Psychiatrists in 60062

Photo of Marisa Perez-Reisler, Psychiatrist, MD
Marisa Perez-Reisler
Psychiatrist, MD
Northbrook, IL 60062
My ideal patient may be a child, teen, or adult facing anxiety, mood changes, ADHD, autism, or eating concerns - often in the context of high expectations, cultural stress, or complex medical needs. They’re looking for clarity, steadiness, and a provider who listens closely and understands their unique story. My goal is to help them feel more supported, understood, and equipped with a plan that fits their life.
My ideal patient may be a child, teen, or adult facing anxiety, mood changes, ADHD, autism, or eating concerns - often in the context of high expectations, cultural stress, or complex medical needs. They’re looking for clarity, steadiness, and a provider who listens closely and understands their unique story. My goal is to help them feel more supported, understood, and equipped with a plan that fits their life.
(224) 497-3929 x9 View (224) 497-3929 x9
Photo of Melissa Musec, Psychiatrist, MD
Melissa Musec
Psychiatrist, MD
Northbrook, IL 60062
My path to integrative and functional psychiatry began after seeing too many patients suffer without sufficient answers. I am committed to incorporating the latest evidence-based medicine and up-to-date research into my practice. I utilize education, nutrition, environment, labs and more to make a meaningful impact in the lives of my patients and their families.
My path to integrative and functional psychiatry began after seeing too many patients suffer without sufficient answers. I am committed to incorporating the latest evidence-based medicine and up-to-date research into my practice. I utilize education, nutrition, environment, labs and more to make a meaningful impact in the lives of my patients and their families.
(224) 481-1208 View (224) 481-1208
Photo of Chrisantha E Anandappa, Psychiatrist, MD
Chrisantha E Anandappa
Psychiatrist, MD
Northbrook, IL 60062
My ideal client seeks to improve their well-being, facing mental health conditions and substance use disorders. They desire a personalized approach, evidence-based practices, and a supportive environment. Their goal is to regain control, rebuild relationships, and live a fulfilling life. I provide knowledge, tools, and support to empower their growth and transformation. Let's connect to discuss your specific needs.
My ideal client seeks to improve their well-being, facing mental health conditions and substance use disorders. They desire a personalized approach, evidence-based practices, and a supportive environment. Their goal is to regain control, rebuild relationships, and live a fulfilling life. I provide knowledge, tools, and support to empower their growth and transformation. Let's connect to discuss your specific needs.
(224) 532-5426 View (224) 532-5426
Photo of Melissa Stefanowicz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Melissa Stefanowicz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Melissa Stefanowicz is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has experience in providing medication management and brief psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. Melissa values her relationship with her clients and prioritizes physical, emotional and spiritual needs as a whole person approach. She aims to provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment. Melissa understands how the therapeutic relationship between provider and patient can play a positive role in patient’s long-term success.
Melissa Stefanowicz is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has experience in providing medication management and brief psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. Melissa values her relationship with her clients and prioritizes physical, emotional and spiritual needs as a whole person approach. She aims to provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment. Melissa understands how the therapeutic relationship between provider and patient can play a positive role in patient’s long-term success.
(847) 986-9954 x3 View (847) 986-9954 x3
Photo of Emily Schaffer, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Emily Schaffer
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
My ideal client is someone with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, who is seeking a holistic, compassionate approach to treatment. They may have tried medications before or may be exploring their options for the first time. Their needs are a safe, non-judgmental space for open communication and personalized care, and their goal is to regain stability, find emotional resilience, and live a fulfilling life. They want guidance in overcoming their struggles to experience peace, empowerment, and hope for the future.
My ideal client is someone with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, who is seeking a holistic, compassionate approach to treatment. They may have tried medications before or may be exploring their options for the first time. Their needs are a safe, non-judgmental space for open communication and personalized care, and their goal is to regain stability, find emotional resilience, and live a fulfilling life. They want guidance in overcoming their struggles to experience peace, empowerment, and hope for the future.
(224) 441-2106 View (224) 441-2106
Photo of Heather Holmes, Physician Assistant, PA-C, Psy-CAQ
Heather Holmes
Physician Assistant, PA-C, Psy-CAQ
Northbrook, IL 60062
I welcome all and create an inclusive, non-judgemental space for my patients in which I enjoy incorporating encouragement, self-compassion, and a bit of laughter into our sessions together. During our visits, we go at your pace as we discuss your unique situation and goals. I enjoy educating and empowering my patients to feel like they have an active role in their healthcare decisions. While I have experience treating a wide variety of mental health symptoms, I especially enjoy working with young adults in times of transition, anxiety and OCD, executive functioning and/or ADHD, and patients of the LGTBQIA+ community.
I welcome all and create an inclusive, non-judgemental space for my patients in which I enjoy incorporating encouragement, self-compassion, and a bit of laughter into our sessions together. During our visits, we go at your pace as we discuss your unique situation and goals. I enjoy educating and empowering my patients to feel like they have an active role in their healthcare decisions. While I have experience treating a wide variety of mental health symptoms, I especially enjoy working with young adults in times of transition, anxiety and OCD, executive functioning and/or ADHD, and patients of the LGTBQIA+ community.
(224) 344-8764 View (224) 344-8764
Photo of Damian Gwak, Psychiatrist, MD
Damian Gwak
Psychiatrist, MD
Northbrook, IL 60062
My ideal patient is a child, teen, or young adult who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, attention challenges, or mood struggles - and whose family is unsure where to turn. They want to feel more in control, more understood, and more hopeful. I work with families who value collaboration and want a psychiatrist who listens deeply, explains clearly, and helps create a plan that actually fits. My goal is to support meaningful, lasting change with warmth and respect.
My ideal patient is a child, teen, or young adult who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, attention challenges, or mood struggles - and whose family is unsure where to turn. They want to feel more in control, more understood, and more hopeful. I work with families who value collaboration and want a psychiatrist who listens deeply, explains clearly, and helps create a plan that actually fits. My goal is to support meaningful, lasting change with warmth and respect.
(847) 558-1385 x9 View (847) 558-1385 x9
Photo of Dr. Jennie E Zavaleta, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Jennie E Zavaleta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in child and adult Psychiatric-Mental Health services, I am committed to delivering compassionate support collaboratively and respectfully to my patients. My practice is centered on a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to identify key focus areas and develop personalized treatment plans that effectively promote balance and overall well-being. I provide comprehensive medication management and evidence-based psychotherapy ages 6-55.
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in child and adult Psychiatric-Mental Health services, I am committed to delivering compassionate support collaboratively and respectfully to my patients. My practice is centered on a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to identify key focus areas and develop personalized treatment plans that effectively promote balance and overall well-being. I provide comprehensive medication management and evidence-based psychotherapy ages 6-55.
(708) 381-2480 View (708) 381-2480
Photo of Eitan D Schwarz, Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, FAACAP
Eitan D Schwarz
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, FAACAP
Northbrook, IL 60062
I offer uniquely broad and deep expert experience and judgement, accumulated during a career marked by decades of consistent compassionate professional competence, helping folks of all ages with stresses at work, school, or in relationships, or unhappy with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma. Expect me to send you medical and other questionnaires to bring with you so we can be thorough and remain focused on your needs. You can usually count on some relief and a clear plan when you leave. Most of my patients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first week or two and sustained improvement thereafter.
I offer uniquely broad and deep expert experience and judgement, accumulated during a career marked by decades of consistent compassionate professional competence, helping folks of all ages with stresses at work, school, or in relationships, or unhappy with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma. Expect me to send you medical and other questionnaires to bring with you so we can be thorough and remain focused on your needs. You can usually count on some relief and a clear plan when you leave. Most of my patients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first week or two and sustained improvement thereafter.
(224) 529-0364 View (224) 529-0364
Photo of Chadwick Yip, Psychiatrist, MD
Chadwick Yip
Psychiatrist, MD
Northbrook, IL 60062
My ideal patient is someone who feels stuck - whether they’re navigating anxiety, OCD, ADHD, or mood symptoms that haven’t fully responded to past care. They’re looking for clarity, consistency, and a provider who truly listens. Their goal is to feel more grounded and in control, with a treatment plan that feels thoughtful, collaborative, and tailored to them.
My ideal patient is someone who feels stuck - whether they’re navigating anxiety, OCD, ADHD, or mood symptoms that haven’t fully responded to past care. They’re looking for clarity, consistency, and a provider who truly listens. Their goal is to feel more grounded and in control, with a treatment plan that feels thoughtful, collaborative, and tailored to them.
(224) 441-3562 x9 View (224) 441-3562 x9
Photo of Daniel Ross, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Daniel Ross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Northbrook, IL 60062
It is not uncommon to find ourselves somehow off track and disconnected from who we thought we were. Our relationships may seem stuck and deeply unsatisfying. We feel lost and unsure of our place in the world. This may be accompanied by feelings of depression, anxiety or as physical problems. It can be experienced as a deep alienation, sadness and suffering. When we are called to make a change and resist, it can cause havoc in our lives; this can happen whether the change is in the outer circumstances of our life, our inner attitude, our world view, or some combination.
It is not uncommon to find ourselves somehow off track and disconnected from who we thought we were. Our relationships may seem stuck and deeply unsatisfying. We feel lost and unsure of our place in the world. This may be accompanied by feelings of depression, anxiety or as physical problems. It can be experienced as a deep alienation, sadness and suffering. When we are called to make a change and resist, it can cause havoc in our lives; this can happen whether the change is in the outer circumstances of our life, our inner attitude, our world view, or some combination.
(847) 849-1867 View (847) 849-1867
Photo of Pooja J Patel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Pooja J Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
(779) 237-8721 View (779) 237-8721
Photo of Kim Dennis, Psychiatrist, MD, CEDS
Kim Dennis
Psychiatrist, MD, CEDS
Northbrook, IL 60062
Kim Dennis, MD, CEDS is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating addictions, eating disorders, and co-occurring disorders. She has helped thousands of remarkable people with their illnesses. Her knowledge of eating disorders and addiction isn’t just limited to her academic and clinical experience, having had her own personal experience as a woman in recovery from an eating disorder and alcoholism. She is able to combine her personal journey with her medical training to help SunCloud Health patients become emotionally strong, responsible problem-solvers, who are inspired to create fulfilling lives for themselves.
Kim Dennis, MD, CEDS is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating addictions, eating disorders, and co-occurring disorders. She has helped thousands of remarkable people with their illnesses. Her knowledge of eating disorders and addiction isn’t just limited to her academic and clinical experience, having had her own personal experience as a woman in recovery from an eating disorder and alcoholism. She is able to combine her personal journey with her medical training to help SunCloud Health patients become emotionally strong, responsible problem-solvers, who are inspired to create fulfilling lives for themselves.
(224) 707-8482 View (224) 707-8482
Photo of Sarah Tisser, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Sarah Tisser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Waitlist for new clients
Sarah completed her Bachelor's in Medical Sciences from Hadassah College in Jerusalem, Israel, then obtained her Master's degree from DePaul University, Chicago, and her Post-Master's degree and Doctorate in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio. Sarah worked in substance use disorder and worked for a long-term psychiatric facility and a psychiatric hospital. She helps perinatal women struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, hormonal-related issues, and postpartum conditions, helps women reclaim their lives and bodies, and feels more connected to their newborns and family.
Sarah completed her Bachelor's in Medical Sciences from Hadassah College in Jerusalem, Israel, then obtained her Master's degree from DePaul University, Chicago, and her Post-Master's degree and Doctorate in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio. Sarah worked in substance use disorder and worked for a long-term psychiatric facility and a psychiatric hospital. She helps perinatal women struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, hormonal-related issues, and postpartum conditions, helps women reclaim their lives and bodies, and feels more connected to their newborns and family.
(708) 719-6273 View (708) 719-6273
Photo of Teresa Poprawski - Relief Mental Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Relief Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Northbrook, IL 60062
Dr. Poprawski specializes in the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to treat depression, OCD, and other diagnoses. Through collaboration with all providers Dr. Poprawski has a proven track record of outstanding outcomes in the field of neuropsychiatry. Her commitment to providing the best patient care is unparalleled and contagious with patients and her peers. She uses multiple modalities in conjunction with TMS to create the best possible outcomes and efficacy. Dr. Poprawski values the goals of her patients and treats all patients with individualized care.
Dr. Poprawski specializes in the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to treat depression, OCD, and other diagnoses. Through collaboration with all providers Dr. Poprawski has a proven track record of outstanding outcomes in the field of neuropsychiatry. Her commitment to providing the best patient care is unparalleled and contagious with patients and her peers. She uses multiple modalities in conjunction with TMS to create the best possible outcomes and efficacy. Dr. Poprawski values the goals of her patients and treats all patients with individualized care.
(331) 210-9515 View (331) 210-9515
Photo of Anna Hereth, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ
Anna Hereth
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ
Northbrook, IL 60062
With more than 12 years dedicated to the mental health field, my expertise lies in assisting clients seeking a psychiatric provider committed to attentive listening, advocating for their needs, and developing a patient-centered treatment plan customized to address their unique concerns and treatment objectives. I specialize in connecting with individuals who have faced trauma, and are experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, providing genuine attention to their concerns and prioritizing their goals.
With more than 12 years dedicated to the mental health field, my expertise lies in assisting clients seeking a psychiatric provider committed to attentive listening, advocating for their needs, and developing a patient-centered treatment plan customized to address their unique concerns and treatment objectives. I specialize in connecting with individuals who have faced trauma, and are experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, providing genuine attention to their concerns and prioritizing their goals.
(872) 259-5324 View (872) 259-5324
Photo of Denver Cook, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Denver Cook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Denver Cook and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to helping those struggling with mental health concerns. I have 17+ years of experience working in a variety of settings including acute inpatient/crisis, forensics, and outpatient community health.
My name is Denver Cook and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to helping those struggling with mental health concerns. I have 17+ years of experience working in a variety of settings including acute inpatient/crisis, forensics, and outpatient community health.
(331) 267-6151 View (331) 267-6151
Photo of Jacalyn Saracco, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacalyn Saracco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Northbrook, IL 60062
Jacalyn Saracco is a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of experience specializing in Psychiatric Nursing. As a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner, areas of specialization include, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, ADHD and Bipolar Disorder. Jacalyn treats patients between the ages of 10 through adulthood. Jacalyn has extensive experience working with clients in the outpatient and inpatient settings. In her free time, Jacalyn enjoys reading and spending time with family. Jacalyn has a Master of Science Degree in Nursing from Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing.
Jacalyn Saracco is a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of experience specializing in Psychiatric Nursing. As a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner, areas of specialization include, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, ADHD and Bipolar Disorder. Jacalyn treats patients between the ages of 10 through adulthood. Jacalyn has extensive experience working with clients in the outpatient and inpatient settings. In her free time, Jacalyn enjoys reading and spending time with family. Jacalyn has a Master of Science Degree in Nursing from Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing.
(847) 264-9065 View (847) 264-9065
Photo of David Gavin, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
David Gavin
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Northbrook, IL 60062
David Gavin, MD, MS attended the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) for medical school, residency, and graduate school. He has published over 30 peer-reviewed reports on addiction disorders and schizophrenia and received VA and NIH funding. He has over 10 years of experience treating patients and training residents to treat patients with various psychiatric disorders. In addition, he has received numerous awards, including UIC Departmental Faculty of the Year, NARSAD Young Investigator Grant, and APIRE/AstraZeneca Young Minds in Psychiatry Award.
David Gavin, MD, MS attended the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) for medical school, residency, and graduate school. He has published over 30 peer-reviewed reports on addiction disorders and schizophrenia and received VA and NIH funding. He has over 10 years of experience treating patients and training residents to treat patients with various psychiatric disorders. In addition, he has received numerous awards, including UIC Departmental Faculty of the Year, NARSAD Young Investigator Grant, and APIRE/AstraZeneca Young Minds in Psychiatry Award.
(224) 269-2200 View (224) 269-2200
Photo of Diane Shall Cross, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Diane Shall Cross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Dee Shallcross, and I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner backed by a robust 17 years of nursing experience. My professional journey has been shaped by a commitment to providing patient-centered care and prioritizing the individual well-being of mental health consumers. In my private practice, I offer therapy (CBT, SFBT, Grief & Strengths-Based Therapy) and psychotropic med management for mental health consumers. In addition, I complete psychiatric evaluations for pre-bariatric surgery clearance.
My name is Dee Shallcross, and I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner backed by a robust 17 years of nursing experience. My professional journey has been shaped by a commitment to providing patient-centered care and prioritizing the individual well-being of mental health consumers. In my private practice, I offer therapy (CBT, SFBT, Grief & Strengths-Based Therapy) and psychotropic med management for mental health consumers. In addition, I complete psychiatric evaluations for pre-bariatric surgery clearance.
(331) 291-4788 View (331) 291-4788

See more therapy options for 60062

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 60062

40+

Average cost per session

$400

Psychiatrists in 60062 who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
84% Bipolar Disorder
79% ADHD
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
65% Trauma and PTSD
51% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
91% Aetna
76% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 60062 see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

65% Female
32% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 60062?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.