Psychiatrists in Evanston, IL

Photo of Ashok Nagella, Psychiatrist, MD
Ashok Nagella
Psychiatrist, MD
Evanston, IL 60201
Dr. Ashok Nagella is an ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist that specializes in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry but does see clients up to age of 40. He has been in practice for 20 years in various settings from inpatient to outpatient psychiatry, has supervised and taught psychiatry residents and medical students, and has worked with a very diverse clientele from private practice settings to community mental health. Dr. Nagella grew up and attended school in the Chicago area. He attended the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee for his Doctor of Medicine degree then completed his Adult Psychiatry residency.
Dr. Ashok Nagella is an ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist that specializes in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry but does see clients up to age of 40. He has been in practice for 20 years in various settings from inpatient to outpatient psychiatry, has supervised and taught psychiatry residents and medical students, and has worked with a very diverse clientele from private practice settings to community mental health. Dr. Nagella grew up and attended school in the Chicago area. He attended the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee for his Doctor of Medicine degree then completed his Adult Psychiatry residency.
(847) 892-1434 View (847) 892-1434
Photo of Breigh Carey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Breigh Carey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Note: Please click the website link below for direct booking access — Welcome! I’m so happy you’re here! My name is Breigh and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). As a PMHNP I can diagnose psychiatric conditions, manage and prescribe psychiatric medications, order lab work, provide brief psychotherapy, and consult with other providers on your whole health treatment team. While I work with patients across the lifespan, I have a special passion for working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I can see patients in-person through Inspire's Evanston and Kenilworth offices or virtually.
Note: Please click the website link below for direct booking access — Welcome! I’m so happy you’re here! My name is Breigh and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). As a PMHNP I can diagnose psychiatric conditions, manage and prescribe psychiatric medications, order lab work, provide brief psychotherapy, and consult with other providers on your whole health treatment team. While I work with patients across the lifespan, I have a special passion for working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I can see patients in-person through Inspire's Evanston and Kenilworth offices or virtually.
(847) 654-9398 x1 View (847) 654-9398 x1
Photo of Jennifer J Lynch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer J Lynch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Are you looking for Medication Management with a caring, compassionate prescriber? I am not only a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, but also a wife and mom of 3 kids. I truly understand the struggles of kids (and parents!) face today. I've also seen how medication can be the right step in your support system. I just don't prescribe- I also care and listen. All of my follow-up appointments allow enough time for me to hear about your concerns and listen as you as a person. I am also in-network with most major insurances and work in beautiful office.
Are you looking for Medication Management with a caring, compassionate prescriber? I am not only a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, but also a wife and mom of 3 kids. I truly understand the struggles of kids (and parents!) face today. I've also seen how medication can be the right step in your support system. I just don't prescribe- I also care and listen. All of my follow-up appointments allow enough time for me to hear about your concerns and listen as you as a person. I am also in-network with most major insurances and work in beautiful office.
(224) 328-3684 x1 View (224) 328-3684 x1
Photo of Melissa Frick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP
Melissa Frick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Melissa Frick is a dually board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Nurse Practitioner with experience delivering evidence-based care using brief supportive psychotherapy and medication management.
Dr. Melissa Frick is a dually board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Nurse Practitioner with experience delivering evidence-based care using brief supportive psychotherapy and medication management.
(224) 412-5853 View (224) 412-5853
Photo of Valentina Dehghan-Bernabe, Psychiatrist, MD
Valentina Dehghan-Bernabe
Psychiatrist, MD
Evanston, IL 60201
Dr. Dehghan-Bernabe is a psychiatrist with expertise in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. She is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry and licensed to practice medicine by the State of Illinois. Dr. Dehghan-Bernabe completed her undergraduate studies at Northwestern University with a degree in Psychology. She received her medical degree (M.D.) at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago, Illinois. After medical school, she trained in adult psychiatry at Rush University Medical Center. While in residency, she held a leadership role as the Outpatient Chief.
Dr. Dehghan-Bernabe is a psychiatrist with expertise in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. She is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry and licensed to practice medicine by the State of Illinois. Dr. Dehghan-Bernabe completed her undergraduate studies at Northwestern University with a degree in Psychology. She received her medical degree (M.D.) at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago, Illinois. After medical school, she trained in adult psychiatry at Rush University Medical Center. While in residency, she held a leadership role as the Outpatient Chief.
(773) 362-2818 View (773) 362-2818
Photo of Dr. Tomilola Merino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Tomilola Merino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Evanston, IL 60201
Tomilola Adewolu is a Doctorate prepared, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in behavioral health. Based in Chicago, she focuses on providing compassionate mental health care to her patients. With board certifications and licenses in multiple states, including Illinois, Oregon, Iowa, and Wyoming, Tomilola is well-equipped to offer top-tier psychiatric services. She offers weight management services because maintaining a healthy weight is vital to both physical and mental well-being. Supporting patients in achieving their weight goals can significantly improve mood, energy, and mental health
Tomilola Adewolu is a Doctorate prepared, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in behavioral health. Based in Chicago, she focuses on providing compassionate mental health care to her patients. With board certifications and licenses in multiple states, including Illinois, Oregon, Iowa, and Wyoming, Tomilola is well-equipped to offer top-tier psychiatric services. She offers weight management services because maintaining a healthy weight is vital to both physical and mental well-being. Supporting patients in achieving their weight goals can significantly improve mood, energy, and mental health
(224) 490-4140 View (224) 490-4140
Photo of Dr. Ashok Nagella - LifeStance Health - Evanston, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health - Evanston
Psychiatrist, MD
Evanston, IL 60201
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) 524-1430 View (224) 524-1430
Photo of Andreea Seicean, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, MPH
Andreea Seicean
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, MPH
Online Only
Andreea Seicean, MD, PhD, MPH, completed her training at Case Western Reserve University, the Cleveland Clinic, and the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). She has extensive experience treating mood and anxiety disorders and addiction in teens and adults. Dr. Seicean has published more than forty articles and been the recipient of multiple awards from: The National Institute of Mental Health, The American Psychiatric Association and The American Association of Neurological Surgeons. She is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago where she continues to be active in research and teaches psychopharmacology
Andreea Seicean, MD, PhD, MPH, completed her training at Case Western Reserve University, the Cleveland Clinic, and the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). She has extensive experience treating mood and anxiety disorders and addiction in teens and adults. Dr. Seicean has published more than forty articles and been the recipient of multiple awards from: The National Institute of Mental Health, The American Psychiatric Association and The American Association of Neurological Surgeons. She is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago where she continues to be active in research and teaches psychopharmacology
(312) 380-2790 View (312) 380-2790
Joan Lynch
Psychiatrist, MD
Evanston, IL 60201
I treat a full range of emotional issues experienced by adolescents and adults. Seeking help often represents a craving for emotional capacity to lead a fulfilling and emotionally satisfying life. First we thoroughly evaluate your issues. I then make recommendations for treatment using the best of contemporary psychoanalytic and psychological theory, and when needed psychopharmaceutical theory. My goal is to help you understand your emotions so that you can fell better and develop your life in ways that are important to you.
I treat a full range of emotional issues experienced by adolescents and adults. Seeking help often represents a craving for emotional capacity to lead a fulfilling and emotionally satisfying life. First we thoroughly evaluate your issues. I then make recommendations for treatment using the best of contemporary psychoanalytic and psychological theory, and when needed psychopharmaceutical theory. My goal is to help you understand your emotions so that you can fell better and develop your life in ways that are important to you.
(847) 453-4210 View (847) 453-4210
Photo of Ola Moses Oluga - Clearview Psychiatric Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Clearview Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Accepting new patients (adolescents 14+, adults, and older adults). Anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood issues/bipolar, relationship issues, sleep difficulties, and substance abuse are some of the mental health concerns affecting a lot of people today. Perhaps you are looking for more clarity regarding your mental health and the best approach to treatment. At Clearview Psychiatric Services, we offer individualized approach to mental health treatments, and we provide you with the tools to succeed.
Accepting new patients (adolescents 14+, adults, and older adults). Anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood issues/bipolar, relationship issues, sleep difficulties, and substance abuse are some of the mental health concerns affecting a lot of people today. Perhaps you are looking for more clarity regarding your mental health and the best approach to treatment. At Clearview Psychiatric Services, we offer individualized approach to mental health treatments, and we provide you with the tools to succeed.
(847) 423-0462 View (847) 423-0462
Photo of Jacob Cross, Psychiatrist, MD
Jacob Cross
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m Dr. Jacob Cross, a Yale-trained, board-certified psychiatrist and the founder of Curious Minds. I created this practice to offer something that can be hard to find in mental health care: a place where expertise meets empathy and where your story is met with curiosity, not judgment. My approach is rooted in connection. I believe that healing begins when you feel safe, seen, and supported. Whether we’re working together through trauma, exploring thought patterns that are holding you back, or finding the right medication to support your progress, I’ll be with you every step of the way offering customized, evidence-based care.
I’m Dr. Jacob Cross, a Yale-trained, board-certified psychiatrist and the founder of Curious Minds. I created this practice to offer something that can be hard to find in mental health care: a place where expertise meets empathy and where your story is met with curiosity, not judgment. My approach is rooted in connection. I believe that healing begins when you feel safe, seen, and supported. Whether we’re working together through trauma, exploring thought patterns that are holding you back, or finding the right medication to support your progress, I’ll be with you every step of the way offering customized, evidence-based care.
(224) 435-5742 View (224) 435-5742
Dr. Chrisantha Anandappa
Psychiatrist, MD
Evanston, IL 60201
Chrisantha Anandappa, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist serving adults and adolescents across Illinois. With a comprehensive approach to mental health care, Dr. Anandappa integrates evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy to help patients navigate challenges and achieve meaningful progress in their mental well-being. His extensive experience spans outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospitalization/intensive outpatient PHP/IOP care, providing him with the expertise to tailor treatment plans to the unique needs of his patients.
Chrisantha Anandappa, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist serving adults and adolescents across Illinois. With a comprehensive approach to mental health care, Dr. Anandappa integrates evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy to help patients navigate challenges and achieve meaningful progress in their mental well-being. His extensive experience spans outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospitalization/intensive outpatient PHP/IOP care, providing him with the expertise to tailor treatment plans to the unique needs of his patients.
(224) 272-9472 View (224) 272-9472
Photo of Heather Parkerson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN/BSN, MSN/FNP, PMHNP
Heather Parkerson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN/BSN, MSN/FNP, PMHNP
Evanston, IL 60201
Hello, my name is Heather Parkerson,and I'm board-certified as a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in children and adolescents with emotional, behavioral, and learning disorders. These include depression, anxiety, ADD, autism, school problems, impulsivity, and aggression. I also enjoy working with adults that have a variety of emotional difficulties. I believe that each person is much more than their diagnosis and with a combination of medication and therapy, we can work together to achieve a better quality of life. The most rewarding part of my job is helping individuals through difficult times in their lives.
Hello, my name is Heather Parkerson,and I'm board-certified as a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in children and adolescents with emotional, behavioral, and learning disorders. These include depression, anxiety, ADD, autism, school problems, impulsivity, and aggression. I also enjoy working with adults that have a variety of emotional difficulties. I believe that each person is much more than their diagnosis and with a combination of medication and therapy, we can work together to achieve a better quality of life. The most rewarding part of my job is helping individuals through difficult times in their lives.
(312) 854-8964 View (312) 854-8964
Photo of Michael Grover, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael Grover
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Psychodynamic psychotherapy focuses on the unconscious meanings of thoughts and feelings rather than focusing upon behavior. I’m interested in helping children, adolescents and adults discover the patterns in their emotional and cognitive worlds in order to gain insight into themselves, towards a deeper understanding and integration of unconscious processes into daily life. After obtaining my medical degree at McGill University in 1982, I interned in Montreal in internal medicine before coming to the University of Chicago to complete my residency in general psychiatry and then a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry in 1990.
Psychodynamic psychotherapy focuses on the unconscious meanings of thoughts and feelings rather than focusing upon behavior. I’m interested in helping children, adolescents and adults discover the patterns in their emotional and cognitive worlds in order to gain insight into themselves, towards a deeper understanding and integration of unconscious processes into daily life. After obtaining my medical degree at McGill University in 1982, I interned in Montreal in internal medicine before coming to the University of Chicago to complete my residency in general psychiatry and then a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry in 1990.
(312) 210-0303 View (312) 210-0303
Photo of Marc Sandrolini, Psychiatrist, MD
Marc Sandrolini
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a psychiatrist with many years of experience treating children, teenagers and adults. I am double-boarded, with certifications in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. I was drawn to medicine by a fascination with the interplay between the mind and the brain. But while the physical brain can be examined in many ways, the human mind is still best understood through a discussion of thoughts and feelings between patient and doctor.
I am a psychiatrist with many years of experience treating children, teenagers and adults. I am double-boarded, with certifications in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. I was drawn to medicine by a fascination with the interplay between the mind and the brain. But while the physical brain can be examined in many ways, the human mind is still best understood through a discussion of thoughts and feelings between patient and doctor.
(224) 296-0476 View (224) 296-0476
Photo of Joan Ajide, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Joan Ajide
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Evanston, IL 60201
Joan Ajide is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois, with a broad focus on treating a variety of psychiatric disorders across different age groups, particularly adolescents and adults. Her areas of special interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders. Joan emphasizes a holistic approach to care, combining evidence-based pharmacotherapy with intensive psychoeducation to improve emotional well-being. She views the relationship with her clients as a partnership, empowering them to take ownership of their mental health.
Joan Ajide is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois, with a broad focus on treating a variety of psychiatric disorders across different age groups, particularly adolescents and adults. Her areas of special interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders. Joan emphasizes a holistic approach to care, combining evidence-based pharmacotherapy with intensive psychoeducation to improve emotional well-being. She views the relationship with her clients as a partnership, empowering them to take ownership of their mental health.
(847) 250-2511 View (847) 250-2511
Photo of Amera Rahman, Psychiatrist, MD
Amera Rahman
Psychiatrist, MD
Evanston, IL 60201
Dr Rahman is a board certified Psychiatrist who sees both children/adolescents and adults. She has an extensive experience treating all diagnoses. She believes family is an integral part of treatment plan and uses psychodynamic approach to assess her patients. She has holistic approach in treating her patients and uses integrative methods of treatment while supporting individuals and families. With her warm, friendly demeanor and empathic nature, she has touched many lives.
Dr Rahman is a board certified Psychiatrist who sees both children/adolescents and adults. She has an extensive experience treating all diagnoses. She believes family is an integral part of treatment plan and uses psychodynamic approach to assess her patients. She has holistic approach in treating her patients and uses integrative methods of treatment while supporting individuals and families. With her warm, friendly demeanor and empathic nature, she has touched many lives.
(773) 906-7605 View (773) 906-7605
Photo of Dr. Utpal Dhruve, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Utpal Dhruve
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
PeaklifeMD.com is a boutique clinic focused on life optimization. Our members feel they are not performing to their true potential at work, school, or home. Together, we will work to identify your concerns, goals, and strengths in order to make substantial progress towards achieving a better you.
PeaklifeMD.com is a boutique clinic focused on life optimization. Our members feel they are not performing to their true potential at work, school, or home. Together, we will work to identify your concerns, goals, and strengths in order to make substantial progress towards achieving a better you.
(847) 984-0170 View (847) 984-0170
Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Evanston, IL 60202
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
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Photo of Steffanie Meeks (Addiction Treatment), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
Steffanie Meeks (Addiction Treatment)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
Evanston, IL 60201
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) 796-4435 View (773) 796-4435

See more therapy options for Evanston

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Evanston, IL

60+

Average cost per session

$245

Psychiatrists in Evanston, IL who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
94% Anxiety
77% Bipolar Disorder
74% Trauma and PTSD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
66% ADHD
63% Medication Management

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
84% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Evanston, IL see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Evanston?

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.