Psychiatrists in 60174

Photo of Ike Uzowulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders. I tend to be practical and hands-on rather than presuming or committing to one treatment approach. My goal is to work with you to find what works best for you. I provide urgent & routine telehealth Psychiatric services that is interactive, urgent and seamless; such that fosters continuity of care while improving access to patient's in need.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders. I tend to be practical and hands-on rather than presuming or committing to one treatment approach. My goal is to work with you to find what works best for you. I provide urgent & routine telehealth Psychiatric services that is interactive, urgent and seamless; such that fosters continuity of care while improving access to patient's in need.
(331) 296-1328 View (331) 296-1328
Photo of Georgina Srinivas Rao - In Step Behavioral Health SC, MD, Psychiatrist
In Step Behavioral Health SC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
I am a psychiatrist that appreciated the importance of being part of a multidisciplinary team that can incorporate a patient centered comprehensive care that emphasize the bio-psycho-social model of care treating the whole person. I provide person specific treatment options through the life span from children to older adults integrating the mind and the body to achieve mental wellness. working with your team, which may include your primary care, doctor, medical specialist, psychotherapist, and support system maybe part of your treatment plan.
I am a psychiatrist that appreciated the importance of being part of a multidisciplinary team that can incorporate a patient centered comprehensive care that emphasize the bio-psycho-social model of care treating the whole person. I provide person specific treatment options through the life span from children to older adults integrating the mind and the body to achieve mental wellness. working with your team, which may include your primary care, doctor, medical specialist, psychotherapist, and support system maybe part of your treatment plan.
(630) 395-7603 View (630) 395-7603
Photo of Juliette Murphy, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Juliette Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
I want to know your story. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my job to make sure you feel seen and heard in order to provide the best care possible. I have been in the field of mental health since 2018, working in both the inpatient and outpatient sectors. I have experience across the lifespan working with a broad range of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, and serious mental illness. Together, we will collaborate using a biopsychosocial approach to meet your individual goals.
I want to know your story. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my job to make sure you feel seen and heard in order to provide the best care possible. I have been in the field of mental health since 2018, working in both the inpatient and outpatient sectors. I have experience across the lifespan working with a broad range of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, and serious mental illness. Together, we will collaborate using a biopsychosocial approach to meet your individual goals.
(630) 339-5160 View (630) 339-5160
Photo of Diane Shallcross, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Diane Shallcross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
My name is Dee, an independently licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, offering psychotherapy, psychiatric medication management, & bariatric consultations. I specialize in working with adults (ages 21-65) and have been providing care to mental health consumers for 15+ years as a nurse and >3 years as a psychiatric prescriber. As a bariatric recipient myself, I am also very passionate about helping people achieve weight loss & getting their lives back!
My name is Dee, an independently licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, offering psychotherapy, psychiatric medication management, & bariatric consultations. I specialize in working with adults (ages 21-65) and have been providing care to mental health consumers for 15+ years as a nurse and >3 years as a psychiatric prescriber. As a bariatric recipient myself, I am also very passionate about helping people achieve weight loss & getting their lives back!
(331) 244-0850 View (331) 244-0850
Photo of Kara Lightbourne, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kara Lightbourne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Relief Mental Health in St. Charles, Illinois. I provide compassionate, personalized care using a holistic approach that addresses physical, psychological, spiritual, and emotional well-being. My practice integrates traditional psychiatric care with alternative therapies to create tailored treatment plans that meet the unique needs of each individual. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where patients feel heard, understood, and valued.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Relief Mental Health in St. Charles, Illinois. I provide compassionate, personalized care using a holistic approach that addresses physical, psychological, spiritual, and emotional well-being. My practice integrates traditional psychiatric care with alternative therapies to create tailored treatment plans that meet the unique needs of each individual. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where patients feel heard, understood, and valued.
(630) 496-5502 View (630) 496-5502
Photo of Fatima M. Hadi - Cafal Clinic for Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Cafal Clinic for Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New appointments available within 1-2 weeks for evaluation and management of mental health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults.
New appointments available within 1-2 weeks for evaluation and management of mental health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults.
(331) 260-9521 View (331) 260-9521
Photo of Teresa Poprawski - Relief Mental Health, MD , Psychiatrist
Relief Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Dr. Kailee Lenczycki, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Kailee Lenczycki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm so glad you're reaching out! Seeking help doesn't mean you're failing; it means you're taking an important step toward self-care and healing. You may be feeling burned out, on edge, and just going through the motions. It's affecting your life, relationships, and work. You’ve tried everything you can think of to feel better, but nothing's working. You're searching for a comprehensive approach to mental health care that considers the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Something that's more than just medications! You're ready for a change, to feel like yourself again. I want to help you get there!
I'm so glad you're reaching out! Seeking help doesn't mean you're failing; it means you're taking an important step toward self-care and healing. You may be feeling burned out, on edge, and just going through the motions. It's affecting your life, relationships, and work. You’ve tried everything you can think of to feel better, but nothing's working. You're searching for a comprehensive approach to mental health care that considers the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Something that's more than just medications! You're ready for a change, to feel like yourself again. I want to help you get there!
(331) 260-0774 View (331) 260-0774
Photo of Amy Drescher-Crumpley, DNP, CNM, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Drescher-Crumpley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNM, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). My goal is to build a strong alliance with patients and provide them with hope, knowledge and tools to participate effectively in their own unique healing process. I can address a broad range of mental health issues. My scope of practice includes men and women 12 years old and up. I have over 20 years’ experience in health care including my years as a nurse midwife.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). My goal is to build a strong alliance with patients and provide them with hope, knowledge and tools to participate effectively in their own unique healing process. I can address a broad range of mental health issues. My scope of practice includes men and women 12 years old and up. I have over 20 years’ experience in health care including my years as a nurse midwife.
(331) 244-5330 View (331) 244-5330
Photo of JOSEPH Spagnola, PMHNPBC, NP, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
JOSEPH Spagnola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, NP, FPA
Verified Verified
Joseph Spagnola III, delivers extensive and holistic psychiatric care for those who are 16 years old and older. Joseph works carefully with each of his clients to ensure that they are meeting their unique health and wellness goals. Joseph pioneers the increasing of awareness for behavioral and mental health disorders. Joseph is a clinical preceptor supervising nurse practitioner PMHNP students at universities such as NKU, EKU, Walden University, and Herzing University. Joseph treats ADHD-Did you know that uncontrolled ADHD can look like anxiety, depression, hypersexuality, relationship/performance/legal problems? Gives us a call.
Joseph Spagnola III, delivers extensive and holistic psychiatric care for those who are 16 years old and older. Joseph works carefully with each of his clients to ensure that they are meeting their unique health and wellness goals. Joseph pioneers the increasing of awareness for behavioral and mental health disorders. Joseph is a clinical preceptor supervising nurse practitioner PMHNP students at universities such as NKU, EKU, Walden University, and Herzing University. Joseph treats ADHD-Did you know that uncontrolled ADHD can look like anxiety, depression, hypersexuality, relationship/performance/legal problems? Gives us a call.
(331) 219-6981 View (331) 219-6981
Photo of Heta Shah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heta Shah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Heta Shah is accepting new patients. Heta is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health conditions. She is known for her compassionate and patient-centered approach, taking the time to listen to her patients’ concerns and develop individualized treatment plans that meet their unique needs. Her comprehensive assessments, evidence-based treatment plans, and ongoing support aim to promote mental wellness and improve the overall quality of life for her patients.
Heta Shah is accepting new patients. Heta is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health conditions. She is known for her compassionate and patient-centered approach, taking the time to listen to her patients’ concerns and develop individualized treatment plans that meet their unique needs. Her comprehensive assessments, evidence-based treatment plans, and ongoing support aim to promote mental wellness and improve the overall quality of life for her patients.
(847) 610-6226 View (847) 610-6226
Photo of Carol Lynn Craig, MD, Psychiatrist
Carol Lynn Craig
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Carol Lynn Craig is a Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 1991. She has a B.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Michigan, an M.D. from Wayne State University School of Medicine, and an M. P. H. from Northern Illinois University. Dr. Craig approaches care of her patients from a holistic biopsychosocial model which allows her to develop a treatment plan that helps her patients to function at their highest optimal potential. Outside of work, Dr. Craig enjoys practicing Vinyasa Yoga. She enjoys cooking and has become quite the Vegan Chef and Vegan Baker.
Dr. Carol Lynn Craig is a Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 1991. She has a B.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Michigan, an M.D. from Wayne State University School of Medicine, and an M. P. H. from Northern Illinois University. Dr. Craig approaches care of her patients from a holistic biopsychosocial model which allows her to develop a treatment plan that helps her patients to function at their highest optimal potential. Outside of work, Dr. Craig enjoys practicing Vinyasa Yoga. She enjoys cooking and has become quite the Vegan Chef and Vegan Baker.
(630) 796-7697 View (630) 796-7697
Photo of Dr. Carol Lynn Craig - LifeStance Health - Geneva, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health - Geneva
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(331) 253-5565 View (331) 253-5565
Photo of Abigail Wilson, PMHNP, APRN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abigail Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/ trauma, OCD, and sleep/wakefulness disorders. Additionally, I offer support for individuals struggling with obesity and related mental health concerns. when treating any condition, I prioritize creating mutual goals with my patients. Oftentimes, patients visit a psychiatric provider and don’t feel they had a voice in their treatment. My passion is helping my patients achieve their goals. In other words, your goals are my goals too. I want you to feel heard and feel we are working towards what you want in treatment.
I have expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/ trauma, OCD, and sleep/wakefulness disorders. Additionally, I offer support for individuals struggling with obesity and related mental health concerns. when treating any condition, I prioritize creating mutual goals with my patients. Oftentimes, patients visit a psychiatric provider and don’t feel they had a voice in their treatment. My passion is helping my patients achieve their goals. In other words, your goals are my goals too. I want you to feel heard and feel we are working towards what you want in treatment.
View
Photo of Jaya Luis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jaya Luis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Jaya Luis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. Jaya offers mental health treatment and support that promotes healing and growth, while empowering clients to take control of their own mental health journey. Outside of work, Jaya passionately follows/practices Christian beliefs and doctrine. Her day begins and ends with prayer and connection with her Creator. This keeps her grounded. Her hunger for family time never ends! She enjoys going on bikes rides and walks with family, it gives them a chance to connect. She has a gym membership and likes to work out.
Jaya Luis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. Jaya offers mental health treatment and support that promotes healing and growth, while empowering clients to take control of their own mental health journey. Outside of work, Jaya passionately follows/practices Christian beliefs and doctrine. Her day begins and ends with prayer and connection with her Creator. This keeps her grounded. Her hunger for family time never ends! She enjoys going on bikes rides and walks with family, it gives them a chance to connect. She has a gym membership and likes to work out.
(630) 716-9384 View (630) 716-9384
Photo of Pooja J Patel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pooja J Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(630) 354-0752 View (630) 354-0752
Photo of Muhammad Nouman Azhar - Shifa Therapeutics LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Shifa Therapeutics LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
SHIFA THERAPEUTICS LLC HAS IN OFFICE AND TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR PSYCHIATRIC AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION TREATMENT. INITIAL APPOINTMENT MUST BE IN OFFICE (630) 761-5670.
SHIFA THERAPEUTICS LLC HAS IN OFFICE AND TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR PSYCHIATRIC AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION TREATMENT. INITIAL APPOINTMENT MUST BE IN OFFICE (630) 761-5670.
(630) 756-2905 View (630) 756-2905
Photo of Heidi Napolitano, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heidi Napolitano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I work to help my patients understand themselves while defining clear goals for treatment and identifying how I can help them reach those goals.
I work to help my patients understand themselves while defining clear goals for treatment and identifying how I can help them reach those goals.
(630) 593-1456 View (630) 593-1456
Photo of Olukemi Aina, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Olukemi Aina
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Beyond her clinical expertise, Kemi values building strong therapeutic relationships with her clients, fostering an environment of trust and understanding. She serves a diverse population of adults and seniors, offering care that is inclusive and tailored to each individual's needs. Whether addressing complex psychiatric conditions or managing life transitions, Kemi is committed to helping her clients achieve improved mental health and overall quality of life. Outside of her practice, Kemi enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her family.
Beyond her clinical expertise, Kemi values building strong therapeutic relationships with her clients, fostering an environment of trust and understanding. She serves a diverse population of adults and seniors, offering care that is inclusive and tailored to each individual's needs. Whether addressing complex psychiatric conditions or managing life transitions, Kemi is committed to helping her clients achieve improved mental health and overall quality of life. Outside of her practice, Kemi enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her family.
(331) 293-5879 View (331) 293-5879
Photo of Melissa Welch, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Welch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
(630) 749-9958 View (630) 749-9958

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 60174

20+

Average cost per session

$287

Psychiatrists in 60174 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
85% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% ADHD
80% Sleep or Insomnia
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
90% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 60174 see their clients

90% In Person and Online
10% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 60174?

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.