Psychiatrists in Highland Park, IL

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.

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.

I take time to get to know my patients and their concerns. Within the scope of general adult and child and adolescent psychiatry I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, family sessions and consultations, as well as school consultations and evaluations. I have a special interest in eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and ADHD. My practice is open to other general psychiatric needs as well.
I pride myself on getting to know my patients and their needs. I also routinely work with families to understand and cope with their loved one's illness. I use evidence based medicine and the most up to date practices.
I take time to get to know my patients and their concerns. Within the scope of general adult and child and adolescent psychiatry I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, family sessions and consultations, as well as school consultations and evaluations. I have a special interest in eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and ADHD. My practice is open to other general psychiatric needs as well.
I pride myself on getting to know my patients and their needs. I also routinely work with families to understand and cope with their loved one's illness. I use evidence based medicine and the most up to date practices.

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.

Rainbow Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Tired of feeling invalidated? Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will listen to your needs? Welcome to Rainbow Mental Health. We are a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner operated clinic. We are here to help you reach your goals. We believe in an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. We focus on the whole person when working with clients and use evidence-based treatments to guide recommendations and our work together. We work with ages 12-55. We have a team of 3 Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, when reaching out please let us know if you have a provider preference.
Tired of feeling invalidated? Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will listen to your needs? Welcome to Rainbow Mental Health. We are a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner operated clinic. We are here to help you reach your goals. We believe in an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. We focus on the whole person when working with clients and use evidence-based treatments to guide recommendations and our work together. We work with ages 12-55. We have a team of 3 Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, when reaching out please let us know if you have a provider preference.

If you are reading this, you are already showing that you are ready to take the next step to feeling better. Welcome! My name is Dr. Daniel Wasserman, I am grateful that you are here. As a psychiatrist, I believe in treating each patient based on their own unique needs. A lot of medicine today has become very mechanized in an attempt to provide a “one size fits all” modality. This not only goes against my own philosophy, but it just does not work in the real world.
If you are reading this, you are already showing that you are ready to take the next step to feeling better. Welcome! My name is Dr. Daniel Wasserman, I am grateful that you are here. As a psychiatrist, I believe in treating each patient based on their own unique needs. A lot of medicine today has become very mechanized in an attempt to provide a “one size fits all” modality. This not only goes against my own philosophy, but it just does not work in the real world.

Harmony Rich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Getting help shouldn't be hard! Finding the right provider can often be worse than online dating. Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will spend time getting to know you, your unique needs, and actually explain treatment recommendations? I take an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. I focus on the whole person and use evidence-based treatments to guide care. I value the patient experience and want every client to feel fully informed and comfortable with their treatment recommendations. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgemental environment to help support your mental wellness goals.
Getting help shouldn't be hard! Finding the right provider can often be worse than online dating. Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will spend time getting to know you, your unique needs, and actually explain treatment recommendations? I take an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. I focus on the whole person and use evidence-based treatments to guide care. I value the patient experience and want every client to feel fully informed and comfortable with their treatment recommendations. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgemental environment to help support your mental wellness goals.

30+ years of experience with adults and adolescents; wholistic approach; average time to improvement - 7 days; easy to reach with direct access to pager. Dr. Michael Binder is a graduate of the University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine and former Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Waukesha Memorial Hospital. He is an innovative neuropsychiatrist who published the first comprehensive psychophysiological hypothesis of psychiatric disorders, an advance that catapulted his success rate to nearly 100%. Dr. Binder offers both psychotherapy and medication management with attention to mind, body, and spirit.
30+ years of experience with adults and adolescents; wholistic approach; average time to improvement - 7 days; easy to reach with direct access to pager. Dr. Michael Binder is a graduate of the University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine and former Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Waukesha Memorial Hospital. He is an innovative neuropsychiatrist who published the first comprehensive psychophysiological hypothesis of psychiatric disorders, an advance that catapulted his success rate to nearly 100%. Dr. Binder offers both psychotherapy and medication management with attention to mind, body, and spirit.

First things first, it is of vital importance to me that you, my future clients, know that I count it an honor to hold space for you.
Yes, I studied.
Yes, I understand how medications work and why the ones you are currently on may not be helping.
Yes, I feel comfortable transitioning from your current med plan to one that is more targeted and effective.
The most important thing to me as your provider is that you know and trust that I believe that you are the best informant of your care.
It is of utmost importance that my clients feel safe, heard, and respected.
I offer therapy & medication management for clients of all ages.
First things first, it is of vital importance to me that you, my future clients, know that I count it an honor to hold space for you.
Yes, I studied.
Yes, I understand how medications work and why the ones you are currently on may not be helping.
Yes, I feel comfortable transitioning from your current med plan to one that is more targeted and effective.
The most important thing to me as your provider is that you know and trust that I believe that you are the best informant of your care.
It is of utmost importance that my clients feel safe, heard, and respected.
I offer therapy & medication management for clients of all ages.

I have been in private practice since 1985. I am a general adult psychiatrist and see those age 13 and older. I am one of the "dinosaurs" who still do psychotherapy as well as medication. I see individuals, couples, and families. Although the majority of my patients see me for mood disorders and anxiety, I have had a special interest in eating disorders since training. My practice has solely been outpatient for many years, thus inpatient care would have to be transferred temporarily to another physician. (note: I am an out-of-network provider; fees range from $140-320, depending on service, see below.)
I have been in private practice since 1985. I am a general adult psychiatrist and see those age 13 and older. I am one of the "dinosaurs" who still do psychotherapy as well as medication. I see individuals, couples, and families. Although the majority of my patients see me for mood disorders and anxiety, I have had a special interest in eating disorders since training. My practice has solely been outpatient for many years, thus inpatient care would have to be transferred temporarily to another physician. (note: I am an out-of-network provider; fees range from $140-320, depending on service, see below.)

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.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. My clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH, BCBS of IL insurances.
Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. My clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH, BCBS of IL insurances.

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.

Amy Wasserman
Psychiatric Nurse, MPH, PMHNP, APRN, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Whether you are seeking preconception consultation, experiencing new or worsening perinatal mood/anxiety symptoms or managing mood changes related to hormonal transitions during your lifetime (i.e. puberty, lactation weaning, fertility treatments, perimenopause or starting gender-affirming hormones), my goal is to ensure you feel safe to share your story and be informed and knowledgeable about all your options. Together we will develop a treatment plan that aligns with your values and identities. This may include lifestyle changes, supplements, alternative and complementary therapies, psychotherapeutic and/or pharmacologic options.
Whether you are seeking preconception consultation, experiencing new or worsening perinatal mood/anxiety symptoms or managing mood changes related to hormonal transitions during your lifetime (i.e. puberty, lactation weaning, fertility treatments, perimenopause or starting gender-affirming hormones), my goal is to ensure you feel safe to share your story and be informed and knowledgeable about all your options. Together we will develop a treatment plan that aligns with your values and identities. This may include lifestyle changes, supplements, alternative and complementary therapies, psychotherapeutic and/or pharmacologic options.

Brandy Lehman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am passionate about providing quality and comprehensive mental health medication services addressing a range of needs including anxiety, depression, mood disorder, ADHD, personality disorder, substance use, and PTSD. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. I practice with a group called PsycWard Services, where we also have a team of very experienced therapists who can help you.
I am passionate about providing quality and comprehensive mental health medication services addressing a range of needs including anxiety, depression, mood disorder, ADHD, personality disorder, substance use, and PTSD. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. I practice with a group called PsycWard Services, where we also have a team of very experienced therapists who can help you.

My ideal client seeks to improve their well-being, facing mental health conditions and substance use disorders. They desire a personalized approach, evidence-based practices, and a supportive environment. Their goal is to regain control, rebuild relationships, and live a fulfilling life. I provide knowledge, tools, and support to empower their growth and transformation. Let's connect to discuss your specific needs.
My ideal client seeks to improve their well-being, facing mental health conditions and substance use disorders. They desire a personalized approach, evidence-based practices, and a supportive environment. Their goal is to regain control, rebuild relationships, and live a fulfilling life. I provide knowledge, tools, and support to empower their growth and transformation. Let's connect to discuss your specific needs.

Are you looking for a Psychiatry provider that listens to you and includes you in the your treatment plan? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgemental psychiatry provider that provides a comfortable, safe environment to meet? Do you want to feel empowered knowing you are on the proper medications and therapies to overcome your struggles, and turn around your life?
Are you looking for a Psychiatry provider that listens to you and includes you in the your treatment plan? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgemental psychiatry provider that provides a comfortable, safe environment to meet? Do you want to feel empowered knowing you are on the proper medications and therapies to overcome your struggles, and turn around your life?

Silver Lining Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LCSW, NP, CADC, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Serves Area
Silver Lining Behavioral Health clinicians are skilled in treating various issues ranging from the physiological manifestation of depression and anxiety to life-stage issues. Everyone is unique, so our treatment planning considers the client’s age, cultural background, socioeconomic status, ethnic background, and physical health. With proper permission, Silver Lining therapists collaborate with healthcare providers and other multidisciplinary healthcare professionals when necessary. We pride ourselves on our knowledge of the healthcare system and numerous resources.
Silver Lining Behavioral Health clinicians are skilled in treating various issues ranging from the physiological manifestation of depression and anxiety to life-stage issues. Everyone is unique, so our treatment planning considers the client’s age, cultural background, socioeconomic status, ethnic background, and physical health. With proper permission, Silver Lining therapists collaborate with healthcare providers and other multidisciplinary healthcare professionals when necessary. We pride ourselves on our knowledge of the healthcare system and numerous resources.

If psychiatric symptoms are causing you pain and limiting your life, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management services can help you improve your life. I strive to create an environment of understanding and empathy. My goal is to empower my patients by offering compassionate, affirming, and personalized care tailored to each individual's unique experiences and aspirations.
If psychiatric symptoms are causing you pain and limiting your life, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management services can help you improve your life. I strive to create an environment of understanding and empathy. My goal is to empower my patients by offering compassionate, affirming, and personalized care tailored to each individual's unique experiences and aspirations.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

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.
See more therapy options for Highland Park
Nearby Searches for Highland Park
- Buffalo Grove
- Deerfield
- Glencoe
- Glenview
- Kenilworth
- Lake Bluff
- Lake Forest
- Lincolnshire
- Northbrook
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Highland Park, IL
10+
Average cost per session
$275
Psychiatrists in Highland Park, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
89% | Trauma and PTSD |
89% | Medication Management |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Highland Park, IL see their clients
90% | In Person and Online | |
10% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
58% | Female | |
28% | Male | |
14% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Highland Park?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.