Psychiatrists in 62279

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Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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Photo of Brandy Eichelberger, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandy Eichelberger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Swansea, IL 62226
Are you tired of not being able to think, feel and react in the ways that you need and want to live your life? Are you ready for a change? I can help you by gathering an extensive psychiatric evaluation, brief psychotherapy and initiation and monitoring psychopharmacological treatment. I am Brandy, founder of Optimum Mental Health Healing. I am a highly respected board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP) and psychiatric nurse practitioner located in Illinois. I have 20 years of experience in mental health 14 years as a registered nurse and 6 years as a nurse practitioner.
Are you tired of not being able to think, feel and react in the ways that you need and want to live your life? Are you ready for a change? I can help you by gathering an extensive psychiatric evaluation, brief psychotherapy and initiation and monitoring psychopharmacological treatment. I am Brandy, founder of Optimum Mental Health Healing. I am a highly respected board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP) and psychiatric nurse practitioner located in Illinois. I have 20 years of experience in mental health 14 years as a registered nurse and 6 years as a nurse practitioner.
(618) 266-8415 View (618) 266-8415
Photo of Madelyn Hindia, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62226
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression, who is seeking effective and compassionate care. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms impacting their daily life and are looking for guidance in finding the right medications to regain balance and focus. Their goal is to improve their mental clarity, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life through a customized and thoughtful treatment approach.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression, who is seeking effective and compassionate care. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms impacting their daily life and are looking for guidance in finding the right medications to regain balance and focus. Their goal is to improve their mental clarity, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life through a customized and thoughtful treatment approach.
(618) 778-3627 View (618) 778-3627
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
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
Are you feeling powerless, tired, stressed? Are you ready to experience a healthier balanced life with stronger relationships with others? Kenisha takes a completely different approach to health. It's less about medicating symptoms and more about finding the underlying cause and fixing it, so you get back on track towards vibrant health. Our wellness programs have successfully helped clients address many conditions/symptoms including: Depression, ADHD, Trauma, Bipolar, Stress, Alcohol Use Disorder, Pre-Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Chronic Fatigue, Horomone Imbalances, AutoImmune Disease, Gut Issues, Headaches & Obesity.
Are you feeling powerless, tired, stressed? Are you ready to experience a healthier balanced life with stronger relationships with others? Kenisha takes a completely different approach to health. It's less about medicating symptoms and more about finding the underlying cause and fixing it, so you get back on track towards vibrant health. Our wellness programs have successfully helped clients address many conditions/symptoms including: Depression, ADHD, Trauma, Bipolar, Stress, Alcohol Use Disorder, Pre-Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Chronic Fatigue, Horomone Imbalances, AutoImmune Disease, Gut Issues, Headaches & Obesity.
(217) 882-0654 View (217) 882-0654
Photo of Gil Gutierrez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gil Gutierrez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am here to help people who prioritize their mental health but don't necessarily work traditional hours. I worked the night shift over 12 years and know the challenges of such a schedule. The stressors of life are more difficult when you can't sleep, feel stressed, or have anxiety. Finding help shouldn't be that difficult so I offer flexible scheduling so you get the help when you need it most.
I am here to help people who prioritize their mental health but don't necessarily work traditional hours. I worked the night shift over 12 years and know the challenges of such a schedule. The stressors of life are more difficult when you can't sleep, feel stressed, or have anxiety. Finding help shouldn't be that difficult so I offer flexible scheduling so you get the help when you need it most.
(618) 448-5217 View (618) 448-5217
Photo of Madelyn Hindia, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Swansea, IL 62226
Hello, I'm Madelyn Hindia, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a certification in perinatal mental health. My passion lies in supporting women through their unique mental health journeys, especially during pivotal moments such as pregnancy, postpartum, and when facing challenges like infertility or pregnancy and infant loss. I also have a strong background in addressing sexual dysfunction and a wide range of general psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I believe in treating each of my patients with a non-judgmental, empathetic approach.
Hello, I'm Madelyn Hindia, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a certification in perinatal mental health. My passion lies in supporting women through their unique mental health journeys, especially during pivotal moments such as pregnancy, postpartum, and when facing challenges like infertility or pregnancy and infant loss. I also have a strong background in addressing sexual dysfunction and a wide range of general psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I believe in treating each of my patients with a non-judgmental, empathetic approach.
(618) 787-5326 View (618) 787-5326
Photo of Rachel L Thomas - Rachel Thomas Psychiatry, APRN-BC, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Thomas Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Waterloo, IL 62298
"Whatever it Takes!!" is my motto. My practice style is highly dynamic, collaborative and is developed for and based on YOU!! I provide insightful evaluation and understanding of your concerns and we work closely together to quickly implement whatever therapeutic modality is needed to help you perform and live to your potential. My patients are gifted, professional and top performers. It is my joy to be included on your journey. :) Ketamine is offered as well.
"Whatever it Takes!!" is my motto. My practice style is highly dynamic, collaborative and is developed for and based on YOU!! I provide insightful evaluation and understanding of your concerns and we work closely together to quickly implement whatever therapeutic modality is needed to help you perform and live to your potential. My patients are gifted, professional and top performers. It is my joy to be included on your journey. :) Ketamine is offered as well.
(413) 339-3604 View (413) 339-3604
Photo of Crystal Stone - New Leaf Behavioral Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
New Leaf Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62220
Empowering Minds, Transforming Lives: Your Path to Holistic Wellness! As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care that bridges the gap between mental and physical health. My approach is holistic, focusing on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—to help you achieve your wellness goals.
Empowering Minds, Transforming Lives: Your Path to Holistic Wellness! As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care that bridges the gap between mental and physical health. My approach is holistic, focusing on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—to help you achieve your wellness goals.
(618) 602-2747 View (618) 602-2747
Photo of Christopher Lynn, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christopher Lynn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Steeleville, IL 62288
I look forward to the prospect of working with you. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, psychiatric medication management and supportive therapy for adult clients ages 18 and above. I am double board-certified as a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated to maximizing your health and wellness by integrating traditional healthcare with complementary/alternative therapies in order to prevent/manage chronic illness and promote a healthy lifestyle.
I look forward to the prospect of working with you. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, psychiatric medication management and supportive therapy for adult clients ages 18 and above. I am double board-certified as a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated to maximizing your health and wellness by integrating traditional healthcare with complementary/alternative therapies in order to prevent/manage chronic illness and promote a healthy lifestyle.
(773) 918-2047 View (773) 918-2047
Photo of Brandy Eichelberger, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandy Eichelberger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Swansea, IL 62226
I found my greatest worth in treating individuals struggling with the challenges of life using a patient-centered and evidence-based approach. I connect and build therapeutic rapport with my patients through compassion, integrity, good communication skills and simply treating them how I want myself and my family to be treated.
I found my greatest worth in treating individuals struggling with the challenges of life using a patient-centered and evidence-based approach. I connect and build therapeutic rapport with my patients through compassion, integrity, good communication skills and simply treating them how I want myself and my family to be treated.
(618) 423-8309 View (618) 423-8309

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Gerthy Cipus Pierre - Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
(618) 892-5128 View (618) 892-5128
Photo of Brittni Roldan - Britt the NP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Britt the NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, IL 62864
Hello! I'm Britt ;) Thank you for visiting! My goals are to help your reach your goals and full potential. I love getting to know people and hearing your unique story. My goals are to use my listening skills and experience as a family & psych NP to help you identify and work on any issues. I am developing more interest in the integrative approach to health so will be exploring that more. I am open to working with you in flexible ways to deliver care that is meaningful to you. I have an open mind approach to life and care. I do not prescribe controlled meds.
Hello! I'm Britt ;) Thank you for visiting! My goals are to help your reach your goals and full potential. I love getting to know people and hearing your unique story. My goals are to use my listening skills and experience as a family & psych NP to help you identify and work on any issues. I am developing more interest in the integrative approach to health so will be exploring that more. I am open to working with you in flexible ways to deliver care that is meaningful to you. I have an open mind approach to life and care. I do not prescribe controlled meds.
(618) 353-0920 View (618) 353-0920
Photo of Ebele Nnenna Iloabachie, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ebele Nnenna Iloabachie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia or any other mood alterations ? I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois with prescriptive authority. I received a BSN and master's degrees from Saint Louis University, a post- master degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati. I believe that my dual certification puts me in a unique position to provide highly specialized, patient-centered holistic care that takes into consideration, the patient's physical ailments.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia or any other mood alterations ? I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois with prescriptive authority. I received a BSN and master's degrees from Saint Louis University, a post- master degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati. I believe that my dual certification puts me in a unique position to provide highly specialized, patient-centered holistic care that takes into consideration, the patient's physical ailments.
(618) 493-2907 View (618) 493-2907
Photo of Tamara Young, DNP, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tamara Young
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Maryville, IL 62062
HI! My name is Tamara Young. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a certified nurse midwife. I am the provider and the Owner of Innovative Women's Healthcare. I believe in providing care to the woman both mind and body, providing both psychiatric and gynecological care. Being a Midwife for 20 years, I am very comfortable with pregnancy and postpartum depression, anxiety and mood disorders. Please call to schedule an evaluation. In most cases, we are able to get you scheduled within a week, and often, same-day appointments can be available.
HI! My name is Tamara Young. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a certified nurse midwife. I am the provider and the Owner of Innovative Women's Healthcare. I believe in providing care to the woman both mind and body, providing both psychiatric and gynecological care. Being a Midwife for 20 years, I am very comfortable with pregnancy and postpartum depression, anxiety and mood disorders. Please call to schedule an evaluation. In most cases, we are able to get you scheduled within a week, and often, same-day appointments can be available.
(618) 933-8318 View (618) 933-8318
Photo of Carrie Helle - Carrie Helle Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carrie Helle Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Carrie Helle, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric & Family Nurse Practitioner in Illinois and Indiana. Are you feeling weighed down by depression, anxiety, mood swings, or having sleep issues? Do these challenges impact your daily life, relationships, or career, leaving you feeling drained, overwhelmed, or frustrated? You're not alone. At Beacon Health LLC, we understand the unique struggles that so many face, especially now when stress and mental health challenges are at an all-time high. There is hope, and there are effective treatments to help you feel better.
Hello, I'm Carrie Helle, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric & Family Nurse Practitioner in Illinois and Indiana. Are you feeling weighed down by depression, anxiety, mood swings, or having sleep issues? Do these challenges impact your daily life, relationships, or career, leaving you feeling drained, overwhelmed, or frustrated? You're not alone. At Beacon Health LLC, we understand the unique struggles that so many face, especially now when stress and mental health challenges are at an all-time high. There is hope, and there are effective treatments to help you feel better.
(309) 316-8017 View (309) 316-8017
Photo of Theresa DeBord, PMHNP, MAT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa DeBord
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have been assisting the public for over Twenty-five years starting first as a Registered Nurse at a level 1 Trauma Center, Pediatrics, and Emergency medicine. I transitioned over from medical to mental health in 2016 when I realized there was and remains to be a need for mental health treatment. I truly love engaging with my clients while also assisting them with mental health management. While my main role is medication management, I also assist with therapy.
I have been assisting the public for over Twenty-five years starting first as a Registered Nurse at a level 1 Trauma Center, Pediatrics, and Emergency medicine. I transitioned over from medical to mental health in 2016 when I realized there was and remains to be a need for mental health treatment. I truly love engaging with my clients while also assisting them with mental health management. While my main role is medication management, I also assist with therapy.
(618) 200-3790 View (618) 200-3790
Photo of Gerthy Cipus Pierre - Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
(618) 851-2944 View (618) 851-2944
Photo of Monique L Manderson - Stages Health & Wellness, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stages Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with depression, stress, or anxiety? As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, also certified in Family Medicine, I provide compassionate, holistic care tailored to your unique needs. Serving preteens, teens, adults, and the elderly, I offer both evaluations and medication management through secure, HIPAA-compliant Tele-psychiatry video conferences. For clients in Florida, I also provide in-person services, ensuring accessible, personalized support wherever you are.
Are you struggling with depression, stress, or anxiety? As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, also certified in Family Medicine, I provide compassionate, holistic care tailored to your unique needs. Serving preteens, teens, adults, and the elderly, I offer both evaluations and medication management through secure, HIPAA-compliant Tele-psychiatry video conferences. For clients in Florida, I also provide in-person services, ensuring accessible, personalized support wherever you are.
(863) 431-9217 View (863) 431-9217
Photo of JoEllen Juenger - Fundamental Behavioral Health, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fundamental Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
As Nurse Practitioners, with specialized training in both Family and Psychiatric medicine, our core objective is to enhance the overall well-being and mental healthcare of our patients. We take utmost pride in our commitment to deliver the highest quality care, utilizing our gained knowledge and expertise to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. This is achieved by adopting a comprehensive approach to patient care, where we recognize that the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of our patient’s health are interconnected.
As Nurse Practitioners, with specialized training in both Family and Psychiatric medicine, our core objective is to enhance the overall well-being and mental healthcare of our patients. We take utmost pride in our commitment to deliver the highest quality care, utilizing our gained knowledge and expertise to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. This is achieved by adopting a comprehensive approach to patient care, where we recognize that the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of our patient’s health are interconnected.
(618) 266-3261 View (618) 266-3261

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FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 62279?

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.