Psychiatrists in 60611

Photo of Dr. Raymond Gonzales, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Raymond Gonzales
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Dr. Raymond Gonzales, MD is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. He provides compassionate, expert care to children, teens, and young adults in Illinois, addressing mental health challenges throughout the life span, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD and many others. Dr. Gonzales takes a collaborative approach, combining evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and behavioral techniques with medication management to create personalized treatment plans for his patients.
Dr. Raymond Gonzales, MD is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. He provides compassionate, expert care to children, teens, and young adults in Illinois, addressing mental health challenges throughout the life span, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD and many others. Dr. Gonzales takes a collaborative approach, combining evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and behavioral techniques with medication management to create personalized treatment plans for his patients.
(872) 328-4752 View (872) 328-4752
Photo of Melissa Berendt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Berendt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and autism, my approach centers on providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. I believe in a collaborative process, drawing from both my advanced training and professional experiences to create a therapeutic environment that truly respects your individual journey. To best support your healing, I integrate therapies such as Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) with personalized medication management. My goal is to empower you with the tools and strategies needed to navigate life’s challenges.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and autism, my approach centers on providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. I believe in a collaborative process, drawing from both my advanced training and professional experiences to create a therapeutic environment that truly respects your individual journey. To best support your healing, I integrate therapies such as Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) with personalized medication management. My goal is to empower you with the tools and strategies needed to navigate life’s challenges.
(312) 248-7232 View (312) 248-7232
Photo of Angela Jalloh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Jalloh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Reparo Health, we take a personalized, compassionate approach to mental health care. With over 21 years of experience as a registered nurse and 1 year as a Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to understanding your unique journey and providing the support you need to thrive. We start by truly listening to your concerns, understanding your symptoms, and aligning your treatment with your personal values and goals. Together, we'll create a realistic, tailored plan to help you regain stability and improve your overall well-being. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or psychosis, I will guide you toward healing.
At Reparo Health, we take a personalized, compassionate approach to mental health care. With over 21 years of experience as a registered nurse and 1 year as a Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to understanding your unique journey and providing the support you need to thrive. We start by truly listening to your concerns, understanding your symptoms, and aligning your treatment with your personal values and goals. Together, we'll create a realistic, tailored plan to help you regain stability and improve your overall well-being. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or psychosis, I will guide you toward healing.
(800) 494-6163 View (800) 494-6163
Photo of Olivia Russ, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivia Russ
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! My name is Olivia, and I'm a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing holistic care for individuals struggling with mental health concerns. Are you tired of feeling lost or uncertain about how to manage your symptoms? Do you yearn for guidance from an experienced provider who can help you navigate the complexities of mental health treatment? Let's work together to create a more fulfilling future by exploring the underlying causes of your symptoms, identifying any co-occurring conditions, and developing a customized treatment plan.
Hi! My name is Olivia, and I'm a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing holistic care for individuals struggling with mental health concerns. Are you tired of feeling lost or uncertain about how to manage your symptoms? Do you yearn for guidance from an experienced provider who can help you navigate the complexities of mental health treatment? Let's work together to create a more fulfilling future by exploring the underlying causes of your symptoms, identifying any co-occurring conditions, and developing a customized treatment plan.
(872) 312-9116 View (872) 312-9116
Photo of Michael Bonifacio, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Bonifacio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I'm Michael. I bring over two decades of diverse healthcare experience to my practice, with a genuine commitment to a people-centered, compassionate, and holistic care. I am dedicated to transforming mental healthcare into a journey of understanding, personal growth, and enduring positive outcomes. I tailor individualized treatment plans that prioritize the unique needs of each patient, and I foster a therapeutic alliance, creating a safe space for open dialogue that advances mental well-being. Beyond the clinical setting, I find joy in the culinary arts, travel adventures, and the discipline of aikido.
Hi, I'm Michael. I bring over two decades of diverse healthcare experience to my practice, with a genuine commitment to a people-centered, compassionate, and holistic care. I am dedicated to transforming mental healthcare into a journey of understanding, personal growth, and enduring positive outcomes. I tailor individualized treatment plans that prioritize the unique needs of each patient, and I foster a therapeutic alliance, creating a safe space for open dialogue that advances mental well-being. Beyond the clinical setting, I find joy in the culinary arts, travel adventures, and the discipline of aikido.
(872) 217-3295 View (872) 217-3295
Photo of Karen Joseph - Infinite Wellness Healthcare, PLLC (Illinois), MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Infinite Wellness Healthcare, PLLC (Illinois)
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Verified Verified
Online Only
This is a medication based, traditional, small psychiatric practice. I see children and adults, NP sees adults and late teens.
This is a medication based, traditional, small psychiatric practice. I see children and adults, NP sees adults and late teens.
(872) 282-5736 View (872) 282-5736
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. My clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH, BCBS of IL insurances.
Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. My clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH, BCBS of IL insurances.
(312) 561-3923 View (312) 561-3923
Photo of Idowu O Oshokoya, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Idowu O Oshokoya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Hi there, I'm Idowu. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Chicago, IL. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help you regain balance and improve your mental well-being. With over 12 years of experience, I specialize in treating adolescents, adults, and older adults, offering support tailored to your unique needs. I have provided cares for Veterans, minorities, children, homeless, and others at over 8 different teaching hospitals.
Hi there, I'm Idowu. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Chicago, IL. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help you regain balance and improve your mental well-being. With over 12 years of experience, I specialize in treating adolescents, adults, and older adults, offering support tailored to your unique needs. I have provided cares for Veterans, minorities, children, homeless, and others at over 8 different teaching hospitals.
(773) 232-5526 View (773) 232-5526
Photo of Kalyan N Rao, MD, Psychiatrist
Kalyan N Rao
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a specialization in addiction psychiatrist. I collaboratively work with my patients to provide the most personalized care directed toward their overall wellbeing using a holistic approach deploying all the modern tools available including but not limited to medication when appropriate, individual supportive psychotherapy, and motivational interviewing.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a specialization in addiction psychiatrist. I collaboratively work with my patients to provide the most personalized care directed toward their overall wellbeing using a holistic approach deploying all the modern tools available including but not limited to medication when appropriate, individual supportive psychotherapy, and motivational interviewing.
(312) 219-9195 View (312) 219-9195
Photo of Amer Smajkic - Amer Smajkic M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Amer Smajkic M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Since 1995, Dr. Amer Smajkic has been practicing Psychiatry in the Chicago area. As a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr Smajkic is applying his knowledge and skills as a Psycho-pharmacologist, Behaviorist and Cognitive Behavioral therapist. The focus of his care are ADHD disorders, Learning disorders, Developmental disorders, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.
Since 1995, Dr. Amer Smajkic has been practicing Psychiatry in the Chicago area. As a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr Smajkic is applying his knowledge and skills as a Psycho-pharmacologist, Behaviorist and Cognitive Behavioral therapist. The focus of his care are ADHD disorders, Learning disorders, Developmental disorders, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.
(312) 697-1173 View (312) 697-1173
Photo of Sahar Eftekhar, DO, Psychiatrist
Sahar Eftekhar
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. I obtained my subspecialist training in Addiction Psychiatry at UCLA in Los Angeles, working at Cedar Sinai Medical Center and the West Los Angeles Veterans Administration Hospital. I completed my psychiatric residency training at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. I obtained my medical degree from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed my undergraduate studies in Psychology at Michigan State University.
I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. I obtained my subspecialist training in Addiction Psychiatry at UCLA in Los Angeles, working at Cedar Sinai Medical Center and the West Los Angeles Veterans Administration Hospital. I completed my psychiatric residency training at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. I obtained my medical degree from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed my undergraduate studies in Psychology at Michigan State University.
(312) 663-8104 View (312) 663-8104
Photo of Elizabeth Adekoya, PMHNP, BC, FPA, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Adekoya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FPA, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Now accepting new patients! Hi there, I'm Elizabeth. Do you suffer from persistent sadness? Do you find yourself struggling to focus or concentrate? Or do you find yourself constantly worrying, afraid or anxious? Are you in search of a provider that is both compassionate and adequately skilled to help you treat and manage your symptoms? I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner and I help adult individuals with mood disorders and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am compassionate about helping you manage your depression, anxiety, ADHD and any other comorbidities.
Now accepting new patients! Hi there, I'm Elizabeth. Do you suffer from persistent sadness? Do you find yourself struggling to focus or concentrate? Or do you find yourself constantly worrying, afraid or anxious? Are you in search of a provider that is both compassionate and adequately skilled to help you treat and manage your symptoms? I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner and I help adult individuals with mood disorders and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am compassionate about helping you manage your depression, anxiety, ADHD and any other comorbidities.
(872) 244-6995 View (872) 244-6995
Photo of Dr. Evelyn Ukpolo (Now Accepting New Patients), DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Evelyn Ukpolo (Now Accepting New Patients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there! I'm Evelyn, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing respectful and compassionate care for individuals struggling with mood disorders and other mental health concerns. Are you plagued by persistent sadness, anxiety, or ADHD? Do you feel lost and uncertain about how to find joy in your life again? Together, we'll explore the underlying causes of your specific symptoms, assess any co-occurring conditions, and create a client-centric treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.
Hi there! I'm Evelyn, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing respectful and compassionate care for individuals struggling with mood disorders and other mental health concerns. Are you plagued by persistent sadness, anxiety, or ADHD? Do you feel lost and uncertain about how to find joy in your life again? Together, we'll explore the underlying causes of your specific symptoms, assess any co-occurring conditions, and create a client-centric treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.
(872) 241-1106 View (872) 241-1106
Photo of Michelle Wolff, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle Wolff
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Are you looking for a Psychiatry provider that listens to you and includes you in the your treatment plan? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgemental psychiatry provider that provides a comfortable, safe environment to meet? Do you want to feel empowered knowing you are on the proper medications and therapies to overcome your struggles, and turn around your life?
Are you looking for a Psychiatry provider that listens to you and includes you in the your treatment plan? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgemental psychiatry provider that provides a comfortable, safe environment to meet? Do you want to feel empowered knowing you are on the proper medications and therapies to overcome your struggles, and turn around your life?
(630) 593-7720 View (630) 593-7720
Photo of Kiran Maharaja, MD, Psychiatrist
Kiran Maharaja
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I am a friendly and insightful psychiatrist who provides compassionate, empathetic care that is tailored to your concerns. I am trained in the use of both psychotherapy and medication management to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders. I have developed expertise in anxiety, trauma, personality disorders and mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder.
I am a friendly and insightful psychiatrist who provides compassionate, empathetic care that is tailored to your concerns. I am trained in the use of both psychotherapy and medication management to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders. I have developed expertise in anxiety, trauma, personality disorders and mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder.
(312) 548-8970 View (312) 548-8970
Photo of Amanda Kleinman, MD, Psychiatrist
Amanda Kleinman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Sometimes we feel long to feel better and make positive changes but find ourselves struggling to find a way. We want to enjoy meaningful relationships and fulfilling careers, but something keeps holding us back. We want to understand our emotions and the social world around us, but no explanation is quite satisfying enough. It may feel like there is someone we need to be, but we keep coming up short. We long for genuine contentment with our lives, the fullness of gratitude, and a sense of peace with our past, present and future.
Sometimes we feel long to feel better and make positive changes but find ourselves struggling to find a way. We want to enjoy meaningful relationships and fulfilling careers, but something keeps holding us back. We want to understand our emotions and the social world around us, but no explanation is quite satisfying enough. It may feel like there is someone we need to be, but we keep coming up short. We long for genuine contentment with our lives, the fullness of gratitude, and a sense of peace with our past, present and future.
(773) 828-4081 View (773) 828-4081
Photo of Pavan Prasad - Clarity Clinic, MD, Psychiatrist
Clarity Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
We offer Psychiatric services and counseling services to those in the Chicago area
We offer Psychiatric services and counseling services to those in the Chicago area
(312) 883-8789 View (312) 883-8789
Photo of Krista Bedells, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Krista Bedells
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
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
LifeStance Health - Chicago
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
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.
(872) 231-3925 View (872) 231-3925
Photo of Theresa Towle, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa Towle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Greetings! My name is Dr. Theresa Towle. I have decades of experience providing holistic care to help heal hurt, process trauma, build resilience, and find balance. As a dual-certified family & psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner, I use evidence-based techniques to treat mind and body, including addressing the role of the gut-brain axis in anxiety, depression, trauma, attention issues, weight loss and a host of other issues. I am dedicated to working with you develop a holistic approach to care.
Greetings! My name is Dr. Theresa Towle. I have decades of experience providing holistic care to help heal hurt, process trauma, build resilience, and find balance. As a dual-certified family & psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner, I use evidence-based techniques to treat mind and body, including addressing the role of the gut-brain axis in anxiety, depression, trauma, attention issues, weight loss and a host of other issues. I am dedicated to working with you develop a holistic approach to care.
(708) 564-3560 View (708) 564-3560
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 60611

70+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 60611 who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
93% Anxiety
75% Bipolar Disorder
71% ADHD
71% Trauma and PTSD
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
60% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% Aetna
84% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 60611 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Female
34% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 60611?

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.