Psychiatrists in Des Plaines, IL

Photo of Anne M. Simmons, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, AMB-BC
Anne M. Simmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, AMB-BC
Des Plaines, IL 60018
Hi, I’m Anne Simmons, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, AMB-BC, CNE. I’m passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care with a holistic approach. As both a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, and depression, working with individuals to create personalized treatment plans that meet them where they are in their journey. I am particularly dedicated to serving Veterans and their families, bringing military cultural competence to my practice to ensure they feel understood and supported.
Hi, I’m Anne Simmons, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, AMB-BC, CNE. I’m passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care with a holistic approach. As both a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, and depression, working with individuals to create personalized treatment plans that meet them where they are in their journey. I am particularly dedicated to serving Veterans and their families, bringing military cultural competence to my practice to ensure they feel understood and supported.
(331) 272-4885 View (331) 272-4885
Photo of Mary Ann Longalong Villalon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mary Ann Longalong Villalon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Des Plaines, IL 60016
As a Psychiatric NP, my holistic approach spans from pre-conception to end-of-life care, ensuring comprehensive mental health support. I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating psychiatric conditions, integrating physical and psychological evaluations, therapy, medication management, emergency care, and relapse prevention. My practice is built on trust, empathy, respect, and equality, fostering a secure and understanding environment for every client. This approach underscores my dedication to personalized, patient-centered care, highlighting my commitment to nurturing mental well-being throughout life's various stages.
As a Psychiatric NP, my holistic approach spans from pre-conception to end-of-life care, ensuring comprehensive mental health support. I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating psychiatric conditions, integrating physical and psychological evaluations, therapy, medication management, emergency care, and relapse prevention. My practice is built on trust, empathy, respect, and equality, fostering a secure and understanding environment for every client. This approach underscores my dedication to personalized, patient-centered care, highlighting my commitment to nurturing mental well-being throughout life's various stages.
(224) 263-4653 View (224) 263-4653
Photo of Joanna Missygar (Addiction Speciality), Physician Assistant, PA-C
Joanna Missygar (Addiction Speciality)
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug or alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug or alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(773) 570-2911 View (773) 570-2911
Photo of Temi Olutade, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Temi Olutade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Serves Area
Temitope "Temi" Olutade, PMHNP-BC Temitope "Temi" Olutade is a passionate and dedicated Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Illinois. With a deep commitment to providing high-quality mental health care, she is driven by a strong belief in the importance of mental wellness and holistic healing. Temi's approach to mental health care is founded on empathy, understanding, and evidence-based practice. She works with individuals across the lifespan to address a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more.
Temitope "Temi" Olutade, PMHNP-BC Temitope "Temi" Olutade is a passionate and dedicated Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Illinois. With a deep commitment to providing high-quality mental health care, she is driven by a strong belief in the importance of mental wellness and holistic healing. Temi's approach to mental health care is founded on empathy, understanding, and evidence-based practice. She works with individuals across the lifespan to address a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more.
(847) 429-3826 View (847) 429-3826
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Online Only
Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $85-$109. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $85-$109. Accepting some insurances.
(847) 241-1249 View (847) 241-1249
Photo of Noel Tapia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Noel Tapia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Noel Tapia, PMHNP, is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois, specializing in the treatment of individuals aged 11 and above, with a particular focus on adolescents and teens (15+) and advanced aged adults. In his professional practice, Noel is unwaveringly dedicated to enhancing the mental well-being of his clients through personalized and empathetic care. While he is a generalist with a broad skill set, his distinctive emphasis on geriatrics equips him with a deep understanding of the nuanced needs of individuals in this specific demographic.
Noel Tapia, PMHNP, is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois, specializing in the treatment of individuals aged 11 and above, with a particular focus on adolescents and teens (15+) and advanced aged adults. In his professional practice, Noel is unwaveringly dedicated to enhancing the mental well-being of his clients through personalized and empathetic care. While he is a generalist with a broad skill set, his distinctive emphasis on geriatrics equips him with a deep understanding of the nuanced needs of individuals in this specific demographic.
(847) 851-4805 View (847) 851-4805
Photo of Jacalyn Saracco, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacalyn Saracco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Jacalyn Saracco is a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of experience specializing in Psychiatric Nursing. As a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner, areas of specialization include, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, ADHD and Bipolar Disorder. Jacalyn treats patients between the ages of 10 through adulthood. Jacalyn has extensive experience working with clients in the outpatient and inpatient settings. In her free time, Jacalyn enjoys reading and spending time with family. Jacalyn has a Master of Science Degree in Nursing from Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing.
Jacalyn Saracco is a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of experience specializing in Psychiatric Nursing. As a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner, areas of specialization include, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, ADHD and Bipolar Disorder. Jacalyn treats patients between the ages of 10 through adulthood. Jacalyn has extensive experience working with clients in the outpatient and inpatient settings. In her free time, Jacalyn enjoys reading and spending time with family. Jacalyn has a Master of Science Degree in Nursing from Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing.
(847) 264-9065 View (847) 264-9065
Photo of Jacalyn Saracco - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(224) 464-3521 View (224) 464-3521
Annette Simmons
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Serves Area
Anne Simmons, PMHNP-BC, provides compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric medication management to children, teens, and adults navigating life’s emotional and psychological challenges in Illinois. At LifeStance Health, she partners with individuals to address a range of mental health concerns, helping clients understand their symptoms, explore treatment options, and make informed choices about their care. With a focus on creating a supportive, respectful environment, Anne meets each client where they are and helps them move toward greater stability and wellbeing.
Anne Simmons, PMHNP-BC, provides compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric medication management to children, teens, and adults navigating life’s emotional and psychological challenges in Illinois. At LifeStance Health, she partners with individuals to address a range of mental health concerns, helping clients understand their symptoms, explore treatment options, and make informed choices about their care. With a focus on creating a supportive, respectful environment, Anne meets each client where they are and helps them move toward greater stability and wellbeing.
(773) 232-5169 View (773) 232-5169
Rachel Amodu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
(630) 793-0928 View (630) 793-0928

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jovel Viloria Broqueza, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, FPA
Jovel Viloria Broqueza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, FPA
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Dr. Jovel is a board-certified psychiatric and family practitioner with extensive experience working with a diverse population in healthcare settings. She is proficient in treating ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, and impulsive disorders in children, adults, and older adults. She optimizes patient care using evidence-based treatments through medication management and counseling, assisting patients to achieve balance and leading them on a healing path.
Dr. Jovel is a board-certified psychiatric and family practitioner with extensive experience working with a diverse population in healthcare settings. She is proficient in treating ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, and impulsive disorders in children, adults, and older adults. She optimizes patient care using evidence-based treatments through medication management and counseling, assisting patients to achieve balance and leading them on a healing path.
(630) 344-9617 View (630) 344-9617
Photo of Dr. Matt Brown, Psychiatrist, DO, MBA
Dr. Matt Brown
Psychiatrist, DO, MBA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Brown is a double board certified psychiatrist and treats children, adolescents and adults. Dr. Brown is an expert in the treatment of OCD. He will also work with clients regarding issues with PTSD, Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Depression, and ADHD. Dr. Brown focuses largely on using supplements and other natural treatments such as a behavioral change to find a path forward. However, he does prescribe medications as well when needed. The goal of treatment is the less medication overall the better as long as the person is doing ok.
Dr. Brown is a double board certified psychiatrist and treats children, adolescents and adults. Dr. Brown is an expert in the treatment of OCD. He will also work with clients regarding issues with PTSD, Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Depression, and ADHD. Dr. Brown focuses largely on using supplements and other natural treatments such as a behavioral change to find a path forward. However, he does prescribe medications as well when needed. The goal of treatment is the less medication overall the better as long as the person is doing ok.
(872) 266-7958 View (872) 266-7958
Photo of Zackary Ladson, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Zackary Ladson
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
I am a certified Physician Assistant and completed my master's degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. I have several years of experience as a Family Medicine Physician Assistant, operating as the sole medical practitioner of my outpatient community health clinic. I manage an extensive array of acute and chronic health conditions, with a significant portion of my practice dedicated to diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders ranging from mild to severe.
I am a certified Physician Assistant and completed my master's degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. I have several years of experience as a Family Medicine Physician Assistant, operating as the sole medical practitioner of my outpatient community health clinic. I manage an extensive array of acute and chronic health conditions, with a significant portion of my practice dedicated to diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders ranging from mild to severe.
(217) 262-1734 View (217) 262-1734
Photo of Michael Igho, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Igho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
4 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with a holistic perspective, focusing on both the mind and body to promote overall well-being. When working with new clients, I take time to understand their personal history, current challenges, and treatment goals through open, collaborative conversations. From there, I partner with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, therapeutic interventions, and lifestyle recommendations.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with a holistic perspective, focusing on both the mind and body to promote overall well-being. When working with new clients, I take time to understand their personal history, current challenges, and treatment goals through open, collaborative conversations. From there, I partner with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, therapeutic interventions, and lifestyle recommendations.
(630) 635-0469 View (630) 635-0469
Photo of Jacob Krasner, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Jacob Krasner
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Chicago, IL 60614
I believe that healthcare should be a space where patients feel empowered, valued, and heard. I approach each patient as an equal partner in their care, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and mutual respect. I view myself as a facilitator—here to help guide patients, offer insight, and provide tools for them to better understand and manage their mental health on their path to healing and growth. In addition to traditional approaches, I am a strong proponent of alternative and holistic treatments, including Spravato, ketamine treatments + KAP, mindfulness practices, and integrative methods.
I believe that healthcare should be a space where patients feel empowered, valued, and heard. I approach each patient as an equal partner in their care, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and mutual respect. I view myself as a facilitator—here to help guide patients, offer insight, and provide tools for them to better understand and manage their mental health on their path to healing and growth. In addition to traditional approaches, I am a strong proponent of alternative and holistic treatments, including Spravato, ketamine treatments + KAP, mindfulness practices, and integrative methods.
(872) 231-3825 View (872) 231-3825
Photo of Diane Shallcross, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Diane Shallcross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Dee Shallcross, and I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner backed by a robust 17 years of nursing experience. My professional journey has been shaped by a commitment to providing patient-centered care and prioritizing the individual well-being of mental health consumers. In my private practice, I offer therapy (CBT, SFBT, Grief & Strengths-Based Therapy) and psychotropic med management for mental health consumers. In addition, I complete psychiatric evaluations for pre-bariatric surgery clearance.
My name is Dee Shallcross, and I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner backed by a robust 17 years of nursing experience. My professional journey has been shaped by a commitment to providing patient-centered care and prioritizing the individual well-being of mental health consumers. In my private practice, I offer therapy (CBT, SFBT, Grief & Strengths-Based Therapy) and psychotropic med management for mental health consumers. In addition, I complete psychiatric evaluations for pre-bariatric surgery clearance.
(872) 278-4087 View (872) 278-4087
Photo of Chakika Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Chakika Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Orland Park, IL 60462
My ideal client seeks support for preventive care, weight management, or aesthetic concerns. They may struggle with managing their health, feeling confident, or navigating medical options. They want expert guidance, a personalized approach, and a compassionate provider who listens, supports, and empowers them to achieve their goals.
My ideal client seeks support for preventive care, weight management, or aesthetic concerns. They may struggle with managing their health, feeling confident, or navigating medical options. They want expert guidance, a personalized approach, and a compassionate provider who listens, supports, and empowers them to achieve their goals.
(708) 773-4519 View (708) 773-4519
Photo of Alex Mirman, Psychiatrist, MD
Alex Mirman
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a UCLA-trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist who works with adults ages 18-64. I treat patients with a variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis, substance use disorders, and more. While medications can be a powerful tool, I strongly encourage my patients to be in therapy (whether with me or another therapist), and believe this to be an important part of an effective treatment plan.
I am a UCLA-trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist who works with adults ages 18-64. I treat patients with a variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis, substance use disorders, and more. While medications can be a powerful tool, I strongly encourage my patients to be in therapy (whether with me or another therapist), and believe this to be an important part of an effective treatment plan.
(312) 766-8424 View (312) 766-8424
Photo of Doug Nyenke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, MSN
Doug Nyenke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, MSN
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60612
My name is Doug Nyenke and I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the owner of Beverly Psychiatric Services LLC. With over sixteen years of experience, I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults facing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. My practice focuses on personalized care through medication management and supportive therapy, offering a compassionate and informed approach to help clients achieve stability and improved mental well-being.
My name is Doug Nyenke and I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the owner of Beverly Psychiatric Services LLC. With over sixteen years of experience, I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults facing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. My practice focuses on personalized care through medication management and supportive therapy, offering a compassionate and informed approach to help clients achieve stability and improved mental well-being.
(708) 726-0739 View (708) 726-0739
Photo of Angelica Pucha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Angelica Pucha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Angelica and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Illinois. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depressions, insomnia & sleep issues, bipolar disorder, life transition, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), seasonal affective disorder (SAD), anger management/ impulse disorder, and college and graduate student mental health. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Angelica and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Illinois. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depressions, insomnia & sleep issues, bipolar disorder, life transition, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), seasonal affective disorder (SAD), anger management/ impulse disorder, and college and graduate student mental health. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(872) 302-6232 View (872) 302-6232

See more therapy options for Des Plaines

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Des Plaines, IL

10+

Average cost per session

$129

Psychiatrists in Des Plaines, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
90% Depression
90% Trauma and PTSD
80% ADHD
80% Bipolar Disorder
70% Sleep or Insomnia
70% Medication Management

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
90% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Des Plaines, IL see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Des Plaines?

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.