Psychiatrists in Downers Grove, IL

Photo of Faraz Sultan, Psychiatrist, MD
Faraz Sultan
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client seeks a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to mental health care. They may be experiencing persistent emotional distress, behavioral changes, or challenges in relationships. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, improving daily functioning, and processing past traumas. They desire a supportive, non-judgmental environment where their individuality is respected, and they can collaborate on a personalized treatment plan to reclaim their well-being.
My ideal client seeks a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to mental health care. They may be experiencing persistent emotional distress, behavioral changes, or challenges in relationships. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, improving daily functioning, and processing past traumas. They desire a supportive, non-judgmental environment where their individuality is respected, and they can collaborate on a personalized treatment plan to reclaim their well-being.
(630) 491-5842 View (630) 491-5842
Photo of Sarah Sims, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FPA
Sarah Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FPA
12 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Sarah Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Transcendent Psychiatry treats pediatric, adolescents, and adults. In her practice, she integrates a combination of evidence-based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, compassionate trauma informed care and various cognitive modalities to help you heal. She believes that high quality psychiatric care is more than just treating mental illness. It is a patient centered journey through transitioning mental illness to into mental wellness. Feel free to email us to schedule an intake.
Sarah Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Transcendent Psychiatry treats pediatric, adolescents, and adults. In her practice, she integrates a combination of evidence-based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, compassionate trauma informed care and various cognitive modalities to help you heal. She believes that high quality psychiatric care is more than just treating mental illness. It is a patient centered journey through transitioning mental illness to into mental wellness. Feel free to email us to schedule an intake.
(331) 214-3648 View (331) 214-3648
Photo of Michael Igho, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Igho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
5 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 Jacqueline Marie Stoll, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS
Jacqueline Marie Stoll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS
Online Only
As an advanced practice nurse with over twenty years of experience working in both general medicine and psychiatry, I bring a truly wholistic approach to treating mental health issues with a particular focus on how physical health affects mental health. I specialize in mood disorders, chronic mental illness, and anxiety disorders as well as post-traumatic stress disorder and compulsive disorders such as OCD. In addition to holding certifications in both Medicine and Psychiatry, I am also a certified Addictions Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating substance use disorders as well as process addictions
As an advanced practice nurse with over twenty years of experience working in both general medicine and psychiatry, I bring a truly wholistic approach to treating mental health issues with a particular focus on how physical health affects mental health. I specialize in mood disorders, chronic mental illness, and anxiety disorders as well as post-traumatic stress disorder and compulsive disorders such as OCD. In addition to holding certifications in both Medicine and Psychiatry, I am also a certified Addictions Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating substance use disorders as well as process addictions
(833) 657-7659 View (833) 657-7659
Photo of Olusegun Nutayi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Olusegun Nutayi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Accepting new patients. Dr. Nutayi's clinical experience began over seven years ago, working in various clinical settings. As a compassionate, caring, and lifelong learner, his commitment and dedication to his patients foster a safe, therapeutic, and provider-patient relationship. Olusegun Nutayi takes a patient-centered approach to caring for his patients while utilizing evidence-based treatment. Patient-centered focus care is the cornerstone of helping his patients achieve a state of well-being. He enjoys working with adolescents and adult patients ages 13 and older.
Accepting new patients. Dr. Nutayi's clinical experience began over seven years ago, working in various clinical settings. As a compassionate, caring, and lifelong learner, his commitment and dedication to his patients foster a safe, therapeutic, and provider-patient relationship. Olusegun Nutayi takes a patient-centered approach to caring for his patients while utilizing evidence-based treatment. Patient-centered focus care is the cornerstone of helping his patients achieve a state of well-being. He enjoys working with adolescents and adult patients ages 13 and older.
(630) 984-0848 View (630) 984-0848
Photo of Madison Bertram, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Madison Bertram
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I started my career as a registered nurse at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, treating patients with various mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD.
I started my career as a registered nurse at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, treating patients with various mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD.
(630) 360-8279 View (630) 360-8279
Photo of Catherine L Stull, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPA, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Catherine L Stull
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPA, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I can help a person with issues with stress, prioritizing, happiness, mental health, and wanting assistance to make changes in their life
I can help a person with issues with stress, prioritizing, happiness, mental health, and wanting assistance to make changes in their life
(224) 553-5153 View (224) 553-5153
Photo of Min Wang, Psychiatrist, PhD
Min Wang
Psychiatrist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My training in the field of internal medicine has helped my psychiatry practice, especially in the care of geriatric patients, who often have chronic medical conditions. I am very conscious of the side effects of the medications commonly used in the treatment of mental illness, some of which may affect a patient's physical health.
My training in the field of internal medicine has helped my psychiatry practice, especially in the care of geriatric patients, who often have chronic medical conditions. I am very conscious of the side effects of the medications commonly used in the treatment of mental illness, some of which may affect a patient's physical health.
(331) 320-6243 View (331) 320-6243
Photo of Chung-Hsin 'sony' Hu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Chung-Hsin 'sony' Hu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I like to provide medication management with therapy skills in a holistic approach to enhance your mental and emotional health. Please feel free to check our google reviews page available from our clinic's web site. Common adult issues I help my patients with include ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Fatigue, Grief, Trauma/PTSD, Mood Disorders, Concentration Issues, Work Performance Issues, Racing Thoughts, Anger or Irritability, Loneliness, Low Motivation and Relationship Issues. Common children and adolescent issues I help with include ADHD, Autism, Behavioral Issues, Tourette Tics, Mood Swings, Social Anxiety and Identity concerns.
I like to provide medication management with therapy skills in a holistic approach to enhance your mental and emotional health. Please feel free to check our google reviews page available from our clinic's web site. Common adult issues I help my patients with include ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Fatigue, Grief, Trauma/PTSD, Mood Disorders, Concentration Issues, Work Performance Issues, Racing Thoughts, Anger or Irritability, Loneliness, Low Motivation and Relationship Issues. Common children and adolescent issues I help with include ADHD, Autism, Behavioral Issues, Tourette Tics, Mood Swings, Social Anxiety and Identity concerns.
(331) 267-4769 View (331) 267-4769
Photo of Chloe El-Atoum, Psychiatrist, MD
Chloe El-Atoum
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is motivated for change but feels stuck, struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma. They seek clarity, emotional balance, and a deeper understanding of themselves. They want to feel more in control, connected, and fulfilled, and are open to exploring both medication and therapy to get there.
My ideal client is motivated for change but feels stuck, struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma. They seek clarity, emotional balance, and a deeper understanding of themselves. They want to feel more in control, connected, and fulfilled, and are open to exploring both medication and therapy to get there.
(630) 931-5389 View (630) 931-5389
Photo of Caroline Gamble, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Caroline Gamble
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in the treatment of adolescents and adults. I started my career in mental health as an inpatient psychiatric nurse at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital. After earning my Master’s degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, I joined BlueSky Telepsych.
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in the treatment of adolescents and adults. I started my career in mental health as an inpatient psychiatric nurse at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital. After earning my Master’s degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, I joined BlueSky Telepsych.
(630) 912-7206 View (630) 912-7206
Photo of Kyleigh Baker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kyleigh Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate studies at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked as a registered nurse in an inpatient psychiatric facility. I leverage my education and training to deliver patient-centered care aimed at achieving the best outcomes for my patients.
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate studies at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked as a registered nurse in an inpatient psychiatric facility. I leverage my education and training to deliver patient-centered care aimed at achieving the best outcomes for my patients.
(630) 931-3236 View (630) 931-3236
Photo of Daisy Creatore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Daisy Creatore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a PMHNP, I am dedicated to offering compassionate and effective support to individuals navigating various life challenges. With six years of experience in the medical field, I have a comprehensive understanding of diverse therapeutic approaches tailored to each client's unique needs. My therapeutic style is collaborative, client-centered, and strengths-based, empowering individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am committed to building a trusting therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy, respect, and confidentiality.
As a PMHNP, I am dedicated to offering compassionate and effective support to individuals navigating various life challenges. With six years of experience in the medical field, I have a comprehensive understanding of diverse therapeutic approaches tailored to each client's unique needs. My therapeutic style is collaborative, client-centered, and strengths-based, empowering individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am committed to building a trusting therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy, respect, and confidentiality.
(630) 593-0569 View (630) 593-0569
Photo of Lovelyne Ngeche, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lovelyne Ngeche
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Lovelyne Ngeche is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Illinois; I have two years of medication management experience in inpatient and outpatient settings. I have strong work ethic, adaptability, and exceptional interpersonal skills. I manage mental health illnesses across the lifespan, adhering to evidence-based guidelines. I value both patients and families involvement in developing treatment plans.
Lovelyne Ngeche is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Illinois; I have two years of medication management experience in inpatient and outpatient settings. I have strong work ethic, adaptability, and exceptional interpersonal skills. I manage mental health illnesses across the lifespan, adhering to evidence-based guidelines. I value both patients and families involvement in developing treatment plans.
(630) 360-8077 View (630) 360-8077
Photo of Beth Dudley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Beth Dudley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck struggling with mood, focus, life transitions, or the weight of past experiences. You want real relief, clarity, and a sense of control. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I take a patient-centered approach, listening to your story and values to build a plan that fits your goals. Together, we’ll create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, empowered, and ready to move toward healing and lasting wellness.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck struggling with mood, focus, life transitions, or the weight of past experiences. You want real relief, clarity, and a sense of control. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I take a patient-centered approach, listening to your story and values to build a plan that fits your goals. Together, we’ll create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, empowered, and ready to move toward healing and lasting wellness.
(331) 343-5331 View (331) 343-5331
Photo of Jacey Jurgensmeier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacey Jurgensmeier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or emotionally stuck? You may be carrying more than others realize and it’s taking a toll. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can be heard and supported. Together, we’ll explore what’s weighing you down, understand your struggles, and create a personalized path toward healing, clarity, and lasting change. You don’t have to face this alone help and hope are here.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or emotionally stuck? You may be carrying more than others realize and it’s taking a toll. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can be heard and supported. Together, we’ll explore what’s weighing you down, understand your struggles, and create a personalized path toward healing, clarity, and lasting change. You don’t have to face this alone help and hope are here.
(331) 216-1640 View (331) 216-1640
Photo of Aloo Ragwar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aloo Ragwar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood swings, or trauma, and seeking more than just a diagnosis, they want to understand the deeper “why” behind their struggles. They’re ready to actively participate in their care and value a thoughtful, compassionate approach. I offer a blend of medication management and supportive therapy, exploring emotional triggers, relationships, and coping styles. Together, we’ll build a trusting, collaborative space where you feel heard, empowered, and supported in your journey toward greater balance and emotional well-being.
My ideal client is someone feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood swings, or trauma, and seeking more than just a diagnosis, they want to understand the deeper “why” behind their struggles. They’re ready to actively participate in their care and value a thoughtful, compassionate approach. I offer a blend of medication management and supportive therapy, exploring emotional triggers, relationships, and coping styles. Together, we’ll build a trusting, collaborative space where you feel heard, empowered, and supported in your journey toward greater balance and emotional well-being.
(781) 537-0982 View (781) 537-0982
Photo of Jessica Pendleton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jessica Pendleton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m here to support you during life’s most challenging moments, offering care that’s compassionate, understanding, and focused on your unique needs. I’m an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 9 years of nursing experience, including a strong background in mental health. I earned my Master’s Degree from Northern Kentucky University and became certified in 2023. I take great pride in helping individuals who are struggling and understand how overwhelming mental health challenges can be. It’s truly an honor to walk alongside you and make a meaningful difference in your journey toward healing and wellne
I’m here to support you during life’s most challenging moments, offering care that’s compassionate, understanding, and focused on your unique needs. I’m an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 9 years of nursing experience, including a strong background in mental health. I earned my Master’s Degree from Northern Kentucky University and became certified in 2023. I take great pride in helping individuals who are struggling and understand how overwhelming mental health challenges can be. It’s truly an honor to walk alongside you and make a meaningful difference in your journey toward healing and wellne
(614) 908-4431 View (614) 908-4431
Photo of Stephanie Kutella, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Stephanie Kutella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Downers Grove, IL 60516
Stephanie Kutella, PMHNP, brings compassionate and comprehensive mental health care, emphasizing a holistic approach that integrates the physical, emotional, and social dimensions of well-being. Serving patients throughout Illinois, Stephanie tailors her practice to meet the unique needs of each individual, addressing faith and spirituality, mindfulness, and positive lifestyle changes. She believes in the importance of integrative therapies, including yoga, art therapy, and meditation, to complement traditional treatments.
Stephanie Kutella, PMHNP, brings compassionate and comprehensive mental health care, emphasizing a holistic approach that integrates the physical, emotional, and social dimensions of well-being. Serving patients throughout Illinois, Stephanie tailors her practice to meet the unique needs of each individual, addressing faith and spirituality, mindfulness, and positive lifestyle changes. She believes in the importance of integrative therapies, including yoga, art therapy, and meditation, to complement traditional treatments.
(331) 373-1184 View (331) 373-1184
Photo of Dr. Andrea Uribe - LifeStance Health - Lisle, Psychiatrist, DO
LifeStance Health - Lisle
Psychiatrist, DO
Downers Grove, IL 60516
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.
(331) 295-2982 View (331) 295-2982

See more therapy options for Downers Grove

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Downers Grove, IL

50+

Average cost per session

$190

Psychiatrists in Downers Grove, IL who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
94% Anxiety
88% Bipolar Disorder
84% ADHD
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Trauma and PTSD
57% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
94% Aetna
92% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Downers Grove, IL see their clients

58% Online Only
42% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Downers Grove?

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.