Psychiatrists in Montgomery, IL
Dr. Mary LoGalbo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Master of Science in Nursing and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from Rush University and a Doctor of Nursing Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Liberty University. Dr. LoGalbo values the uniqueness of each person and seeks to understand each person's perspective of themselves and the world around them. She is motivated to create an atmosphere of acceptance and trust, so clients feel safe and are better able to tell their stories.
Dr. Mary LoGalbo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Master of Science in Nursing and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from Rush University and a Doctor of Nursing Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Liberty University. Dr. LoGalbo values the uniqueness of each person and seeks to understand each person's perspective of themselves and the world around them. She is motivated to create an atmosphere of acceptance and trust, so clients feel safe and are better able to tell their stories.
Diana Wells is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She started her medical journal from the University of St. Francis, Joliet IL, where she obtained a bachelorette of science in Nursing. She practiced as a Registered Nurse for three years focusing on behavioral/mental health. She gained a vast knowledge in mental health disorders and Emergency medicine before advancing her career as an Advanced Practice Nurse with a specialty in psychiatric. Her practicum/residency experiences were in an inpatient/outpatient setting, and Telehealth.
Diana Wells is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She started her medical journal from the University of St. Francis, Joliet IL, where she obtained a bachelorette of science in Nursing. She practiced as a Registered Nurse for three years focusing on behavioral/mental health. She gained a vast knowledge in mental health disorders and Emergency medicine before advancing her career as an Advanced Practice Nurse with a specialty in psychiatric. Her practicum/residency experiences were in an inpatient/outpatient setting, and Telehealth.
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Holistic behavioral and TMS therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, FPA
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
Dr. Lawrence Abah, DNP, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider.
Dr. Lawrence Abah, DNP, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider.
Shyu treats patients between the ages of 18 and 99 years old Connie Shyu is a board certified Physician Assistant who treats a wide range of psychiatric conditions with special interest in anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and women's issues like post partum/perimenopausal mood and anxiety conditions. Connie earned a B.S. from University of Illinois and an MA in Medical Sciences from Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL. She practiced in a variety of medical specialties including pulmonary and sleep medicine, pain management, and inpatient and outpatient psychiatry.
Shyu treats patients between the ages of 18 and 99 years old Connie Shyu is a board certified Physician Assistant who treats a wide range of psychiatric conditions with special interest in anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and women's issues like post partum/perimenopausal mood and anxiety conditions. Connie earned a B.S. from University of Illinois and an MA in Medical Sciences from Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL. She practiced in a variety of medical specialties including pulmonary and sleep medicine, pain management, and inpatient and outpatient psychiatry.
Plainfield/Oswego Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
My name is Melissa Tatum, APRN-PMHNP and in my fifteen plus years as a mental health advocate and champion I have dedicated my career to delivering compassionate, culturally competent care and support to the men, women and children I serve.
My name is Melissa Tatum, APRN-PMHNP and in my fifteen plus years as a mental health advocate and champion I have dedicated my career to delivering compassionate, culturally competent care and support to the men, women and children I serve.
The goal is to assist all clients to reach the optimal self while creating improved mental health and resilience.
The goal is to assist all clients to reach the optimal self while creating improved mental health and resilience.
Derik Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543 (Online Only)
I'm a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners passionate about helping people find their best selves. I understand that everyone's journey is unique, and I'm here to listen, support, and collaborate with you as you navigate yours.
I'm a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners passionate about helping people find their best selves. I understand that everyone's journey is unique, and I'm here to listen, support, and collaborate with you as you navigate yours.
Karyn Kudrna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543 (Online Only)
Immediate openings for telehealth visits. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and other mental health issues. I believe in developing strong therapeutic relationships with the goal of providing personalized care tailored to meet each person's individual needs. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 1989 and a Master of Science degree in Nursing from the University of St. Francis in 2018.
Immediate openings for telehealth visits. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and other mental health issues. I believe in developing strong therapeutic relationships with the goal of providing personalized care tailored to meet each person's individual needs. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 1989 and a Master of Science degree in Nursing from the University of St. Francis in 2018.
Maricela Perez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60505
After 30 years of healthcare experience, it's become very evident that there is no separation between wellness of the body and wellness of the mind. Unfortunately in most healthcare settings, only the wellness of the body is assessed. My philosophy is to assess the whole person. And in order to achieve this, I listen to my patients' concerns, but most importantly, I listen to their stories.I believe in providing patient centered care in a professional, yet compassionate nature, with emphasis of balance of mind, body, and spirit.
After 30 years of healthcare experience, it's become very evident that there is no separation between wellness of the body and wellness of the mind. Unfortunately in most healthcare settings, only the wellness of the body is assessed. My philosophy is to assess the whole person. And in order to achieve this, I listen to my patients' concerns, but most importantly, I listen to their stories.I believe in providing patient centered care in a professional, yet compassionate nature, with emphasis of balance of mind, body, and spirit.
Olushola Shobowale, PMHNP, provides compassionate and highquality mental health care to residents of Illinois. Specializing in mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, and ADHD, Olushola brings a wealth of expertise to her practice at LifeStance Health. She is particularly skilled in medication management, ensuring that patients receive tailored treatments to support their mental wellbeing. Olushola is deeply passionate about treating trauma, anxiety, and psychotic disorders. Her approach is comprehensive, addressing both the psychological and physiological aspects of these conditions.
Olushola Shobowale, PMHNP, provides compassionate and highquality mental health care to residents of Illinois. Specializing in mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, and ADHD, Olushola brings a wealth of expertise to her practice at LifeStance Health. She is particularly skilled in medication management, ensuring that patients receive tailored treatments to support their mental wellbeing. Olushola is deeply passionate about treating trauma, anxiety, and psychotic disorders. Her approach is comprehensive, addressing both the psychological and physiological aspects of these conditions.
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.
Joyce Almacen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She has a double major in Psychology and Nursing (B.S. in Psychology and B.S. in Nursing) from Clarke University and an MSN - PMHNP from University of St. Francis. Joyce has a unique set of psychiatric work experiences coming from a background of being a psychiatric nurse for many years and now as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. Joyce has dealt with various types of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, substance abuse/addiction, and many more.
Joyce Almacen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She has a double major in Psychology and Nursing (B.S. in Psychology and B.S. in Nursing) from Clarke University and an MSN - PMHNP from University of St. Francis. Joyce has a unique set of psychiatric work experiences coming from a background of being a psychiatric nurse for many years and now as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. Joyce has dealt with various types of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, substance abuse/addiction, and many more.
Amanda Twait is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2009. She has a BSN from St. Joseph College of Nursing and an MSN from Rush University. Amanda recognizes that each person has a strong desire and need to be seen and heard. She makes a point of actively listening with compassion and respect. Amanda prefers to work as a team with individuals who are seeking assistance with their well-being. She views obtaining help and support for mental health issues as one of the bravest actions a person can take.
Amanda Twait is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2009. She has a BSN from St. Joseph College of Nursing and an MSN from Rush University. Amanda recognizes that each person has a strong desire and need to be seen and heard. She makes a point of actively listening with compassion and respect. Amanda prefers to work as a team with individuals who are seeking assistance with their well-being. She views obtaining help and support for mental health issues as one of the bravest actions a person can take.
My approach to behavioral health care considers all aspects of my clients’ lives, including their unique strengths, sources of support, challenges, and goals for treatment.
My approach to behavioral health care considers all aspects of my clients’ lives, including their unique strengths, sources of support, challenges, and goals for treatment.
We are a group of psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical psychologists, social workers and therapists with nearly 100 years of experience in behavioral health care. In our practice at Family Counseling Service, we treat children, adolescents, and adults. Our team of professional counselors/social workers and medication providers work together to help individuals achieve successful outcomes in their lives.
We are a group of psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical psychologists, social workers and therapists with nearly 100 years of experience in behavioral health care. In our practice at Family Counseling Service, we treat children, adolescents, and adults. Our team of professional counselors/social workers and medication providers work together to help individuals achieve successful outcomes in their lives.
Mary Shiellah James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60505
A person’s emotional or mental health is just as important as his/her physical wellness. Unresolved and/or untreated mental health issue affects the whole person. As a board-certified nurse practitioner with 25+ years of nursing experience and over a decade of experience working as a nurse practitioner, I am familiar with the effects of mental health disorder on a person’s physical health. I strongly believe that emotional/mental well-being is an integral part of healing the body, and addressing this issue is the first step towards overall wellness.
A person’s emotional or mental health is just as important as his/her physical wellness. Unresolved and/or untreated mental health issue affects the whole person. As a board-certified nurse practitioner with 25+ years of nursing experience and over a decade of experience working as a nurse practitioner, I am familiar with the effects of mental health disorder on a person’s physical health. I strongly believe that emotional/mental well-being is an integral part of healing the body, and addressing this issue is the first step towards overall wellness.
Dr. Kenisha D. Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60505
Are you feeling powerless, tired, stressed? Are you ready to experience a healthier balanced life with stronger relationships with others? Kenisha takes a completely different approach to health. It's less about medicating symptoms and more about finding the underlying cause and fixing it, so you get back on track towards vibrant health. Our wellness programs have successfully helped clients address many conditions/symptoms including: Depression, ADHD, Trauma, Bipolar, Stress, Alcohol Use Disorder, Pre-Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Chronic Fatigue, Horomone Imbalances, AutoImmune Disease, Gut Issues, Headaches & Obesity.
Are you feeling powerless, tired, stressed? Are you ready to experience a healthier balanced life with stronger relationships with others? Kenisha takes a completely different approach to health. It's less about medicating symptoms and more about finding the underlying cause and fixing it, so you get back on track towards vibrant health. Our wellness programs have successfully helped clients address many conditions/symptoms including: Depression, ADHD, Trauma, Bipolar, Stress, Alcohol Use Disorder, Pre-Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Chronic Fatigue, Horomone Imbalances, AutoImmune Disease, Gut Issues, Headaches & Obesity.
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60505 (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.
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
Debora's ideal client is someone grappling with the intricate interplay between mental health and overall well-being, seeking a path to holistic healing and growth. They often present with a myriad of issues ranging from mood disorders and anxiety to trauma-related symptoms or substance use concerns. These individuals crave more than just symptom relief; they yearn for a deep understanding of themselves and their struggles. Their needs extend beyond medication management or traditional therapy—they seek a compassionate ally who can navigate the complexities of their psyche with expertise and empathy.
Debora's ideal client is someone grappling with the intricate interplay between mental health and overall well-being, seeking a path to holistic healing and growth. They often present with a myriad of issues ranging from mood disorders and anxiety to trauma-related symptoms or substance use concerns. These individuals crave more than just symptom relief; they yearn for a deep understanding of themselves and their struggles. Their needs extend beyond medication management or traditional therapy—they seek a compassionate ally who can navigate the complexities of their psyche with expertise and empathy.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Montgomery, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Montgomery, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Montgomery, 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 Montgomery?
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.