Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Monica Samelson, Psychiatrist, MD
Monica Samelson
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Our minds are a complex interrelation between our brain, other somatic systems, our social context, and much else about our environment. Improving mental health calls for a creative and adaptive approach that takes all these factors into account. Treatment works by building together a safe environment so that you can investigate the way your life experiences have led to certain ways of being in regards to yourself, relationships, and our sociocultural environment. Once you recognize these patterns, you can move forward with agency in order to live life in accordance with your desires, values, and sense of an authentic self.
Our minds are a complex interrelation between our brain, other somatic systems, our social context, and much else about our environment. Improving mental health calls for a creative and adaptive approach that takes all these factors into account. Treatment works by building together a safe environment so that you can investigate the way your life experiences have led to certain ways of being in regards to yourself, relationships, and our sociocultural environment. Once you recognize these patterns, you can move forward with agency in order to live life in accordance with your desires, values, and sense of an authentic self.
(773) 207-2986 View (773) 207-2986
Photo of Dr. Cory Renard Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , PMHNP, AGACNP
Dr. Cory Renard Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , PMHNP, AGACNP
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
My name is Cory R Williams, and I am a board certified psychiatric and adult gerontology nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for patients with anxiety, and depression. My mission is to help my patients navigate the challenges of stress, anxiety, and depression through comprehensive medication management. What sets my practice apart is our commitment to a holistic treatment plan that includes medication specifically formulated to treat anxiety and depression. I understand how overwhelming these conditions can feel, and I am here to guide you every step of the way with compassion, expertise, and respect.
My name is Cory R Williams, and I am a board certified psychiatric and adult gerontology nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for patients with anxiety, and depression. My mission is to help my patients navigate the challenges of stress, anxiety, and depression through comprehensive medication management. What sets my practice apart is our commitment to a holistic treatment plan that includes medication specifically formulated to treat anxiety and depression. I understand how overwhelming these conditions can feel, and I am here to guide you every step of the way with compassion, expertise, and respect.
(773) 985-6071 View (773) 985-6071
Photo of Nicole Erdenekhuyag, Physician Assistant, PA
Nicole Erdenekhuyag
Physician Assistant, PA
Chicago, IL 60657
As a Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatry, I've been dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services in various settings, including outpatient and intensive treatment environments since 2021.
As a Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatry, I've been dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services in various settings, including outpatient and intensive treatment environments since 2021.
(872) 259-5596 View (872) 259-5596
Photo of Caelin Kopicko, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Caelin Kopicko
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Chicago, IL 60614
My name is Caelin and I am passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey and the challenges and triumphs of life. I believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate, holistic care that nurtures the mind and body. I utilize our clinic's unique approach to mental health treatment, which integrates medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and understanding how life experiences shape each individual.
My name is Caelin and I am passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey and the challenges and triumphs of life. I believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate, holistic care that nurtures the mind and body. I utilize our clinic's unique approach to mental health treatment, which integrates medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and understanding how life experiences shape each individual.
(872) 326-5478 View (872) 326-5478
Photo of Aliya Hussain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aliya Hussain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Aliya Hussain, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) practicing in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care through telehealth services, which allows me to support clients from all corners of the state. In my practice, I focus on a holistic approach that considers the emotional, physical, and social factors affecting my clients' well-being. By integrating various therapeutic techniques and personalized treatment plans, I strive to create a supportive environment that fosters healing and growth.
My name is Aliya Hussain, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) practicing in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care through telehealth services, which allows me to support clients from all corners of the state. In my practice, I focus on a holistic approach that considers the emotional, physical, and social factors affecting my clients' well-being. By integrating various therapeutic techniques and personalized treatment plans, I strive to create a supportive environment that fosters healing and growth.
(872) 328-5319 View (872) 328-5319
Photo of Amer Smajkic - Amer Smajkic M.D., Psychiatrist, MD
Amer Smajkic M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Since 1995, Dr. Amer Smajkic has been practicing Psychiatry in the Chicago area. As a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr Smajkic is applying his knowledge and skills as a Psycho-pharmacologist, Behaviorist and Cognitive Behavioral therapist. The focus of his care are ADHD disorders, Learning disorders, Developmental disorders, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.
Since 1995, Dr. Amer Smajkic has been practicing Psychiatry in the Chicago area. As a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr Smajkic is applying his knowledge and skills as a Psycho-pharmacologist, Behaviorist and Cognitive Behavioral therapist. The focus of his care are ADHD disorders, Learning disorders, Developmental disorders, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.
(312) 697-1173 View (312) 697-1173
Photo of Tyler Burris, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Tyler Burris
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Chicago, IL 60657
I am a licensed Physician Assistant with a Master’s degree from the Yale School of Medicine practicing since 2024. My clinical experience includes working with individuals managing mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, ADHD, generalized anxiety, and PTSD in an inpatient setting. I take a patient-centered approach, aiming to provide thoughtful and evidence-based care to each person’s unique needs.
I am a licensed Physician Assistant with a Master’s degree from the Yale School of Medicine practicing since 2024. My clinical experience includes working with individuals managing mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, ADHD, generalized anxiety, and PTSD in an inpatient setting. I take a patient-centered approach, aiming to provide thoughtful and evidence-based care to each person’s unique needs.
(872) 239-3135 View (872) 239-3135
Photo of Audrey Rolandelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Audrey Rolandelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Audrey Rolandelli, and I am an Independent, board-certified, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois. I treat patients statewide across the lifespan. I provide medication management services along with supportive therapy. I find that the greatest success in mental health treatment comes with deeply understanding a person and viewing their current presenting symptoms as pieces of a puzzle.
My name is Audrey Rolandelli, and I am an Independent, board-certified, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois. I treat patients statewide across the lifespan. I provide medication management services along with supportive therapy. I find that the greatest success in mental health treatment comes with deeply understanding a person and viewing their current presenting symptoms as pieces of a puzzle.
(872) 205-3996 View (872) 205-3996
Photo of Medinat Balogun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Medinat Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Dr. Medina Balogun, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) whose graduate education allows me to prescribe medication with integrated therapy in collaboration with a psychiatrist. I manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, sleep/insomnia, and trauma. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care to adults and geriatric patients. As a DNP, my role is multifaceted, as I practice with evidence-based methods, and I am also an educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager.
I am Dr. Medina Balogun, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) whose graduate education allows me to prescribe medication with integrated therapy in collaboration with a psychiatrist. I manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, sleep/insomnia, and trauma. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care to adults and geriatric patients. As a DNP, my role is multifaceted, as I practice with evidence-based methods, and I am also an educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager.
(815) 597-2144 View (815) 597-2144
Photo of Shola Owoyemi (Enrolling New Patients), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shola Owoyemi (Enrolling New Patients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, 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.
(872) 296-5291 View (872) 296-5291
Photo of Kari Koster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kari Koster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Kari Koster is a top provider with Blossom Health - a premier team of psychiatry providers, all licensed and board-certified.
Kari Koster is a top provider with Blossom Health - a premier team of psychiatry providers, all licensed and board-certified.
(332) 900-4197 View (332) 900-4197
Photo of Yesenia Valdez, Psychiatrist, MD
Yesenia Valdez
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Many of my clients are living with the heavy emotional, physical, and social toll of opioid use. They may feel ashamed, stuck, or afraid to seek help because of stigma or past experiences with the healthcare system. What they need is a safe, private space where they can be heard and treated with respect. Their goals are to regain control of their lives, stabilize their health, and move toward lasting recovery on their own terms and without judgment. They want to feel like themselves again, and I’m here to help them get there.
Many of my clients are living with the heavy emotional, physical, and social toll of opioid use. They may feel ashamed, stuck, or afraid to seek help because of stigma or past experiences with the healthcare system. What they need is a safe, private space where they can be heard and treated with respect. Their goals are to regain control of their lives, stabilize their health, and move toward lasting recovery on their own terms and without judgment. They want to feel like themselves again, and I’m here to help them get there.
(217) 996-9234 View (217) 996-9234
Photo of Pavan Prasad, Psychiatrist, MD
Pavan Prasad
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I use a holistic approach, treating the full person rather than just symptoms. I specialize in treating Adults and Adolescents (12 years and up) with mood, self-esteem, and concentration problems, as well as working with more diffuse issues around identity, interpersonal relationships, and professional achievement. I address emotional distress and difficulties in daily living. This could manifest as depression, anxiety, insomnia, problems with intimacy or self-esteem, problems with concentration, feeling excessively angry or guilty, or trouble finding meaning in life, to name only a few.
I use a holistic approach, treating the full person rather than just symptoms. I specialize in treating Adults and Adolescents (12 years and up) with mood, self-esteem, and concentration problems, as well as working with more diffuse issues around identity, interpersonal relationships, and professional achievement. I address emotional distress and difficulties in daily living. This could manifest as depression, anxiety, insomnia, problems with intimacy or self-esteem, problems with concentration, feeling excessively angry or guilty, or trouble finding meaning in life, to name only a few.
(312) 487-2724 View (312) 487-2724
Photo of Robert Ratajczak, Psychiatrist, MD
Robert Ratajczak
Psychiatrist, MD
Chicago, IL 60614
I foster a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space to discuss your unique life challenges so that we may tailor a treatment plan that works for you. I make it a priority to remain attuned to your individual needs. When medications are appropriate, I take the time to educate you about the options and ensure that you’re comfortable and well-informed.
I foster a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space to discuss your unique life challenges so that we may tailor a treatment plan that works for you. I make it a priority to remain attuned to your individual needs. When medications are appropriate, I take the time to educate you about the options and ensure that you’re comfortable and well-informed.
(872) 326-5914 View (872) 326-5914
Photo of Annya Nguyen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP
Annya Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. I manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, impulse control disorders, and more. As a DNP-PMHNP, my role is multifaceted, including providing quality care, building and maintaining therapeutic relationships, educating, advocating, counseling, referring, and managing medication.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. I manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, impulse control disorders, and more. As a DNP-PMHNP, my role is multifaceted, including providing quality care, building and maintaining therapeutic relationships, educating, advocating, counseling, referring, and managing medication.
(847) 744-8471 View (847) 744-8471
Photo of Alexander E. Obolsky, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexander E. Obolsky
Psychiatrist, MD
Chicago, IL 60604
I know how challenging it can be to cope with overwhelming feelings, anxiety, hopelessness, or the struggles of bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, or PTSD. It can feel like you're carrying a weight that's too heavy to bear, impacting every aspect of your life – your relationships, your work, your sense of self. I understand these struggles, and I'm here to offer compassionate and effective care tailored to your individual needs.
I know how challenging it can be to cope with overwhelming feelings, anxiety, hopelessness, or the struggles of bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, or PTSD. It can feel like you're carrying a weight that's too heavy to bear, impacting every aspect of your life – your relationships, your work, your sense of self. I understand these struggles, and I'm here to offer compassionate and effective care tailored to your individual needs.
(312) 436-1329 View (312) 436-1329
Photo of Margo Ahlstrom, Physician Assistant, PA
Margo Ahlstrom
Physician Assistant, PA
Chicago, IL 60607
I specialize in medication management across the lifespan, supporting children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mood conditions. I integrate psychopharmacology with supportive therapy and lifestyle interventions to help individuals achieve meaningful improvements in mental health and overall well-being. My approach is collaborative, honoring each person’s unique goals, preferences, and lived experiences.
I specialize in medication management across the lifespan, supporting children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mood conditions. I integrate psychopharmacology with supportive therapy and lifestyle interventions to help individuals achieve meaningful improvements in mental health and overall well-being. My approach is collaborative, honoring each person’s unique goals, preferences, and lived experiences.
(312) 847-1779 View (312) 847-1779
Photo of Crystal Turner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Crystal Turner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi! My name is Crystal Turner. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who treats adults 18 and older. I treat various mental health conditions including trauma. mood disorders, depression, and anxiety. My approach is compassionate and inclusive. I incorporate education into my approach as I know well-informed patients have better outcomes. I also incorporate holistic approaches to integrate into care. I commonly work with people with history of trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
Hi! My name is Crystal Turner. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who treats adults 18 and older. I treat various mental health conditions including trauma. mood disorders, depression, and anxiety. My approach is compassionate and inclusive. I incorporate education into my approach as I know well-informed patients have better outcomes. I also incorporate holistic approaches to integrate into care. I commonly work with people with history of trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
(872) 267-9590 View (872) 267-9590
Photo of Aliya Hussain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aliya Hussain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Aliya Hussain, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) practicing in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care through telehealth services, which allows me to support clients from all corners of the state. In my practice, I focus on a holistic approach that considers the emotional, physical, and social factors affecting my clients' well-being. By integrating various therapeutic techniques and personalized treatment plans, I strive to create a supportive environment that fosters healing and growth.
My name is Aliya Hussain, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) practicing in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care through telehealth services, which allows me to support clients from all corners of the state. In my practice, I focus on a holistic approach that considers the emotional, physical, and social factors affecting my clients' well-being. By integrating various therapeutic techniques and personalized treatment plans, I strive to create a supportive environment that fosters healing and growth.
(872) 270-6259 View (872) 270-6259
Photo of Cayce McConnell - Blysss Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Blysss Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
We aim to inspire and support individuals in achieving their unique wellness goals. Our commitment to the well-being of every client is evident in our approach to care, which is characterized by empathy, understanding, a culture focused on safety, excellence, and a deep commitment to improving mental health outcomes while optimizing recovery for each and every individual. We look forward to meeting and hearing from you soon. Let’s embark on a journey together to achieve your mental health goals! .
We aim to inspire and support individuals in achieving their unique wellness goals. Our commitment to the well-being of every client is evident in our approach to care, which is characterized by empathy, understanding, a culture focused on safety, excellence, and a deep commitment to improving mental health outcomes while optimizing recovery for each and every individual. We look forward to meeting and hearing from you soon. Let’s embark on a journey together to achieve your mental health goals! .
(844) 425-9777 View (844) 425-9777

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
74% Bipolar Disorder
69% ADHD
66% Trauma and PTSD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
61% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% Aetna
84% 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.