Psychiatrists in Northfield, IL

Photo of Alexander Morrill - Skylark Behavioral Health (New Patients Welcome), Psychiatrist
Hello and welcome to Skylark Behavioral Health. We are pleased you are visiting us. If you are looking for a mental health provider– or, perhaps, looking to switch from the provider you are currently seeing– the chances are good that you have been asking yourself some difficult questions. For example, you may be asking yourself: What sort of treatment will work best for me— medications, talk therapy, or both? Are there different types of talk therapy? Which type is right for me? How risky are psychiatric medications? How easy will it be to stop them? Am I taking too many medications already?
Hello and welcome to Skylark Behavioral Health. We are pleased you are visiting us. If you are looking for a mental health provider– or, perhaps, looking to switch from the provider you are currently seeing– the chances are good that you have been asking yourself some difficult questions. For example, you may be asking yourself: What sort of treatment will work best for me— medications, talk therapy, or both? Are there different types of talk therapy? Which type is right for me? How risky are psychiatric medications? How easy will it be to stop them? Am I taking too many medications already?
(224) 288-0945 View (224) 288-0945
Photo of Margarita Kos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Margarita Kos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Northfield, IL 60093
Margarita Kos is a board-certified Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) and a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Illinois. She obtained her MSN as a family nurse practitioner (FNP) from Loyola University and post-Master’s Psychiatric Mental Health certification from Maryville University. She has over 25 years of nursing experience that includes working in the emergency room, family practice, pain management, and psychiatric mental health as a registered nurse (RN) and APN. Margarita is fluent in English and Polish.
Margarita Kos is a board-certified Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) and a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Illinois. She obtained her MSN as a family nurse practitioner (FNP) from Loyola University and post-Master’s Psychiatric Mental Health certification from Maryville University. She has over 25 years of nursing experience that includes working in the emergency room, family practice, pain management, and psychiatric mental health as a registered nurse (RN) and APN. Margarita is fluent in English and Polish.
(224) 504-1871 View (224) 504-1871
Photo of David Flowers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
David Flowers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Northfield, IL 60093
I accept new clients for virtual and in-person visits. I am looking to break the stigma surrounding mental health and provide clients with a combination of Western Medicine treatment options, as well as evidence-based holistic approaches in order to develop an individualized treatment plan for each client and help them reach their optimal health. Through my billing partner Headway clients can see exactly what their copay is and progress on their deductible so they always have price transparency.
I accept new clients for virtual and in-person visits. I am looking to break the stigma surrounding mental health and provide clients with a combination of Western Medicine treatment options, as well as evidence-based holistic approaches in order to develop an individualized treatment plan for each client and help them reach their optimal health. Through my billing partner Headway clients can see exactly what their copay is and progress on their deductible so they always have price transparency.
(224) 412-4427 View (224) 412-4427
Photo of Jaclyn Noto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-FP, PMHNP-C
Jaclyn Noto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-FP, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Within all of us is the resiliency of iron and the growth potential of ivy. Sometimes our access to our strengths can be hindered by mental health conditions. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) I partner with clients to help them regain connection to their inner resiliency, growth, joy, and strength by means of evaluation, education, medication, and adjunct therapy.
Within all of us is the resiliency of iron and the growth potential of ivy. Sometimes our access to our strengths can be hindered by mental health conditions. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) I partner with clients to help them regain connection to their inner resiliency, growth, joy, and strength by means of evaluation, education, medication, and adjunct therapy.
(224) 553-3750 View (224) 553-3750
Photo of Michelle Heyland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Michelle Heyland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Please email to set up an initial appointment. I am a doctorally prepared, board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have experience treating a variety of conditions such as such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and thought disorders. I specialize in depression and anxiety. I am also an Associate Professor at Rush University. I am accepting new adult (18+) patients at my practice. A key part of my role is medication management. However, I also spend time getting to know you as a person and determining the aspects of your life that are contributing to the way you feel.
Please email to set up an initial appointment. I am a doctorally prepared, board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have experience treating a variety of conditions such as such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and thought disorders. I specialize in depression and anxiety. I am also an Associate Professor at Rush University. I am accepting new adult (18+) patients at my practice. A key part of my role is medication management. However, I also spend time getting to know you as a person and determining the aspects of your life that are contributing to the way you feel.
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Photo of Eitan D Schwarz, Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, FAACAP
Eitan D Schwarz
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, FAACAP
Serves Area
I offer uniquely broad and deep expert experience and judgement, accumulated during a career marked by decades of consistent compassionate professional competence, helping folks of all ages with stresses at work, school, or in relationships, or unhappy with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma. Expect me to send you medical and other questionnaires to bring with you so we can be thorough and remain focused on your needs. You can usually count on some relief and a clear plan when you leave. Most of my patients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first week or two and sustained improvement thereafter.
I offer uniquely broad and deep expert experience and judgement, accumulated during a career marked by decades of consistent compassionate professional competence, helping folks of all ages with stresses at work, school, or in relationships, or unhappy with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma. Expect me to send you medical and other questionnaires to bring with you so we can be thorough and remain focused on your needs. You can usually count on some relief and a clear plan when you leave. Most of my patients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first week or two and sustained improvement thereafter.
(224) 529-0364 View (224) 529-0364
Photo of Melissa Frick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP
Melissa Frick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Melissa Frick is a dually board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Nurse Practitioner with experience delivering evidence-based care using brief supportive psychotherapy and medication management.
Dr. Melissa Frick is a dually board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Nurse Practitioner with experience delivering evidence-based care using brief supportive psychotherapy and medication management.
(224) 412-5853 View (224) 412-5853

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Tim Yovankin, Psychiatrist, MD
Tim Yovankin
Psychiatrist, MD
Chicago, IL 60610
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Yovankin is a board-certified pediatric psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of mood, anxiety, and behavioral conditions in adolescents and young adults. Dr. Yovankin attended Chicago Medical School and completed his residency and fellowship training at the University of Illinois – Chicago (UIC), where he was named Chief Fellow. He also underwent training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
Dr. Yovankin is a board-certified pediatric psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of mood, anxiety, and behavioral conditions in adolescents and young adults. Dr. Yovankin attended Chicago Medical School and completed his residency and fellowship training at the University of Illinois – Chicago (UIC), where he was named Chief Fellow. He also underwent training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
(847) 860-7168 View (847) 860-7168
Photo of Rayna Gorstein, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Rayna Gorstein
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Chicago, IL 60642
As your psychiatric provider, I am here to be on your team, to listen, and find solutions with you that will fit your unique situation and motivations. My educational background includes a Bachelor's degree from Emory University in Psychology and Philosophy, and a Master's degree from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in Physician Assistant Studies, with a concentration in psychiatry. I have completed specialized training in various areas of psychiatry, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, and psychopharmacology.
As your psychiatric provider, I am here to be on your team, to listen, and find solutions with you that will fit your unique situation and motivations. My educational background includes a Bachelor's degree from Emory University in Psychology and Philosophy, and a Master's degree from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in Physician Assistant Studies, with a concentration in psychiatry. I have completed specialized training in various areas of psychiatry, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, and psychopharmacology.
(708) 294-2932 View (708) 294-2932
Photo of Kenisha Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Kenisha Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you ready to heal, evolve, and reconnect with your true essence? You’re carrying a lot—emotionally, physically, and spiritually—Maybe you’re struggling with depression, feeling disconnected in your relationships, overwhelmed by caregiving or career demands, or simply lost within yourself. Deep down, you know it’s time to reclaim your peace, power, and purpose. If your goal is to feel balanced, grounded, and aligned, and you want to wake up with clarity and confidence, feel confident in your body, calm in your mind, and connected to something greater, I’m here to walk beside you!
Are you ready to heal, evolve, and reconnect with your true essence? You’re carrying a lot—emotionally, physically, and spiritually—Maybe you’re struggling with depression, feeling disconnected in your relationships, overwhelmed by caregiving or career demands, or simply lost within yourself. Deep down, you know it’s time to reclaim your peace, power, and purpose. If your goal is to feel balanced, grounded, and aligned, and you want to wake up with clarity and confidence, feel confident in your body, calm in your mind, and connected to something greater, I’m here to walk beside you!
(708) 726-0880 View (708) 726-0880
Photo of Celeste McFarland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Celeste McFarland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). With over 16 years of experience, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental healthcare that focuses on holistic, evidence-based treatment plans tailored to each individual's needs. My practice emphasizes fostering meaningful relationships and promoting mental wellness across all ages.
I am a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). With over 16 years of experience, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental healthcare that focuses on holistic, evidence-based treatment plans tailored to each individual's needs. My practice emphasizes fostering meaningful relationships and promoting mental wellness across all ages.
(872) 273-5076 View (872) 273-5076
Photo of Dr. Victoria Schmitt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ANP-BC, PMHNPBC
Dr. Victoria Schmitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ANP-BC, PMHNPBC
Online Only
When life gives you lemons, make lemonade, essential oils, chocolate-covered lemon rinds, and even plant the seeds to grow more lemons. Embrace every part of the experience. If a situation or experience teaches you something and makes you a better person, it becomes a gift.
When life gives you lemons, make lemonade, essential oils, chocolate-covered lemon rinds, and even plant the seeds to grow more lemons. Embrace every part of the experience. If a situation or experience teaches you something and makes you a better person, it becomes a gift.
(815) 998-5420 View (815) 998-5420
Photo of Irina Salabai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Irina Salabai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist working with Children and Adults. I am patient-centered, compassionate and dedicated PMHNP. Enjoy working with patients diagnosed with anxiety, depression, insomnia, panic attacks, mood disorders, postpartum depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, chemical dependency, etc. I provide Holistic Approach. Genetic Testing for medications. Medications prescribed, if indicated. I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental and therapeutic environment for my patients. In addition to English, I speak Ukrainian, Polish and Russian.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist working with Children and Adults. I am patient-centered, compassionate and dedicated PMHNP. Enjoy working with patients diagnosed with anxiety, depression, insomnia, panic attacks, mood disorders, postpartum depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, chemical dependency, etc. I provide Holistic Approach. Genetic Testing for medications. Medications prescribed, if indicated. I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental and therapeutic environment for my patients. In addition to English, I speak Ukrainian, Polish and Russian.
(224) 490-2746 View (224) 490-2746
Photo of Mia Chapple - Peace of Serenity Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN CNP, APRN , PMHNP
Peace of Serenity Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN CNP, APRN , PMHNP
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
We care. At Peace of Serenity Psychiatry, we have over 15 years specializing in helping children and families ages 3-85+ with ASD, ADHD, DMDD, ODD, Psychotic Disorders, and Trauma. We also can assist families with children with Depression and Anxiety Related Disorders. We understand how challenging it can be to navigate through mental health issues for people of all ages. Our aim is to restore peace and understanding in your workplace by working with schools, teachers, support providers, employers, and other liaisons to "Restore Calm." We also help parents navigate IEPs and 504 Plans through school advocacy and consulting support.
We care. At Peace of Serenity Psychiatry, we have over 15 years specializing in helping children and families ages 3-85+ with ASD, ADHD, DMDD, ODD, Psychotic Disorders, and Trauma. We also can assist families with children with Depression and Anxiety Related Disorders. We understand how challenging it can be to navigate through mental health issues for people of all ages. Our aim is to restore peace and understanding in your workplace by working with schools, teachers, support providers, employers, and other liaisons to "Restore Calm." We also help parents navigate IEPs and 504 Plans through school advocacy and consulting support.
(224) 249-3662 View (224) 249-3662
Photo of Bakhtawar Usman, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-PSY
Bakhtawar Usman
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-PSY
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
Bakhtawar’s core belief is to practice a holistic, culturally sensitive approach with the dedication to empathetically understand her patients. She strives to create a non-judgmental, warm environment which supplements meaningful conversation while destigmatizing the need to seek treatment for mental conditions. She wants to help patients navigate the steps to achieve mental wellness by working through complex emotions and traumatic experiences, challenging negative thinking patterns, implementing new coping techniques, and managing medication.
Bakhtawar’s core belief is to practice a holistic, culturally sensitive approach with the dedication to empathetically understand her patients. She strives to create a non-judgmental, warm environment which supplements meaningful conversation while destigmatizing the need to seek treatment for mental conditions. She wants to help patients navigate the steps to achieve mental wellness by working through complex emotions and traumatic experiences, challenging negative thinking patterns, implementing new coping techniques, and managing medication.
(331) 267-4543 View (331) 267-4543
Photo of Amanda Kleinman, Psychiatrist, MD
Amanda Kleinman
Psychiatrist, MD
Chicago, IL 60611
Sometimes we feel long to feel better and make positive changes but find ourselves struggling to find a way. We want to enjoy meaningful relationships and fulfilling careers, but something keeps holding us back. We want to understand our emotions and the social world around us, but no explanation is quite satisfying enough. It may feel like there is someone we need to be, but we keep coming up short. We long for genuine contentment with our lives, the fullness of gratitude, and a sense of peace with our past, present and future.
Sometimes we feel long to feel better and make positive changes but find ourselves struggling to find a way. We want to enjoy meaningful relationships and fulfilling careers, but something keeps holding us back. We want to understand our emotions and the social world around us, but no explanation is quite satisfying enough. It may feel like there is someone we need to be, but we keep coming up short. We long for genuine contentment with our lives, the fullness of gratitude, and a sense of peace with our past, present and future.
(773) 828-4081 View (773) 828-4081
Photo of Ngozi Eboru, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ngozi Eboru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chicago, IL 60606
Welcome to my practice! I am Ngozi Eboru, APRN, PMHNP-BC. A compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental health Nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in Nursing and mental health care. My goal is to provide a supportive and healing environment where my patients can explore their challenges and work toward healthy mental and emotional well-being. I tailor treatment plans to meet your unique needs and goals.
Welcome to my practice! I am Ngozi Eboru, APRN, PMHNP-BC. A compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental health Nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in Nursing and mental health care. My goal is to provide a supportive and healing environment where my patients can explore their challenges and work toward healthy mental and emotional well-being. I tailor treatment plans to meet your unique needs and goals.
(331) 267-4328 View (331) 267-4328
Photo of Zach Backlin - Noble Health Associates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, RN
Noble Health Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, RN
Chicago, IL 60611
I am a licensed certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have been working as a NP since initially graduating in 2019 with my Doctorate in Nursing Practice.
I am a licensed certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have been working as a NP since initially graduating in 2019 with my Doctorate in Nursing Practice.
(217) 292-6274 View (217) 292-6274
Photo of Julia Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julia Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
As a dedicated Holistic Care Provider with 34 years of experience in the medical field, I have spent the last 14 years specializing in critical care nursing while maintaining a strong focus on behavioral health. I'd like to help those who are suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder and who are struggling with their mental health.My goal is to provide comprehensive, evidence-based care that acknowledges the mind,body, and spirit, helping patients achieve their fullest potential for healing and wellness through psychiatric evaluation, medication management, psychotherapy, including TMS and Spravato treatments.
As a dedicated Holistic Care Provider with 34 years of experience in the medical field, I have spent the last 14 years specializing in critical care nursing while maintaining a strong focus on behavioral health. I'd like to help those who are suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder and who are struggling with their mental health.My goal is to provide comprehensive, evidence-based care that acknowledges the mind,body, and spirit, helping patients achieve their fullest potential for healing and wellness through psychiatric evaluation, medication management, psychotherapy, including TMS and Spravato treatments.
(872) 328-4416 View (872) 328-4416
Photo of Dr. Marcel Bertsch-Gout, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Marcel Bertsch-Gout
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatrist with additional training in pharmacogenetics. I do my best to create a supportive environment where science meets compassionate care.
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatrist with additional training in pharmacogenetics. I do my best to create a supportive environment where science meets compassionate care.
(872) 315-0365 View (872) 315-0365

See more therapy options for Northfield

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Northfield, IL

< 10

Psychiatrists in Northfield, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Medication Management
86% Stress
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Northfield, IL see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Northfield?

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.