Psychiatrists in Grayslake, IL

Photo of Esther Harris - Thrive Psychiatric Services, Esther Harris, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thrive Psychiatric Services, Esther Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a caring, compassionate and approachable provider who enjoys helping my patients discover hope, engage in healing and begin the process of living their lives to the fullest. I provide medication management and basic psychotherapy in Grayslake, IL. I treat all ages including children 6 years and up. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine allows me to provide a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions. Let me use my experience and symptom-targeted treatment planning to help you manage the symptoms that are causing you challenges and stress in your life.
I am a caring, compassionate and approachable provider who enjoys helping my patients discover hope, engage in healing and begin the process of living their lives to the fullest. I provide medication management and basic psychotherapy in Grayslake, IL. I treat all ages including children 6 years and up. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine allows me to provide a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions. Let me use my experience and symptom-targeted treatment planning to help you manage the symptoms that are causing you challenges and stress in your life.
(224) 241-6487 View (224) 241-6487
Photo of Olena Kyrylenko - Thrive Psychiatric Services, Lena Kyrylenko, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thrive Psychiatric Services, Lena Kyrylenko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to delivering comprehensive and empathetic mental health care. With a Master of Science in Nursing specializing in PMHNP from Wilkes University, she brings a strong academic foundation and extensive clinical expertise to her practice.
I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to delivering comprehensive and empathetic mental health care. With a Master of Science in Nursing specializing in PMHNP from Wilkes University, she brings a strong academic foundation and extensive clinical expertise to her practice.
(224) 496-2558 View (224) 496-2558
Photo of Lisa Hengen - Thrive Psychiatric Services, Lisa Hengen, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thrive Psychiatric Services, Lisa Hengen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Thrive Psychiatric Services, I provide personalized, comprehensive and compassionate Psychiatric Care. I love what I do and never feel like it is work. I enjoy helping people to feel better, so they can have better quality of life. I strive to provide every patient with the best possible care. I feel it is an honor and a privilege to be part of my patient’s healthcare journey, and I am always mindful of the respect and trust that is needed to maintain a therapeutic relationship. I provide comprehensive mental health services, psychiatric evaluation, medication management, substance abuse/addiction treatment and psychotherapy.
At Thrive Psychiatric Services, I provide personalized, comprehensive and compassionate Psychiatric Care. I love what I do and never feel like it is work. I enjoy helping people to feel better, so they can have better quality of life. I strive to provide every patient with the best possible care. I feel it is an honor and a privilege to be part of my patient’s healthcare journey, and I am always mindful of the respect and trust that is needed to maintain a therapeutic relationship. I provide comprehensive mental health services, psychiatric evaluation, medication management, substance abuse/addiction treatment and psychotherapy.
(224) 298-8260 View (224) 298-8260
Photo of Jessica Jacobs - Thrive Psychiatric Services, Jessica Jacobs, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thrive Psychiatric Services, Jessica Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with a background in both emergency and psychiatric medicine for 10 years. I provide medication management for patients 6 years and up. My goal is to provide a caring, compassionate, holistic, and individualized care to each of my patients. Our visits will be judgement free and my individualized treatment recommendations for each patient is based on their preferences.
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with a background in both emergency and psychiatric medicine for 10 years. I provide medication management for patients 6 years and up. My goal is to provide a caring, compassionate, holistic, and individualized care to each of my patients. Our visits will be judgement free and my individualized treatment recommendations for each patient is based on their preferences.
(224) 302-6973 View (224) 302-6973
Photo of Archana Sood - Thrive Psychiatric Services, Archana Sood, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thrive Psychiatric Services, Archana Sood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
The ideal client would be open and honest about their symptoms, want to learn about their mental health diagnosis/diagnoses and be open to treatment options - which could include medication management, psychotherapy and/or behavioral changes. I would like to provide a supportive and safe space, where they are able to identify their issues, needs and their goals. They would be open to listening to my recommendations and I would support their decision, which may or may not include my recommendations.
The ideal client would be open and honest about their symptoms, want to learn about their mental health diagnosis/diagnoses and be open to treatment options - which could include medication management, psychotherapy and/or behavioral changes. I would like to provide a supportive and safe space, where they are able to identify their issues, needs and their goals. They would be open to listening to my recommendations and I would support their decision, which may or may not include my recommendations.
(224) 255-2107 View (224) 255-2107
Photo of Melinda Edwards - Thrive Psychiatric Services, Melinda Edwards , APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thrive Psychiatric Services, Melinda Edwards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a psychiatric provider with over ten years experience in the field of mental health. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience as an RN and as a prescribing clinician. My goal as your practitioner is to provide a holistic treatment approach. We will work together to find a solution that allows you to easily cope with stressors, recognize potential and set goals, feel motivated, and have a physical and mental sense of well-being.
I am a psychiatric provider with over ten years experience in the field of mental health. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience as an RN and as a prescribing clinician. My goal as your practitioner is to provide a holistic treatment approach. We will work together to find a solution that allows you to easily cope with stressors, recognize potential and set goals, feel motivated, and have a physical and mental sense of well-being.
(224) 328-2783 View (224) 328-2783
Photo of Dr. Kailee Lenczycki, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Kailee Lenczycki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm so glad you're reaching out! Seeking help doesn't mean you're failing; it means you're taking an important step toward self-care and healing. You may be feeling burned out, on edge, and just going through the motions. It's affecting your life, relationships, and work. You’ve tried everything you can think of to feel better, but nothing's working. You're searching for a comprehensive approach to mental health care that considers the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Something that's more than just medications! You're ready for a change, to feel like yourself again. I want to help you get there!
I'm so glad you're reaching out! Seeking help doesn't mean you're failing; it means you're taking an important step toward self-care and healing. You may be feeling burned out, on edge, and just going through the motions. It's affecting your life, relationships, and work. You’ve tried everything you can think of to feel better, but nothing's working. You're searching for a comprehensive approach to mental health care that considers the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Something that's more than just medications! You're ready for a change, to feel like yourself again. I want to help you get there!
(331) 260-0774 View (331) 260-0774

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Armanda Keci, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Armanda Keci
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Treating holistically, listening empathetically, and developing relationships are important in helping my patients with their journey in mental health.
Treating holistically, listening empathetically, and developing relationships are important in helping my patients with their journey in mental health.
(847) 750-3391 x816 View (847) 750-3391 x816
Photo of Theresa Larson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa Larson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
Theresa is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering high-quality, holistic mental health care to adults and adolescents. She specializes in treating a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders. She also has experience providing TMS, intravenous nutrient therapy, hormone replacement therapy, and various ketamine-based therapies. Her approach to care is rooted in her passion for integrative psychiatry, which blends evidence-based conventional treatments with alternative therapies and lifestyle interventions.
Theresa is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering high-quality, holistic mental health care to adults and adolescents. She specializes in treating a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders. She also has experience providing TMS, intravenous nutrient therapy, hormone replacement therapy, and various ketamine-based therapies. Her approach to care is rooted in her passion for integrative psychiatry, which blends evidence-based conventional treatments with alternative therapies and lifestyle interventions.
(224) 442-8027 View (224) 442-8027
Photo of Samuel Russell, MD, Psychiatrist
Samuel Russell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Samuel Russell is a psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board certified in Addiction Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. Dr. Russell’s practice focuses on evidence based treatments for psychiatric illness that utilizes a combination of medications and psychotherapy modalities best suited for an individual patient and their needs. He offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. Weekly hour-long psychotherapy may be available if indicated. However, occasionally Dr. Russell may believe that different therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team.
Dr. Samuel Russell is a psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board certified in Addiction Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. Dr. Russell’s practice focuses on evidence based treatments for psychiatric illness that utilizes a combination of medications and psychotherapy modalities best suited for an individual patient and their needs. He offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. Weekly hour-long psychotherapy may be available if indicated. However, occasionally Dr. Russell may believe that different therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team.
(224) 786-1998 View (224) 786-1998
Photo of Zachary Harris, MD, Psychiatrist
Zachary Harris
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
As a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist, I help emerging adults, young professionals, and high functioning adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and unresolved trauma connect with their emotions, navigate life transitions, and feel more fulfilled. I offer a holistic approach to medication management as well as a specialized approach to treatment that may involve weekly or biweekly psychodynamic psychotherapy with the thoughtful consideration of medication treatment. My hope is that our work together can help you move forward in alignment with your evolving sense of who and how you hope to be in the world.
As a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist, I help emerging adults, young professionals, and high functioning adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and unresolved trauma connect with their emotions, navigate life transitions, and feel more fulfilled. I offer a holistic approach to medication management as well as a specialized approach to treatment that may involve weekly or biweekly psychodynamic psychotherapy with the thoughtful consideration of medication treatment. My hope is that our work together can help you move forward in alignment with your evolving sense of who and how you hope to be in the world.
(847) 320-9489 View (847) 320-9489
Photo of Lilian Pumah, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lilian Pumah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
Lilian Pumah, PMHNP, AGNP, also known as Lilly, is a dedicated mental health professional who provides compassionate and respectful care to individuals across various stages of life. With a specialization in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, Lilly offers personalized treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each patient. She is passionate about addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, and substance abuse, utilizing evidence-based interventions to promote recovery and resilience.
Lilian Pumah, PMHNP, AGNP, also known as Lilly, is a dedicated mental health professional who provides compassionate and respectful care to individuals across various stages of life. With a specialization in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, Lilly offers personalized treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each patient. She is passionate about addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, and substance abuse, utilizing evidence-based interventions to promote recovery and resilience.
(224) 553-3620 View (224) 553-3620
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
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) 362-0502 View (224) 362-0502
Photo of Brad Pechter, MD, Psychiatrist
Brad Pechter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077
Bradley Pechter, MD is a psychiatrist with over 25 years of clinical experience. He has attended school at Stanford University, Northwestern Medical School, and the Universities of Illinois and Colorado. He has been board-certified in adult, child & adolescent and addiction psychiatry over the course of his career. Dr. Pechter has also been on the faculty at Northwestern, Rush and the University of Illinois. He has been in private practice for the past 10 years and has a special interest in Child, Adolescent and Young Adult Psychiatry.
Bradley Pechter, MD is a psychiatrist with over 25 years of clinical experience. He has attended school at Stanford University, Northwestern Medical School, and the Universities of Illinois and Colorado. He has been board-certified in adult, child & adolescent and addiction psychiatry over the course of his career. Dr. Pechter has also been on the faculty at Northwestern, Rush and the University of Illinois. He has been in private practice for the past 10 years and has a special interest in Child, Adolescent and Young Adult Psychiatry.
(312) 625-5179 x1302 View (312) 625-5179 x1302
Photo of Christian Charvet, AGNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christian Charvet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Highly rated Northwestern Medicine Healthcare Provider (4.9/5). (www.nm.org/doctors/1003502782/christian-charvet-aprn) Board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, OCD and other mental challenges Comprehensive approach that includes medication management. Member of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Accepts major insurance Serving children ages 5 to adults
Highly rated Northwestern Medicine Healthcare Provider (4.9/5). (www.nm.org/doctors/1003502782/christian-charvet-aprn) Board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, OCD and other mental challenges Comprehensive approach that includes medication management. Member of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Accepts major insurance Serving children ages 5 to adults
(224) 505-4965 View (224) 505-4965
Photo of Aleksandra Besterfeldt - Embrace Behavioral Health & Integrative Psychiatry, PMHNP, AGNP, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Embrace Behavioral Health & Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, FPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
Welcome to Embrace Behavioral Health and Integrative Psychiatry! We are committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive, and integrative mental health care tailored to your unique needs. With expertise in assessment, diagnosis, and medication management, we specialize in treating anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, dementia, and more. Our approach combines evidence-based pharmacotherapy with lifestyle modifications and integrative psychiatry to promote holistic healing and lasting wellness.
Welcome to Embrace Behavioral Health and Integrative Psychiatry! We are committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive, and integrative mental health care tailored to your unique needs. With expertise in assessment, diagnosis, and medication management, we specialize in treating anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, dementia, and more. Our approach combines evidence-based pharmacotherapy with lifestyle modifications and integrative psychiatry to promote holistic healing and lasting wellness.
(224) 332-3594 View (224) 332-3594
Photo of Amer Smajkic - Amer Smajkic M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Amer Smajkic M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Since 1995, Dr. Amer Smajkic has been practicing Psychiatry in the Chicago area. As a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr Smajkic is applying his knowledge and skills as a Psycho-pharmacologist, Behaviorist and Cognitive Behavioral therapist. The focus of his care are ADHD disorders, Learning disorders, Developmental disorders, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.
Since 1995, Dr. Amer Smajkic has been practicing Psychiatry in the Chicago area. As a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr Smajkic is applying his knowledge and skills as a Psycho-pharmacologist, Behaviorist and Cognitive Behavioral therapist. The focus of his care are ADHD disorders, Learning disorders, Developmental disorders, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.
(312) 697-1173 View (312) 697-1173
Photo of Dr. Amber May, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Amber May
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
Welcome to the Northshore Wellness Center where we set the gold standard in medical and mental healthcare offering comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans. We are a collaborative medical-psychiatric practice led by a physician couple dedicated to nurturing both brain and body health. We provide Direct Primary & Direct Psychiatric Care. We are highly accessible to our patients, available within 24 hours for current patients and within 72 hours for new patients. Our physicians take a global view of your health and look deeper into the root causes of your symptoms.
Welcome to the Northshore Wellness Center where we set the gold standard in medical and mental healthcare offering comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans. We are a collaborative medical-psychiatric practice led by a physician couple dedicated to nurturing both brain and body health. We provide Direct Primary & Direct Psychiatric Care. We are highly accessible to our patients, available within 24 hours for current patients and within 72 hours for new patients. Our physicians take a global view of your health and look deeper into the root causes of your symptoms.
(847) 796-8967 View (847) 796-8967
Photo of Brandon Pressley-Williams, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandon Pressley-Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inverness, IL 60067
I’m here to walk with you on your mental health journey, ensuring that you feel heard, respected, and genuinely valued. My approach is all about collaboration—we’ll work side-by-side to find strategies that truly resonate with you, keeping your personal goals and preferences front and center.
I’m here to walk with you on your mental health journey, ensuring that you feel heard, respected, and genuinely valued. My approach is all about collaboration—we’ll work side-by-side to find strategies that truly resonate with you, keeping your personal goals and preferences front and center.
(708) 627-9374 View (708) 627-9374
Photo of Jacqueline Nabukeera, BSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Nabukeera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Jackie Nabukeera, PMHNP-BC, brings compassionate expertise as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving diverse populations aged 15 to 65+ in Illinois. With a holistic approach, Jackie addresses a wide spectrum of mental health concerns, offering empathetic listening and evidence-based interventions tailored to each individual's needs. Drawing from a rich background as a generalist, Jackie is adept at navigating the complexities of mental health, empowering clients to embark on their journey towards wellness.
Jackie Nabukeera, PMHNP-BC, brings compassionate expertise as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving diverse populations aged 15 to 65+ in Illinois. With a holistic approach, Jackie addresses a wide spectrum of mental health concerns, offering empathetic listening and evidence-based interventions tailored to each individual's needs. Drawing from a rich background as a generalist, Jackie is adept at navigating the complexities of mental health, empowering clients to embark on their journey towards wellness.
(224) 362-0171 View (224) 362-0171

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Grayslake, IL

< 10

Psychiatrists in Grayslake, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% ADHD
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Bipolar Disorder
86% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
86% BlueCross and BlueShield
71% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Grayslake, IL see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Grayslake?

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.