Psychiatrists in 60208

Photo of Amber Altidor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Amber Altidor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression at home, at school, at work or socially? Have you become frustrated with not meeting your goals in these settings because of how you're feeling emotionally? Are you experiencing trouble concentrating or sleeping? Are you hoping to develop new coping strategies that support your lifestyle and functioning? I am able to provide medication management with psychotherapy to treat your symptoms so that you can start to or get back to enjoying your life and meeting your goals.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression at home, at school, at work or socially? Have you become frustrated with not meeting your goals in these settings because of how you're feeling emotionally? Are you experiencing trouble concentrating or sleeping? Are you hoping to develop new coping strategies that support your lifestyle and functioning? I am able to provide medication management with psychotherapy to treat your symptoms so that you can start to or get back to enjoying your life and meeting your goals.
(708) 847-6591 View (708) 847-6591
Photo of Alexander B. Rose, Psychiatrist, MD, MPHS
Alexander B. Rose
Psychiatrist, MD, MPHS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
WAIT TIME: ≤ 2-4 weeks | REQUEST VISIT BY VISITING MY WEBSITE (www.veritas-psych.com) AND/OR EMAILING ME. | Dr. Rose is a forensic psychiatrist providing both clinical and medical-legal services. His approach begins by taking ample time to obtain a thorough understanding of who you are as a person from a variety of perspectives. He values making sure that every patient is informed and understands the meaning behind every diagnosis and the reasons for why certain treatments are recommended over others. Initial patient contact via my website or email is required. Phone calls are intended for existing patients (or attorneys) only.
WAIT TIME: ≤ 2-4 weeks | REQUEST VISIT BY VISITING MY WEBSITE (www.veritas-psych.com) AND/OR EMAILING ME. | Dr. Rose is a forensic psychiatrist providing both clinical and medical-legal services. His approach begins by taking ample time to obtain a thorough understanding of who you are as a person from a variety of perspectives. He values making sure that every patient is informed and understands the meaning behind every diagnosis and the reasons for why certain treatments are recommended over others. Initial patient contact via my website or email is required. Phone calls are intended for existing patients (or attorneys) only.
(314) 380-8764 View (314) 380-8764
Photo of Sydney Stathes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Sydney Stathes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new patients. I provide psychiatric medication management and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and stress related disorders.
Not accepting new patients. I provide psychiatric medication management and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and stress related disorders.

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. David Zhang, Psychiatrist, psychol
Dr. David Zhang
Psychiatrist, psychol
Online Only
Dr. David Zhang is a board-eligible Psychiatrist specializing in general adult psychiatry, with a keen focus on treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, and ADHD in individuals aged 18-65. His practice emphasizes a comprehensive approach, integrating medication management with supportive therapy typically during 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. Zhang attended Rice University for his bachelor's degree in Psychology and attended Baylor College of Medicine for his medical degree. He completed psychiatry residency at Ohio State University.
Dr. David Zhang is a board-eligible Psychiatrist specializing in general adult psychiatry, with a keen focus on treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, and ADHD in individuals aged 18-65. His practice emphasizes a comprehensive approach, integrating medication management with supportive therapy typically during 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. Zhang attended Rice University for his bachelor's degree in Psychology and attended Baylor College of Medicine for his medical degree. He completed psychiatry residency at Ohio State University.
(708) 726-6146 View (708) 726-6146
Photo of Heta Shah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Heta Shah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60629
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.
(224) 344-2113 View (224) 344-2113
Photo of Kenya Moss, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kenya Moss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Evergreen Park, IL 60805
I began my professional journey in 2012 on an inpatient psychiatric unit, driven by a deep interest in the connection between our thoughts, emotions, and overall well-being. I believe that the way we process our inner experiences has a profound impact on both our mental and physical health. My clinical interests include ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, minority stress, gender dysphoria, and internalized homophobia/transphobia. I am passionate about providing inclusive, culturally competent care that honors and affirms each individual's identity and lived experience.
I began my professional journey in 2012 on an inpatient psychiatric unit, driven by a deep interest in the connection between our thoughts, emotions, and overall well-being. I believe that the way we process our inner experiences has a profound impact on both our mental and physical health. My clinical interests include ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, minority stress, gender dysphoria, and internalized homophobia/transphobia. I am passionate about providing inclusive, culturally competent care that honors and affirms each individual's identity and lived experience.
(872) 326-2601 View (872) 326-2601
Photo of Shalu Gugnani (Addiction Treatment), Psychiatrist, MD
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug and alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug and alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(708) 401-6391 View (708) 401-6391
Photo of Nayyar Afroz, Psychiatrist, MD
Nayyar Afroz
Psychiatrist, MD
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Nayyar Afroz, MD, is a board-certified child, adolescent and general psychiatrist who graduated from Dow Medical College in Pakistan. She moved to the US and finished her residency at the University of Illinois Chicago campus followed by a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Chicago. She has been practicing for over 17 years in private, community, and public sector roles. She utilizes insight oriented, interpersonal mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral approaches. She has a passion for working with young adults and adults with mood, anxiety, and trauma.
Nayyar Afroz, MD, is a board-certified child, adolescent and general psychiatrist who graduated from Dow Medical College in Pakistan. She moved to the US and finished her residency at the University of Illinois Chicago campus followed by a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Chicago. She has been practicing for over 17 years in private, community, and public sector roles. She utilizes insight oriented, interpersonal mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral approaches. She has a passion for working with young adults and adults with mood, anxiety, and trauma.
(630) 686-7780 View (630) 686-7780
Photo of Sophie Mbua - Gold Mind Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Gold Mind Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Sophie Mbua, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with many years of experience. Do you struggle with mood irregularities, feeling sad, unmotivated and loss of interest in activities you love?, Do you feel unease, restless, constantly worrying about the unknown, feeling of impending doom?, Have you experienced traumatic events which affect your well-being?. Are you ready to be in control of your mental health? I create a partnership with my clients to help them succeed at their goals and get the outcome that works best for them. Clients will also receive tools and strategies to help them succeed
My name is Sophie Mbua, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with many years of experience. Do you struggle with mood irregularities, feeling sad, unmotivated and loss of interest in activities you love?, Do you feel unease, restless, constantly worrying about the unknown, feeling of impending doom?, Have you experienced traumatic events which affect your well-being?. Are you ready to be in control of your mental health? I create a partnership with my clients to help them succeed at their goals and get the outcome that works best for them. Clients will also receive tools and strategies to help them succeed
(832) 583-1376 View (832) 583-1376
Photo of Carrie Lynne Helle - Carrie Helle, PMHNP and FNP at Beacon Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Carrie Helle, PMHNP and FNP at Beacon Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You don’t have to navigate your mental health alone. I offer compassionate, evidence-based care for anxiety, trauma, depression, and more—without judgment and at your pace. Whether you’re feeling stuck or simply need support, I’m here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Let’s find what works for you.
You don’t have to navigate your mental health alone. I offer compassionate, evidence-based care for anxiety, trauma, depression, and more—without judgment and at your pace. Whether you’re feeling stuck or simply need support, I’m here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Let’s find what works for you.
(872) 324-3072 View (872) 324-3072
Photo of Dr. Rajesh Gaddam, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Rajesh Gaddam
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Rajesh Gaddam is a Board Certified Psychiatrist, providing compassionate and empathic care. Prior to his formal training, he worked in clinical psychiatric research at Northwell, gaining experience in evidence based medicine.He completed his adult psychiatry residency at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, followed by Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at The University of Chicago, where he served as Chief Fellow. Dr. Gaddam treats children, adolescents, and adults for a range of conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, OCD, ADHD, and substance use disorders.
Dr. Rajesh Gaddam is a Board Certified Psychiatrist, providing compassionate and empathic care. Prior to his formal training, he worked in clinical psychiatric research at Northwell, gaining experience in evidence based medicine.He completed his adult psychiatry residency at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, followed by Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at The University of Chicago, where he served as Chief Fellow. Dr. Gaddam treats children, adolescents, and adults for a range of conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, OCD, ADHD, and substance use disorders.
(332) 244-8287 View (332) 244-8287
Photo of Faderin Boti (Enrolling New Patients), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Faderin Boti (Enrolling New Patients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Faderin. Are you frequently anxious or fearful? Do you you suffer from persistent sadness or struggling to find joy? I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and help individuals with mood and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am passionate about helping people manage depression, anxiety, ADHD and any other comorbidities.
Hi there, I'm Faderin. Are you frequently anxious or fearful? Do you you suffer from persistent sadness or struggling to find joy? I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and help individuals with mood and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am passionate about helping people manage depression, anxiety, ADHD and any other comorbidities.
(630) 526-7463 View (630) 526-7463
Photo of James E. Young III, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
James E. Young III
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serves Area
I am a Northern Kentucky University trained and Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive experience in medication management and psychotherapy. I care for clients from pediatrics to older adults. I have additional training in integrative psychiatry, which encompasses holistic approaches: eastern medicine, ayurvedic principles, and western medicine. Focusing solely on medication management may not help you achieve complete remission of your symptoms. I strive to understand who you are and your needs. As a result, we will work together to create an individualized treatment plan to help you feel better.
I am a Northern Kentucky University trained and Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive experience in medication management and psychotherapy. I care for clients from pediatrics to older adults. I have additional training in integrative psychiatry, which encompasses holistic approaches: eastern medicine, ayurvedic principles, and western medicine. Focusing solely on medication management may not help you achieve complete remission of your symptoms. I strive to understand who you are and your needs. As a result, we will work together to create an individualized treatment plan to help you feel better.
(708) 729-9504 View (708) 729-9504
Photo of Krista Bedells, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Krista Bedells
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I firmly believe in person-centered care, which I have demonstrated since becoming a mental health provider in 2018. I treat anxiety, depression, and maladaptive coping skills. I manage medications and help teach you coping skills to weather life’s ups and downs.
I firmly believe in person-centered care, which I have demonstrated since becoming a mental health provider in 2018. I treat anxiety, depression, and maladaptive coping skills. I manage medications and help teach you coping skills to weather life’s ups and downs.
(646) 759-2638 View (646) 759-2638
Photo of Debora Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Debora Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Debora's ideal client is someone grappling with the intricate interplay between mental health and overall well-being, seeking a path to holistic healing and growth. They often present with a myriad of issues ranging from mood disorders and anxiety to trauma-related symptoms or substance use concerns. These individuals crave more than just symptom relief; they yearn for a deep understanding of themselves and their struggles. Their needs extend beyond medication management or traditional therapy—they seek a compassionate ally who can navigate the complexities of their psyche with expertise and empathy.
Debora's ideal client is someone grappling with the intricate interplay between mental health and overall well-being, seeking a path to holistic healing and growth. They often present with a myriad of issues ranging from mood disorders and anxiety to trauma-related symptoms or substance use concerns. These individuals crave more than just symptom relief; they yearn for a deep understanding of themselves and their struggles. Their needs extend beyond medication management or traditional therapy—they seek a compassionate ally who can navigate the complexities of their psyche with expertise and empathy.
(630) 793-4616 View (630) 793-4616
Photo of Anna Kurapey, Psychiatrist, DO
Anna Kurapey
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Kurapey guides you to harness your intuitive wisdom to bring you closer to the life you imagine. She provides psychiatric care and medication management to help you identify the root cause of your symptoms. Her supportive approach explores the whole person, including your mind, body, lifestyle, spirituality, culture, and external environment. Dr. Kurapey believes in tailoring treatments to your unique needs. She works collaboratively with you and anyone on your treatment team to create a plan to best support your emotional well-being and promote long term health.
Dr. Kurapey guides you to harness your intuitive wisdom to bring you closer to the life you imagine. She provides psychiatric care and medication management to help you identify the root cause of your symptoms. Her supportive approach explores the whole person, including your mind, body, lifestyle, spirituality, culture, and external environment. Dr. Kurapey believes in tailoring treatments to your unique needs. She works collaboratively with you and anyone on your treatment team to create a plan to best support your emotional well-being and promote long term health.
(872) 328-7665 View (872) 328-7665
Photo of Kirsten Book, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Kirsten Book
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of health care experience. I integrate a combination of evidence- based medication management, psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and other cognitive modalities to aid in recovery. I am confident that combining medication with other treatments is more effective than medication alone. I also believe a multidisciplinary treatment team approach with therapists and other professionals is optimal for the patient's recovery.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of health care experience. I integrate a combination of evidence- based medication management, psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and other cognitive modalities to aid in recovery. I am confident that combining medication with other treatments is more effective than medication alone. I also believe a multidisciplinary treatment team approach with therapists and other professionals is optimal for the patient's recovery.
(360) 300-4729 View (360) 300-4729
Photo of Anne M. Simmons, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, AMB-BC
Anne M. Simmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, AMB-BC
Des Plaines, IL 60018
Hi, I’m Anne Simmons, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, AMB-BC, CNE. I’m passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care with a holistic approach. As both a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, and depression, working with individuals to create personalized treatment plans that meet them where they are in their journey. I am particularly dedicated to serving Veterans and their families, bringing military cultural competence to my practice to ensure they feel understood and supported.
Hi, I’m Anne Simmons, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, AMB-BC, CNE. I’m passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care with a holistic approach. As both a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, and depression, working with individuals to create personalized treatment plans that meet them where they are in their journey. I am particularly dedicated to serving Veterans and their families, bringing military cultural competence to my practice to ensure they feel understood and supported.
(331) 272-4885 View (331) 272-4885
Photo of Dacia J Harrold, Psychiatrist, MD, MA, MFA
Dacia J Harrold
Psychiatrist, MD, MA, MFA
Online Only
I specialize in multiplicity, change, and complicated life transitions, bringing a serious dedication to deep exploration of patients’ struggles through psychoanalytic and psychotherapeutic work. In my approach to treatment, I prioritize attention to the presence of the unconscious in our everyday lives. As an M.D., my training in medicine, psychiatry, and psychoanalysis, with a former life as an Air Force jet pilot, as well as an in-depth study in the humanities, including an MA in critical theory and an MFA in creative writing and poetry, allows me to apply many lenses and a unique breadth of life experience to my clinical work.
I specialize in multiplicity, change, and complicated life transitions, bringing a serious dedication to deep exploration of patients’ struggles through psychoanalytic and psychotherapeutic work. In my approach to treatment, I prioritize attention to the presence of the unconscious in our everyday lives. As an M.D., my training in medicine, psychiatry, and psychoanalysis, with a former life as an Air Force jet pilot, as well as an in-depth study in the humanities, including an MA in critical theory and an MFA in creative writing and poetry, allows me to apply many lenses and a unique breadth of life experience to my clinical work.
(773) 598-5060 View (773) 598-5060
Photo of Michael Swiatkowski, Psychiatrist, DO
Michael Swiatkowski
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
Not accepting new clients
4/15/25 Update: Thank you for your interest. The practice is currently full.
4/15/25 Update: Thank you for your interest. The practice is currently full.
(312) 940-3051 View (312) 940-3051

See more therapy options for 60208

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 60208

< 10

Psychiatrists in 60208 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Medication Management
67% ADHD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

50% Aetna
50% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 60208 see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 60208?

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.