Psychiatrists in 60523

Photo of Dima Arbach - TMS Mindwell Health, Psychiatrist, MD
TMS Mindwell Health
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Dr. Arbach is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and a former Associate Director of Psychiatry Residency Training, specializing in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy—a medication-free treatment for resistant depression and OCD. She uses TMS alone or alongside other treatment modalities to provide the best individualized outcomes. Her approach prioritizes whole-person wellness, integrating nutritional, lifestyle, biological, psychological, and social factors in the healing process. As a frequent lecturer at professional seminars on wellness, she is passionate about guiding individuals toward lasting mental well-being.
Dr. Arbach is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and a former Associate Director of Psychiatry Residency Training, specializing in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy—a medication-free treatment for resistant depression and OCD. She uses TMS alone or alongside other treatment modalities to provide the best individualized outcomes. Her approach prioritizes whole-person wellness, integrating nutritional, lifestyle, biological, psychological, and social factors in the healing process. As a frequent lecturer at professional seminars on wellness, she is passionate about guiding individuals toward lasting mental well-being.
(630) 349-5035 View (630) 349-5035
Photo of Chiedza Nwakudu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Chiedza Nwakudu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I am a double board-certified nurse practitioner providing hybrid in-person and virtual care for mental health conditions to patients ages 12 and older. I have more than ten years’ combined experience managing patients in hospitals, residential treatment centers, PHP, IOP, and outpatient clinics. I completed the PMHNP certificate at Lewis University, a master's in nursing science degree from Rush University in Chicago, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
I am a double board-certified nurse practitioner providing hybrid in-person and virtual care for mental health conditions to patients ages 12 and older. I have more than ten years’ combined experience managing patients in hospitals, residential treatment centers, PHP, IOP, and outpatient clinics. I completed the PMHNP certificate at Lewis University, a master's in nursing science degree from Rush University in Chicago, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
(331) 210-9626 View (331) 210-9626
Photo of Marcel Bertsch-Gout, Psychiatrist, MD
Marcel Bertsch-Gout
Psychiatrist, MD
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Let’s work together to gain a deeper understanding of your symptoms. An accurate diagnosis is essential for effective, personalized treatment. I use a collaborative approach to care, ensuring you feel informed and confident about any recommended medication. Together, we’ll explore potential benefits and side effects so there are no surprises. My goal is to support you in making well-informed decisions for your health and well-being.
Let’s work together to gain a deeper understanding of your symptoms. An accurate diagnosis is essential for effective, personalized treatment. I use a collaborative approach to care, ensuring you feel informed and confident about any recommended medication. Together, we’ll explore potential benefits and side effects so there are no surprises. My goal is to support you in making well-informed decisions for your health and well-being.
(708) 578-6493 View (708) 578-6493
Photo of Dr. Sherin Vachaparambil, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sherin Vachaparambil
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I have worked in private practices, community clinics, state hospitals, and VA facilities. I have a special interest in mood disorders and PTSD, and I am passionate about helping people find balance and healing. My approach combines medication and integrative therapies with a focus on whole-person wellness. I currently offer care in a hybrid format, seeing patients both in person and via telehealth. I believe that by working together, we can move toward the goals that matter most to you. To request an appointment, please visit our website at: www.mindwell.health
I have worked in private practices, community clinics, state hospitals, and VA facilities. I have a special interest in mood disorders and PTSD, and I am passionate about helping people find balance and healing. My approach combines medication and integrative therapies with a focus on whole-person wellness. I currently offer care in a hybrid format, seeing patients both in person and via telehealth. I believe that by working together, we can move toward the goals that matter most to you. To request an appointment, please visit our website at: www.mindwell.health
(630) 914-6151 View (630) 914-6151
Photo of Patricia Capers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP
Patricia Capers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Life can be challenging, even when things are going well. Sometimes, patience and determination aren't enough to overcome the difficulties we face. That's where I come in. My name is Susan Nso, and I'm a board-certified Nurse Practitioner dedicated to supporting mental health. I've learned through my work as a nurse that mental wellness is key to our overall well-being. It shapes our experiences and interactions in all areas of life. As a provider, I take a holistic approach, considering the mental, physical, social, and environmental factors that influence mental health.
Life can be challenging, even when things are going well. Sometimes, patience and determination aren't enough to overcome the difficulties we face. That's where I come in. My name is Susan Nso, and I'm a board-certified Nurse Practitioner dedicated to supporting mental health. I've learned through my work as a nurse that mental wellness is key to our overall well-being. It shapes our experiences and interactions in all areas of life. As a provider, I take a holistic approach, considering the mental, physical, social, and environmental factors that influence mental health.
(708) 518-3817 View (708) 518-3817
Photo of Akwetey Mensah Akrong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Akwetey Mensah Akrong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Akwetey Akrong, PMHNP-BC, takes a holistic approach to psychiatry and enjoys working with each patient’s strengths to help them achieve better mental health. He is a compassionate, active listener and his goal is to get every patient to their highest level of functioning. As a Marine Corps veteran, Akwetey previously worked in inpatient mental health with veterans suffering from a wide range of mental health disorders. He’s also a pastor and has extensive experience in family counseling. Akwetey enjoys working with both adolescents and adults suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and more.
Akwetey Akrong, PMHNP-BC, takes a holistic approach to psychiatry and enjoys working with each patient’s strengths to help them achieve better mental health. He is a compassionate, active listener and his goal is to get every patient to their highest level of functioning. As a Marine Corps veteran, Akwetey previously worked in inpatient mental health with veterans suffering from a wide range of mental health disorders. He’s also a pastor and has extensive experience in family counseling. Akwetey enjoys working with both adolescents and adults suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and more.
(847) 713-1714 View (847) 713-1714
Photo of Abid Nazeer - Hopemark Health Oak Brook, Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM
Hopemark Health Oak Brook
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Our psychiatric clinic is committed to providing cutting-edge treatments for mental health challenges that have not responded to traditional approaches. We specialize in innovative treatments that have shown promise in clinical research, such as Ketamine-assisted therapy, Deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS), IV Ketamine, Spravato (nasal spray, esketamine), Medication Management, General Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, including EMDR.
Our psychiatric clinic is committed to providing cutting-edge treatments for mental health challenges that have not responded to traditional approaches. We specialize in innovative treatments that have shown promise in clinical research, such as Ketamine-assisted therapy, Deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS), IV Ketamine, Spravato (nasal spray, esketamine), Medication Management, General Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, including EMDR.
(630) 626-8249 View (630) 626-8249
Photo of Emad M Amer, Psychiatrist, MD
Emad M Amer
Psychiatrist, MD
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Dr. Emad Amer is a psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience as a psychiatrist. He understands the complexities of mental health and is dedicated to helping individuals regain control of their lives. His diverse background in various clinical settings has equipped him with a deep understanding of mental health issues and practical treatment approaches. Dr. Amer believes in improving his patients’ quality of life by creating a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where individuals feel safe to share their experiences.
Dr. Emad Amer is a psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience as a psychiatrist. He understands the complexities of mental health and is dedicated to helping individuals regain control of their lives. His diverse background in various clinical settings has equipped him with a deep understanding of mental health issues and practical treatment approaches. Dr. Amer believes in improving his patients’ quality of life by creating a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where individuals feel safe to share their experiences.
(847) 901-7472 View (847) 901-7472
Photo of Jamie Rawl, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Jamie Rawl
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I am a state-licensed and nationally board-certified physician associate who forms strong therapeutic alliances with patients in order to provide high-quality, culturally competent care.  I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication support using innovative modalities designed to diagnose and treat a variety of challenges. In addition to medication management, I specialize in the administration of psychedelic therapy (Spravato) for patients suffering from treatment-resistant depression. I also offer evaluations for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for those struggling with depression, OCD, anxious depression, and more.
I am a state-licensed and nationally board-certified physician associate who forms strong therapeutic alliances with patients in order to provide high-quality, culturally competent care.  I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication support using innovative modalities designed to diagnose and treat a variety of challenges. In addition to medication management, I specialize in the administration of psychedelic therapy (Spravato) for patients suffering from treatment-resistant depression. I also offer evaluations for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for those struggling with depression, OCD, anxious depression, and more.
(847) 860-6193 View (847) 860-6193
Photo of Justin Jelinski, Physician Assistant, PA
Justin Jelinski
Physician Assistant, PA
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Justin is a certified Physician Assistant with over 10 years of experience. He has worked with patients of all ages and is dedicated to not only finding the appropriate treatment for his patients, but also getting to the root of the issue at hand. Justin has a Bachelor of Science from the University of St. Francis in Joliet, and a Master of Science of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of St. Francis in New Mexico.
Justin is a certified Physician Assistant with over 10 years of experience. He has worked with patients of all ages and is dedicated to not only finding the appropriate treatment for his patients, but also getting to the root of the issue at hand. Justin has a Bachelor of Science from the University of St. Francis in Joliet, and a Master of Science of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of St. Francis in New Mexico.
(630) 345-4726 View (630) 345-4726
Photo of Sarah Simms, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, CPN
Sarah Simms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, CPN
Oak Brook, IL 60523
We all need a little help sometimes, and reaching out for help can be unnerving. I understand this and offer a warm and compassionate approach to meet you right where you are. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or another mental health concern, I believe in the remission of your symptoms and that there is always hope, even for those struggling with treatment resistant depression.
We all need a little help sometimes, and reaching out for help can be unnerving. I understand this and offer a warm and compassionate approach to meet you right where you are. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or another mental health concern, I believe in the remission of your symptoms and that there is always hope, even for those struggling with treatment resistant depression.
(847) 780-1986 View (847) 780-1986
Photo of Milica Ciglanic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Milica Ciglanic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Hello, I am Milica, a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a strong commitment to improving the mental well-being of adolescents and adults. With a specialization in mood disorders, anxiety, and ADHD. I have had the privilege of working with diverse patient populations, providing comprehensive psychiatric care that is rooted in evidence-based treatments and a patient-centered approach. My experience has equipped me with the skills to assess, diagnose, and develop personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each individual.
Hello, I am Milica, a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a strong commitment to improving the mental well-being of adolescents and adults. With a specialization in mood disorders, anxiety, and ADHD. I have had the privilege of working with diverse patient populations, providing comprehensive psychiatric care that is rooted in evidence-based treatments and a patient-centered approach. My experience has equipped me with the skills to assess, diagnose, and develop personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each individual.
(630) 491-9658 View (630) 491-9658
Photo of Caitlin Strebing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGACNP
Caitlin Strebing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGACNP
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
My focus primarily is helping patients with treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. Listening is a very important first step. I am here to witness patient stories and help assess what treatment route is best for you. My goal for each patient is to have them leave feeling better than when they walked in. I want every patient to feel supported and know that I will not give up on them.
My focus primarily is helping patients with treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. Listening is a very important first step. I am here to witness patient stories and help assess what treatment route is best for you. My goal for each patient is to have them leave feeling better than when they walked in. I want every patient to feel supported and know that I will not give up on them.
(847) 851-4120 View (847) 851-4120
Photo of Maria Angela Thea Engracia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Maria Angela Thea Engracia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based, and holistic mental health care.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based, and holistic mental health care.
(847) 201-0954 View (847) 201-0954
Photo of Evan O Foster Deranja, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Evan O Foster Deranja
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Oak Brook, IL 60523
My ideal patient is one who is willing and motivated to work together with me, as a team, to help figure out what is contributing to their struggles and how to work through it. It's frequently an iterative process whereby we make progress together over time. Sometimes it seems relatively simple, but frequently it's not. The keys are to keep going, to keep working at it, to never give up, to not shy away from complexity, and to be willing to begin anywhere. The wisdom of knowing when to keep working at solving a problem vs when to work towards acceptance is only achieved through our authentic best efforts over time.
My ideal patient is one who is willing and motivated to work together with me, as a team, to help figure out what is contributing to their struggles and how to work through it. It's frequently an iterative process whereby we make progress together over time. Sometimes it seems relatively simple, but frequently it's not. The keys are to keep going, to keep working at it, to never give up, to not shy away from complexity, and to be willing to begin anywhere. The wisdom of knowing when to keep working at solving a problem vs when to work towards acceptance is only achieved through our authentic best efforts over time.
(708) 787-8470 View (708) 787-8470
Photo of January Robinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
January Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I am dual board certified PMHNP/FNP and began practicing general psychiatry in 2009. I have treated a broad range of psychiatric conditions in many different settings across the lifespan. I treat mood and anxiety disorders as well as PTSD, ADHD, and Schizophrenia spectrum disorders using medication management where indicated as well as therapy. I have been providing ketamine-assisted therapy since 2019 for treatment-resistant depressive disorders and PTSD.
I am dual board certified PMHNP/FNP and began practicing general psychiatry in 2009. I have treated a broad range of psychiatric conditions in many different settings across the lifespan. I treat mood and anxiety disorders as well as PTSD, ADHD, and Schizophrenia spectrum disorders using medication management where indicated as well as therapy. I have been providing ketamine-assisted therapy since 2019 for treatment-resistant depressive disorders and PTSD.
(630) 446-2935 View (630) 446-2935
Photo of Lateef Kelani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lateef Kelani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I provide therapeutic services to patients of diverse backgrounds with cultural sensitivity. My methods include utilizing a pharmacotherapeutic/ psychotherapeutic approach in providing beneficial mental health care. I understand that living with a psychiatric illness can be challenging, but a positive outlook on life can be achieved with the right psychiatric care approach, which involves patient teaching and collaboration. My goal is to make every patient I consult with realize that there is light at the end of the tunnel and a debilitating mental health disorder can be effectively treated.
I provide therapeutic services to patients of diverse backgrounds with cultural sensitivity. My methods include utilizing a pharmacotherapeutic/ psychotherapeutic approach in providing beneficial mental health care. I understand that living with a psychiatric illness can be challenging, but a positive outlook on life can be achieved with the right psychiatric care approach, which involves patient teaching and collaboration. My goal is to make every patient I consult with realize that there is light at the end of the tunnel and a debilitating mental health disorder can be effectively treated.
(331) 236-0220 View (331) 236-0220
Photo of Michael McDowell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, MSBA, MBA
Michael McDowell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, MSBA, MBA
Oak Brook, IL 60523
In my practice, I prioritize providing psychiatric care through a combination of traditional methods and innovative treatments. I specialize in medication management and the administration of Spravato, an intranasal esketamine and the only FDA-approved psychedelic therapy on the market. Spravato is designed to help patients with treatment-resistant depression and major depression with suicidal thoughts or actions.
In my practice, I prioritize providing psychiatric care through a combination of traditional methods and innovative treatments. I specialize in medication management and the administration of Spravato, an intranasal esketamine and the only FDA-approved psychedelic therapy on the market. Spravato is designed to help patients with treatment-resistant depression and major depression with suicidal thoughts or actions.
(708) 729-9807 View (708) 729-9807
Mindwell Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Request an appointment today at www.mindwell.health
Request an appointment today at www.mindwell.health
(630) 528-0049 View (630) 528-0049
Photo of Teresa Poprawski - Relief Mental Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Relief Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Dr. Poprawski specializes in the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to treat depression, OCD, and other diagnoses. Through collaboration with all providers at Relief, 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 (TMS) to treat depression, OCD, and other diagnoses. Through collaboration with all providers at Relief, 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) 276-6131 View (331) 276-6131

See more therapy options for 60523

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 60523

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 60523 who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
86% Depression
72% ADHD
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Medication Management
62% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
62% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
90% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 60523 see their clients

94% In Person and Online
6% Online Only

Gender breakdown

64% Female
36% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 60523?

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.