Psychiatrists in 61821

Photo of Amy Short, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Short
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
Amy Short is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Illinois, with a robust background in nursing leadership and specialized expertise in psychiatric care. Holding an MSN in Nursing Leadership from Chamberlain University and an additional MSN with a focus on PMHNP-BC from Maryville University, Amy combines her leadership skills with advanced psychiatric knowledge to provide comprehensive care. With a diverse clinical background, Amy has worked as a psych nurse in a hospital setting, honing her skills in addressing the complex mental health needs of individuals.
Amy Short is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Illinois, with a robust background in nursing leadership and specialized expertise in psychiatric care. Holding an MSN in Nursing Leadership from Chamberlain University and an additional MSN with a focus on PMHNP-BC from Maryville University, Amy combines her leadership skills with advanced psychiatric knowledge to provide comprehensive care. With a diverse clinical background, Amy has worked as a psych nurse in a hospital setting, honing her skills in addressing the complex mental health needs of individuals.
(309) 893-8355 View (309) 893-8355
Photo of Jodie Warsing, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jodie Warsing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Jodie, an ANCC Board-Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist, and I hold an advanced Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) with over 20 years of diverse experience in the field. Having worked in various settings, I have honed my skills and expertise to offer exceptional, compassionate care to individuals seeking to improve their mental well-being. I am deeply committed to providing client-centered, empathetic care tailored to each person's unique needs. As a DNP, my versatile role encompasses medication management, therapy, education, community mental health advocacy, and legal reform advocacy.
I am Jodie, an ANCC Board-Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist, and I hold an advanced Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) with over 20 years of diverse experience in the field. Having worked in various settings, I have honed my skills and expertise to offer exceptional, compassionate care to individuals seeking to improve their mental well-being. I am deeply committed to providing client-centered, empathetic care tailored to each person's unique needs. As a DNP, my versatile role encompasses medication management, therapy, education, community mental health advocacy, and legal reform advocacy.
(217) 386-5801 View (217) 386-5801
Photo of Kenisha D. Davis - Dr. Kenisha Davis, (Integrative Holistic Wellness), PhD, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Kenisha Davis, (Integrative Holistic Wellness)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected? Struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep, or a lack of focus and motivation? Are you ready to break free from the cycle and experience a healthier, more balanced life with fulfilling relationships? I offer a unique approach to mental health that goes beyond simply managing symptoms. Instead, I focus on uncovering the root causes of your struggles and healing from within. With a blend of functional medicine and spiritual guidance, I empower you to reclaim your vitality and achieve lasting wellness, so you can live a life of purpose, clarity, and balance.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected? Struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep, or a lack of focus and motivation? Are you ready to break free from the cycle and experience a healthier, more balanced life with fulfilling relationships? I offer a unique approach to mental health that goes beyond simply managing symptoms. Instead, I focus on uncovering the root causes of your struggles and healing from within. With a blend of functional medicine and spiritual guidance, I empower you to reclaim your vitality and achieve lasting wellness, so you can live a life of purpose, clarity, and balance.
(217) 882-0654 View (217) 882-0654
Photo of Jacqueline Bode, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Bode
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a registered nurse for 15 years, I had the privilege of caring for clients with compassion, empathy, and trustworthiness. Wanting to do more for my rural community, I pursued a degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner, enabling me to provide chronic disease management, preventive health services, and health education for eight years. For the past two years, I have focused on delivering exceptional and timely mental health care. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, stress, women’s issues, or grief, I will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.
As a registered nurse for 15 years, I had the privilege of caring for clients with compassion, empathy, and trustworthiness. Wanting to do more for my rural community, I pursued a degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner, enabling me to provide chronic disease management, preventive health services, and health education for eight years. For the past two years, I have focused on delivering exceptional and timely mental health care. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, stress, women’s issues, or grief, I will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.
(217) 759-9752 View (217) 759-9752

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $109. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $109. Accepting some insurance plans.
(309) 808-6562 View (309) 808-6562
Photo of Lauren Harrington, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Harrington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahomet, IL 61853
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed to practice in Illinois. East central IL is my home, having grown up just outside of Monticello on a cattle farm. I began my journey in mental health almost by accident, while working as a CNA. Since graduating, I have worked as an RN in adolescent, adult, and geriatric inpatient facilities, intensive outpatient for seniors, ER case management, and as an outpatient mental health nurse. I feel that I have been blessed with the opportunity to better serve and help those in our community that may be struggling with mental health needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed to practice in Illinois. East central IL is my home, having grown up just outside of Monticello on a cattle farm. I began my journey in mental health almost by accident, while working as a CNA. Since graduating, I have worked as an RN in adolescent, adult, and geriatric inpatient facilities, intensive outpatient for seniors, ER case management, and as an outpatient mental health nurse. I feel that I have been blessed with the opportunity to better serve and help those in our community that may be struggling with mental health needs.
(217) 635-3856 View (217) 635-3856
Photo of Valencia Mitonya Covington, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Valencia Mitonya Covington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Urbana, IL 61802
Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and PTSD to name a few are examples of mental health issues people struggle with every day. These mental health issues can have a significant impact on our lives. You deserve to be happy, have confidence, self-love, and enjoy life. I also prepare the paperwork required for bariatric surgery. As a provider, I utilize a comprehensive approach to diagnose and formulate individualized treatment plans that will work out for you. We now offer medication management, Gene-sight testing, and cognitive testing for disorders such as ADHD. Semaglutide & Zepbound are also available for your weight loss needs.
Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and PTSD to name a few are examples of mental health issues people struggle with every day. These mental health issues can have a significant impact on our lives. You deserve to be happy, have confidence, self-love, and enjoy life. I also prepare the paperwork required for bariatric surgery. As a provider, I utilize a comprehensive approach to diagnose and formulate individualized treatment plans that will work out for you. We now offer medication management, Gene-sight testing, and cognitive testing for disorders such as ADHD. Semaglutide & Zepbound are also available for your weight loss needs.
(404) 586-4079 View (404) 586-4079
Photo of Melissa Glass, AGCNS, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Glass
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGCNS, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is an adult experiencing challenges related to ADHD, such as difficulty focusing, managing tasks, or maintaining relationships. They seek clarity, effective treatment, and tools to manage their symptoms. Their goal is to feel empowered, improve their quality of life, and achieve personal and professional success.
My ideal client is an adult experiencing challenges related to ADHD, such as difficulty focusing, managing tasks, or maintaining relationships. They seek clarity, effective treatment, and tools to manage their symptoms. Their goal is to feel empowered, improve their quality of life, and achieve personal and professional success.
(217) 767-5656 View (217) 767-5656
Photo of Jacqueline Horne, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Horne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client seeks compassionate care for managing chronic conditions, weight loss, or hormone therapy. They want personalized treatment plans to achieve better health, prevent hospitalizations, and improve quality of life. They value open communication and holistic, patient-centered care.
My ideal client seeks compassionate care for managing chronic conditions, weight loss, or hormone therapy. They want personalized treatment plans to achieve better health, prevent hospitalizations, and improve quality of life. They value open communication and holistic, patient-centered care.
(217) 302-9506 View (217) 302-9506
Photo of Dan Foutch, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dan Foutch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahomet, IL 61853
Mental illness affects people from all walks of life and does not discriminate. I understand this and feel that everyone deserves compassionate treatment regardless of race, political affiliation, gender identity, sexual preference, or religious beliefs. I strive to provide trauma-informed care to all of my clients. This directly impacts my approach to treatment and has given me the ability to connect with my clients on a fundamental level. I understand that getting help can be difficult and that medication is not right for everyone. I will work with you to determine what is the best course of treatment for you.
Mental illness affects people from all walks of life and does not discriminate. I understand this and feel that everyone deserves compassionate treatment regardless of race, political affiliation, gender identity, sexual preference, or religious beliefs. I strive to provide trauma-informed care to all of my clients. This directly impacts my approach to treatment and has given me the ability to connect with my clients on a fundamental level. I understand that getting help can be difficult and that medication is not right for everyone. I will work with you to determine what is the best course of treatment for you.
(217) 680-2593 View (217) 680-2593
Photo of Kelly Karr, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly Karr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner as well as a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, licensed to practice in the state of Illinois. I have been practicing since 2008 with various past nursing experiences both inpatient and outpatient in areas including cardiac stepdown, the emergency department, internal medicine, and urgent care. During the pandemic, I decided to focus on psychiatry after seeing an increased need for mental health providers and extensive wait times for quality care. I genuinely love what I do and the patients I see.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner as well as a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, licensed to practice in the state of Illinois. I have been practicing since 2008 with various past nursing experiences both inpatient and outpatient in areas including cardiac stepdown, the emergency department, internal medicine, and urgent care. During the pandemic, I decided to focus on psychiatry after seeing an increased need for mental health providers and extensive wait times for quality care. I genuinely love what I do and the patients I see.
(217) 516-3601 View (217) 516-3601
Photo of Heather Irelan, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Irelan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Your journey is uniquely yours, and I’m here to meet you where you are. Through years of compassionate listening, I’ve connected with people who’ve felt isolated, misunderstood, or judged. These experiences have deepened my belief in the power of empathy and trust in healing. I understand that seeking help can be challenging, especially with the fear of judgment or lack of resources. My goal is to create a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where you feel supported and empowered to take charge of your mental health. We each have our own mental health experiences. You don't have to figure it out alone! I will help support you!
Your journey is uniquely yours, and I’m here to meet you where you are. Through years of compassionate listening, I’ve connected with people who’ve felt isolated, misunderstood, or judged. These experiences have deepened my belief in the power of empathy and trust in healing. I understand that seeking help can be challenging, especially with the fear of judgment or lack of resources. My goal is to create a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where you feel supported and empowered to take charge of your mental health. We each have our own mental health experiences. You don't have to figure it out alone! I will help support you!
(217) 833-8643 View (217) 833-8643
Photo of Dr. Chibuzo Lasisi, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Chibuzo Lasisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi there, I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I emphasize holistic care that combines insight-oriented and skills-based approaches. I gently guide clients to explore the root causes of their symptoms, fostering a deeper understanding of their emotional and relational patterns. At the same time, I provide practical strategies, focusing on therapeutic techniques to help clients feel better in the present moment.
Hi there, I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I emphasize holistic care that combines insight-oriented and skills-based approaches. I gently guide clients to explore the root causes of their symptoms, fostering a deeper understanding of their emotional and relational patterns. At the same time, I provide practical strategies, focusing on therapeutic techniques to help clients feel better in the present moment.
(708) 726-4982 View (708) 726-4982
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
View
Photo of Jaime Cash, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jaime Cash
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We are not meant to face life’s challenges alone. Oftentimes, the path to healing and overall well-being begins with connection. A guide who is able to create a safe space as they walk beside you, is what makes it possible to brave this journey.
We are not meant to face life’s challenges alone. Oftentimes, the path to healing and overall well-being begins with connection. A guide who is able to create a safe space as they walk beside you, is what makes it possible to brave this journey.
(309) 396-6886 View (309) 396-6886
Photo of Jodi Juenger, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jodi Juenger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and am dually certified in Family and Psychiatric medicine. Initially, I obtained my Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Degree, as I was unsure of what area of medicine I was interested in. All I knew was that I had a burning desire to improve my patients' overall health and well-being through independent practice. In 2019, I began thinking it was time to start focusing on my passion for mental health. I obtained my Master’s Degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and am Board Certified.I believe an individual must be treated as a whole and not by illness alone.
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and am dually certified in Family and Psychiatric medicine. Initially, I obtained my Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Degree, as I was unsure of what area of medicine I was interested in. All I knew was that I had a burning desire to improve my patients' overall health and well-being through independent practice. In 2019, I began thinking it was time to start focusing on my passion for mental health. I obtained my Master’s Degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and am Board Certified.I believe an individual must be treated as a whole and not by illness alone.
(217) 687-1369 View (217) 687-1369
Photo of Krushen Pillay, DO, Psychiatrist
Krushen Pillay
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Note: My calendar has gotten quite busy lately, but I'd like to invite you to get in touch, as circumstances can shift, and I have colleagues who may have openings to help you. Dr. Krushen Pillay DO is a highly skilled adult and geriatric psychiatrist with an impressive educational background. He successfully completed his residency training at Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University, where he excelled as the Chief Resident for two years. Prior to that, he obtained his medical education from Des Moines University and completed his undergraduate studies at the prestigious University of Southern California.
Note: My calendar has gotten quite busy lately, but I'd like to invite you to get in touch, as circumstances can shift, and I have colleagues who may have openings to help you. Dr. Krushen Pillay DO is a highly skilled adult and geriatric psychiatrist with an impressive educational background. He successfully completed his residency training at Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University, where he excelled as the Chief Resident for two years. Prior to that, he obtained his medical education from Des Moines University and completed his undergraduate studies at the prestigious University of Southern California.
(708) 734-6185 View (708) 734-6185
Photo of Nicole Alexander, APRN, PMHNP, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FPA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new clients! My ideal client is someone navigating anxiety, depression, or both, feeling stuck or overwhelmed by their thoughts and emotions. They seek relief from persistent symptoms like worry, sadness, or difficulty concentrating, and need tailored support through medication and therapy. Their goal is to regain emotional balance, build resilience, and rediscover joy in their life. They want a trusted partner who listens, understands their unique struggles, and empowers them to move forward with tools and strategies that truly work for them.
Accepting new clients! My ideal client is someone navigating anxiety, depression, or both, feeling stuck or overwhelmed by their thoughts and emotions. They seek relief from persistent symptoms like worry, sadness, or difficulty concentrating, and need tailored support through medication and therapy. Their goal is to regain emotional balance, build resilience, and rediscover joy in their life. They want a trusted partner who listens, understands their unique struggles, and empowers them to move forward with tools and strategies that truly work for them.
(872) 268-6894 View (872) 268-6894
Photo of Jessica Lepe White, MMS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Jessica Lepe White
Physician Assistant, MMS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I approach each patient with a holistic approach. I strive to make a personalized connection with each patient in an effort to find the best individualized treatment. While I prescribe medication, I walk you through options so that we can choose what works best for you. I will do my best to ensure you are comfortable with every aspect of your care. I also aim to use the least amount of medication to help your symptoms.
I approach each patient with a holistic approach. I strive to make a personalized connection with each patient in an effort to find the best individualized treatment. While I prescribe medication, I walk you through options so that we can choose what works best for you. I will do my best to ensure you are comfortable with every aspect of your care. I also aim to use the least amount of medication to help your symptoms.
(331) 216-1374 View (331) 216-1374
Photo of Allison Sikorsky - At Your Service Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
At Your Service Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. We care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.
To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. We care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.

See more therapy options for 61821

Nearby Searches for 61821

See More Psychiatrists

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 61821

< 10

Psychiatrists in 61821 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Life Transitions
75% ADHD
75% Grief

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 61821 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 61821?

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.