Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Fidelia Ujunwa Ileka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fidelia Ujunwa Ileka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am passionate about creating a warm, supportive environment where you feel safe, heard, and understood, and I’m here to support you through every step of your mental health journey. I believe in a holistic, evidence-based approach to mental health care, which combines psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle modifications.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am passionate about creating a warm, supportive environment where you feel safe, heard, and understood, and I’m here to support you through every step of your mental health journey. I believe in a holistic, evidence-based approach to mental health care, which combines psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle modifications.
(872) 274-2237 View (872) 274-2237
Photo of Dr. Katie Washington Cole, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Dr. Katie Washington Cole
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Katie Washington Cole is an addiction and recovery psychiatrist with expertise in mental health and substance use treatment in adults. She takes a relationship-centered approach to psychiatric care, using shared decision-making to prioritize your goals and values. Dr. Washington Cole completed medical school and a PhD in Social and Behavioral Sciences in Public Health at the Johns Hopkins University. She completed general adult psychiatry residency at the University of Chicago and addiction psychiatry fellowship at the University of Illinois-Chicago. ​
Dr. Katie Washington Cole is an addiction and recovery psychiatrist with expertise in mental health and substance use treatment in adults. She takes a relationship-centered approach to psychiatric care, using shared decision-making to prioritize your goals and values. Dr. Washington Cole completed medical school and a PhD in Social and Behavioral Sciences in Public Health at the Johns Hopkins University. She completed general adult psychiatry residency at the University of Chicago and addiction psychiatry fellowship at the University of Illinois-Chicago. ​
(312) 900-8263 View (312) 900-8263
Photo of Marisa Serrato, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Marisa Serrato
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603
As an Integrative Psychiatrist, I provide psychiatric consultation services, psychotherapy, as well as evidence-based stress management and resiliency training. My recommendations include interventions to optimize a person’s overall health, including the use of behavioral and nutritional approaches, mind-body medicine practices, the possible use of nutrient therapy or other supplements, as well as consideration of treatment with medications. These services may be beneficial for those with anxiety-related symptoms, mild to moderate depression, insomnia or fatigue, and other medical issues which are worsened by stress.
As an Integrative Psychiatrist, I provide psychiatric consultation services, psychotherapy, as well as evidence-based stress management and resiliency training. My recommendations include interventions to optimize a person’s overall health, including the use of behavioral and nutritional approaches, mind-body medicine practices, the possible use of nutrient therapy or other supplements, as well as consideration of treatment with medications. These services may be beneficial for those with anxiety-related symptoms, mild to moderate depression, insomnia or fatigue, and other medical issues which are worsened by stress.
(217) 916-3149 View (217) 916-3149
Photo of Raymond P Gonzales, Psychiatrist, MD
Raymond P Gonzales
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Dr. Gonzales (M.D.) is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. He specializes in Anxiety and Depression for children, teens, and young adults. He completed his most recent training at Northwestern University, Lurie Children’s Hospital and his residency at Florida International University. Dr. Gonzales combines deep knowledge with genuine compassion. He’s dedicated to helping his patients and their families build resilience and live more fulfilling lives.
Dr. Gonzales (M.D.) is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. He specializes in Anxiety and Depression for children, teens, and young adults. He completed his most recent training at Northwestern University, Lurie Children’s Hospital and his residency at Florida International University. Dr. Gonzales combines deep knowledge with genuine compassion. He’s dedicated to helping his patients and their families build resilience and live more fulfilling lives.
(872) 349-3592 x3 View (872) 349-3592 x3
Photo of Oladunni Boladale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Oladunni Boladale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chicago, IL 60642
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in providing exceptional outpatient care to individuals across the lifespan. Drawing on my background as a behavioral nurse, I offer a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to treating a diverse range of mental health conditions.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in providing exceptional outpatient care to individuals across the lifespan. Drawing on my background as a behavioral nurse, I offer a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to treating a diverse range of mental health conditions.
(708) 847-3136 View (708) 847-3136
Photo of Shola Owoyemi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Shola Owoyemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
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 Bess Levin, Psychiatrist, MD
Bess Levin
Psychiatrist, MD
Chicago, IL 60607
I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients and meeting them wherever they are on the path towards bettering their mental health, whether they are seeking treatment for the first time or looking to explore new options when other treatments have failed. I believe that each patient is unique and deserves an individualized, evidence-based and collaborative approach to their treatment plan.
I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients and meeting them wherever they are on the path towards bettering their mental health, whether they are seeking treatment for the first time or looking to explore new options when other treatments have failed. I believe that each patient is unique and deserves an individualized, evidence-based and collaborative approach to their treatment plan.
(773) 897-5729 View (773) 897-5729
Photo of Ashley Dodd, Psychiatrist, MD
Ashley Dodd
Psychiatrist, MD
9 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified general adult psychiatrist, and I work with people who have a range of emotional problems including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I use my training in psychiatry to provide comprehensive care to address the well-being of the whole person. I feel comfortable using medications to treat these problems when medications are indicated, and I also enjoy seeing patients for psychotherapy. I attended medical school at the University of Oklahoma, then completed my residency in psychiatry at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, where I was chief resident during my final year of training.
I am a board certified general adult psychiatrist, and I work with people who have a range of emotional problems including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I use my training in psychiatry to provide comprehensive care to address the well-being of the whole person. I feel comfortable using medications to treat these problems when medications are indicated, and I also enjoy seeing patients for psychotherapy. I attended medical school at the University of Oklahoma, then completed my residency in psychiatry at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, where I was chief resident during my final year of training.
(312) 487-4260 View (312) 487-4260
Photo of Dr. Raymond Gonzales, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Raymond Gonzales
Psychiatrist, MD
Chicago, IL 60611
Dr. Raymond Gonzales, MD is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. He provides compassionate, expert care to children, teens, and young adults in Illinois, addressing mental health challenges throughout the life span, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD and many others. Dr. Gonzales takes a collaborative approach, combining evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and behavioral techniques with medication management to create personalized treatment plans for his patients.
Dr. Raymond Gonzales, MD is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. He provides compassionate, expert care to children, teens, and young adults in Illinois, addressing mental health challenges throughout the life span, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD and many others. Dr. Gonzales takes a collaborative approach, combining evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and behavioral techniques with medication management to create personalized treatment plans for his patients.
(872) 328-4752 View (872) 328-4752
Photo of Dr. Maryam Hazeghazam, Psychiatrist, MD PhD, ABPN
Dr. Maryam Hazeghazam
Psychiatrist, MD PhD, ABPN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Maryam Hazeghazam brings a diverse and comprehensive academic background to her practice. She began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition, which laid the foundation for her holistic approach to mental health care. She then pursued a PhD in Biochemistry, gaining a deep understanding of the biochemical processes that influence mental health and well-being. Dr. Hazeghazam further advanced her expertise by earning her MD with a specialization in Psychiatry.
Dr. Maryam Hazeghazam brings a diverse and comprehensive academic background to her practice. She began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition, which laid the foundation for her holistic approach to mental health care. She then pursued a PhD in Biochemistry, gaining a deep understanding of the biochemical processes that influence mental health and well-being. Dr. Hazeghazam further advanced her expertise by earning her MD with a specialization in Psychiatry.
(872) 327-3455 View (872) 327-3455
Photo of Ashley Talkington, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Talkington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Ashley Talkington. Take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or self-care.
Welcome! I'm Ashley Talkington. Take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or self-care.
(224) 496-6367 View (224) 496-6367
Photo of Victoria Nee, Psychiatrist, MD
Victoria Nee
Psychiatrist, MD
Chicago, IL 60602
Are you concerned your psychiatrist might diagnose & prescribe medication ("match the pill to the ill") without addressing root causes of your problem? Most psychiatrists don't look at the brain as part of the body & don't think about underlying conditions such as inflammation, an unhealthy gut, high toxin load, food sensitivities, or "out-of-whack" hormones (to name just a few). These conditions don't just affect your body, but also affect your brain, resulting in depression, anxiety, insomnia, "brain fog" & other psychological symptoms. Medication can work spectacularly well, but often doesn't, if the body is too imbalanced.
Are you concerned your psychiatrist might diagnose & prescribe medication ("match the pill to the ill") without addressing root causes of your problem? Most psychiatrists don't look at the brain as part of the body & don't think about underlying conditions such as inflammation, an unhealthy gut, high toxin load, food sensitivities, or "out-of-whack" hormones (to name just a few). These conditions don't just affect your body, but also affect your brain, resulting in depression, anxiety, insomnia, "brain fog" & other psychological symptoms. Medication can work spectacularly well, but often doesn't, if the body is too imbalanced.
(312) 634-6867 View (312) 634-6867
Photo of Dr. Jac Gresham, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jac Gresham
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I work with people navigating mood and anxiety challenges, relational trauma, existential stuckness, or roles that have quietly worn them down. Many are seeking more than symptom relief—they want clarity, meaning, and a more coherent sense of self. As a psychiatrist, I’m attuned to both the emotional and biological threads of experience. My patients are often reflective, sometimes uncertain, and ready to begin the slow, careful work of change.
I work with people navigating mood and anxiety challenges, relational trauma, existential stuckness, or roles that have quietly worn them down. Many are seeking more than symptom relief—they want clarity, meaning, and a more coherent sense of self. As a psychiatrist, I’m attuned to both the emotional and biological threads of experience. My patients are often reflective, sometimes uncertain, and ready to begin the slow, careful work of change.
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Photo of Cathy Nguyen - Wellness Home Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Wellness Home Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Chicago, IL 60608
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in treating depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in treating depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
(872) 295-8584 View (872) 295-8584
Photo of Victoria Strickland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Victoria Strickland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Victoria Strickland, DNP, PMHNP-BC, and I’m truly passionate about supporting individuals through their mental health journeys. I understand how challenging it can be to face mental health struggles, and I’m here to walk alongside you, providing the care and guidance you deserve. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working in a variety of settings, from inpatient and residential psychiatric care to community health roles. These experiences have given me a well-rounded perspective on how to best support individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges.
Hi, I'm Victoria Strickland, DNP, PMHNP-BC, and I’m truly passionate about supporting individuals through their mental health journeys. I understand how challenging it can be to face mental health struggles, and I’m here to walk alongside you, providing the care and guidance you deserve. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working in a variety of settings, from inpatient and residential psychiatric care to community health roles. These experiences have given me a well-rounded perspective on how to best support individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges.
(708) 847-7352 x1 View (708) 847-7352 x1
Photo of Shammona Shalisa Clark - iHeal Health and Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP FPA, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
iHeal Health and Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP FPA, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
I'm Dr Shammona Clark and my mission is to offer high-quality, evidence-based mental health care through both in-person and telepsychiatry services. I focus on reaching individuals in underserved areas and those facing barriers to care. Everyone deserves access to mental health support, regardless of location or background. Telepsychiatry helps eliminate obstacles and provides a lifeline for those who might otherwise go without essential services. My goal is to empower patients with personalized, effective treatment that supports long-term well-being. My work is rooted in meeting people where they are and validating their journeys.
I'm Dr Shammona Clark and my mission is to offer high-quality, evidence-based mental health care through both in-person and telepsychiatry services. I focus on reaching individuals in underserved areas and those facing barriers to care. Everyone deserves access to mental health support, regardless of location or background. Telepsychiatry helps eliminate obstacles and provides a lifeline for those who might otherwise go without essential services. My goal is to empower patients with personalized, effective treatment that supports long-term well-being. My work is rooted in meeting people where they are and validating their journeys.
(872) 327-5270 View (872) 327-5270
Photo of Elizabeth Adekoya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FPA, MSN
Elizabeth Adekoya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FPA, MSN
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Now accepting new patients! Hi there, I'm Elizabeth. Do you suffer from persistent sadness? Do you find yourself struggling to focus or concentrate? Or do you find yourself constantly worrying, afraid or anxious? Are you in search of a provider that is both compassionate and adequately skilled to help you treat and manage your symptoms? I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner and I help adult individuals with mood disorders and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am compassionate about helping you manage your depression, anxiety, ADHD and any other comorbidities.
Now accepting new patients! Hi there, I'm Elizabeth. Do you suffer from persistent sadness? Do you find yourself struggling to focus or concentrate? Or do you find yourself constantly worrying, afraid or anxious? Are you in search of a provider that is both compassionate and adequately skilled to help you treat and manage your symptoms? I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner and I help adult individuals with mood disorders and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am compassionate about helping you manage your depression, anxiety, ADHD and any other comorbidities.
(872) 244-6995 View (872) 244-6995
Photo of Michaeline Steves, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michaeline Steves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I’m Michaeline Steves! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with well over a decade of experience in healthcare. Over the years, I've gained a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in balancing work, family, and self-care. I not only specialize in medication management, but I can also tailor a holistic treatment plan.
Hi, I’m Michaeline Steves! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with well over a decade of experience in healthcare. Over the years, I've gained a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in balancing work, family, and self-care. I not only specialize in medication management, but I can also tailor a holistic treatment plan.
(872) 274-3976 View (872) 274-3976
Photo of Dr. Marcel Bertsch-Gout, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Marcel Bertsch-Gout
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatrist with additional training in pharmacogenetics. I do my best to create a supportive environment where science meets compassionate care.
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatrist with additional training in pharmacogenetics. I do my best to create a supportive environment where science meets compassionate care.
(224) 464-4192 View (224) 464-4192
Photo of Chinenye Onakorame, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chinenye Onakorame
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Chinenye Onakorame is a top provider with Blossom Health - a premier team of psychiatry providers, all licensed and board-certified.
Chinenye Onakorame is a top provider with Blossom Health - a premier team of psychiatry providers, all licensed and board-certified.
(332) 275-7715 View (332) 275-7715

See more therapy options for Chicago

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL

500+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
90% Depression
75% Bipolar Disorder
69% ADHD
66% Trauma and PTSD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
60% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
87% Aetna
83% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
30% 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.