Psychiatrists in Manito, IL

Photo of Danielle Smith, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Manito, IL 61546
Danielle earned nursing degrees from OSF College of Nursing and Walden University.
Danielle earned nursing degrees from OSF College of Nursing and Walden University.
(309) 300-3646 View (309) 300-3646

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Amber Altidor, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amber Altidor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression at home, at school, at work or socially? Have you become frustrated with not meeting your goals in these settings because of how you're feeling emotionally? Are you experiencing trouble concentrating or sleeping? Are you hoping to develop new coping strategies that support your lifestyle and functioning? I am able to provide medication management with psychotherapy to treat your symptoms so that you can start to or get back to enjoying your life and meeting your goals.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression at home, at school, at work or socially? Have you become frustrated with not meeting your goals in these settings because of how you're feeling emotionally? Are you experiencing trouble concentrating or sleeping? Are you hoping to develop new coping strategies that support your lifestyle and functioning? I am able to provide medication management with psychotherapy to treat your symptoms so that you can start to or get back to enjoying your life and meeting your goals.
(773) 716-3478 View (773) 716-3478
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth O'Brien - Mind-Body Pediatric Psychiatry, LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind-Body Pediatric Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
No Waitlist - Immediate Openings Available! Are you seeking a mental health provider who truly understands and listens? Specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, I am committed to helping young individuals flourish by tackling issues such as anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders. Step into a supportive and nurturing space where every aspect of your child's unique needs is carefully addressed. My approach is thorough and holistic, involving medication management, customized therapy, nutritional advice, lifestyle coaching, and optimized sleep practices.
No Waitlist - Immediate Openings Available! Are you seeking a mental health provider who truly understands and listens? Specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, I am committed to helping young individuals flourish by tackling issues such as anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders. Step into a supportive and nurturing space where every aspect of your child's unique needs is carefully addressed. My approach is thorough and holistic, involving medication management, customized therapy, nutritional advice, lifestyle coaching, and optimized sleep practices.
(217) 996-8693 View (217) 996-8693
Photo of Dr. Lori Anne Hopwood, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, WHNP, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Lori Anne Hopwood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, WHNP, MPH
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701  (Online Only)
I provided non-judgmental, empathetic care. Over the years, I have developed a special interested in increasing access to mental health services. My goal is to effectively assess, diagnose and treat your mental health challenges. I provide safe, quality, evidence-based, patient-centered care.
I provided non-judgmental, empathetic care. Over the years, I have developed a special interested in increasing access to mental health services. My goal is to effectively assess, diagnose and treat your mental health challenges. I provide safe, quality, evidence-based, patient-centered care.
(217) 403-9675 x92984 View (217) 403-9675 x92984
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Zackary Ladson, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Zackary Ladson
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
I am a certified Physician Assistant and completed my master's degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. I have several years of experience as a Family Medicine Physician Assistant, operating as the sole medical practitioner of my outpatient community health clinic. I manage an extensive array of acute and chronic health conditions, with a significant portion of my practice dedicated to diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders ranging from mild to severe.
I am a certified Physician Assistant and completed my master's degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. I have several years of experience as a Family Medicine Physician Assistant, operating as the sole medical practitioner of my outpatient community health clinic. I manage an extensive array of acute and chronic health conditions, with a significant portion of my practice dedicated to diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders ranging from mild to severe.
(217) 262-1734 View (217) 262-1734
Photo of Amy Short, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Short
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61704
Amy Short is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Illinois, with a robust background in nursing leadership and specialized expertise in psychiatric care. Holding an MSN in Nursing Leadership from Chamberlain University and an additional MSN with a focus on PMHNP-BC from Maryville University, Amy combines her leadership skills with advanced psychiatric knowledge to provide comprehensive care. With a diverse clinical background, Amy has worked as a psych nurse in a hospital setting, honing her skills in addressing the complex mental health needs of individuals.
Amy Short is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Illinois, with a robust background in nursing leadership and specialized expertise in psychiatric care. Holding an MSN in Nursing Leadership from Chamberlain University and an additional MSN with a focus on PMHNP-BC from Maryville University, Amy combines her leadership skills with advanced psychiatric knowledge to provide comprehensive care. With a diverse clinical background, Amy has worked as a psych nurse in a hospital setting, honing her skills in addressing the complex mental health needs of individuals.
(309) 893-8355 View (309) 893-8355
Photo of Sherri Bowald, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sherri Bowald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
I offer short wait time for appointment and convenient telehealth or office psychiatric care utilizing a professional approach. As a Psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurse, I offer expertise from a 20-plus nursing background. With the ability to prescribe psychotropic medication and/or controlled substances if needed, my ability to assist clients through a rough patch or chronic disability is enhanced. No need to wait 3-4 months to see a psychiatrist for urgent mental health needs!
I offer short wait time for appointment and convenient telehealth or office psychiatric care utilizing a professional approach. As a Psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurse, I offer expertise from a 20-plus nursing background. With the ability to prescribe psychotropic medication and/or controlled substances if needed, my ability to assist clients through a rough patch or chronic disability is enhanced. No need to wait 3-4 months to see a psychiatrist for urgent mental health needs!
(309) 315-4720 View (309) 315-4720
Photo of Dan Foutch, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dan Foutch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahomet, IL 61853
Mental illness affects people from all walks of life and does not discriminate. I understand this and feel that everyone deserves compassionate treatment regardless of race, political affiliation, gender identity, sexual preference, or religious beliefs. I strive to provide trauma-informed care to all of my clients. This directly impacts my approach to treatment and has given me the ability to connect with my clients on a fundamental level. I understand that getting help can be difficult and that medication is not right for everyone. I will work with you to determine what is the best course of treatment for you.
Mental illness affects people from all walks of life and does not discriminate. I understand this and feel that everyone deserves compassionate treatment regardless of race, political affiliation, gender identity, sexual preference, or religious beliefs. I strive to provide trauma-informed care to all of my clients. This directly impacts my approach to treatment and has given me the ability to connect with my clients on a fundamental level. I understand that getting help can be difficult and that medication is not right for everyone. I will work with you to determine what is the best course of treatment for you.
(217) 680-2593 View (217) 680-2593
Photo of Becky D Largent, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Becky D Largent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
I’m Becky Largent, a doctoral prepared Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of experience working to support individuals and families in their journey to achieve mental wellness and emotional stability. I am dedicated to offering comprehensive care through diagnostic evaluation, education, medication and behavioral interventions, counseling and family support. I provide mental health care to children, adolescents, and young adults (18-30) though I work with individuals of all ages.
I’m Becky Largent, a doctoral prepared Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of experience working to support individuals and families in their journey to achieve mental wellness and emotional stability. I am dedicated to offering comprehensive care through diagnostic evaluation, education, medication and behavioral interventions, counseling and family support. I provide mental health care to children, adolescents, and young adults (18-30) though I work with individuals of all ages.
(309) 650-8446 View (309) 650-8446
Photo of Dr. Rose Ampadu - Zoelife Psychiatric Services - Dr. Rose Ampadu, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zoelife Psychiatric Services - Dr. Rose Ampadu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, FPA
Verified Verified
Buckley, IL 60918
** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ** YOU CAN BOOK DIRECTLY, EMAIL or CALL to, set up an initial appointment. Untreated mental illness can unravel one’s life, causing stress, loss of hope, loss of relationships, loss of employment, and sadly the loss of one's life. I am a Family Psychiatrist Nurse Practitioner and pride in partnering with my patients to provide quality, individualized care and medication management of Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, and eating disorders, disorders.
** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ** YOU CAN BOOK DIRECTLY, EMAIL or CALL to, set up an initial appointment. Untreated mental illness can unravel one’s life, causing stress, loss of hope, loss of relationships, loss of employment, and sadly the loss of one's life. I am a Family Psychiatrist Nurse Practitioner and pride in partnering with my patients to provide quality, individualized care and medication management of Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, and eating disorders, disorders.
(708) 942-8961 View (708) 942-8961
Photo of Susan Falcon Lathe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Falcon Lathe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sterling, IL 61081
Greetings, I am Susan Lathe NP I strive to make the world a better place. I feel that I can accomplish this by helping people to live their best life possible.
Greetings, I am Susan Lathe NP I strive to make the world a better place. I feel that I can accomplish this by helping people to live their best life possible.
(779) 209-1895 View (779) 209-1895
Photo of Danielle Silva, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Silva
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Sherman, IL 62684
Hello, I'm Danielle Silva, a licensed and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with four years of experience. I specialize in providing compassionate care and evidence-based therapies to support individuals in managing mental health challenges. I'm dedicated to collaborating with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and enhance overall well-being. I typically work with patients across the lifespan who are struggling with a variety of mental health conditions.
Hello, I'm Danielle Silva, a licensed and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with four years of experience. I specialize in providing compassionate care and evidence-based therapies to support individuals in managing mental health challenges. I'm dedicated to collaborating with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and enhance overall well-being. I typically work with patients across the lifespan who are struggling with a variety of mental health conditions.
(773) 692-1924 View (773) 692-1924
Photo of Elizabeth D'Amore, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth D'Amore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Are you a woman who is seeking support while navigating depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PMDD, perimenopause, fertility treatments, family planning, pregnancy or infant loss, pregnancy & postpartum? I have been surrounded by strong women who have weathered the storm despite every sign telling them to quit. I am a fierce believer that every woman has a unique story and within every woman is a power that is unmatched by anything else in this world. I love this work because I get to witness & help women explore and discover their capacity to love and heal. I would consider it a privilege to be a part of your journey.
Are you a woman who is seeking support while navigating depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PMDD, perimenopause, fertility treatments, family planning, pregnancy or infant loss, pregnancy & postpartum? I have been surrounded by strong women who have weathered the storm despite every sign telling them to quit. I am a fierce believer that every woman has a unique story and within every woman is a power that is unmatched by anything else in this world. I love this work because I get to witness & help women explore and discover their capacity to love and heal. I would consider it a privilege to be a part of your journey.
(309) 322-9422 View (309) 322-9422
Photo of Jodi Juenger, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jodi Juenger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and am dually certified in Family and Psychiatric medicine. Initially, I obtained my Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Degree, as I was unsure of what area of medicine I was interested in. All I knew was that I had a burning desire to improve my patients' overall health and well-being through independent practice. In 2019, I began thinking it was time to start focusing on my passion for mental health. I obtained my Master’s Degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and am Board Certified.I believe an individual must be treated as a whole and not by illness alone.
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and am dually certified in Family and Psychiatric medicine. Initially, I obtained my Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Degree, as I was unsure of what area of medicine I was interested in. All I knew was that I had a burning desire to improve my patients' overall health and well-being through independent practice. In 2019, I began thinking it was time to start focusing on my passion for mental health. I obtained my Master’s Degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and am Board Certified.I believe an individual must be treated as a whole and not by illness alone.
(217) 687-1369 View (217) 687-1369
Photo of Theresa Towle, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa Towle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61822  (Online Only)
Greetings! My name is Dr. Theresa Towle. I have decades of experience providing holistic care to help heal hurt, process trauma, build resilience, and find balance. As a dual-certified family & psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner, I use evidence-based techniques to treat mind and body, including addressing the role of the gut-brain axis in anxiety, depression, trauma, attention issues, weight loss and a host of other issues. I am dedicated to working with you develop a holistic approach to care.
Greetings! My name is Dr. Theresa Towle. I have decades of experience providing holistic care to help heal hurt, process trauma, build resilience, and find balance. As a dual-certified family & psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner, I use evidence-based techniques to treat mind and body, including addressing the role of the gut-brain axis in anxiety, depression, trauma, attention issues, weight loss and a host of other issues. I am dedicated to working with you develop a holistic approach to care.
(708) 564-3560 View (708) 564-3560
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
(309) 808-6562 View (309) 808-6562
Photo of Madeline Bickhaus- Integrative Adhd Trauma Treatment, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madeline Bickhaus- Integrative Adhd Trauma Treatment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Quincy, IL 62305
I’m dedicated to meeting my patients’ needs with compassionate care and take a holistic approach in my service to my patients. A client can expect their initial visit to include a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, determination of treatment goals and education about diagnosis and available treatment options.
I’m dedicated to meeting my patients’ needs with compassionate care and take a holistic approach in my service to my patients. A client can expect their initial visit to include a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, determination of treatment goals and education about diagnosis and available treatment options.
(309) 245-8369 View (309) 245-8369
Photo of Melissa Hinds, APRN, NNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Hinds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Illinois. I have worked in the healthcare field for over 22 years with experience in emergency medicine, women's health, neonatology, and psychiatry. I offer psychotropic medication management as well as trauma-focused psychotherapy. Utilizing a holistic approach, I provide treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Each client's treatment plan is highly individualized and developed utilizing a shared decision-making model.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Illinois. I have worked in the healthcare field for over 22 years with experience in emergency medicine, women's health, neonatology, and psychiatry. I offer psychotropic medication management as well as trauma-focused psychotherapy. Utilizing a holistic approach, I provide treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Each client's treatment plan is highly individualized and developed utilizing a shared decision-making model.
(217) 699-1653 View (217) 699-1653
Photo of Dagny Michel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dagny Michel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tremont, IL 61568
Hey there! I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner located in Central Illinois.
Hey there! I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner located in Central Illinois.
(224) 328-2307 View (224) 328-2307

See more therapy options for Manito

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Manito, IL

< 10

Psychiatrists in Manito, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Manito, IL see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Manito?

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.