilt or anger can be overwhelming and greatly impact your quality of life. Here, you will find a psychiatrist that is intentional about connecting with you, validating your experiences and working towards your defined goals. Great outcomes begin with great therapeutic alliance. Together, we can tackle your unique circumstances and get you to Mental Wealth! Please, visit our website & Book an appointment today!
Stepping Stones Psychiatric Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH, NP, BC
Verified Verified
Lagrange, GA 30240
At Stepping Stones Psychiatric Care, Julie Burke, Retta Bright and Laura Houwers are board certified Nurse Practitioners who focus on helping people deal with past and current issues through the use of evidence-based treatment involving medications and brief educational psychotherapy. To provide a practitioner client relationship where we actively listen and help you move to a place of improved mental and emotional well-being. we offer both telemedicine and in person visits.
At Stepping Stones Psychiatric Care, Julie Burke, Retta Bright and Laura Houwers are board certified Nurse Practitioners who focus on helping people deal with past and current issues through the use of evidence-based treatment involving medications and brief educational psychotherapy. To provide a practitioner client relationship where we actively listen and help you move to a place of improved mental and emotional well-being. we offer both telemedicine and in person visits.
Online Psychiatrists
Shiy Ajao
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30349 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I prioritize a holistic and patient centered approach, recognizing the significance of mental health is just as crucial as physical well-being (Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, across all life stages). I am dedicated to provide comprehensive care, that focuses on the individual's unique needs. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of an initial psychiatric evaluation to gain a deep understanding of a patient's mental health status. I am committed to taking the time necessary to listen attentively to my patients, fostering a secure environment for open communication and trust-building.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I prioritize a holistic and patient centered approach, recognizing the significance of mental health is just as crucial as physical well-being (Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, across all life stages). I am dedicated to provide comprehensive care, that focuses on the individual's unique needs. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of an initial psychiatric evaluation to gain a deep understanding of a patient's mental health status. I am committed to taking the time necessary to listen attentively to my patients, fostering a secure environment for open communication and trust-building.
Overflowing Health Behavioral
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conyers, GA 30013 (Online Only)
At Overflowing Health Behavioral, we believe there is no health without mental health. Our mission is to provide compassionate high quality care and support to all of our clients. We are a 100% tele-medicine practice with both weekend and weekday availability. We understand our clients live busy lives and that work and home life may make it difficult to schedule appointments during traditional office hours (8a-5p) as a solution, we offer flexible alternatives such as same day or after hours appointments (5p-8p). Our goal is to work closely with the patient to figure out what works best.
At Overflowing Health Behavioral, we believe there is no health without mental health. Our mission is to provide compassionate high quality care and support to all of our clients. We are a 100% tele-medicine practice with both weekend and weekday availability. We understand our clients live busy lives and that work and home life may make it difficult to schedule appointments during traditional office hours (8a-5p) as a solution, we offer flexible alternatives such as same day or after hours appointments (5p-8p). Our goal is to work closely with the patient to figure out what works best.
Mindbodysoul Mental Health & Family practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
Everyone’s journey is different. We work with everyone for a customized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. Some struggles are harder to overcome than others and require the assistance of a highly trained and compassionate mental health provider. The first step to lasting recovery from alcohol and drug addiction or abuse is getting personalized substance use disorder treatment. Proper treatment for substance use disorder should address both the physical and medical ramifications of your addiction, as well as the lasting behavioral, psychological and lifestyle damage caused by prolonged and untreated substance
Everyone’s journey is different. We work with everyone for a customized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. Some struggles are harder to overcome than others and require the assistance of a highly trained and compassionate mental health provider. The first step to lasting recovery from alcohol and drug addiction or abuse is getting personalized substance use disorder treatment. Proper treatment for substance use disorder should address both the physical and medical ramifications of your addiction, as well as the lasting behavioral, psychological and lifestyle damage caused by prolonged and untreated substance
With over 14 years of dedicated experience in mental health, I am thrilled to extend a warm welcome to you at SonderMind Psychiatry. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of being a part of countless life-changing journeys, offering compassion, inspiring hope, and empowering individuals with the skills needed to overcome mental health challenges. About Me: As a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner, my passion lies in providing comprehensive and personalized mental health care.
With over 14 years of dedicated experience in mental health, I am thrilled to extend a warm welcome to you at SonderMind Psychiatry. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of being a part of countless life-changing journeys, offering compassion, inspiring hope, and empowering individuals with the skills needed to overcome mental health challenges. About Me: As a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner, my passion lies in providing comprehensive and personalized mental health care.
The Neuropsychiatric Clinic of Atlantis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Villa Rica, GA 30180
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
Diana Manjarres is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner authenticated by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She worked as a critical care nurse for many years. She noticed how patients with histories of mental illness (from anxiety, depression, to schizophrenia) were easily dismissed in hospital settings. She found herself being an advocate for this patient population. She hopes to help her patients take a pause and just breathe again. She says "Sometimes, we go through life surviving and I hope that, through my services, I can help people start living - truly living for themselves."
Ethereal Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30318 (Online Only)
I help women between the ages of 18 and 64 struggling with depression and anxiety disorders improve daily life, restore joy and internal light by offering a holistic approach including medication management, some therapy, lifestyle modification, and more!
I help women between the ages of 18 and 64 struggling with depression and anxiety disorders improve daily life, restore joy and internal light by offering a holistic approach including medication management, some therapy, lifestyle modification, and more!
About 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.
About 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.
Chao Li is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. Chao respects all clients and does not judge. Her approach involves collaborating with them to achieve their goals and work toward success. Outside of work, Chao enjoys hiking, hanging out with family, painting acrylic, and shopping.
Chao Li is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. Chao respects all clients and does not judge. Her approach involves collaborating with them to achieve their goals and work toward success. Outside of work, Chao enjoys hiking, hanging out with family, painting acrylic, and shopping.
Dr. Breuer is a Doctor of Osteopathy. He is up to date with the latest research and has the ability to put patients at ease. Dr. Breuer has 6 children. He enjoys jogging, planting flowers, and is a fan of the NY Mets.
Dr. Breuer is a Doctor of Osteopathy. He is up to date with the latest research and has the ability to put patients at ease. Dr. Breuer has 6 children. He enjoys jogging, planting flowers, and is a fan of the NY Mets.
We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. It is our absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on becoming your best self, it is our mission to help you achieve mental clarity and inner peace.
We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. It is our absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on becoming your best self, it is our mission to help you achieve mental clarity and inner peace.
Understanding your struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorder is crucial. These challenges can feel overwhelming due to various factors like stigma and limited resources. Depression can make daily life feel impossible, while anxiety can leave you constantly on edge. ADHD might hinder your focus and success, and Bipolar Disorder can cause unpredictable mood swings. But together, we'll navigate these hurdles with tailored support and understanding, empowering you to reclaim your joy and fulfillment
Understanding your struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorder is crucial. These challenges can feel overwhelming due to various factors like stigma and limited resources. Depression can make daily life feel impossible, while anxiety can leave you constantly on edge. ADHD might hinder your focus and success, and Bipolar Disorder can cause unpredictable mood swings. But together, we'll navigate these hurdles with tailored support and understanding, empowering you to reclaim your joy and fulfillment
Frantz Georges
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30519 (Online Only)
Hello this is Dr. Frantz Georges (psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I’ve been workinag as mental health nurse for over 25 years and as a practitioner the past 6 years. I treat patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychotic disorders. I treat each one of my patients individually and provide the best possible care to them. If you are looking for someone to listen to your needs and to take time to understand your problems (situation); you have found the right provider. Once again I treat individuals from 5-100 years old with a variety of mental health disorders.
Hello this is Dr. Frantz Georges (psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I’ve been workinag as mental health nurse for over 25 years and as a practitioner the past 6 years. I treat patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychotic disorders. I treat each one of my patients individually and provide the best possible care to them. If you are looking for someone to listen to your needs and to take time to understand your problems (situation); you have found the right provider. Once again I treat individuals from 5-100 years old with a variety of mental health disorders.
Adventist Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30004
My name is Dr. Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
My name is Dr. Pristella. Ohanaja, DNP, PMHNP-BC and FNP-C, licensed to provide services to adults, children, adolescents, and their families.
Laura T Houwers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Newnan, GA 30263 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Laura. I am a dually certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP and Certified Nurse Midwife. You deserve to have a provider who works with you as a partner in your healthcare. I strive to help you achieve your mental health goals, whether it be through the management of medications or the addition of alternatives.
Hi, my name is Laura. I am a dually certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP and Certified Nurse Midwife. You deserve to have a provider who works with you as a partner in your healthcare. I strive to help you achieve your mental health goals, whether it be through the management of medications or the addition of alternatives.
Dr. Browne-Tomlinson (or Dr. BT) is board certified with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology with psychiatric residency training, as well as, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship training completed at the University of South Florida. She received her medical degree from the University of Virginia, School of Medicine, and Bachelor's of Science degree from the College of William and Mary.
Dr. Browne-Tomlinson (or Dr. BT) is board certified with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology with psychiatric residency training, as well as, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship training completed at the University of South Florida. She received her medical degree from the University of Virginia, School of Medicine, and Bachelor's of Science degree from the College of William and Mary.
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Nearby Searches for Lagrange
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lagrange, GA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lagrange, GA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
80% | Anger Management |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Lagrange, GA see their clients
60% | Online Only | |
40% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lagrange?
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.