Psychiatrists in 60657

Photo of Ashley Talkington, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Talkington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I individualize each patient's needs, and we work together to find a treatment plan that gets you toward your goals. I use a combination of CBT, EMDR, Solution-focused therapy, and interpersonal therapy.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I individualize each patient's needs, and we work together to find a treatment plan that gets you toward your goals. I use a combination of CBT, EMDR, Solution-focused therapy, and interpersonal therapy.
(872) 282-2869 View (872) 282-2869
Photo of Juan Romero-Gaddi, Psychiatrist, MD
Juan Romero-Gaddi
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Hello there, I’m Dr. Gaddi, a physician and psychiatrist. I was born and raised in Venezuela, where I attended medical school. I completed my training as a psychiatrist at the University of Illinois in Peoria. I am the founder of Equal Mental Health, a practice dedicated to providing mental health services to the LGBTQ+ community and allies in the Northalsted neighborhood (formerly known as Boystown) in Chicago.
Hello there, I’m Dr. Gaddi, a physician and psychiatrist. I was born and raised in Venezuela, where I attended medical school. I completed my training as a psychiatrist at the University of Illinois in Peoria. I am the founder of Equal Mental Health, a practice dedicated to providing mental health services to the LGBTQ+ community and allies in the Northalsted neighborhood (formerly known as Boystown) in Chicago.
(872) 278-4016 View (872) 278-4016
Photo of Pedro Dago, Psychiatrist, MD
Pedro Dago
Psychiatrist, MD
Chicago, IL 60657
I’m a board-certified Psychiatrist with over 29 years of experience providing mental health care to individuals across a wide range of concerns. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and related challenges, with a special focus on the medication management of unipolar depression, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorder.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatrist with over 29 years of experience providing mental health care to individuals across a wide range of concerns. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and related challenges, with a special focus on the medication management of unipolar depression, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorder.
(872) 219-1890 View (872) 219-1890
Photo of Matthew Richard Mills, Psychiatrist, MD
Matthew Richard Mills
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Matthew R. Mills, M.D., is a licensed, private-practice psychiatrist located in the Lakeview Neighborhood of Chicago. Dr. Mills is Board Certified by The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Mills completed his undergraduate training at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, earned his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and is a 2006 graduate of the Psychiatry Residency and Training Program at the University of Illinois Medical Center.
Matthew R. Mills, M.D., is a licensed, private-practice psychiatrist located in the Lakeview Neighborhood of Chicago. Dr. Mills is Board Certified by The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Mills completed his undergraduate training at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, earned his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and is a 2006 graduate of the Psychiatry Residency and Training Program at the University of Illinois Medical Center.
(312) 380-0889 View (312) 380-0889
Photo of Anna Hereth, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ
Anna Hereth
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ
Chicago, IL 60657
With more than 12 years dedicated to the mental health field, my expertise lies in assisting clients seeking a psychiatric provider committed to attentive listening, advocating for their needs, and developing a patient-centered treatment plan customized to address their unique concerns and treatment objectives. I specialize in connecting with individuals who have faced trauma, and are experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, providing genuine attention to their concerns and prioritizing their goals.
With more than 12 years dedicated to the mental health field, my expertise lies in assisting clients seeking a psychiatric provider committed to attentive listening, advocating for their needs, and developing a patient-centered treatment plan customized to address their unique concerns and treatment objectives. I specialize in connecting with individuals who have faced trauma, and are experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, providing genuine attention to their concerns and prioritizing their goals.
(872) 259-5324 View (872) 259-5324
Photo of Alicia Yaeger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alicia Yaeger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Alicia, and I am a dual-certified Family and Psych Nurse Practitioner. My role is to offer resources when I can and be a mirror or sounding board when needed. We have many tools that can and should be available for everyone. My approach to healthcare is simple: we all have the capability to grow and expand our knowledge and care for ourselves and others.
Hello, my name is Alicia, and I am a dual-certified Family and Psych Nurse Practitioner. My role is to offer resources when I can and be a mirror or sounding board when needed. We have many tools that can and should be available for everyone. My approach to healthcare is simple: we all have the capability to grow and expand our knowledge and care for ourselves and others.
(872) 335-5611 View (872) 335-5611
Photo of Aliya Hussain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aliya Hussain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Aliya Hussain, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) practicing in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care through telehealth services, which allows me to support clients from all corners of the state. In my practice, I focus on a holistic approach that considers the emotional, physical, and social factors affecting my clients' well-being. By integrating various therapeutic techniques and personalized treatment plans, I strive to create a supportive environment that fosters healing and growth.
My name is Aliya Hussain, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) practicing in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care through telehealth services, which allows me to support clients from all corners of the state. In my practice, I focus on a holistic approach that considers the emotional, physical, and social factors affecting my clients' well-being. By integrating various therapeutic techniques and personalized treatment plans, I strive to create a supportive environment that fosters healing and growth.
(872) 270-6259 View (872) 270-6259
Photo of Crystal Turner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Crystal Turner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi! My name is Crystal Turner. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who treats adults 18 and older. I treat various mental health conditions including trauma. mood disorders, depression, and anxiety. My approach is compassionate and inclusive. I incorporate education into my approach as I know well-informed patients have better outcomes. I also incorporate holistic approaches to integrate into care. I commonly work with people with history of trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
Hi! My name is Crystal Turner. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who treats adults 18 and older. I treat various mental health conditions including trauma. mood disorders, depression, and anxiety. My approach is compassionate and inclusive. I incorporate education into my approach as I know well-informed patients have better outcomes. I also incorporate holistic approaches to integrate into care. I commonly work with people with history of trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
(872) 241-2118 View (872) 241-2118
Photo of Gundu Reddy - Illinois Telepsychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
(872) 281-4469 View (872) 281-4469
Photo of Tyler Burris, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Tyler Burris
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Chicago, IL 60657
I am a licensed Physician Assistant with a Master’s degree from the Yale School of Medicine practicing since 2024. My clinical experience includes working with individuals managing mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, ADHD, generalized anxiety, and PTSD in an inpatient setting. I take a patient-centered approach, aiming to provide thoughtful and evidence-based care to each person’s unique needs.
I am a licensed Physician Assistant with a Master’s degree from the Yale School of Medicine practicing since 2024. My clinical experience includes working with individuals managing mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, ADHD, generalized anxiety, and PTSD in an inpatient setting. I take a patient-centered approach, aiming to provide thoughtful and evidence-based care to each person’s unique needs.
(872) 239-3135 View (872) 239-3135
Photo of Fidelia Ujunwa Ileka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fidelia Ujunwa Ileka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am passionate about creating a warm, supportive environment where you feel safe, heard, and understood, and I’m here to support you through every step of your mental health journey. I believe in a holistic, evidence-based approach to mental health care, which combines psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle modifications.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am passionate about creating a warm, supportive environment where you feel safe, heard, and understood, and I’m here to support you through every step of your mental health journey. I believe in a holistic, evidence-based approach to mental health care, which combines psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle modifications.
(872) 274-2237 View (872) 274-2237
Photo of Audrey Rolandelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Audrey Rolandelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Audrey Rolandelli, and I am an Independent, board-certified, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois. I treat patients statewide across the lifespan. I provide medication management services along with supportive therapy. I find that the greatest success in mental health treatment comes with deeply understanding a person and viewing their current presenting symptoms as pieces of a puzzle.
My name is Audrey Rolandelli, and I am an Independent, board-certified, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois. I treat patients statewide across the lifespan. I provide medication management services along with supportive therapy. I find that the greatest success in mental health treatment comes with deeply understanding a person and viewing their current presenting symptoms as pieces of a puzzle.
(872) 205-3996 View (872) 205-3996
Photo of Ross Pepper, Psychiatrist, MD
Ross Pepper
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults. After earning my Bachelor’s in Biochemistry from Rice University, I completed my medical degree at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. I then completed my residency training at UIC in Chicago, where I focused on the individual treatment of adult patients with mood and anxiety disorders using a comprehensive approach to mental health involving medication and therapy. However, during training, I also gained valuable experience managing a vast array of conditions, including ADHD, substance use disorders, and PTSD, among many others.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults. After earning my Bachelor’s in Biochemistry from Rice University, I completed my medical degree at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. I then completed my residency training at UIC in Chicago, where I focused on the individual treatment of adult patients with mood and anxiety disorders using a comprehensive approach to mental health involving medication and therapy. However, during training, I also gained valuable experience managing a vast array of conditions, including ADHD, substance use disorders, and PTSD, among many others.
(872) 217-9251 View (872) 217-9251
Photo of Ejaz Jafri, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ejaz Jafri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Ejaz! Hello, my name is Ejaz Jafri, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a clinical career in outpatient & inpatient settings. I specialize in managing the care of adolescents & adults with depression, bipolar, anxiety, panic, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, mood disorders, personality disorders, schizoaffective disorder, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and adjustment disorders. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation, monitoring, and management.
Hi there, I'm Ejaz! Hello, my name is Ejaz Jafri, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a clinical career in outpatient & inpatient settings. I specialize in managing the care of adolescents & adults with depression, bipolar, anxiety, panic, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, mood disorders, personality disorders, schizoaffective disorder, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and adjustment disorders. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation, monitoring, and management.
(872) 309-3037 View (872) 309-3037
Photo of Michaeline Steves, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michaeline Steves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I’m Michaeline Steves! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with well over a decade of experience in healthcare. Over the years, I've gained a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in balancing work, family, and self-care. I not only specialize in medication management, but I can also tailor a holistic treatment plan.
Hi, I’m Michaeline Steves! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with well over a decade of experience in healthcare. Over the years, I've gained a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in balancing work, family, and self-care. I not only specialize in medication management, but I can also tailor a holistic treatment plan.
(872) 274-3976 View (872) 274-3976
Photo of Nicole Erdenekhuyag, Physician Assistant, PA
Nicole Erdenekhuyag
Physician Assistant, PA
Chicago, IL 60657
As a Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatry, I've been dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services in various settings, including outpatient and intensive treatment environments since 2021.
As a Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatry, I've been dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services in various settings, including outpatient and intensive treatment environments since 2021.
(872) 259-5596 View (872) 259-5596
Photo of Endia McDonald, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Endia McDonald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Chicago, IL 60657
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. I earned my bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University and my Master of Science in Nursing from DePaul University. With several years of experience in outpatient psychiatry, I believe every patient has a unique set of experiences rooted in their individual biological and social backgrounds. I find great fulfillment in learning these stories and partnering with my patients to address the challenges they face. I am committed to truly listening to my patients and recognize that change is a collaborative process.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. I earned my bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University and my Master of Science in Nursing from DePaul University. With several years of experience in outpatient psychiatry, I believe every patient has a unique set of experiences rooted in their individual biological and social backgrounds. I find great fulfillment in learning these stories and partnering with my patients to address the challenges they face. I am committed to truly listening to my patients and recognize that change is a collaborative process.
(872) 313-4393 View (872) 313-4393
Photo of Olukemi Aina, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olukemi Aina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, integrative mental health care grounded in evidence-based practices. I work collaboratively with clients to understand their unique challenges and goals, focusing on a holistic approach that includes both psychotherapy and medication management when appropriate.
As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, integrative mental health care grounded in evidence-based practices. I work collaboratively with clients to understand their unique challenges and goals, focusing on a holistic approach that includes both psychotherapy and medication management when appropriate.
(872) 274-3347 View (872) 274-3347
Photo of Melissa Vitale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Melissa Vitale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Melissa Vitale is currently accepting new patients. Melissa Vitale is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She provides general psychiatric services for adult patients who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, or thought disorders such as schizophrenia. For every new patient, Melissa provides a comprehensive initial psychiatric assessment, and offers subsequent mental health treatment including medication management and individual psychotherapy.
Melissa Vitale is currently accepting new patients. Melissa Vitale is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She provides general psychiatric services for adult patients who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, or thought disorders such as schizophrenia. For every new patient, Melissa provides a comprehensive initial psychiatric assessment, and offers subsequent mental health treatment including medication management and individual psychotherapy.
(872) 210-5897 View (872) 210-5897
Photo of Nicole Adamowicz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nicole Adamowicz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chicago, IL 60657
Hi, I'm Nicole! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. Whether you're navigating life’s challenges, managing anxiety or depression, or seeking support for personal growth, I’m here to guide and empower you. I offer medication management and evidence-based treatments tailored to your unique needs, ensuring you feel heard, understood, and supported.
Hi, I'm Nicole! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. Whether you're navigating life’s challenges, managing anxiety or depression, or seeking support for personal growth, I’m here to guide and empower you. I offer medication management and evidence-based treatments tailored to your unique needs, ensuring you feel heard, understood, and supported.
(872) 324-1022 View (872) 324-1022

See more therapy options for 60657

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 60657

60+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 60657 who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
87% Anxiety
80% ADHD
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% Bipolar Disorder
64% Medication Management
64% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
95% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 60657 see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
31% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 60657?

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.