Psychiatrists in Deerfield, IL

Photo of Theresa Larson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Theresa Larson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
Theresa is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering high-quality, holistic mental health care to adults and adolescents. She specializes in treating a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders. She also has experience providing TMS, intravenous nutrient therapy, hormone replacement therapy, and various ketamine-based therapies. Her approach to care is rooted in her passion for integrative psychiatry, which blends evidence-based conventional treatments with alternative therapies and lifestyle interventions.
Theresa is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering high-quality, holistic mental health care to adults and adolescents. She specializes in treating a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders. She also has experience providing TMS, intravenous nutrient therapy, hormone replacement therapy, and various ketamine-based therapies. Her approach to care is rooted in her passion for integrative psychiatry, which blends evidence-based conventional treatments with alternative therapies and lifestyle interventions.
(224) 442-8027 View (224) 442-8027
Photo of Dr. Steve Best, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Steve Best
Psychiatrist, MD
Deerfield, IL 60015
Dr. Best, a Psychiatrist & Neuropsychiatrist, offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, neuropsychiatric assessments, medication management services and on-site case management, individualized treatment plans that support collaboration amongst a team, support for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, and more, advanced brain stimulation clinic, and in some cases we invented the procedure!
Dr. Best, a Psychiatrist & Neuropsychiatrist, offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, neuropsychiatric assessments, medication management services and on-site case management, individualized treatment plans that support collaboration amongst a team, support for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, and more, advanced brain stimulation clinic, and in some cases we invented the procedure!
(847) 236-9310 View (847) 236-9310
Photo of Michael Ficaro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Michael Ficaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Michael Ficaro is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois. Michael has been in the mental health field for ten years and has experience working with both adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Michael has worked with patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, substance use disorders, spectrum disorders, personality disorders, and behavioral disorders. Michael also offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Michael Ficaro is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois. Michael has been in the mental health field for ten years and has experience working with both adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Michael has worked with patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, substance use disorders, spectrum disorders, personality disorders, and behavioral disorders. Michael also offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
(847) 423-6645 View (847) 423-6645
Photo of Dr. Amber May, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Amber May
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Welcome to the Northshore Wellness Center where we set the gold standard in medical and mental healthcare offering comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans. We are a collaborative medical-psychiatric practice led by a physician couple dedicated to nurturing both brain and body health. We provide Direct Primary & Direct Psychiatric Care. We are highly accessible to our patients, available within 24 hours for current patients and within 72 hours for new patients. Our physicians take a global view of your health and look deeper into the root causes of your symptoms.
Welcome to the Northshore Wellness Center where we set the gold standard in medical and mental healthcare offering comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans. We are a collaborative medical-psychiatric practice led by a physician couple dedicated to nurturing both brain and body health. We provide Direct Primary & Direct Psychiatric Care. We are highly accessible to our patients, available within 24 hours for current patients and within 72 hours for new patients. Our physicians take a global view of your health and look deeper into the root causes of your symptoms.
(847) 220-7660 View (847) 220-7660
Photo of Valery Benson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Valery Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) committed to helping individuals achieve mental wellness and emotional balance. With a focus on personalized, evidence-based care, I work collaboratively with clients, including children, adolescents, and adults, to address a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With experience in diverse clinical settings—including outpatient clinics, inpatient units, and community health programs—I provide care to individuals across all age groups.
I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) committed to helping individuals achieve mental wellness and emotional balance. With a focus on personalized, evidence-based care, I work collaboratively with clients, including children, adolescents, and adults, to address a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With experience in diverse clinical settings—including outpatient clinics, inpatient units, and community health programs—I provide care to individuals across all age groups.
(847) 201-0908 View (847) 201-0908
Photo of Taylor Brant McDowell, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ, Psych
Taylor Brant McDowell
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ, Psych
Serves Area
Taylor McDowell is a compassionate psychiatric physician assistant committed to improving his patients' mental health and well-being. With a Certification of Additional Qualifications (CAQ) in psychiatry, Taylor brings a wealth of expertise to his role at Medico. His areas of specialization include general psychiatric disorders, with a focus on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, sleep disorders, and ADHD. Taylor's approach to patient care is comprehensive and individualized, ensuring that each patient receives the best treatment tailored to their needs.
Taylor McDowell is a compassionate psychiatric physician assistant committed to improving his patients' mental health and well-being. With a Certification of Additional Qualifications (CAQ) in psychiatry, Taylor brings a wealth of expertise to his role at Medico. His areas of specialization include general psychiatric disorders, with a focus on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, sleep disorders, and ADHD. Taylor's approach to patient care is comprehensive and individualized, ensuring that each patient receives the best treatment tailored to their needs.
(708) 729-5936 View (708) 729-5936
Photo of Dr. Jennie Elizabeth Zavaleta, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Jennie Elizabeth Zavaleta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
22 Endorsed
Serves Area
I completed my Doctor of Nursing Practice and Masters of Nursing at Capella University. My post-master’s degree in Psychiatry and Mental Health from Frontier University in Versailles, Kentucky. I worked with children/pediatrics during the 2020 pandemic. I have also worked in a psychiatric hospital setting. Experienced working with grief, loss and life transitions. Specializing in ADHD, anxiety, bipolar II, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, and depression. My focus is creating a personalized treatment plan with a preventative holistic approach. I understand each condition affecting people isn’t a simple or single disorder. I treat Ages 6-75.
I completed my Doctor of Nursing Practice and Masters of Nursing at Capella University. My post-master’s degree in Psychiatry and Mental Health from Frontier University in Versailles, Kentucky. I worked with children/pediatrics during the 2020 pandemic. I have also worked in a psychiatric hospital setting. Experienced working with grief, loss and life transitions. Specializing in ADHD, anxiety, bipolar II, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, and depression. My focus is creating a personalized treatment plan with a preventative holistic approach. I understand each condition affecting people isn’t a simple or single disorder. I treat Ages 6-75.
(224) 344-6456 View (224) 344-6456
Photo of Meaghan Cotter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Meaghan Cotter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
I truly believe the only path to healing is "through." I plan to help you heal through the wounds that hold you back. With a combination of medication prescribing (if needed), talk therapy, skill building, and body work you can get to a place of thriving and aligning with your desires. Using techniques that are safe, non judgemental and open, together we will come up with a plan just for you.
I truly believe the only path to healing is "through." I plan to help you heal through the wounds that hold you back. With a combination of medication prescribing (if needed), talk therapy, skill building, and body work you can get to a place of thriving and aligning with your desires. Using techniques that are safe, non judgemental and open, together we will come up with a plan just for you.
(630) 552-6276 View (630) 552-6276
Photo of Robin J Shapiro, Psychiatrist, MD
Robin J Shapiro
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I take time to get to know my patients and their concerns. Within the scope of general adult and child and adolescent psychiatry I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, family sessions and consultations, as well as school consultations and evaluations. I have a special interest in eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and ADHD. My practice is open to other general psychiatric needs as well. I pride myself on getting to know my patients and their needs. I also routinely work with families to understand and cope with their loved one's illness. I use evidence based medicine and the most up to date practices.
I take time to get to know my patients and their concerns. Within the scope of general adult and child and adolescent psychiatry I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, family sessions and consultations, as well as school consultations and evaluations. I have a special interest in eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and ADHD. My practice is open to other general psychiatric needs as well. I pride myself on getting to know my patients and their needs. I also routinely work with families to understand and cope with their loved one's illness. I use evidence based medicine and the most up to date practices.
(312) 520-9603 View (312) 520-9603

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Karelis Sierra-Cintron, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Karelis Sierra-Cintron
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Sierra-Cintron is board-certified in adult psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has been in practice for 12 years. Dr. Sierra-Cintron focuses her practice on medication management. She also engages in supportive therapy in a comprehensive way, focusing on the patient as a whole and not just the symptoms. Dr. Sierra-Cintron has a comprehensive approach to treatment, and might consider the addition of therapy, either by referral or collaborating with an existing therapist for a more rounded approach and improved outcome.
Dr. Sierra-Cintron is board-certified in adult psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has been in practice for 12 years. Dr. Sierra-Cintron focuses her practice on medication management. She also engages in supportive therapy in a comprehensive way, focusing on the patient as a whole and not just the symptoms. Dr. Sierra-Cintron has a comprehensive approach to treatment, and might consider the addition of therapy, either by referral or collaborating with an existing therapist for a more rounded approach and improved outcome.
(708) 435-2326 View (708) 435-2326
Photo of Harmony L Rich - Rainbow Mental Health, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rainbow Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Tired of feeling invalidated? Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will listen to your needs? Welcome to Rainbow Mental Health. We are a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner operated clinic. We are here to help you reach your goals. We believe in an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. We focus on the whole person when working with clients and use evidence-based treatments to guide recommendations and our work together. We work with ages 12-55. We have a team of 3 Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, when reaching out please let us know if you have a provider preference.
Tired of feeling invalidated? Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will listen to your needs? Welcome to Rainbow Mental Health. We are a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner operated clinic. We are here to help you reach your goals. We believe in an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. We focus on the whole person when working with clients and use evidence-based treatments to guide recommendations and our work together. We work with ages 12-55. We have a team of 3 Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, when reaching out please let us know if you have a provider preference.
(224) 225-7305 View (224) 225-7305
Photo of Brianne Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FPA, FNP-BC
Brianne Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FPA, FNP-BC
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or like the world is moving too fast? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m a Nurse Practitioner with full practice authority in Illinois, specializing in integrative mental health, trauma-informed care, and thoughtful medication management. I work with high-performing adults navigating burnout, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma histories—especially those who’ve “tried everything” and still don’t feel quite right.
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or like the world is moving too fast? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m a Nurse Practitioner with full practice authority in Illinois, specializing in integrative mental health, trauma-informed care, and thoughtful medication management. I work with high-performing adults navigating burnout, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma histories—especially those who’ve “tried everything” and still don’t feel quite right.
(847) 973-5890 View (847) 973-5890
Photo of Angela S. Peters, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ANP
Angela S. Peters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ANP
Gurnee, IL 60031
Are you struggling and ready for a change? If you are looking to connect with a provider who cares and accepts you for you...you're in the right place! I am a Nurse Practitioner dual certified in psychiatry and adult health with additional certification in pain management. My background before psychiatry included pain management, oncology, primary care, and education which gives me a unique perspective. I like to get to know you as a person and understand what your struggles are so that we can work together toward improving your mental wellness.
Are you struggling and ready for a change? If you are looking to connect with a provider who cares and accepts you for you...you're in the right place! I am a Nurse Practitioner dual certified in psychiatry and adult health with additional certification in pain management. My background before psychiatry included pain management, oncology, primary care, and education which gives me a unique perspective. I like to get to know you as a person and understand what your struggles are so that we can work together toward improving your mental wellness.
(847) 474-9355 View (847) 474-9355
Photo of Brad Pechter, Psychiatrist, MD
Brad Pechter
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
Bradley Pechter, MD is a psychiatrist with over 25 years of clinical experience. He has attended school at Stanford University, Northwestern Medical School, and the Universities of Illinois and Colorado. He has been board-certified in adult, child & adolescent and addiction psychiatry over the course of his career. Dr. Pechter has also been on the faculty at Northwestern, Rush and the University of Illinois. He has been in private practice for the past 10 years and has a special interest in Child, Adolescent and Young Adult Psychiatry.
Bradley Pechter, MD is a psychiatrist with over 25 years of clinical experience. He has attended school at Stanford University, Northwestern Medical School, and the Universities of Illinois and Colorado. He has been board-certified in adult, child & adolescent and addiction psychiatry over the course of his career. Dr. Pechter has also been on the faculty at Northwestern, Rush and the University of Illinois. He has been in private practice for the past 10 years and has a special interest in Child, Adolescent and Young Adult Psychiatry.
(312) 625-5179 x1302 View (312) 625-5179 x1302
Photo of Michelle Wolff, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Michelle Wolff
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
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 Harmony Rich, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Harmony Rich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Getting help shouldn't be hard! Finding the right provider can often be worse than online dating. Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will spend time getting to know you, your unique needs, and actually explain treatment recommendations? I take an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. I focus on the whole person and use evidence-based treatments to guide care. I value the patient experience and want every client to feel fully informed and comfortable with their treatment recommendations. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgemental environment to help support your mental wellness goals.
Getting help shouldn't be hard! Finding the right provider can often be worse than online dating. Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will spend time getting to know you, your unique needs, and actually explain treatment recommendations? I take an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. I focus on the whole person and use evidence-based treatments to guide care. I value the patient experience and want every client to feel fully informed and comfortable with their treatment recommendations. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgemental environment to help support your mental wellness goals.
(224) 504-1167 View (224) 504-1167
Photo of Esther Harris - Thrive Psychiatric Services, Esther Harris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, RN
Thrive Psychiatric Services, Esther Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, RN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a caring, compassionate and approachable provider who enjoys helping my patients discover hope, engage in healing and begin the process of living their lives to the fullest. I provide medication management and basic psychotherapy in Grayslake, IL. I treat all ages including children 6 years and up. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine allows me to provide a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions. Let me use my experience and symptom-targeted treatment planning to help you manage the symptoms that are causing you challenges and stress in your life.
I am a caring, compassionate and approachable provider who enjoys helping my patients discover hope, engage in healing and begin the process of living their lives to the fullest. I provide medication management and basic psychotherapy in Grayslake, IL. I treat all ages including children 6 years and up. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine allows me to provide a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions. Let me use my experience and symptom-targeted treatment planning to help you manage the symptoms that are causing you challenges and stress in your life.
(224) 241-6487 View (224) 241-6487
Photo of Ejaz Jafri, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ejaz Jafri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Ejaz! Hello, my name is Ejaz Jafri, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a clinical career in outpatient & inpatient settings. I specialize in managing the care of adolescents & adults with depression, bipolar, anxiety, panic, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, mood disorders, personality disorders, schizoaffective disorder, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and adjustment disorders. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation, monitoring, and management.
Hi there, I'm Ejaz! Hello, my name is Ejaz Jafri, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a clinical career in outpatient & inpatient settings. I specialize in managing the care of adolescents & adults with depression, bipolar, anxiety, panic, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, mood disorders, personality disorders, schizoaffective disorder, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and adjustment disorders. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation, monitoring, and management.
(708) 690-1998 View (708) 690-1998
Photo of Dr. Janeen Paul, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Janeen Paul
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Paul has worked in outpatient private practice psychiatry for nearly 20 years. Throughout her career, she has combined medication management with talk therapy, to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient's needs. Dr. Paul received her MD from The University of Iowa. She completed an intern year in Obstetrics and Gynecology at The University of Illinois, Chicago, and went on to psychiatry residency at Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL. Dr. Janeen Paul is board certified in Adult Psychiatry.
Dr. Paul has worked in outpatient private practice psychiatry for nearly 20 years. Throughout her career, she has combined medication management with talk therapy, to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient's needs. Dr. Paul received her MD from The University of Iowa. She completed an intern year in Obstetrics and Gynecology at The University of Illinois, Chicago, and went on to psychiatry residency at Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL. Dr. Janeen Paul is board certified in Adult Psychiatry.
(708) 734-2898 View (708) 734-2898
Photo of Olukemi Aina, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olukemi Aina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, integrative mental health care grounded in evidence-based practices. I work collaboratively with clients to understand their unique challenges and goals, focusing on a holistic approach that includes both psychotherapy and medication management when appropriate.
As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, integrative mental health care grounded in evidence-based practices. I work collaboratively with clients to understand their unique challenges and goals, focusing on a holistic approach that includes both psychotherapy and medication management when appropriate.
(773) 207-3061 View (773) 207-3061

See more therapy options for Deerfield

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Deerfield, IL

< 10

Psychiatrists in Deerfield, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
89% Trauma and PTSD
78% ADHD
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Sleep or Insomnia
78% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Deerfield, IL see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Deerfield?

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.