Psychiatrists in Mokena, IL

Photo of Ryan Atkins, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Ryan Atkins
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Mokena, IL 60448
Treating each individual holistically isn't just a practice – it's a profound journey that holds the key to unlocking truly personalized and transformative healing experiences. By probing the depths of our identity we pave the way for comprehensive well-being, where the interconnected facets of the self converge to create a tapestry of vibrant health and genuine fulfillment.
Treating each individual holistically isn't just a practice – it's a profound journey that holds the key to unlocking truly personalized and transformative healing experiences. By probing the depths of our identity we pave the way for comprehensive well-being, where the interconnected facets of the self converge to create a tapestry of vibrant health and genuine fulfillment.
(708) 419-4634 View (708) 419-4634
Photo of Robert Wirick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Robert Wirick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mokena, IL 60448
I strive to foster a collaborative relationship with each of my clients. I sincerely believe that a strong relationship between provider and patient begins with an understanding of how each client sees themselves - and their goals that they would like to personally achieve.
I strive to foster a collaborative relationship with each of my clients. I sincerely believe that a strong relationship between provider and patient begins with an understanding of how each client sees themselves - and their goals that they would like to personally achieve.
(708) 726-8782 View (708) 726-8782
Photo of Hannah Wychocki, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Hannah Wychocki
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Mokena, IL 60448
I was drawn to the field of psychiatry by my fascination with the mind and how it influences the person we become. Our mind not only affects our mental health, but also our physical wellbeing. It is crucial to include mental health as a normal part of healthcare to create a balanced quality of life. Utilizing a client-provider partnership and evidence-based practice, my goal is to provide compassionate, confidential, personalized, and exceptional care.
I was drawn to the field of psychiatry by my fascination with the mind and how it influences the person we become. Our mind not only affects our mental health, but also our physical wellbeing. It is crucial to include mental health as a normal part of healthcare to create a balanced quality of life. Utilizing a client-provider partnership and evidence-based practice, my goal is to provide compassionate, confidential, personalized, and exceptional care.
(708) 905-2257 View (708) 905-2257
Photo of Samuel Assam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Samuel Assam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Mokena, IL 60448
Samuel Assam, PMHNP-BC, is dedicated to providing thoughtful, personalized mental health care to clients throughout Illinois. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, Samuel partners with individuals aged 15 through 65+ to create tailored treatment plans focused on medication management that best suits their unique needs and goals. Specializing in complex mental health conditions, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychosis-related disorders, Samuel takes pride in guiding his clients toward better mental wellness.
Samuel Assam, PMHNP-BC, is dedicated to providing thoughtful, personalized mental health care to clients throughout Illinois. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, Samuel partners with individuals aged 15 through 65+ to create tailored treatment plans focused on medication management that best suits their unique needs and goals. Specializing in complex mental health conditions, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychosis-related disorders, Samuel takes pride in guiding his clients toward better mental wellness.
(708) 832-6351 View (708) 832-6351
Photo of Sam Assam - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN
Mokena, IL 60448
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.
(708) 847-3495 View (708) 847-3495
Photo of Theresa Towle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, APRNFPA
Theresa Towle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, APRNFPA
22 Endorsed
Mokena, IL 60448
Greetings! My career has been guided by a passion for nurturing mind and body. I am committed to partnering with my patients achieve quality outcomes. As a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with 30+ year experience, I offer broad knowledge and expertise in my approach. I specialize in helping those with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD and binge eating issues. I am also offering weight loss services. Understanding that one’s weight is crucial in balancing overall physical & mental health, I offer tailored programs that include psychiatric and weight loss medications. Want emotional balance, I can help!
Greetings! My career has been guided by a passion for nurturing mind and body. I am committed to partnering with my patients achieve quality outcomes. As a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with 30+ year experience, I offer broad knowledge and expertise in my approach. I specialize in helping those with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD and binge eating issues. I am also offering weight loss services. Understanding that one’s weight is crucial in balancing overall physical & mental health, I offer tailored programs that include psychiatric and weight loss medications. Want emotional balance, I can help!
(708) 766-7822 View (708) 766-7822
Photo of Jamie Rawl, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Jamie Rawl
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Serves Area
I am a state-licensed and nationally board-certified physician associate who forms strong therapeutic alliances with patients in order to provide high-quality, culturally competent care.  I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication support using innovative modalities designed to diagnose and treat a variety of challenges. In addition to medication management, I specialize in the administration of psychedelic therapy (Spravato) for patients suffering from treatment-resistant depression. I also offer evaluations for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for those struggling with depression, OCD, anxious depression, and more.
I am a state-licensed and nationally board-certified physician associate who forms strong therapeutic alliances with patients in order to provide high-quality, culturally competent care.  I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication support using innovative modalities designed to diagnose and treat a variety of challenges. In addition to medication management, I specialize in the administration of psychedelic therapy (Spravato) for patients suffering from treatment-resistant depression. I also offer evaluations for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for those struggling with depression, OCD, anxious depression, and more.
(847) 860-6193 View (847) 860-6193
Photo of Mofoluwa Amiyan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Mofoluwa Amiyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. My goal as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is to help the patient get the best solutions that will make them feel their best. Whether that is psychiatric evaluations and/ or treatments for any mental health problem; my style of giving help is by doing it with lots of care and deep listening, and viewing each of my patients as unique individual people. This is very important because a successful treatment results from having an understanding on someone's needs, environment, and circumstance(s).
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. My goal as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is to help the patient get the best solutions that will make them feel their best. Whether that is psychiatric evaluations and/ or treatments for any mental health problem; my style of giving help is by doing it with lots of care and deep listening, and viewing each of my patients as unique individual people. This is very important because a successful treatment results from having an understanding on someone's needs, environment, and circumstance(s).
(708) 360-7706 View (708) 360-7706
Photo of Dr. Abosede R. Babalola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, FPA
Dr. Abosede R. Babalola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, FPA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in evaluating and treating a comprehensive range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and psychotic disorders like schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. I understand the emotional and physical suffering people experience with mental health disorders and dedicate myself to easing patients’ distress, offering empowerment and hope for mental well-being.
I specialize in evaluating and treating a comprehensive range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and psychotic disorders like schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. I understand the emotional and physical suffering people experience with mental health disorders and dedicate myself to easing patients’ distress, offering empowerment and hope for mental well-being.
(708) 726-4741 View (708) 726-4741

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Tochi Okwueze, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FPA
Tochi Okwueze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FPA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
•• Accepting New Patients •• In today's fast-paced world, patients need mental and emotional health care that is both effective and tailored to their specific needs. They seek a partner who understands their challenges and can provide innovative, results-driven solutions. As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, I focus on delivering holistic, personalized treatment plans with compassionate support. My dedication empowers clients to achieve stability, improve well-being, and feel heard and understood, ultimately leading to better health and a higher quality of life.
•• Accepting New Patients •• In today's fast-paced world, patients need mental and emotional health care that is both effective and tailored to their specific needs. They seek a partner who understands their challenges and can provide innovative, results-driven solutions. As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, I focus on delivering holistic, personalized treatment plans with compassionate support. My dedication empowers clients to achieve stability, improve well-being, and feel heard and understood, ultimately leading to better health and a higher quality of life.
(331) 294-8238 View (331) 294-8238
Photo of Talia Nelson - Mind and Body Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Mind and Body Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Tinley Park, IL 60477
At Mind and Body Wellness, we specialize in compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for adults across Tinley Park, Chicago, and throughout Illinois. Our services include medication management, psychiatric evaluations, and telepsychiatry tailored to your individual needs. We understand that seeking help can feel overwhelming, and our goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel genuinely heard and supported. We believe in forming meaningful therapeutic relationships that promote healing, personal growth, and long-term mental wellness.
At Mind and Body Wellness, we specialize in compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for adults across Tinley Park, Chicago, and throughout Illinois. Our services include medication management, psychiatric evaluations, and telepsychiatry tailored to your individual needs. We understand that seeking help can feel overwhelming, and our goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel genuinely heard and supported. We believe in forming meaningful therapeutic relationships that promote healing, personal growth, and long-term mental wellness.
(708) 834-7160 View (708) 834-7160
Photo of Victoria (Tori) Brueggert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMH-C
Victoria (Tori) Brueggert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Diamond, IL 60416
Not accepting new clients
I am Tori Brueggert, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for helping individuals of all ages achieve mental and emotional well-being.I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based care to children, adolescents, and adults, with a particular focus on perinatal mental health. With over 8 years of experience in the field, I have worked with individuals across the lifespan, from age 6 and up, helping them navigate a variety of mental health challenges. My approach is holistic and personalized, combining a deep understanding of psychiatric care with a focus on fostering resilience, self-awareness and healing.
I am Tori Brueggert, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for helping individuals of all ages achieve mental and emotional well-being.I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based care to children, adolescents, and adults, with a particular focus on perinatal mental health. With over 8 years of experience in the field, I have worked with individuals across the lifespan, from age 6 and up, helping them navigate a variety of mental health challenges. My approach is holistic and personalized, combining a deep understanding of psychiatric care with a focus on fostering resilience, self-awareness and healing.
(815) 472-7769 View (815) 472-7769
Photo of April Guilliams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
April Guilliams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Chicago, IL 60614
Hello friend, Welcome to the next steps of your mental health journey. Mental health challenges can be difficult to navigate. You are not alone, and I look forward to helping you attain your best life according to your ambitions, goals and dreams. You got this! April Guilliams, PMHNP-BC, is dedicated to providing unparalleled clarity and compassionate care. With a background rooted in a B.S. in Nursing and a PMHNP from OSF Saint Francis College, April combines academic expertise with hands-on experience.
Hello friend, Welcome to the next steps of your mental health journey. Mental health challenges can be difficult to navigate. You are not alone, and I look forward to helping you attain your best life according to your ambitions, goals and dreams. You got this! April Guilliams, PMHNP-BC, is dedicated to providing unparalleled clarity and compassionate care. With a background rooted in a B.S. in Nursing and a PMHNP from OSF Saint Francis College, April combines academic expertise with hands-on experience.
(309) 273-1139 View (309) 273-1139
Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Naperville, IL 60540
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 Senami E-Lukula, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Senami E-Lukula
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
Senami, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, brings over a decade of invaluable experience in healthcare to her practice. With a profound understanding of the human mind and a heartfelt dedication to helping others, she offers compassionate psychiatric evaluation and treatment. Specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar and various mental health conditions, Senami is committed to guiding individuals towards wellness. Her approach encompasses evidence-based, holistic healthcare, integrating both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. Recognizing the complexities of life's challenges,
Senami, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, brings over a decade of invaluable experience in healthcare to her practice. With a profound understanding of the human mind and a heartfelt dedication to helping others, she offers compassionate psychiatric evaluation and treatment. Specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar and various mental health conditions, Senami is committed to guiding individuals towards wellness. Her approach encompasses evidence-based, holistic healthcare, integrating both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. Recognizing the complexities of life's challenges,
(708) 765-6432 View (708) 765-6432
Photo of Gundu Reddy - Illinois Telepsychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in 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 licensed in 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.
(331) 259-8087 View (331) 259-8087
Photo of Rhonda L Sykes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, LCPC
Rhonda L Sykes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, LCPC
Joliet, IL 60435
When you are dealing with anxiety and stress in life, I understand that it can seem overwhelming, and you can feel really alone, not sure where to turn. It is important at these times to find the right kind of knowledgeable support and to feel comfortable with the clinician with whom you work. I would like to help you in the process of bringing understanding and solutions to the problems you are facing and to improve the quality of your daily life. I have 35 years of experience providing therapy services to individuals (children, adolescents and adults). I use an individualized approach and build on client strengths to heal.
When you are dealing with anxiety and stress in life, I understand that it can seem overwhelming, and you can feel really alone, not sure where to turn. It is important at these times to find the right kind of knowledgeable support and to feel comfortable with the clinician with whom you work. I would like to help you in the process of bringing understanding and solutions to the problems you are facing and to improve the quality of your daily life. I have 35 years of experience providing therapy services to individuals (children, adolescents and adults). I use an individualized approach and build on client strengths to heal.
(815) 661-2614 View (815) 661-2614
Photo of Abosede “Abby” Babalola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FPA, PMHNPBC
Abosede “Abby” Babalola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FPA, PMHNPBC
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Abosede “Abby” Babalola FPA, PMHNP-BC, is dedicated to fostering optimal mental health in collaboration with her clients. With a rich background in psychiatric nursing, Dr. Babalola combines her extensive experience with a commitment to staying abreast of the latest treatment options. Holding a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of St. Francis and a graduate degree in health administration from the University of Phoenix, Dr. Babalola's academic prowess is complemented by her genuine passion for patient care.
Abosede “Abby” Babalola FPA, PMHNP-BC, is dedicated to fostering optimal mental health in collaboration with her clients. With a rich background in psychiatric nursing, Dr. Babalola combines her extensive experience with a commitment to staying abreast of the latest treatment options. Holding a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of St. Francis and a graduate degree in health administration from the University of Phoenix, Dr. Babalola's academic prowess is complemented by her genuine passion for patient care.
(815) 270-5256 View (815) 270-5256
Photo of Erin Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Erin Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Plainfield, IL 60544
Erin Williams, PMHNP Erin Williams is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She has Master's degrees in Health Education and Nursing. She has double-board certification in Family Practice and Psychiatry. As a professional psychiatric nurse practitioner, Erin's approach to helping patients is rooted in comprehensive and compassionate care. She begins by establishing a nurturing environment that fosters trust and comfort, encouraging open dialogue. Through thorough interviews and active listening, Erin gathers extensive information about the patient's history, symptoms, and aspirations.
Erin Williams, PMHNP Erin Williams is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She has Master's degrees in Health Education and Nursing. She has double-board certification in Family Practice and Psychiatry. As a professional psychiatric nurse practitioner, Erin's approach to helping patients is rooted in comprehensive and compassionate care. She begins by establishing a nurturing environment that fosters trust and comfort, encouraging open dialogue. Through thorough interviews and active listening, Erin gathers extensive information about the patient's history, symptoms, and aspirations.
(815) 393-2833 View (815) 393-2833
Photo of Hildred Amegashie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, BC, FPA
Hildred Amegashie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, BC, FPA
Naperville, IL 60564
Hildred Amegashie, APRN-FPA, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with Full Practice Authority in Chicago, Illinois, has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions in clients aged six and older. She specializes in severe and persistent conditions such as personality disorders, eating disorders, psychosis, and bipolar disorder. Her expertise also includes ADHD, Autism, bariatric pre-surgical evaluations, and neuropsychological assessments.
Hildred Amegashie, APRN-FPA, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with Full Practice Authority in Chicago, Illinois, has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions in clients aged six and older. She specializes in severe and persistent conditions such as personality disorders, eating disorders, psychosis, and bipolar disorder. Her expertise also includes ADHD, Autism, bariatric pre-surgical evaluations, and neuropsychological assessments.
(630) 895-8791 View (630) 895-8791

See more therapy options for Mokena

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Mokena, IL

< 10

Psychiatrists in Mokena, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
89% Sleep or Insomnia
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Mokena, IL see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Mokena?

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.