Psychiatrists in Aurora, IL

Photo of Susan Nso, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Nso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
Life can be challenging, even when things are going well. Sometimes, patience and determination aren't enough to overcome the difficulties we face. That's where I come in. My name is Susan Nso, and I'm a board-certified Nurse Practitioner dedicated to supporting mental health. I've learned through my work as a nurse that mental wellness is key to our overall well-being. It shapes our experiences and interactions in all areas of life. As a provider, I take a holistic approach, considering the mental, physical, social, and environmental factors that influence mental health.
Life can be challenging, even when things are going well. Sometimes, patience and determination aren't enough to overcome the difficulties we face. That's where I come in. My name is Susan Nso, and I'm a board-certified Nurse Practitioner dedicated to supporting mental health. I've learned through my work as a nurse that mental wellness is key to our overall well-being. It shapes our experiences and interactions in all areas of life. As a provider, I take a holistic approach, considering the mental, physical, social, and environmental factors that influence mental health.
(630) 895-8884 x4 View (630) 895-8884 x4
Photo of Dr. Lawrence Abah - Holistic behavioral and TMS therapy , DNP, PMHNP, FNP, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic behavioral and TMS therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, FPA
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
Dr. Lawrence Abah, DNP, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider.
Dr. Lawrence Abah, DNP, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider.
(815) 242-3127 View (815) 242-3127
Photo of Psychiatry At Fcs, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatry At Fcs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60506
We are a group of psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical psychologists, social workers and therapists with nearly 100 years of experience in behavioral health care. In our practice at Family Counseling Service, we treat children, adolescents, and adults. Our team of professional counselors/social workers and medication providers work together to help individuals achieve successful outcomes in their lives.
We are a group of psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical psychologists, social workers and therapists with nearly 100 years of experience in behavioral health care. In our practice at Family Counseling Service, we treat children, adolescents, and adults. Our team of professional counselors/social workers and medication providers work together to help individuals achieve successful outcomes in their lives.
(331) 244-5030 View (331) 244-5030
Photo of Mary LoGalbo - LifeStance Health - Aurora, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health - Aurora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(855) 609-7569 View (855) 609-7569
Photo of Mary LoGalbo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary LoGalbo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
Dr. Mary LoGalbo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Master of Science in Nursing and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from Rush University and a Doctor of Nursing Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Liberty University. Dr. LoGalbo values the uniqueness of each person and seeks to understand each person's perspective of themselves and the world around them. She is motivated to create an atmosphere of acceptance and trust, so clients feel safe and are better able to tell their stories.
Dr. Mary LoGalbo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Master of Science in Nursing and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from Rush University and a Doctor of Nursing Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Liberty University. Dr. LoGalbo values the uniqueness of each person and seeks to understand each person's perspective of themselves and the world around them. She is motivated to create an atmosphere of acceptance and trust, so clients feel safe and are better able to tell their stories.
(630) 760-2335 View (630) 760-2335
Photo of Pauline Soh, PA, Physician Assistant
Pauline Soh
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
I believe in providing compassionate and holistic care to help patients maximize their quality of life. My focus is on treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, generalized anxiety disorder, PTSD, and social anxiety. Together, we can find the best short-term and long-term treatment plan that works for you.
I believe in providing compassionate and holistic care to help patients maximize their quality of life. My focus is on treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, generalized anxiety disorder, PTSD, and social anxiety. Together, we can find the best short-term and long-term treatment plan that works for you.
(630) 884-4500 View (630) 884-4500
Photo of Davena Beal, DNP, APN, PMH-NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Davena Beal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMH-NP
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60506
After 20 years of working in the mental health field, I have learned that although psychotherapy can be a life changing experience, it is not always enough to adequately manage mental health symptoms. When patients are still experiencing debilitating symptoms of depression, anxiety, impulsiveness, or difficulty with concentration, then psychotropic medications may be beneficial. Medications may bring patients relief from overwhelming worry or panic symptoms, low mood and motivation, and mood swings or irritability.
After 20 years of working in the mental health field, I have learned that although psychotherapy can be a life changing experience, it is not always enough to adequately manage mental health symptoms. When patients are still experiencing debilitating symptoms of depression, anxiety, impulsiveness, or difficulty with concentration, then psychotropic medications may be beneficial. Medications may bring patients relief from overwhelming worry or panic symptoms, low mood and motivation, and mood swings or irritability.
(331) 207-2739 View (331) 207-2739
Photo of Debora Wilson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Debora Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60505
Debora's ideal client is someone grappling with the intricate interplay between mental health and overall well-being, seeking a path to holistic healing and growth. They often present with a myriad of issues ranging from mood disorders and anxiety to trauma-related symptoms or substance use concerns. These individuals crave more than just symptom relief; they yearn for a deep understanding of themselves and their struggles. Their needs extend beyond medication management or traditional therapy—they seek a compassionate ally who can navigate the complexities of their psyche with expertise and empathy.
Debora's ideal client is someone grappling with the intricate interplay between mental health and overall well-being, seeking a path to holistic healing and growth. They often present with a myriad of issues ranging from mood disorders and anxiety to trauma-related symptoms or substance use concerns. These individuals crave more than just symptom relief; they yearn for a deep understanding of themselves and their struggles. Their needs extend beyond medication management or traditional therapy—they seek a compassionate ally who can navigate the complexities of their psyche with expertise and empathy.
(630) 793-4616 View (630) 793-4616
Photo of Pooja J Patel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pooja J Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60506
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
(630) 354-0752 View (630) 354-0752
Photo of Shannan Hermann, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannan Hermann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works with patients across the lifespan to address a wide range of mental health concerns. These include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, sleep/insomnia, substance misuse/abuse, psychosocial stressors, interpersonal relationship challenges, and stress management. I use a collaborative and comprehensive approach to care, tailoring pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments to the individual needs of my clients, always guided by best practices.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works with patients across the lifespan to address a wide range of mental health concerns. These include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, sleep/insomnia, substance misuse/abuse, psychosocial stressors, interpersonal relationship challenges, and stress management. I use a collaborative and comprehensive approach to care, tailoring pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments to the individual needs of my clients, always guided by best practices.
(630) 576-9648 View (630) 576-9648
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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.
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Photo of Annya Nguyen, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Annya Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. I manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, impulse control disorders, and more. As a DNP-PMHNP, my role is multifaceted, including providing quality care, building and maintaining therapeutic relationships, educating, advocating, counseling, referring, and managing medication.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. I manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, impulse control disorders, and more. As a DNP-PMHNP, my role is multifaceted, including providing quality care, building and maintaining therapeutic relationships, educating, advocating, counseling, referring, and managing medication.
(847) 744-8471 View (847) 744-8471
Photo of Medinat Balogun, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Medinat Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Dr. Medina Balogun, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) whose graduate education allows me to prescribe medication with integrated therapy in collaboration with a psychiatrist. I manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, sleep/insomnia, and trauma. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care to adults and geriatric patients. As a DNP, my role is multifaceted, as I practice with evidence-based methods, and I am also an educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager.
I am Dr. Medina Balogun, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) whose graduate education allows me to prescribe medication with integrated therapy in collaboration with a psychiatrist. I manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, sleep/insomnia, and trauma. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care to adults and geriatric patients. As a DNP, my role is multifaceted, as I practice with evidence-based methods, and I am also an educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager.
(815) 597-2144 View (815) 597-2144
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 Brandy Lehman, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandy Lehman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am passionate about providing quality and comprehensive mental health medication services addressing a range of needs including anxiety, depression, mood disorder, ADHD, personality disorder, substance use, and PTSD. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. I practice with a group called PsycWard Services, where we also have a team of very experienced therapists who can help you.
I am passionate about providing quality and comprehensive mental health medication services addressing a range of needs including anxiety, depression, mood disorder, ADHD, personality disorder, substance use, and PTSD. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. I practice with a group called PsycWard Services, where we also have a team of very experienced therapists who can help you.
(331) 267-5622 View (331) 267-5622
Photo of Matthew Barnes (Addiction Treatment), PA-C, Physician Assistant
Matthew Barnes (Addiction Treatment)
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60505
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol psychiatrist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol psychiatrist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(331) 200-5993 View (331) 200-5993
Photo of Sarah Purdy - Today Telemedicine , PA-C, Physician Assistant
Today Telemedicine
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Full virtual telemedicine medical office specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD non stimulant care ( strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management ( semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (birth control, blood work ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing and much more! Self-schedule from our website www.TodayTelemedicine.com and be seen this week!
Full virtual telemedicine medical office specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD non stimulant care ( strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management ( semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (birth control, blood work ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing and much more! Self-schedule from our website www.TodayTelemedicine.com and be seen this week!
(773) 527-2906 View (773) 527-2906
Photo of Muhammad Nouman Azhar - Shifa Therapeutics LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Shifa Therapeutics LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
SHIFA THERAPEUTICS LLC HAS IN OFFICE AND TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR PSYCHIATRIC AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION TREATMENT. INITIAL APPOINTMENT MUST BE IN OFFICE (630) 761-5670.
SHIFA THERAPEUTICS LLC HAS IN OFFICE AND TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR PSYCHIATRIC AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION TREATMENT. INITIAL APPOINTMENT MUST BE IN OFFICE (630) 761-5670.
(630) 756-2905 View (630) 756-2905
Photo of Suzanne Butler, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Suzanne Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502
I am a doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and have been practicing since 2022 in outpatient and in-home settings. I work with individuals to address anxiety, depression, hyperactive disorder (ADD/ADHD), mood disorder, and psychosis. I completed my graduate studies at Rush University College of Nursing and have 15 years of experience working with adolescent and adult patients with mental health concerns.
I am a doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and have been practicing since 2022 in outpatient and in-home settings. I work with individuals to address anxiety, depression, hyperactive disorder (ADD/ADHD), mood disorder, and psychosis. I completed my graduate studies at Rush University College of Nursing and have 15 years of experience working with adolescent and adult patients with mental health concerns.
(224) 257-3459 View (224) 257-3459
Photo of Sumaiyah Qureshi, MD, Psychiatrist
Sumaiyah Qureshi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502
Dr. Qureshi is a Board-Certified General Psychiatrist. She was born and raised in Hyderabad, India. She underwent her medical training at Mamata Medical College, India and completed residency at Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY. Dr. Qureshi has gained extensive training in psychiatric inpatient, outpatient, and emergency settings and has worked with diverse populations. She has practiced Telepsychiatry since her graduation including working at community mental health centers serving the serious mentally ill in underserved areas.
Dr. Qureshi is a Board-Certified General Psychiatrist. She was born and raised in Hyderabad, India. She underwent her medical training at Mamata Medical College, India and completed residency at Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY. Dr. Qureshi has gained extensive training in psychiatric inpatient, outpatient, and emergency settings and has worked with diverse populations. She has practiced Telepsychiatry since her graduation including working at community mental health centers serving the serious mentally ill in underserved areas.
(708) 742-6493 View (708) 742-6493
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Aurora, IL

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Aurora, IL who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
98% Anxiety
91% Trauma and PTSD
86% Bipolar Disorder
84% Medication Management
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
65% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% BlueCross and BlueShield
87% Cigna and Evernorth
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Aurora, IL see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
24% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Aurora?

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.