Psychiatrists in Manito, IL

Photo of Jaclyn Lamer, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, CPNP-AC, PMHNP-B
Jaclyn Lamer
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, CPNP-AC, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Jaclyn Lamer, PMHNP-BC, helps individuals in Illinois navigate emotional and behavioral challenges through compassionate, personalized psychiatric medication management. With a strong clinical foundation and a patient-centered approach, she supports children, teens, and adults facing a range of mental health concerns. Jaclyn collaborates closely with patients to find practical, effective solutions that promote emotional stability, improved functioning, and long-term wellness. Jaclyn specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety disorders, and depression.
Jaclyn Lamer, PMHNP-BC, helps individuals in Illinois navigate emotional and behavioral challenges through compassionate, personalized psychiatric medication management. With a strong clinical foundation and a patient-centered approach, she supports children, teens, and adults facing a range of mental health concerns. Jaclyn collaborates closely with patients to find practical, effective solutions that promote emotional stability, improved functioning, and long-term wellness. Jaclyn specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety disorders, and depression.
(309) 503-0560 View (309) 503-0560

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Vonisha Black, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Vonisha Black
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
I strive to create a welcoming, supportive environment where patients feel heard and understood. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, helping individuals manage challenges related to ADHD, mood, and anxiety disorders. I focus on building trust and teaching practical strategies that empower patients to take an active role in their treatment and overall well-being.
I strive to create a welcoming, supportive environment where patients feel heard and understood. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, helping individuals manage challenges related to ADHD, mood, and anxiety disorders. I focus on building trust and teaching practical strategies that empower patients to take an active role in their treatment and overall well-being.
(872) 335-3941 View (872) 335-3941
Photo of Charlotte Manyitabot, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Charlotte Manyitabot
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Many people struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or dementia, feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to turn. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions. Together, we focus on practical strategies, talk therapy, and CBT techniques to reduce stress, improve focus, and support overall well-being. My goal is to help you feel heard, understood, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.
Many people struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or dementia, feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to turn. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions. Together, we focus on practical strategies, talk therapy, and CBT techniques to reduce stress, improve focus, and support overall well-being. My goal is to help you feel heard, understood, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.
(872) 259-5256 View (872) 259-5256
Photo of Dustin Husemann - Dustin Husemann PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dustin Husemann PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
DRH Psychiatry LLC is an Illinois-based virtual mental health clinic providing comprehensive psychiatric care for adults ages 18 and older. Established in 2020, the practice is led by an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering compassionate, individualized care. Services include psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and ongoing treatment for mood, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, sleep disorders, BPD, and related mental health conditions. All care is evidence-based, confidential, and tailored to each patient’s unique needs, with the convenience of secure telehealth services.
DRH Psychiatry LLC is an Illinois-based virtual mental health clinic providing comprehensive psychiatric care for adults ages 18 and older. Established in 2020, the practice is led by an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering compassionate, individualized care. Services include psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and ongoing treatment for mood, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, sleep disorders, BPD, and related mental health conditions. All care is evidence-based, confidential, and tailored to each patient’s unique needs, with the convenience of secure telehealth services.
(773) 906-4629 View (773) 906-4629
Photo of Catherine L Stull, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPA, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Catherine L Stull
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPA, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Serves Area
I can help a person with issues with stress, prioritizing, happiness, mental health, and wanting assistance to make changes in their life
I can help a person with issues with stress, prioritizing, happiness, mental health, and wanting assistance to make changes in their life
(224) 553-5153 View (224) 553-5153
Photo of Stacey Salmonson - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Peoria, IL 61614
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.
(309) 243-0205 View (309) 243-0205
Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
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Photo of Krushen Pillay, Psychiatrist, DO
Krushen Pillay
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
My ideal client is either a patient in need of accessible psychiatric care or a high-performing professional struggling with mental health challenges. Older adults and long-term care residents often face depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, or dementia-related behaviors and need timely psychiatric care. Professionals such as attorneys, healthcare providers, and nurses seek confidential, effective treatment for stress, burnout, or anxiety to maintain peak performance. I’m passionate about ensuring prompt access to psychiatric care, and our practice guarantees that new evaluations are scheduled within two weeks.
My ideal client is either a patient in need of accessible psychiatric care or a high-performing professional struggling with mental health challenges. Older adults and long-term care residents often face depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, or dementia-related behaviors and need timely psychiatric care. Professionals such as attorneys, healthcare providers, and nurses seek confidential, effective treatment for stress, burnout, or anxiety to maintain peak performance. I’m passionate about ensuring prompt access to psychiatric care, and our practice guarantees that new evaluations are scheduled within two weeks.
(708) 734-6185 View (708) 734-6185
Photo of Virpal Sidhu - Heart Mind Body LLC, Virpal Sidhu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Heart Mind Body LLC, Virpal Sidhu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide compassionate care for children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges.
I provide compassionate care for children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges.
(630) 791-5316 View (630) 791-5316
Photo of Valeria Serban - Online Geriatric Psychiatrist | Dementia & Anxiety, Psychiatrist
Online Geriatric Psychiatrist | Dementia & Anxiety
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Valeria Serban is a board-certified psychiatrist with 20+ years of experience, offering telepsychiatry in Naperville, IL, and expert online psychiatric care across Illinois. Licensed in 18 states, she specializes in geriatric psychiatry and provides compassionate, personalized treatment for older adults dealing with dementia, memory loss, cognitive decline, depression, and other complex psychiatric conditions. As a geriatric psychiatrist in Naperville, IL, she is known for her patient-centered care.
Dr. Valeria Serban is a board-certified psychiatrist with 20+ years of experience, offering telepsychiatry in Naperville, IL, and expert online psychiatric care across Illinois. Licensed in 18 states, she specializes in geriatric psychiatry and provides compassionate, personalized treatment for older adults dealing with dementia, memory loss, cognitive decline, depression, and other complex psychiatric conditions. As a geriatric psychiatrist in Naperville, IL, she is known for her patient-centered care.
(630) 634-5589 View (630) 634-5589
Photo of Ingrid Suazo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DHA, MSN, APRN
Ingrid Suazo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DHA, MSN, APRN
Online Only
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years. Driven by her passion and a strong commitment to helping people achieve their life goals and potential, she takes pride in providing the best quality care for her clients to transform their mindset to live their best lives.
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years. Driven by her passion and a strong commitment to helping people achieve their life goals and potential, she takes pride in providing the best quality care for her clients to transform their mindset to live their best lives.
(469) 658-7194 View (469) 658-7194
Photo of Janice West - Tender Embrace Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC
Tender Embrace Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome to Tender Embrace Wellness: Step into a space designed with you in mind – a supportive environment filled with love, compassion, and understanding. We recognize that each person is unique, and so is their path to healing. You'll find a place in our sanctuary where you are heard, valued, and embraced. Your story matters, and we are here to listen. Our dedicated team of compassionate practitioners is ready to hear your experiences, concerns, and dreams. We understand that the first step towards healing begins with a caring and attentive ear. Remember, if you're not happy, we're not satisfied.
Welcome to Tender Embrace Wellness: Step into a space designed with you in mind – a supportive environment filled with love, compassion, and understanding. We recognize that each person is unique, and so is their path to healing. You'll find a place in our sanctuary where you are heard, valued, and embraced. Your story matters, and we are here to listen. Our dedicated team of compassionate practitioners is ready to hear your experiences, concerns, and dreams. We understand that the first step towards healing begins with a caring and attentive ear. Remember, if you're not happy, we're not satisfied.
(346) 229-1026 View (346) 229-1026
Photo of Dr. Tomilola Adewolu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Tomilola Adewolu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Meet Dr. Tomilola Adewolu, DNP. She is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of behavioral health experience. Devoted to your well-being, she specializes in clients aged 12 and up, managing a diverse range of mental health disorders. Offering flexibility, Dr. Tomilola provides same-day, weekend, and extended-hour appointments. Beyond clinical expertise, she prioritizes building trust through empathy. Positive testimonials attest to her collaborative approach. Dr. Tomilola is committed to creating a safe space where you feel heard and supported, ensuring a personalized and effective journey toward mental wellness. Tomilola A
Meet Dr. Tomilola Adewolu, DNP. She is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of behavioral health experience. Devoted to your well-being, she specializes in clients aged 12 and up, managing a diverse range of mental health disorders. Offering flexibility, Dr. Tomilola provides same-day, weekend, and extended-hour appointments. Beyond clinical expertise, she prioritizes building trust through empathy. Positive testimonials attest to her collaborative approach. Dr. Tomilola is committed to creating a safe space where you feel heard and supported, ensuring a personalized and effective journey toward mental wellness. Tomilola A
(773) 985-6487 View (773) 985-6487
Photo of Tara Livingston, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Tara Livingston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Peoria, IL 61614
I'm a Full Practice Authority Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, board certified to provide medication management for a variety of mental health issues. I've been working in the mental health field since 2010 and as a PMHNP since 2019. I am non-judgmental and here to help others.
I'm a Full Practice Authority Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, board certified to provide medication management for a variety of mental health issues. I've been working in the mental health field since 2010 and as a PMHNP since 2019. I am non-judgmental and here to help others.
(309) 857-0172 View (309) 857-0172
Photo of Olukemi Ajayi - Olukemi Ajayi PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olukemi Ajayi PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal clients are individuals experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or stress-related concerns. They often feel overwhelmed, unmotivated, or stuck in patterns that interfere with daily life, relationships, or work. These clients need compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care, guidance on medication management, and practical strategies to manage their symptoms. Their goals are to achieve mood stability, improve focus, strengthen relationships, and enhance overall quality of life. They want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to regain control over their mental hea
My ideal clients are individuals experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or stress-related concerns. They often feel overwhelmed, unmotivated, or stuck in patterns that interfere with daily life, relationships, or work. These clients need compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care, guidance on medication management, and practical strategies to manage their symptoms. Their goals are to achieve mood stability, improve focus, strengthen relationships, and enhance overall quality of life. They want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to regain control over their mental hea
(312) 872-3631 View (312) 872-3631
Photo of Mujidat Yusuf, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN
Mujidat Yusuf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN
2 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61602
Mujidat Yusuf, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care across the lifespan. She currently resides in the Chicago suburbs and began her nursing career in New York. With over six years of nursing experience, her professional journey started in the psychiatric emergency department at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue. She has since built a strong background in acute care and inpatient behavioral health.
Mujidat Yusuf, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care across the lifespan. She currently resides in the Chicago suburbs and began her nursing career in New York. With over six years of nursing experience, her professional journey started in the psychiatric emergency department at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue. She has since built a strong background in acute care and inpatient behavioral health.
(484) 759-7908 View (484) 759-7908
Photo of Minna Jinn O'Leary - MJO Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatrist, MD
MJO Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Peoria, IL 61614
My name is Minna Jinn O'Leary, MD and Welcome to MJO Psychiatry. I am a general adult psychiatrist who is willing to work with you to achieve your goals in mental health. I wholeheartedly believe in working as a team with you, your general practitioner and therapist. I was trained at Loyola University Medical Center and I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I run my practice with a focus on compassion, confidentiality, and a comprehensive approach.
My name is Minna Jinn O'Leary, MD and Welcome to MJO Psychiatry. I am a general adult psychiatrist who is willing to work with you to achieve your goals in mental health. I wholeheartedly believe in working as a team with you, your general practitioner and therapist. I was trained at Loyola University Medical Center and I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I run my practice with a focus on compassion, confidentiality, and a comprehensive approach.
(309) 220-3226 View (309) 220-3226
Photo of Gundu Reddy - Gundu Reddy | GABA Telepsychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Gundu Reddy | GABA Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
3 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61602
Dr. Gundu Reddy is a licensed psychiatrist in Springfield Illinois​. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is a licensed psychiatrist in Springfield Illinois​. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
(217) 993-8013 View (217) 993-8013
Infinite Wellness Healthcare, PLLC (Illinois)
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Online Only
This is a medication based, traditional, small psychiatric practice. I see children and adults, NP sees adults and late teens.
This is a medication based, traditional, small psychiatric practice. I see children and adults, NP sees adults and late teens.
(872) 282-5736 View (872) 282-5736
Photo of Trish Filliman - Gravity Psychiatry & Wellness, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Gravity Psychiatry & Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
You’re juggling too much. Maybe you’re feeling exhausted, anxious, distracted, or just stuck. Or maybe your child is struggling at school, melting down at home, or unable to focus. You’ve tried to manage it, but nothing’s working like it should. You want clarity, real answers, and support that feels steady. We are here for you! Request an appointment easily through our website gravitypsychiatrywellness.co m
You’re juggling too much. Maybe you’re feeling exhausted, anxious, distracted, or just stuck. Or maybe your child is struggling at school, melting down at home, or unable to focus. You’ve tried to manage it, but nothing’s working like it should. You want clarity, real answers, and support that feels steady. We are here for you! Request an appointment easily through our website gravitypsychiatrywellness.co m
(309) 490-8756 View (309) 490-8756

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% Eating Disorders
100% Child
100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Grief

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.