Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Devika Patel, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Devika Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60631
I am currently accepting new patients**** I have been providing excellent care for over 5 years with great compassion.  I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients 7 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems.  I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
I am currently accepting new patients**** I have been providing excellent care for over 5 years with great compassion.  I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients 7 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems.  I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
(224) 386-3252 View (224) 386-3252
Photo of Shumeka Hill, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CPNP-AC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shumeka Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CPNP-AC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60629  (Online Only)
Relationship problems, struggles at work, and life events can challenge our ability to cope and ultimately to thrive in life. Patterns may emerge in your life that are confusing, that make you feel stuck, uncertain, and conflicted. Life transitions can tax our internal resources, and we may find ourselves lacking in fulfillment and happiness. Above all, I strive to support my clients to increase their life satisfaction, reduce their suffering, and strengthen their relationships and capacity for joy.
Relationship problems, struggles at work, and life events can challenge our ability to cope and ultimately to thrive in life. Patterns may emerge in your life that are confusing, that make you feel stuck, uncertain, and conflicted. Life transitions can tax our internal resources, and we may find ourselves lacking in fulfillment and happiness. Above all, I strive to support my clients to increase their life satisfaction, reduce their suffering, and strengthen their relationships and capacity for joy.
(312) 313-1527 View (312) 313-1527
Photo of Timothy Kaatman, MD, Psychiatrist
Timothy Kaatman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I became interested in Psychiatry early on while studying psychology in college. From my early experiences in medical training, it became clear to me that I had a natural ability to listen and provide empathetic care for my patients. Providing education and counseling regarding psychiatric treatment is an important aspect of the field which I strive to accomplish in every visit. Throughout my training I have been consistently told that my unique ability to make a patient comfortable and heard is one of my greatest strengths.
I became interested in Psychiatry early on while studying psychology in college. From my early experiences in medical training, it became clear to me that I had a natural ability to listen and provide empathetic care for my patients. Providing education and counseling regarding psychiatric treatment is an important aspect of the field which I strive to accomplish in every visit. Throughout my training I have been consistently told that my unique ability to make a patient comfortable and heard is one of my greatest strengths.
(312) 604-5291 View (312) 604-5291
Photo of Philippe Silva Tapon, MD, Psychiatrist
Philippe Silva Tapon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
Narrative medicine is a practice, described by Dr. Rita Charon in 2001, in which your story, the one I listen to and for which I create a narrative, not only establishes a healing bond of humanity, held in the utmost confidence, but gives rise also to a diagnosis and to a treatment. You tell your story, I write it down and offer it back so you can in turn reflect and refine it, and once that shared story is told, I have found, healing begins.
Narrative medicine is a practice, described by Dr. Rita Charon in 2001, in which your story, the one I listen to and for which I create a narrative, not only establishes a healing bond of humanity, held in the utmost confidence, but gives rise also to a diagnosis and to a treatment. You tell your story, I write it down and offer it back so you can in turn reflect and refine it, and once that shared story is told, I have found, healing begins.
(312) 820-4663 View (312) 820-4663
Photo of Dacia J Harrold, MD, MA, MFA, Psychiatrist
Dacia J Harrold
Psychiatrist, MD, MA, MFA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
As a psychoanalyst my approach is grounded in a humble appreciation for how individuals work to create a way of life that is safe and enriching, based on an understanding that at times despite best efforts we can feel pain, sadness or anger or even wrestle with unwanted feelings or behaviors that we cannot quite name. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy can be helpful in that it allows one to incorporate a view of the past that can shed light on present struggles. It is based on the belief that we employ particular coping strategies to manage the challenges inherent in being a subject in the
As a psychoanalyst my approach is grounded in a humble appreciation for how individuals work to create a way of life that is safe and enriching, based on an understanding that at times despite best efforts we can feel pain, sadness or anger or even wrestle with unwanted feelings or behaviors that we cannot quite name. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy can be helpful in that it allows one to incorporate a view of the past that can shed light on present struggles. It is based on the belief that we employ particular coping strategies to manage the challenges inherent in being a subject in the
(773) 598-5060 View (773) 598-5060
Photo of Annya Nguyen, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Annya Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60631  (Online Only)
Annya Nguyen is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar, sleep disorder, impulse control disorder, etc. As a DNP-PMHNP, Annya's role is multifaceted, including providing quality care, building & maintaining therapeutic relationships, educating, advocating, counseling, referring, and managing medication.
Annya Nguyen is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar, sleep disorder, impulse control disorder, etc. As a DNP-PMHNP, Annya's role is multifaceted, including providing quality care, building & maintaining therapeutic relationships, educating, advocating, counseling, referring, and managing medication.
(847) 744-8471 View (847) 744-8471
Photo of Dr. Amenaghawon Ugwuede, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Amenaghawon Ugwuede
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60612  (Online Only)
Dominus Mental Health was established by Dr. Amenaghawon Ugwuede, DNP, PMHNP-BC, with the vision of delivering high-quality and evidence-based mental health treatment via telepsychiatry to individuals living in regions with restricted access and obstacles to mental health services. Dr. Ugwuede recognizes that certain communities, especially Black individuals and children of immigrants, face unique challenges when seeking mental health support. As a result, she has specialized in these areas and strives to provide culturally sensitive and affirming care that builds trust and understanding.
Dominus Mental Health was established by Dr. Amenaghawon Ugwuede, DNP, PMHNP-BC, with the vision of delivering high-quality and evidence-based mental health treatment via telepsychiatry to individuals living in regions with restricted access and obstacles to mental health services. Dr. Ugwuede recognizes that certain communities, especially Black individuals and children of immigrants, face unique challenges when seeking mental health support. As a result, she has specialized in these areas and strives to provide culturally sensitive and affirming care that builds trust and understanding.
(323) 990-4381 View (323) 990-4381
Photo of Devika Patel, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Devika Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60631
I am currently accepting new patients** I have been providing excellent care for over 4 years with great compassion.  I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients 5 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems.  I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
I am currently accepting new patients** I have been providing excellent care for over 4 years with great compassion.  I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients 5 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems.  I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
(847) 261-8144 View (847) 261-8144
Photo of Lauren Kofod, MD, Psychiatrist
Lauren Kofod
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
I am a double board certified psychiatrist with nearly 20 years of experience in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, eating disorders, and addictions. I have board certification in general psychiatry as well as consultation liaison psychiatry, which is the branch of psychiatry that focuses on how the mind and body interact in illness and in stress. My goal in working with patients is to listen and connect, helping to guide effective treatment which is both evidence-based as well as in line with the values of the patient.
I am a double board certified psychiatrist with nearly 20 years of experience in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, eating disorders, and addictions. I have board certification in general psychiatry as well as consultation liaison psychiatry, which is the branch of psychiatry that focuses on how the mind and body interact in illness and in stress. My goal in working with patients is to listen and connect, helping to guide effective treatment which is both evidence-based as well as in line with the values of the patient.
(331) 258-5668 View (331) 258-5668
Photo of Sarah Purdy - Today Telemedicine , PA-C, Physician Assistant
Today Telemedicine
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647  (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 Sandya Janardhan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandya Janardhan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603
I am a highly motivated, board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering compassionate care to individuals grappling with complex traumas, serious mental illness, and underserved mental health needs. I prioritize the significance of individualized care and am unwavering in my commitment to establishing a supportive and empathetic environment for my patients.
I am a highly motivated, board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering compassionate care to individuals grappling with complex traumas, serious mental illness, and underserved mental health needs. I prioritize the significance of individualized care and am unwavering in my commitment to establishing a supportive and empathetic environment for my patients.
(312) 698-3386 View (312) 698-3386
Photo of Yuliya Ihlitskaya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yuliya Ihlitskaya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring a holistic approach to mental health care. My expertise lies in conducting thorough assessments, diagnosing mental health conditions, and developing personalized treatment plans. I offer evidence-based interventions, medication management, and psychotherapeutic support tailored to each individual's needs. Additionally, my commitment extends to education, ensuring clients and their families are well-informed about their conditions and treatment options. By fostering a compassionate and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I aim to empower individuals on their path to mental well-being.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring a holistic approach to mental health care. My expertise lies in conducting thorough assessments, diagnosing mental health conditions, and developing personalized treatment plans. I offer evidence-based interventions, medication management, and psychotherapeutic support tailored to each individual's needs. Additionally, my commitment extends to education, ensuring clients and their families are well-informed about their conditions and treatment options. By fostering a compassionate and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I aim to empower individuals on their path to mental well-being.
(708) 694-9573 View (708) 694-9573
Photo of Tript Kaur Bajwa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tript Kaur Bajwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with Full Practice Authority in IL. With over six years of experience as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have developed a comprehensive background across various settings, including inpatient, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), and outpatient care. By actively engaging patients in discussions about their treatment hopes and exploring ways to make impactful changes beyond medication, I ensure that care is comprehensive and tailored to individual needs. I also make sure that these goals are both reasonable and attainable.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with Full Practice Authority in IL. With over six years of experience as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have developed a comprehensive background across various settings, including inpatient, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), and outpatient care. By actively engaging patients in discussions about their treatment hopes and exploring ways to make impactful changes beyond medication, I ensure that care is comprehensive and tailored to individual needs. I also make sure that these goals are both reasonable and attainable.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Michelle Wolff, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle Wolff
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for a Psychiatry provider that listens to you and includes you in the your treatment plan? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgemental psychiatry provider that provides a comfortable, safe environment to meet? Do you want to feel empowered knowing you are on the proper medications and therapies to overcome your struggles, and turn around your life?
Are you looking for a Psychiatry provider that listens to you and includes you in the your treatment plan? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgemental psychiatry provider that provides a comfortable, safe environment to meet? Do you want to feel empowered knowing you are on the proper medications and therapies to overcome your struggles, and turn around your life?
(630) 593-7720 View (630) 593-7720
Photo of Jennifer Osborne, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Osborne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
Have you been blaming yourself for the actions, behaviors or even the emotions of other people around you? You may be feeling like everything is your fault, like you are just not good enough. You feel as though your worth is only based on how you perform in school or at work, the way you look, or how much you do for others rather than WHO you are? Maybe thinking that if you’re perfect everything will be OK, having the perfect body, being the perfect student, employee, partner, friend, child or parent. If you’re perfect you won’t hurt anymore, won’t be lonely anymore, won’t be afraid anymore.
Have you been blaming yourself for the actions, behaviors or even the emotions of other people around you? You may be feeling like everything is your fault, like you are just not good enough. You feel as though your worth is only based on how you perform in school or at work, the way you look, or how much you do for others rather than WHO you are? Maybe thinking that if you’re perfect everything will be OK, having the perfect body, being the perfect student, employee, partner, friend, child or parent. If you’re perfect you won’t hurt anymore, won’t be lonely anymore, won’t be afraid anymore.
(312) 516-2413 View (312) 516-2413
Photo of Amy Wasserman, MPH, PMHNP, APRN, CNM, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse
Amy Wasserman
Psychiatric Nurse, MPH, PMHNP, APRN, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Whether you are seeking preconception consultation, experiencing new or worsening perinatal mood/anxiety symptoms or managing mood changes related to hormonal transitions during your lifetime (i.e. puberty, lactation weaning, fertility treatments, perimenopause or starting gender-affirming hormones), my goal is to ensure you feel safe to share your story and be informed and knowledgeable about all your options. Together we will develop a treatment plan that aligns with your values and identities. This may include lifestyle changes, supplements, alternative and complementary therapies, psychotherapeutic and/or pharmacologic options.
Whether you are seeking preconception consultation, experiencing new or worsening perinatal mood/anxiety symptoms or managing mood changes related to hormonal transitions during your lifetime (i.e. puberty, lactation weaning, fertility treatments, perimenopause or starting gender-affirming hormones), my goal is to ensure you feel safe to share your story and be informed and knowledgeable about all your options. Together we will develop a treatment plan that aligns with your values and identities. This may include lifestyle changes, supplements, alternative and complementary therapies, psychotherapeutic and/or pharmacologic options.
(872) 259-9753 x1 View (872) 259-9753 x1
Photo of Shola Owoyemi, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shola Owoyemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Hi there! My name is Shola, and I'm a seasoned Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in treating mood disorders and oncology. Are you tired of feeling trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts and emotions? Do you struggle to find meaning or purpose in your life? Through leveraging my experience with medication management to adults, I hope we can work together to support your mental health. Our goal of your optimal state of mental health can be achieved if we work together, combining my long-spanning work ethic with your desire to improve yourself, and I for one would be delighted to support you.
Hi there! My name is Shola, and I'm a seasoned Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in treating mood disorders and oncology. Are you tired of feeling trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts and emotions? Do you struggle to find meaning or purpose in your life? Through leveraging my experience with medication management to adults, I hope we can work together to support your mental health. Our goal of your optimal state of mental health can be achieved if we work together, combining my long-spanning work ethic with your desire to improve yourself, and I for one would be delighted to support you.
(815) 881-1761 View (815) 881-1761
Photo of Krushen Pillay, DO, Psychiatrist
Krushen Pillay
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
Note: My calendar has gotten quite busy lately, but I'd like to invite you to get in touch, as circumstances can shift, and I have colleagues who may have openings to help you. Dr. Krushen Pillay DO is a highly skilled adult and geriatric psychiatrist with an impressive educational background. He successfully completed his residency training at Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University, where he excelled as the Chief Resident for two years. Prior to that, he obtained his medical education from Des Moines University and completed his undergraduate studies at the prestigious University of Southern California.
Note: My calendar has gotten quite busy lately, but I'd like to invite you to get in touch, as circumstances can shift, and I have colleagues who may have openings to help you. Dr. Krushen Pillay DO is a highly skilled adult and geriatric psychiatrist with an impressive educational background. He successfully completed his residency training at Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University, where he excelled as the Chief Resident for two years. Prior to that, he obtained his medical education from Des Moines University and completed his undergraduate studies at the prestigious University of Southern California.
(708) 734-6185 x1 View (708) 734-6185 x1
Photo of Angela Beal, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Beal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643  (Online Only)
Welcome , I am a dual board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that holds a national board certification with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Welcome , I am a dual board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that holds a national board certification with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
(872) 309-3865 View (872) 309-3865
Photo of Tj Thurlow, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tj Thurlow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60645  (Online Only)
Finding mental health help can be daunting. Clients seeking my support have varied concerns when the come to see me. I believe that understanding the needs of the patient starts by getting to know what brought them to my office. I think it's important for both the client and myself to build a plan together based on personal experience and evidence based care. The goal I have for my clients is to understand the plan of care and have the confidence to take the next steps to achieve success and improvement in their lives.
Finding mental health help can be daunting. Clients seeking my support have varied concerns when the come to see me. I believe that understanding the needs of the patient starts by getting to know what brought them to my office. I think it's important for both the client and myself to build a plan together based on personal experience and evidence based care. The goal I have for my clients is to understand the plan of care and have the confidence to take the next steps to achieve success and improvement in their lives.
(224) 505-1557 View (224) 505-1557
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL

400+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
94% Depression
73% Bipolar Disorder
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% ADHD
67% Medication Management
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
82% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

68% Female
31% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Chicago?

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.