Psychiatrists in Champaign, IL

Photo of Melissa Glass, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGCNS, FNP, APRN
Melissa Glass
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGCNS, FNP, APRN
Online Only
My ideal client is an adult experiencing challenges related to ADHD, such as difficulty focusing, managing tasks, or maintaining relationships. They seek clarity, effective treatment, and tools to manage their symptoms. Their goal is to feel empowered, improve their quality of life, and achieve personal and professional success.
My ideal client is an adult experiencing challenges related to ADHD, such as difficulty focusing, managing tasks, or maintaining relationships. They seek clarity, effective treatment, and tools to manage their symptoms. Their goal is to feel empowered, improve their quality of life, and achieve personal and professional success.
(217) 767-5656 View (217) 767-5656
Photo of Jodie Warsing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jodie Warsing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Jodie, an ANCC Board-Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist, and I hold an advanced Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) with over 20 years of diverse experience in the field. Having worked in various settings, I have honed my skills and expertise to offer exceptional, compassionate care to individuals seeking to improve their mental well-being. I am deeply committed to providing client-centered, empathetic care tailored to each person's unique needs. As a DNP, my versatile role encompasses medication management, therapy, education, community mental health advocacy, and legal reform advocacy.
I am Jodie, an ANCC Board-Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist, and I hold an advanced Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) with over 20 years of diverse experience in the field. Having worked in various settings, I have honed my skills and expertise to offer exceptional, compassionate care to individuals seeking to improve their mental well-being. I am deeply committed to providing client-centered, empathetic care tailored to each person's unique needs. As a DNP, my versatile role encompasses medication management, therapy, education, community mental health advocacy, and legal reform advocacy.
(217) 386-5801 View (217) 386-5801
Photo of Taysha Ryan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FPA, FNP-C
Taysha Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FPA, FNP-C
Champaign, IL 61820
Taysha earned her nursing degree from Lakeview College of Nursing in 2007 and obtained her Master’s Degree in Nursing from Chamberlain School of Nursing in 2019. Currently, Taysha is the Associate Medical Director with Elliott Counseling Group, where she oversees the medical department in addition to providing direct care to clients. Taysha has an extensive background in nursing, treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other behavioral health needs. She is very easygoing and empathetic with all her clients.
Taysha earned her nursing degree from Lakeview College of Nursing in 2007 and obtained her Master’s Degree in Nursing from Chamberlain School of Nursing in 2019. Currently, Taysha is the Associate Medical Director with Elliott Counseling Group, where she oversees the medical department in addition to providing direct care to clients. Taysha has an extensive background in nursing, treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other behavioral health needs. She is very easygoing and empathetic with all her clients.
(217) 727-6174 View (217) 727-6174
Photo of Heather Lutz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, APRN
Heather Lutz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, APRN
Online Only
My ideal client struggles with fever, cough, minor injuries, flu symptoms, sore throat, UTIs, allergies, weight loss, obesity, overweight, sinus infections, and depression. They need accessible, expert care for both urgent and long-term health concerns. Many are looking for effective weight management or primary care solutions without the hassle of in-person visits. I provide telehealth services for clients in Delaware, Illinois, Kentucky, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Iowa, ensuring they receive high-quality care in Weight Loss, Weight Management, Family Medicine, Urgent Care, and Internal Medicine.
My ideal client struggles with fever, cough, minor injuries, flu symptoms, sore throat, UTIs, allergies, weight loss, obesity, overweight, sinus infections, and depression. They need accessible, expert care for both urgent and long-term health concerns. Many are looking for effective weight management or primary care solutions without the hassle of in-person visits. I provide telehealth services for clients in Delaware, Illinois, Kentucky, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Iowa, ensuring they receive high-quality care in Weight Loss, Weight Management, Family Medicine, Urgent Care, and Internal Medicine.
(217) 987-8174 View (217) 987-8174
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Champaign, IL 61820
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
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Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Champaign, IL 61820
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
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Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Champaign, IL 61820
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 Amy Short, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Amy Short
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Champaign, IL 61821
Amy Short is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Illinois, with a robust background in nursing leadership and specialized expertise in psychiatric care. Holding an MSN in Nursing Leadership from Chamberlain University and an additional MSN with a focus on PMHNP-BC from Maryville University, Amy combines her leadership skills with advanced psychiatric knowledge to provide comprehensive care. With a diverse clinical background, Amy has worked as a psych nurse in a hospital setting, honing her skills in addressing the complex mental health needs of individuals.
Amy Short is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Illinois, with a robust background in nursing leadership and specialized expertise in psychiatric care. Holding an MSN in Nursing Leadership from Chamberlain University and an additional MSN with a focus on PMHNP-BC from Maryville University, Amy combines her leadership skills with advanced psychiatric knowledge to provide comprehensive care. With a diverse clinical background, Amy has worked as a psych nurse in a hospital setting, honing her skills in addressing the complex mental health needs of individuals.
(309) 893-8355 View (309) 893-8355
Photo of Jacqueline Horne, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Jacqueline Horne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Online Only
My ideal client seeks compassionate care for managing chronic conditions, weight loss, or hormone therapy. They want personalized treatment plans to achieve better health, prevent hospitalizations, and improve quality of life. They value open communication and holistic, patient-centered care.
My ideal client seeks compassionate care for managing chronic conditions, weight loss, or hormone therapy. They want personalized treatment plans to achieve better health, prevent hospitalizations, and improve quality of life. They value open communication and holistic, patient-centered care.
(217) 302-9506 View (217) 302-9506
Photo of Shatara Coleman, Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-BC
Shatara Coleman
Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-BC
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals and families seeking compassionate care for physical and emotional health challenges. They may have chronic conditions like hypertension, asthma, or allergies, or need guidance on weight management and preventive care. Their goal is to improve their overall well-being, manage their health, and achieve a better quality of life. They want personalized, whole-person care that addresses their unique needs and empowers them to take control of their health.
My ideal clients are individuals and families seeking compassionate care for physical and emotional health challenges. They may have chronic conditions like hypertension, asthma, or allergies, or need guidance on weight management and preventive care. Their goal is to improve their overall well-being, manage their health, and achieve a better quality of life. They want personalized, whole-person care that addresses their unique needs and empowers them to take control of their health.
(217) 992-6148 View (217) 992-6148
Photo of Dr. Tomilola Merino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Tomilola Merino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Champaign, IL 61820
Tomilola Adewolu is a Doctorate prepared, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in behavioral health. Based in Chicago, she focuses on providing compassionate mental health care to her patients. With board certifications and licenses in multiple states, including Illinois, Oregon, Iowa, and Wyoming, Tomilola is well-equipped to offer top-tier psychiatric services. She offers weight management services because maintaining a healthy weight is vital to both physical and mental well-being. Supporting patients in achieving their weight goals can significantly improve mood, energy, and mental health
Tomilola Adewolu is a Doctorate prepared, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in behavioral health. Based in Chicago, she focuses on providing compassionate mental health care to her patients. With board certifications and licenses in multiple states, including Illinois, Oregon, Iowa, and Wyoming, Tomilola is well-equipped to offer top-tier psychiatric services. She offers weight management services because maintaining a healthy weight is vital to both physical and mental well-being. Supporting patients in achieving their weight goals can significantly improve mood, energy, and mental health
(224) 490-4140 View (224) 490-4140
K P
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP
Champaign, IL 61820
My ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive care for chronic conditions, weight management, or preventive health. They may struggle with managing diabetes, nutrition, or weight loss and need clear, compassionate guidance. Their goal is to take control of their health with informed decisions and sustainable lifestyle changes.
My ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive care for chronic conditions, weight management, or preventive health. They may struggle with managing diabetes, nutrition, or weight loss and need clear, compassionate guidance. Their goal is to take control of their health with informed decisions and sustainable lifestyle changes.
(708) 381-1168 View (708) 381-1168
Photo of Jenny Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGPCNP
Jenny Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGPCNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with chronic pain, weight management, or general health concerns who seeks compassionate, patient-centered care. They may be dealing with arthritis, migraines, nerve pain, or type 2 diabetes and need effective treatment strategies. Their goal is to improve daily function, reduce pain, and achieve better overall well-being. They want a provider who listens, educates, and tailors treatments to their unique needs, empowering them to make informed health choices.
My ideal client is someone struggling with chronic pain, weight management, or general health concerns who seeks compassionate, patient-centered care. They may be dealing with arthritis, migraines, nerve pain, or type 2 diabetes and need effective treatment strategies. Their goal is to improve daily function, reduce pain, and achieve better overall well-being. They want a provider who listens, educates, and tailors treatments to their unique needs, empowering them to make informed health choices.
(708) 905-4303 View (708) 905-4303
Photo of Tajuana Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP
Tajuana Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP
Champaign, IL 61820
My ideal client struggles with weight management and overall wellness. They seek a compassionate provider to guide them in achieving sustainable weight loss, improving their health, and boosting their confidence. They want a personalized, holistic approach that empowers them physically and mentally, helping them become the best version of themselves.
My ideal client struggles with weight management and overall wellness. They seek a compassionate provider to guide them in achieving sustainable weight loss, improving their health, and boosting their confidence. They want a personalized, holistic approach that empowers them physically and mentally, helping them become the best version of themselves.
(708) 627-4281 View (708) 627-4281
Photo of Rachel Amodu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP, APRN
Rachel Amodu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP, APRN
Champaign, IL 61820
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek compassionate, personalized care and want to feel heard and supported. Their goal is to regain control of their mental well-being, improve daily functioning, and achieve emotional balance. They may feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or alone, and are looking for a professional who can guide them with empathy and expertise toward healing and resilience in a safe, nonjudgmental space.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek compassionate, personalized care and want to feel heard and supported. Their goal is to regain control of their mental well-being, improve daily functioning, and achieve emotional balance. They may feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or alone, and are looking for a professional who can guide them with empathy and expertise toward healing and resilience in a safe, nonjudgmental space.
(844) 569-9956 View (844) 569-9956
Photo of Theresa Towle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, DNP
Theresa Towle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, DNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Greetings! My name is Dr. Theresa Towle. I have decades of experience providing holistic care to help heal hurt, process trauma, build resilience, and find balance. As a dual-certified family & psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner, I use evidence-based techniques to treat mind and body, including addressing the role of the gut-brain axis in anxiety, depression, trauma, attention issues, weight loss and a host of other issues. I am dedicated to working with you develop a holistic approach to care.
Greetings! My name is Dr. Theresa Towle. I have decades of experience providing holistic care to help heal hurt, process trauma, build resilience, and find balance. As a dual-certified family & psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner, I use evidence-based techniques to treat mind and body, including addressing the role of the gut-brain axis in anxiety, depression, trauma, attention issues, weight loss and a host of other issues. I am dedicated to working with you develop a holistic approach to care.
(708) 564-3560 View (708) 564-3560
Photo of Heather Irelan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Heather Irelan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Your journey is uniquely yours, and I’m here to meet you where you are. Through years of compassionate listening, I’ve connected with people who’ve felt isolated, misunderstood, or judged. These experiences have deepened my belief in the power of empathy and trust in healing. I know seeking help can be challenging, especially with the fear of judgment or lack of resources. My goal is to create a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where you feel supported and empowered to take charge of your mental health. We each have our own mental health experiences. You don't have to figure it out alone!
Your journey is uniquely yours, and I’m here to meet you where you are. Through years of compassionate listening, I’ve connected with people who’ve felt isolated, misunderstood, or judged. These experiences have deepened my belief in the power of empathy and trust in healing. I know seeking help can be challenging, especially with the fear of judgment or lack of resources. My goal is to create a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where you feel supported and empowered to take charge of your mental health. We each have our own mental health experiences. You don't have to figure it out alone!
(217) 833-8643 View (217) 833-8643
Photo of Ngozi Eboru - Harmony Psychiatry and Wellness, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BSN, RN
Harmony Psychiatry and Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BSN, RN
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can come at you fast, but hope is within reach! If you’re struggling with excess worry, low moods, difficulty focusing, or past trauma, know that you’re not alone. You deserve to feel in control, find clarity, and reconnect with yourself. Healing is possible, with the right support of a professional psychiatric mental health provider, such as myself.
Life can come at you fast, but hope is within reach! If you’re struggling with excess worry, low moods, difficulty focusing, or past trauma, know that you’re not alone. You deserve to feel in control, find clarity, and reconnect with yourself. Healing is possible, with the right support of a professional psychiatric mental health provider, such as myself.
(618) 602-2819 View (618) 602-2819
Photo of Brett Stephan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Brett Stephan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide medication management and therapy for many conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, alcohol use disorder, and other conditions. When we meet for our first video session, we'll discuss your symptoms and treatment goals and we'll carefully select medications that fit your unique needs. I am based in Chicago, and I see clients in IL, WA, OR, AZ, NM, MT, AK, ND, and DE, all via telehealth. I am accepting new patients. I'm excited for the opportunity to work with you.
I provide medication management and therapy for many conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, alcohol use disorder, and other conditions. When we meet for our first video session, we'll discuss your symptoms and treatment goals and we'll carefully select medications that fit your unique needs. I am based in Chicago, and I see clients in IL, WA, OR, AZ, NM, MT, AK, ND, and DE, all via telehealth. I am accepting new patients. I'm excited for the opportunity to work with you.
(773) 831-4366 View (773) 831-4366
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Nearby Searches for Champaign

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Champaign, IL

30+

Average cost per session

$121

Psychiatrists in Champaign, IL who prioritize treating:

83% Depression
81% Anxiety
75% Medication Management
72% Bipolar Disorder
64% Trauma and PTSD
61% Sleep or Insomnia
53% ADHD

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
90% Aetna
85% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Champaign, IL see their clients

55% Online Only
45% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

91% Female
9% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Champaign?

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.