Psychiatrists in Naperville, IL

Diana Wells
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Naperville, IL 60564
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.
(855) 641-1658 View (855) 641-1658
Ngozi Eboru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Life can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Naperville, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for adults managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, and trauma. At Harmony Psychiatry & Wellness, I offer medication management, supportive therapy, and holistic guidance in a safe, nonjudgmental space. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to help you rediscover balance, confidence, and lasting peace of mind.
Life can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Naperville, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for adults managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, and trauma. At Harmony Psychiatry & Wellness, I offer medication management, supportive therapy, and holistic guidance in a safe, nonjudgmental space. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to help you rediscover balance, confidence, and lasting peace of mind.
(331) 296-1872 View (331) 296-1872
Dorina Suslovas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Many people seek psychiatric care feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or discouraged by rushed appointments that don’t fully address their concerns. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, or stress that affects your focus, relationships, and daily functioning. I strive to create a calm, supportive space where care feels thoughtful, collaborative, and grounded.
Many people seek psychiatric care feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or discouraged by rushed appointments that don’t fully address their concerns. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, or stress that affects your focus, relationships, and daily functioning. I strive to create a calm, supportive space where care feels thoughtful, collaborative, and grounded.
(331) 267-4961 View (331) 267-4961
Adrian Zhubi
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
New patients welcome! I have a genuine passion for the field of psychiatry and my treatment approach is integrated, compassionate and patient-centered. I aim to foster an empathic and effective collaboration with you as we examine core conflicts and patterns of behavior obstructing your relationships, work and sense of self. My approach is balanced, holistic and collaborative. I believe the best care combines both medication management and psychotherapy and I am happy to provide psychotherapy as well as refer to other therapists.
New patients welcome! I have a genuine passion for the field of psychiatry and my treatment approach is integrated, compassionate and patient-centered. I aim to foster an empathic and effective collaboration with you as we examine core conflicts and patterns of behavior obstructing your relationships, work and sense of self. My approach is balanced, holistic and collaborative. I believe the best care combines both medication management and psychotherapy and I am happy to provide psychotherapy as well as refer to other therapists.
(331) 979-3219 View (331) 979-3219
Tript Bajwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, PMHC, FPA
Online Only
My name is Tript (THUR-RIP-IT) Bajwa. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with Full Practice Authority in Illinois, bringing expertise and compassion to my work since 2019. With experience across inpatient and outpatient settings, I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma-related concerns, stress management, mood instability, and life transitions. I understand that mental health challenges can impact every area of life, and I strive to create a supportive, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard and understood.
My name is Tript (THUR-RIP-IT) Bajwa. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with Full Practice Authority in Illinois, bringing expertise and compassion to my work since 2019. With experience across inpatient and outpatient settings, I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma-related concerns, stress management, mood instability, and life transitions. I understand that mental health challenges can impact every area of life, and I strive to create a supportive, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard and understood.
(779) 218-9381 View (779) 218-9381
Lourdes Salvador
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Naperville, IL 60563
Lourdes Salvador, PMHNP-BC, helps adults across Illinois manage complex mental health concerns through thoughtful medication management and compassionate psychiatric care. As a prescriber at LifeStance Health, she works with adults and seniors to evaluate symptoms, clarify diagnoses, and develop medication plans that support long-term emotional stability and overall well-being. Lourdes collaborates closely with each patient to ensure treatment feels personalized, practical, and aligned with their goals for improved mental health and daily functioning.
Lourdes Salvador, PMHNP-BC, helps adults across Illinois manage complex mental health concerns through thoughtful medication management and compassionate psychiatric care. As a prescriber at LifeStance Health, she works with adults and seniors to evaluate symptoms, clarify diagnoses, and develop medication plans that support long-term emotional stability and overall well-being. Lourdes collaborates closely with each patient to ensure treatment feels personalized, practical, and aligned with their goals for improved mental health and daily functioning.
(630) 349-2587 View (630) 349-2587
Laura Okehie Dike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Naperville, IL 60564
Laura Okehie Dike, PMHNP, provides thoughtful and patient-centered care that supports lasting mental wellness for residents of Illinois. As a Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, Laura provides comprehensive evaluations and medication management for adolescents, teens, and adults facing a variety of mental health concerns. She partners closely with patients to better understand their symptoms, develop effective treatment plans, and help them achieve improved emotional balance and daily functioning. Laura is especially passionate about supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hospital.
Laura Okehie Dike, PMHNP, provides thoughtful and patient-centered care that supports lasting mental wellness for residents of Illinois. As a Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, Laura provides comprehensive evaluations and medication management for adolescents, teens, and adults facing a variety of mental health concerns. She partners closely with patients to better understand their symptoms, develop effective treatment plans, and help them achieve improved emotional balance and daily functioning. Laura is especially passionate about supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hospital.
(779) 207-3044 View (779) 207-3044
Haneen Al-Sheikh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric. I have a true passion for mental health and helping others. I believe my patients deserve quality compassionate care. I have experience in different areas of medicine such as emergency medicine, urgent care, and family medicine
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric. I have a true passion for mental health and helping others. I believe my patients deserve quality compassionate care. I have experience in different areas of medicine such as emergency medicine, urgent care, and family medicine
(847) 416-8601 View (847) 416-8601
Wei Hu
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Naperville, IL 60540
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with certifications in General Psychiatry, Geriatric Psychiatry, and Forensic Psychiatry. I also hold a PhD in Pharmacology. I treat a broad range of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorders, and psychosis. My practice has a focus on psychotropic medication management. Effective psychiatric care begins with understanding each patient's unique experiences, concerns, and treatment goals. My goal is to help patients achieve meaningful symptom improvement, better quality of life, and lasting mental wellness.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with certifications in General Psychiatry, Geriatric Psychiatry, and Forensic Psychiatry. I also hold a PhD in Pharmacology. I treat a broad range of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorders, and psychosis. My practice has a focus on psychotropic medication management. Effective psychiatric care begins with understanding each patient's unique experiences, concerns, and treatment goals. My goal is to help patients achieve meaningful symptom improvement, better quality of life, and lasting mental wellness.
(331) 246-0805 View (331) 246-0805
iCare psychiatry and behavioral services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Naperville, IL 60563
New Patients are welcome. Testimonials and Reviews from trusted patients for holistic and integrative approaches say a lot about her compassion for your wellness. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Rubby provides quality video consultation for Illinois residents. She offers same-day appointments, Days & Weekends. Your choice of “early morning or late evening with no wait time" that accommodates your work schedule is available. She ensures your prescription is sent electronically to the pharmacy of your choice and that your medication is received timely. You have a choice; thank you for giving her the will and trust in the treatment.
New Patients are welcome. Testimonials and Reviews from trusted patients for holistic and integrative approaches say a lot about her compassion for your wellness. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Rubby provides quality video consultation for Illinois residents. She offers same-day appointments, Days & Weekends. Your choice of “early morning or late evening with no wait time" that accommodates your work schedule is available. She ensures your prescription is sent electronically to the pharmacy of your choice and that your medication is received timely. You have a choice; thank you for giving her the will and trust in the treatment.
(331) 373-2193 View (331) 373-2193
Jo Muller DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Provider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am so glad you are here! My goal is to create a calm, welcoming space where you feel heard, understood, and supported without judgment. I provide thoughtful, personalized mental health care tailored to your unique needs, goals, and preferences. As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, I bring over two decades of healthcare experience and advanced fellowship training in reproductive and integrative psychiatry. Together, we will create a treatment plan that feels right for you.
I am so glad you are here! My goal is to create a calm, welcoming space where you feel heard, understood, and supported without judgment. I provide thoughtful, personalized mental health care tailored to your unique needs, goals, and preferences. As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, I bring over two decades of healthcare experience and advanced fellowship training in reproductive and integrative psychiatry. Together, we will create a treatment plan that feels right for you.
(779) 201-6912 View (779) 201-6912
Hopemark Health Naperville
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
Our psychiatric clinic in Naperville is committed to providing cutting-edge treatments for mental health challenges that have not responded to traditional approaches. We specialize in innovative treatments that have shown promise in clinical research, such as Ketamine-assisted therapy, Deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS), IV Ketamine, Spravato (nasal spray, esketamine), Medication Management, General Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, including EMDR.
Our psychiatric clinic in Naperville is committed to providing cutting-edge treatments for mental health challenges that have not responded to traditional approaches. We specialize in innovative treatments that have shown promise in clinical research, such as Ketamine-assisted therapy, Deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS), IV Ketamine, Spravato (nasal spray, esketamine), Medication Management, General Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, including EMDR.
(630) 345-4793 View (630) 345-4793
Dr. Abid Nazeer
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM
Naperville, IL 60540
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Abid K. Nazeer M.D., FASAM is a practicing psychiatrist with board certifications in both psychiatry and addiction medicine. Dr. Nazeer is the Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director of Hopemark Health and is Vice President of the American Association of Psychedelics. In 2016, he founded Advanced Psychiatric Solutions, now Hopemark Health, pioneering the first dedicated outpatient psychiatric based ketamine clinic in the Midwest. Hopemark Health has successfully completed over 4500 IV ketamine treatments for mental health and substance use disorders in a comprehensive care model.
Dr. Abid K. Nazeer M.D., FASAM is a practicing psychiatrist with board certifications in both psychiatry and addiction medicine. Dr. Nazeer is the Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director of Hopemark Health and is Vice President of the American Association of Psychedelics. In 2016, he founded Advanced Psychiatric Solutions, now Hopemark Health, pioneering the first dedicated outpatient psychiatric based ketamine clinic in the Midwest. Hopemark Health has successfully completed over 4500 IV ketamine treatments for mental health and substance use disorders in a comprehensive care model.
(630) 360-8215 View (630) 360-8215
Dr. Courtney Wiseman
Psychiatrist, MD
Naperville, IL 60563
Dr. Courtney Wiseman, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, expertly treats psychiatric disorders for patients over the age of 18. Dr. Wiseman received BA from University of Notre Dame and an MD from Georgetown University. She completed her residency in psychiatry at University of Illinois, Chicago while simultaneously earning an MA in public health at University of Chicago. Following her residency, she moved to Boston to become the attending psychiatrist at Cambridge Hospital.Dr. Courtney Wiseman, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, expertly treats psychiatric disorders for patients over the age of 18. Dr. Wiseman received BA from University of
Dr. Courtney Wiseman, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, expertly treats psychiatric disorders for patients over the age of 18. Dr. Wiseman received BA from University of Notre Dame and an MD from Georgetown University. She completed her residency in psychiatry at University of Illinois, Chicago while simultaneously earning an MA in public health at University of Chicago. Following her residency, she moved to Boston to become the attending psychiatrist at Cambridge Hospital.Dr. Courtney Wiseman, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, expertly treats psychiatric disorders for patients over the age of 18. Dr. Wiseman received BA from University of
(331) 207-9218 View (331) 207-9218
Keyera Gross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I am compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for individuals across the lifespan. I am Known for my calm, empathetic presence. I create a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to take an active role in their healing journey. I treat a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and mood disorders. My approach blends medication management with therapeutic support, tailored to meet the unique needs, values, and goals of each individual I work with.
I am compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for individuals across the lifespan. I am Known for my calm, empathetic presence. I create a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to take an active role in their healing journey. I treat a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and mood disorders. My approach blends medication management with therapeutic support, tailored to meet the unique needs, values, and goals of each individual I work with.
(331) 246-0397 View (331) 246-0397
Caryn Jurek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Caryn works with clients ages 15+ in providing prescriber services and medication management for anything from Anxiety, Depression, Social Anxiety, ADHD, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive (OCD), PTSD, PostPartum Depression, Sleep Disturbances & Insomnia to Mood Disorders / BiPolar and more.
Caryn works with clients ages 15+ in providing prescriber services and medication management for anything from Anxiety, Depression, Social Anxiety, ADHD, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive (OCD), PTSD, PostPartum Depression, Sleep Disturbances & Insomnia to Mood Disorders / BiPolar and more.
(331) 244-5104 View (331) 244-5104
Advanced Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Advanced Behavioral Health Services is guided by the principle of giving people the best possible service. Our mission is to help people enjoy life to the fullest. We are committed to helping people cope with their behavioral and mental health issues so that they are able to live independently and - if possible - take a proactive stance on their own treatment. Advanced Behavioral Health Services puts the welfare of their clients first. Our specialists take time to establish rapport and get to know each client. This way, we are able to determine early on if our professional relationship would lead to progress in the client's quality of life. Each expert at Advanced Behavioral Health Services operates from the perspective that each client is our partner in treatment. After all, it is the client's response to treatment that determines our success or failure.
Advanced Behavioral Health Services is guided by the principle of giving people the best possible service. Our mission is to help people enjoy life to the fullest. We are committed to helping people cope with their behavioral and mental health issues so that they are able to live independently and - if possible - take a proactive stance on their own treatment. Advanced Behavioral Health Services puts the welfare of their clients first. Our specialists take time to establish rapport and get to know each client. This way, we are able to determine early on if our professional relationship would lead to progress in the client's quality of life. Each expert at Advanced Behavioral Health Services operates from the perspective that each client is our partner in treatment. After all, it is the client's response to treatment that determines our success or failure.
(331) 204-1791 View (331) 204-1791
Tochi Okwueze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FPA
2 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
Leena Vala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I am a board certified Nurse Practitioner, providing compassionate and supportive care, to promote healing and growth of my patients. As a strong advocate for mental wellbeing, I understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. I offer same week appointment accommodate my patients. I am an empathetic care provider approaching each patient from an individualistic perspective and emphasizing patient specific treatment goals. I provide a thorough evaluation and treatment plan in coherence with medication management focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, mood disorder, PTSD and other mental health conditions.
I am a board certified Nurse Practitioner, providing compassionate and supportive care, to promote healing and growth of my patients. As a strong advocate for mental wellbeing, I understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. I offer same week appointment accommodate my patients. I am an empathetic care provider approaching each patient from an individualistic perspective and emphasizing patient specific treatment goals. I provide a thorough evaluation and treatment plan in coherence with medication management focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, mood disorder, PTSD and other mental health conditions.
(331) 207-9792 View (331) 207-9792
Arturo Ventura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
Art Ventura, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, has more than 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience. Art completed his nursing school at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, obtained his masters degree at Chamberlain College of Nursing and his postmasters certification in psychiatric nursing at Regis College. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine, Art provides a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions particularly in evaluating and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, insomnia, dementia, OCD and other issues.Art
Art Ventura, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, has more than 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience. Art completed his nursing school at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, obtained his masters degree at Chamberlain College of Nursing and his postmasters certification in psychiatric nursing at Regis College. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine, Art provides a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions particularly in evaluating and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, insomnia, dementia, OCD and other issues.Art
(331) 233-1932 View (331) 233-1932

See more therapy options for Naperville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Naperville, IL

100+

Average cost per session

$165

Psychiatrists in Naperville, IL who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
94% Depression
84% ADHD
79% Trauma and PTSD
79% Bipolar Disorder
76% Medication Management
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% BlueCross and BlueShield
90% Aetna
81% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Naperville, IL see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Naperville?

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.