Psychiatrists in Naperville, IL

Photo of Bill Papagiannopoulos, Psychiatrist in Naperville, IL
Bill Papagiannopoulos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540  (Online Only)
Dr. Papagiannopoulos is currently seeing patients between the ages of 12 and 60. He provides therapy sessions 1-2x weekly for his patients, in order to more deeply understand their concerns. Medications may be prescribed for his therapy patients if needed. However, he does not see patients for medication treatment alone at this time.
Dr. Papagiannopoulos is currently seeing patients between the ages of 12 and 60. He provides therapy sessions 1-2x weekly for his patients, in order to more deeply understand their concerns. Medications may be prescribed for his therapy patients if needed. However, he does not see patients for medication treatment alone at this time.
(630) 912-0517 x136 View (630) 912-0517 x136
Photo of Elizabeth Adekoya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Naperville, IL
Elizabeth Adekoya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Elizabeth. Do you you suffer from persistent sadness? Are you struggling to find joy in your day to day life? Or do you find yourself constantly worrying, afraid or anxious? Are you in search of a provider that is both compassionate and adequately skilled to help you treat and manage your symptoms? I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner. I help adult individuals with mood disorders and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am compassionate about helping you manage your depression, anxiety and any other comorbidities.
Hi there, I'm Elizabeth. Do you you suffer from persistent sadness? Are you struggling to find joy in your day to day life? Or do you find yourself constantly worrying, afraid or anxious? Are you in search of a provider that is both compassionate and adequately skilled to help you treat and manage your symptoms? I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner. I help adult individuals with mood disorders and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am compassionate about helping you manage your depression, anxiety and any other comorbidities.
(630) 454-1190 View (630) 454-1190
Photo of Arturo Ventura, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Naperville, IL
Arturo Ventura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540  (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Art Ventura. Are you scared of your own emotions? If you are, you’re definitely not alone. While we thrive for pleasant emotions, the moment we veer over to the troublesome side, rather than working on these challenges we tend to run away instead. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine I can provide a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions particularly in evaluating and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, insomnia, dementia, OCD and other issues for individuals ages 18 to 65.
Hello, I’m Art Ventura. Are you scared of your own emotions? If you are, you’re definitely not alone. While we thrive for pleasant emotions, the moment we veer over to the troublesome side, rather than working on these challenges we tend to run away instead. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine I can provide a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions particularly in evaluating and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, insomnia, dementia, OCD and other issues for individuals ages 18 to 65.
(630) 912-9446 View (630) 912-9446
Photo of Illinois Telepsychiatry, Psychiatrist in Naperville, IL
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540  (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.
(630) 349-5712 View (630) 349-5712
Photo of Tamra Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Naperville, IL
Tamra Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
As a Nurse Practitioner, I provide care for patients of all ages. My expertise is treating mood, behavioral disorders and other disorders in children and adults. I am passionate about helping my patients obtain stable mental health so that they may live their lives to the fullest. I work with each patient to ensure that they have the proper mental health counseling as well as the proper medication if medication is needed. I also encourage patients to engage in hobbies which will promote mental wellness. Self-care is so important for mental and physical well-being.
As a Nurse Practitioner, I provide care for patients of all ages. My expertise is treating mood, behavioral disorders and other disorders in children and adults. I am passionate about helping my patients obtain stable mental health so that they may live their lives to the fullest. I work with each patient to ensure that they have the proper mental health counseling as well as the proper medication if medication is needed. I also encourage patients to engage in hobbies which will promote mental wellness. Self-care is so important for mental and physical well-being.
(331) 207-9451 View (331) 207-9451
Photo of Arturo Ventura, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Naperville, IL
Arturo Ventura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Art Ventura, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, has more than 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience. Art completed his nursing school at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, obtained his masters degree at Chamberlain College of Nursing and his postmasters certification in psychiatric nursing at Regis College. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine, Art provides a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions particularly in evaluating and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, insomnia, dementia, OCD and other issues.
Art Ventura, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, has more than 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience. Art completed his nursing school at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, obtained his masters degree at Chamberlain College of Nursing and his postmasters certification in psychiatric nursing at Regis College. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine, Art provides a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions particularly in evaluating and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, insomnia, dementia, OCD and other issues.
(331) 233-1932 View (331) 233-1932
Photo of Erica Veguilla, Psychiatrist in Naperville, IL
Erica Veguilla
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
You may notice that your mental health difficulties go hand in hand with physical complaints. Or that life stressors are exacerbating anxiety or triggering a depression. Therefore, you may want a more holistic approach which looks at your medical conditions, but also potentially involves therapy, supplements, genetic testing, lifestyle interventions, and other coping tools. For example, a medical diagnosis such as infertility can feel lonely, stressful, & traumatic and at TreeLight Wellness we can develop a plan to help you deal with the complicated psychological impact of serious medical diagnoses such as infertility.
You may notice that your mental health difficulties go hand in hand with physical complaints. Or that life stressors are exacerbating anxiety or triggering a depression. Therefore, you may want a more holistic approach which looks at your medical conditions, but also potentially involves therapy, supplements, genetic testing, lifestyle interventions, and other coping tools. For example, a medical diagnosis such as infertility can feel lonely, stressful, & traumatic and at TreeLight Wellness we can develop a plan to help you deal with the complicated psychological impact of serious medical diagnoses such as infertility.
(708) 202-9859 View (708) 202-9859
Photo of iCare psychiatry and behavioral services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Naperville, IL
iCare psychiatry and behavioral services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
New Patients are welcome. Testimonials and Reviews from trusted patients for holistic and integrative approaches say a lot about her compassion for your wellness. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Rubby provides quality video consultation for Illinois residents. She offers same-day appointments, Days & Weekends. Your choice of “early morning or late evening with no wait time" that accommodates your work schedule is available. She ensures your prescription is sent electronically to the pharmacy of your choice and that your medication is received timely. You have a choice; thank you for giving her the will and trust in the treatment.
New Patients are welcome. Testimonials and Reviews from trusted patients for holistic and integrative approaches say a lot about her compassion for your wellness. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Rubby provides quality video consultation for Illinois residents. She offers same-day appointments, Days & Weekends. Your choice of “early morning or late evening with no wait time" that accommodates your work schedule is available. She ensures your prescription is sent electronically to the pharmacy of your choice and that your medication is received timely. You have a choice; thank you for giving her the will and trust in the treatment.
(630) 280-3097 View (630) 280-3097
Photo of Rubabetu Abimbola Akinola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Naperville, IL
Rubabetu Abimbola Akinola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry.
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry.
(224) 231-5384 View (224) 231-5384
Photo of Caryn Jurek, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Naperville, IL
Caryn Jurek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Caryn works with clients ages 15+ in providing prescriber services and medication management for anything from Anxiety, Depression, Social Anxiety, ADHD, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive (OCD), PTSD, PostPartum Depression, Sleep Disturbances & Insomnia to Mood Disorders / BiPolar and more.
Caryn works with clients ages 15+ in providing prescriber services and medication management for anything from Anxiety, Depression, Social Anxiety, ADHD, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive (OCD), PTSD, PostPartum Depression, Sleep Disturbances & Insomnia to Mood Disorders / BiPolar and more.
(331) 244-5104 View (331) 244-5104
Photo of Leena Vala, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Naperville, IL
Leena Vala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I am a board certified Nurse Practitioner, providing compassionate and supportive care, to promote healing and growth of my patients. As a strong advocate for mental wellbeing, I understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. I offer same week appointment accommodate my patients. I am an empathetic care provider approaching each patient from an individualistic perspective and emphasizing patient specific treatment goals. I provide a thorough evaluation and treatment plan in coherence with medication management focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, mood disorder, PTSD and other mental health conditions.
I am a board certified Nurse Practitioner, providing compassionate and supportive care, to promote healing and growth of my patients. As a strong advocate for mental wellbeing, I understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. I offer same week appointment accommodate my patients. I am an empathetic care provider approaching each patient from an individualistic perspective and emphasizing patient specific treatment goals. I provide a thorough evaluation and treatment plan in coherence with medication management focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, mood disorder, PTSD and other mental health conditions.
(331) 207-9792 View (331) 207-9792
Photo of Ruhina Ali, Psychiatrist in Naperville, IL
Ruhina Ali
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Dr. Ruhina N. Ali is a Psychiatrist in Illinois. She studied General Psychiatry and completed a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Virginia Tech Carilion Clinic and graduated from St. Matthew's College of Medicine. Dr. Ali looks at the whole person, the family, and all environmental factors when she approaches patient care. She uses the latest scientific research and evidence-based practice to build a treatment plan with the patient and family. And Dr. Ali uses compassion and empathy to help patients and families heal.
Dr. Ruhina N. Ali is a Psychiatrist in Illinois. She studied General Psychiatry and completed a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Virginia Tech Carilion Clinic and graduated from St. Matthew's College of Medicine. Dr. Ali looks at the whole person, the family, and all environmental factors when she approaches patient care. She uses the latest scientific research and evidence-based practice to build a treatment plan with the patient and family. And Dr. Ali uses compassion and empathy to help patients and families heal.
(630) 407-1872 View (630) 407-1872
Photo of Abid Nazeer, Psychiatrist in Naperville, IL
Abid Nazeer
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Abid K. Nazeer M.D., FASAM is a practicing psychiatrist with board certifications in both psychiatry and addiction medicine. Dr. Nazeer is the Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director of Hopemark Health and is Vice President of the American Association of Psychedelics. In 2016, he founded Advanced Psychiatric Solutions, now Hopemark Health, pioneering the first dedicated outpatient psychiatric based ketamine clinic in the Midwest. Hopemark Health has successfully completed over 4500 IV ketamine treatments for mental health and substance use disorders in a comprehensive care model.
Dr. Abid K. Nazeer M.D., FASAM is a practicing psychiatrist with board certifications in both psychiatry and addiction medicine. Dr. Nazeer is the Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director of Hopemark Health and is Vice President of the American Association of Psychedelics. In 2016, he founded Advanced Psychiatric Solutions, now Hopemark Health, pioneering the first dedicated outpatient psychiatric based ketamine clinic in the Midwest. Hopemark Health has successfully completed over 4500 IV ketamine treatments for mental health and substance use disorders in a comprehensive care model.
(630) 360-8215 View (630) 360-8215
Photo of Craig Kestenberg, Psychiatrist in Naperville, IL
Craig Kestenberg
Psychiatrist, DO
Not Verified Not Verified
Naperville, IL 60564
Dr. Craig Kestenberg is a Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 2001. He has a D.O. degree with Residency Training in Psychiatry as well as Fellowship Training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He is board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Child And Adolescent Psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Kestenberg enjoys providing patients and their family members with the most appropriate patient-centered treatment options, which is based on his great medical knowledge from past training, continuing education, and a variety of clinical experiences.
Dr. Craig Kestenberg is a Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 2001. He has a D.O. degree with Residency Training in Psychiatry as well as Fellowship Training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He is board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Child And Adolescent Psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Kestenberg enjoys providing patients and their family members with the most appropriate patient-centered treatment options, which is based on his great medical knowledge from past training, continuing education, and a variety of clinical experiences.
(630) 349-7803 View (630) 349-7803
Photo of Advanced Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatrist in Naperville, IL
Advanced Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Advanced Behavioral Health Services is guided by the principle of giving people the best possible service. Our mission is to help people enjoy life to the fullest. We are committed to helping people cope with their behavioral and mental health issues so that they are able to live independently and - if possible - take a proactive stance on their own treatment. Advanced Behavioral Health Services puts the welfare of their clients first. Our specialists take time to establish rapport and get to know each client. This way, we are able to determine early on if our professional relationship would lead to progress in the client's quality of life. Each expert at Advanced Behavioral Health Services operates from the perspective that each client is our partner in treatment. After all, it is the client's response to treatment that determines our success or failure.
Advanced Behavioral Health Services is guided by the principle of giving people the best possible service. Our mission is to help people enjoy life to the fullest. We are committed to helping people cope with their behavioral and mental health issues so that they are able to live independently and - if possible - take a proactive stance on their own treatment. Advanced Behavioral Health Services puts the welfare of their clients first. Our specialists take time to establish rapport and get to know each client. This way, we are able to determine early on if our professional relationship would lead to progress in the client's quality of life. Each expert at Advanced Behavioral Health Services operates from the perspective that each client is our partner in treatment. After all, it is the client's response to treatment that determines our success or failure.
(331) 204-1791 View (331) 204-1791
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist in Naperville, IL
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
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.
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Photo of Mitchell Kordzikowski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Naperville, IL
Mitchell Kordzikowski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
My approach to care is open, nonjudgmental, and collaborative. I make use of motivational interviewing techniques and dialogue during my sessions mixed with aspects of both solution focused brief therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I strongly believe in a holistic approach to treatment; addressing issues related to clients’ physical, mental, spiritual, and social needs.
My approach to care is open, nonjudgmental, and collaborative. I make use of motivational interviewing techniques and dialogue during my sessions mixed with aspects of both solution focused brief therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I strongly believe in a holistic approach to treatment; addressing issues related to clients’ physical, mental, spiritual, and social needs.
(331) 871-7038 x4 View (331) 871-7038 x4
Photo of Elizabeth Hozian, Psychiatrist in Naperville, IL
Elizabeth Hozian
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Elizabeth Hozian is a double board-certified psychiatrist who works with adults and adolescents over 15 years old. She completed her residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL, and served as chief child/adolescent fellow at the University of Chicago. Through a collaborative approach, Dr. Hozian employs therapeutic techniques and evidence-based medications to address your mental health concerns and improve overall well-being. She strives to create an environment where you can feel heard and understood.
Elizabeth Hozian is a double board-certified psychiatrist who works with adults and adolescents over 15 years old. She completed her residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL, and served as chief child/adolescent fellow at the University of Chicago. Through a collaborative approach, Dr. Hozian employs therapeutic techniques and evidence-based medications to address your mental health concerns and improve overall well-being. She strives to create an environment where you can feel heard and understood.
(630) 412-7677 View (630) 412-7677
Photo of Courtney Wiseman, Psychiatrist in Naperville, IL
Courtney Wiseman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Dr. Courtney Wiseman, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, expertly treats psychiatric disorders for patients over the age of 18. Dr. Wiseman received BA from University of Notre Dame and an MD from Georgetown University. She completed her residency in psychiatry at University of Illinois, Chicago while simultaneously earning an MA in public health at University of Chicago. Following her residency, she moved to Boston to become the attending psychiatrist at Cambridge Hospital.
Dr. Courtney Wiseman, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, expertly treats psychiatric disorders for patients over the age of 18. Dr. Wiseman received BA from University of Notre Dame and an MD from Georgetown University. She completed her residency in psychiatry at University of Illinois, Chicago while simultaneously earning an MA in public health at University of Chicago. Following her residency, she moved to Boston to become the attending psychiatrist at Cambridge Hospital.
(331) 207-9218 View (331) 207-9218
Photo of Anmol N Tolani, Psychiatrist in Naperville, IL
Anmol N Tolani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I completed residency at Case Western Reserve University with expertise in various settings, including direct patient care, addiction programs, and specialized clinics. With a focus on medication management for adult and geriatric patients, I gained rewarding experience, particularly in serving those facing challenging circumstances.
I completed residency at Case Western Reserve University with expertise in various settings, including direct patient care, addiction programs, and specialized clinics. With a focus on medication management for adult and geriatric patients, I gained rewarding experience, particularly in serving those facing challenging circumstances.
(630) 228-1784 View (630) 228-1784

See more therapy options for Naperville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Naperville, IL

70+

Average cost per session

$202

Psychiatrists in Naperville, IL who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
76% ADHD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Bipolar Disorder
68% Medication Management
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Naperville, IL see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

65% Female
35% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Naperville?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.