Psychiatrists in Maryville, IL
HI! My name is Tamara Young. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a certified nurse midwife. I am the provider and the Owner of Innovative Women's Healthcare. I believe in providing care to the woman both mind and body, providing both psychiatric and gynecological care. Being a Midwife for 20 years, I am very comfortable with pregnancy and postpartum depression, anxiety and mood disorders. Please call to schedule an evaluation. In most cases, we are able to get you scheduled within a week, and often, same-day appointments can be available.
HI! My name is Tamara Young. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a certified nurse midwife. I am the provider and the Owner of Innovative Women's Healthcare. I believe in providing care to the woman both mind and body, providing both psychiatric and gynecological care. Being a Midwife for 20 years, I am very comfortable with pregnancy and postpartum depression, anxiety and mood disorders. Please call to schedule an evaluation. In most cases, we are able to get you scheduled within a week, and often, same-day appointments can be available.
Dr. Audrey Faulstich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Maryville, IL 62062 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
One model can’t fill all—which is why I take on an individualized integrative approach in treating patients struggling with mental illness. During your visit, you can choose as many treatment approaches as you want (e.g., natural supplements, medications, talk therapy, working with you spiritually, functional medicine ). For example, if you want to discuss medications, supplements, and do some counseling, you can. I have a lot of experience working with all types of mental illnesses from ages 4 to 75. I will work with you to find the underlying causes of your mental illness and above all, empower you towards your recovery.
One model can’t fill all—which is why I take on an individualized integrative approach in treating patients struggling with mental illness. During your visit, you can choose as many treatment approaches as you want (e.g., natural supplements, medications, talk therapy, working with you spiritually, functional medicine ). For example, if you want to discuss medications, supplements, and do some counseling, you can. I have a lot of experience working with all types of mental illnesses from ages 4 to 75. I will work with you to find the underlying causes of your mental illness and above all, empower you towards your recovery.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269 (Online Only)
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
Carrie Helle Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Edwardsville, IL 62025 (Online Only)
Are you seeking a supportive partner on your journey to mental well-being? Look no further. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in providing personalized, compassionate care to individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges. That is why I take the time to listen, empathize, and tailor our approach to meet your individual needs. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or other mental health concerns, I am here to help.
Are you seeking a supportive partner on your journey to mental well-being? Look no further. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in providing personalized, compassionate care to individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges. That is why I take the time to listen, empathize, and tailor our approach to meet your individual needs. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or other mental health concerns, I am here to help.
Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Edwardsville, IL 62025
Hello, I'm Madelyn Hindia, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a certification in perinatal mental health. My passion lies in supporting women through their unique mental health journeys, especially during pivotal moments such as pregnancy, postpartum, and when facing challenges like infertility or pregnancy and infant loss. I also have a strong background in addressing sexual dysfunction and a wide range of general psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I believe in treating each of my patients with a non-judgmental, empathetic approach.
Hello, I'm Madelyn Hindia, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a certification in perinatal mental health. My passion lies in supporting women through their unique mental health journeys, especially during pivotal moments such as pregnancy, postpartum, and when facing challenges like infertility or pregnancy and infant loss. I also have a strong background in addressing sexual dysfunction and a wide range of general psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I believe in treating each of my patients with a non-judgmental, empathetic approach.
Fundamental Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Collinsville, IL 62234 (Online Only)
As Nurse Practitioners, with specialized training in both Family and Psychiatric medicine, our core objective is to enhance the overall well-being and mental healthcare of our patients. We take utmost pride in our commitment to deliver the highest quality care, utilizing our gained knowledge and expertise to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. This is achieved by adopting a comprehensive approach to patient care, where we recognize that the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of our patient’s health are interconnected.
As Nurse Practitioners, with specialized training in both Family and Psychiatric medicine, our core objective is to enhance the overall well-being and mental healthcare of our patients. We take utmost pride in our commitment to deliver the highest quality care, utilizing our gained knowledge and expertise to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. This is achieved by adopting a comprehensive approach to patient care, where we recognize that the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of our patient’s health are interconnected.
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.
Sherri Bowald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edwardsville, IL 62025
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!
I truly believe patients should be treated based on their individual circumstances, as we all face different challenges and have unique needs. I feel that in order to achieve optimal mental health, patients should be included in determining goals for treatment and fully understand their treatment plan. I'll always take the time to talk through your symptoms and situation, discuss options, and ensure you understand the "why" and "what to expect" when any change to your treatment is made.
I truly believe patients should be treated based on their individual circumstances, as we all face different challenges and have unique needs. I feel that in order to achieve optimal mental health, patients should be included in determining goals for treatment and fully understand their treatment plan. I'll always take the time to talk through your symptoms and situation, discuss options, and ensure you understand the "why" and "what to expect" when any change to your treatment is made.
Stages Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, stress, or anxiety? As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Family Medicine, I offer compassionate, holistic care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're a preteen, teen, adult, or elderly, I provide evaluations and medication management via secure, HIPAA-compliant Tele-psychiatry video conferences.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, stress, or anxiety? As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Family Medicine, I offer compassionate, holistic care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're a preteen, teen, adult, or elderly, I provide evaluations and medication management via secure, HIPAA-compliant Tele-psychiatry video conferences.
Ebele Nnenna Iloabachie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fairview Heights, IL 62208 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia or any other mood alterations ? I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois with prescriptive authority. I received a BSN and master's degrees from Saint Louis University, a post- master degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati. I believe that my dual certification puts me in a unique position to provide highly specialized, patient-centered holistic care that takes into consideration, the patient's physical ailments.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia or any other mood alterations ? I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois with prescriptive authority. I received a BSN and master's degrees from Saint Louis University, a post- master degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati. I believe that my dual certification puts me in a unique position to provide highly specialized, patient-centered holistic care that takes into consideration, the patient's physical ailments.
Optimum quality behavioral health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62269 (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.
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.
Online Psychiatrists
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.
Rachel Thomas Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Waterloo, IL 62298
"Whatever it Takes!!" is my motto. My practice style is highly dynamic, collaborative and is developed for and based on YOU!! I provide insightful evaluation and understanding of your concerns and we work closely together to quickly implement whatever therapeutic modality is needed to help you perform and live to your potential. My patients are gifted, professional and top performers. It is my joy to be included on your journey. :) Ketamine is offered as well.
"Whatever it Takes!!" is my motto. My practice style is highly dynamic, collaborative and is developed for and based on YOU!! I provide insightful evaluation and understanding of your concerns and we work closely together to quickly implement whatever therapeutic modality is needed to help you perform and live to your potential. My patients are gifted, professional and top performers. It is my joy to be included on your journey. :) Ketamine is offered as well.
Geneva A. Sanders is an accomplished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois, with a wealth of clinical experience spanning over eight years in both medical and psychiatric settings. Throughout her career, Geneva has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and has actively participated in professional organizations, including her membership in the prestigious Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society. With her diverse clinical background and extensive education, Geneva brings a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to her practice, ensuring that her patients receive the highest quality of care.
Geneva A. Sanders is an accomplished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois, with a wealth of clinical experience spanning over eight years in both medical and psychiatric settings. Throughout her career, Geneva has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and has actively participated in professional organizations, including her membership in the prestigious Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society. With her diverse clinical background and extensive education, Geneva brings a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to her practice, ensuring that her patients receive the highest quality of care.
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.
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.
New Leaf Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62220
Empowering Minds, Transforming Lives: Your Path to Holistic Wellness! As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care that bridges the gap between mental and physical health. My approach is holistic, focusing on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—to help you achieve your wellness goals.
Empowering Minds, Transforming Lives: Your Path to Holistic Wellness! As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care that bridges the gap between mental and physical health. My approach is holistic, focusing on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—to help you achieve your wellness goals.
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.
See more therapy options for Maryville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Maryville, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Maryville, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum |
50% | Addiction |
50% | Child |
50% | ADHD |
50% | Life Coaching |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Maryville, IL see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Maryville?
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.