Psychiatrists in Sangamon County, IL

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Photo of Melinda Rader, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melinda Rader
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Mindy Rader is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2015. She has an AND from Lincolnland Community College, a BSN from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, an MSN from University of Phoenix, and a Postgraduate PMHNP certification from Saint Louis University. Mindy offers medication management with a supportive and collaborative attitude. She has a nonjudgmental manner and spends the time needed to get to know each of her clients so that she can understand each person’s unique history and needs.
Mindy Rader is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2015. She has an AND from Lincolnland Community College, a BSN from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, an MSN from University of Phoenix, and a Postgraduate PMHNP certification from Saint Louis University. Mindy offers medication management with a supportive and collaborative attitude. She has a nonjudgmental manner and spends the time needed to get to know each of her clients so that she can understand each person’s unique history and needs.
(217) 286-6784 View (217) 286-6784
Photo of Chandra Pierson-Rye, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chandra Pierson-Rye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Chandra A. Pierson-Rye is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2016. She has over 20 years of diverse clinical experience. She received her Bachelor's in Science & Nursing (BSN) from MacMurray college, her Master's in Nursing & Science (MSN) from Maryville University, and her Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from Southern Illinois University “ Edwardsville (SIU-E). She is a member of several organizations, including Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society.
Chandra A. Pierson-Rye is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2016. She has over 20 years of diverse clinical experience. She received her Bachelor's in Science & Nursing (BSN) from MacMurray college, her Master's in Nursing & Science (MSN) from Maryville University, and her Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from Southern Illinois University “ Edwardsville (SIU-E). She is a member of several organizations, including Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society.
(217) 837-9274 View (217) 837-9274
Photo of Meagan Maas, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Meagan Maas
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatrist, with fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have a wide range of experiences working with children, adolescents, and adults in clinical, educational, and research settings over the past fourteen years, and see clients 35 years of age and under!
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatrist, with fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have a wide range of experiences working with children, adolescents, and adults in clinical, educational, and research settings over the past fourteen years, and see clients 35 years of age and under!
(217) 776-8703 View (217) 776-8703
Photo of Gundu Reddy - Illinois Telepsychiatry, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701  (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.
(217) 993-8013 View (217) 993-8013
Photo of Umesh Rao Chakunta, MD, Psychiatrist
Umesh Rao Chakunta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Umesh Rao Chakunta is an Adult and Geriatric Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 2012. Following Medical Education in India, Dr. Chakunta completed Adult Psychiatry Residency at University of South Dakota in Sioux Falls and Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Mount Sinai school of Medicine in New York. He is board certified by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. Dr. Chakunta has a special Interest in managing mood disorders, thought disorders, anxiety disorders, and behavioral problems associated with dementia.
Dr. Umesh Rao Chakunta is an Adult and Geriatric Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 2012. Following Medical Education in India, Dr. Chakunta completed Adult Psychiatry Residency at University of South Dakota in Sioux Falls and Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Mount Sinai school of Medicine in New York. He is board certified by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. Dr. Chakunta has a special Interest in managing mood disorders, thought disorders, anxiety disorders, and behavioral problems associated with dementia.
(217) 225-5824 View (217) 225-5824
Photo of Melissa Hinds, APRN, NNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Hinds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Illinois. I have worked in the healthcare field for over 22 years with experience in emergency medicine, women's health, neonatology, and psychiatry. I offer psychotropic medication management as well as trauma-focused psychotherapy. Utilizing a holistic approach, I provide treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Each client's treatment plan is highly individualized and developed utilizing a shared decision-making model.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Illinois. I have worked in the healthcare field for over 22 years with experience in emergency medicine, women's health, neonatology, and psychiatry. I offer psychotropic medication management as well as trauma-focused psychotherapy. Utilizing a holistic approach, I provide treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Each client's treatment plan is highly individualized and developed utilizing a shared decision-making model.
(217) 699-1653 View (217) 699-1653
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth O'Brien - Mind-Body Pediatric Psychiatry, LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind-Body Pediatric Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Is your child struggling with anxiety, ADHD, autism or mood disorders? I offer a holistic, integrative approach to mental health that goes beyond medication. Specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, I create personalized care plans that address your child’s unique needs—combining therapy, nutrition, lifestyle coaching, and sleep optimization. With no waitlist and immediate openings, your child can begin receiving compassionate, comprehensive care today. Contact me or visit my website to learn more.
Is your child struggling with anxiety, ADHD, autism or mood disorders? I offer a holistic, integrative approach to mental health that goes beyond medication. Specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, I create personalized care plans that address your child’s unique needs—combining therapy, nutrition, lifestyle coaching, and sleep optimization. With no waitlist and immediate openings, your child can begin receiving compassionate, comprehensive care today. Contact me or visit my website to learn more.
(217) 996-8693 View (217) 996-8693
Photo of Zackary Ladson, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Zackary Ladson
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
I am a certified Physician Assistant and completed my master's degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. I have several years of experience as a Family Medicine Physician Assistant, operating as the sole medical practitioner of my outpatient community health clinic. I manage an extensive array of acute and chronic health conditions, with a significant portion of my practice dedicated to diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders ranging from mild to severe.
I am a certified Physician Assistant and completed my master's degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. I have several years of experience as a Family Medicine Physician Assistant, operating as the sole medical practitioner of my outpatient community health clinic. I manage an extensive array of acute and chronic health conditions, with a significant portion of my practice dedicated to diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders ranging from mild to severe.
(217) 262-1734 View (217) 262-1734
Photo of Jordan K Mandeville, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan K Mandeville
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
I am passionate about psychiatric care for both adults and children. Caring for and treating people with mental health issues has been my ambition and drives my commitment to the behavioral health community. My background in nursing and continuing studies in psychiatric care help me help you invest in treatments and therapies that will work best for each individual. Together we can work on your care, assess your needs and proceed with measures necessary to meet your mental health requirements.
I am passionate about psychiatric care for both adults and children. Caring for and treating people with mental health issues has been my ambition and drives my commitment to the behavioral health community. My background in nursing and continuing studies in psychiatric care help me help you invest in treatments and therapies that will work best for each individual. Together we can work on your care, assess your needs and proceed with measures necessary to meet your mental health requirements.
(217) 712-4108 View (217) 712-4108
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703  (Online Only)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Geneva A. Sanders, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Geneva A. Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Geneva A. Sanders is an accomplished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois, with a wealth of clinical experience spanning over eight years in both medical and psychiatric settings. Throughout her career, Geneva has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and has actively participated in professional organizations, including her membership in the prestigious Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society. With her diverse clinical background and extensive education, Geneva brings a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to her practice, ensuring that her patients receive the highest quality of care.
Geneva A. Sanders is an accomplished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois, with a wealth of clinical experience spanning over eight years in both medical and psychiatric settings. Throughout her career, Geneva has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and has actively participated in professional organizations, including her membership in the prestigious Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society. With her diverse clinical background and extensive education, Geneva brings a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to her practice, ensuring that her patients receive the highest quality of care.
(217) 339-3486 View (217) 339-3486
Photo of Kimberly A Earl, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly A Earl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62703
My background include services focusing on depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, Adult ADHD, High Functioning Adult Autistic Spectrum Disorder, and addiction issues. I work well with clients who are invested in treatment, appreciate a holistic approach, work for mental wellness and clarity, enjoy collaboration and have a desire to achieve life balance. A collaborative approach with a therapist is essential and required in some cases. Insured patients needing continued Suboxone treatment will be considered; initial consult will determine if appropriate to my clinic.
My background include services focusing on depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, Adult ADHD, High Functioning Adult Autistic Spectrum Disorder, and addiction issues. I work well with clients who are invested in treatment, appreciate a holistic approach, work for mental wellness and clarity, enjoy collaboration and have a desire to achieve life balance. A collaborative approach with a therapist is essential and required in some cases. Insured patients needing continued Suboxone treatment will be considered; initial consult will determine if appropriate to my clinic.
(217) 203-8442 View (217) 203-8442
Photo of Dr. Lori Anne Hopwood, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, WHNP, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Lori Anne Hopwood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, WHNP, MPH
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701  (Online Only)
I provided non-judgmental, empathetic care. Over the years, I have developed a special interested in increasing access to mental health services. My goal is to effectively assess, diagnose and treat your mental health challenges. I provide safe, quality, evidence-based, patient-centered care.
I provided non-judgmental, empathetic care. Over the years, I have developed a special interested in increasing access to mental health services. My goal is to effectively assess, diagnose and treat your mental health challenges. I provide safe, quality, evidence-based, patient-centered care.
(217) 403-9675 x92984 View (217) 403-9675 x92984
Photo of Stacey Davis, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacey Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701  (Online Only)
I believe in patient-led care. As your provider, I am here to listen and to answer any questions that you may have.
I believe in patient-led care. As your provider, I am here to listen and to answer any questions that you may have.
(503) 506-4583 View (503) 506-4583
Photo of Huong Iodice, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Huong Iodice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Hi and welcome! My colleagues, friends, DNP-PMHNP students, and patients usually call me by my nickname Kimmie. I have 9 years of practice as a PMHNP-BC at two large healthcare systems in Chicago and the Chicagoland area. My primary clinical interests are General Psychiatry, Medical Psychiatry, Complementary Integrative Psychiatry, Cross-Cultural Psychiatry, LGBTQIA+, and Neurodevelopmental Disorders with a focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Hi and welcome! My colleagues, friends, DNP-PMHNP students, and patients usually call me by my nickname Kimmie. I have 9 years of practice as a PMHNP-BC at two large healthcare systems in Chicago and the Chicagoland area. My primary clinical interests are General Psychiatry, Medical Psychiatry, Complementary Integrative Psychiatry, Cross-Cultural Psychiatry, LGBTQIA+, and Neurodevelopmental Disorders with a focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(708) 578-7453 View (708) 578-7453
Photo of Danielle Silva, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Silva
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Sherman, IL 62684
Hello, I'm Danielle Silva, a licensed and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with four years of experience. I specialize in providing compassionate care and evidence-based therapies to support individuals in managing mental health challenges. I'm dedicated to collaborating with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and enhance overall well-being. I typically work with patients across the lifespan who are struggling with a variety of mental health conditions.
Hello, I'm Danielle Silva, a licensed and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with four years of experience. I specialize in providing compassionate care and evidence-based therapies to support individuals in managing mental health challenges. I'm dedicated to collaborating with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and enhance overall well-being. I typically work with patients across the lifespan who are struggling with a variety of mental health conditions.
(773) 692-1924 View (773) 692-1924
Photo of Amber Altidor, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amber Altidor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression at home, at school, at work or socially? Have you become frustrated with not meeting your goals in these settings because of how you're feeling emotionally? Are you experiencing trouble concentrating or sleeping? Are you hoping to develop new coping strategies that support your lifestyle and functioning? I am able to provide medication management with psychotherapy to treat your symptoms so that you can start to or get back to enjoying your life and meeting your goals.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression at home, at school, at work or socially? Have you become frustrated with not meeting your goals in these settings because of how you're feeling emotionally? Are you experiencing trouble concentrating or sleeping? Are you hoping to develop new coping strategies that support your lifestyle and functioning? I am able to provide medication management with psychotherapy to treat your symptoms so that you can start to or get back to enjoying your life and meeting your goals.
(708) 847-6591 View (708) 847-6591
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
(406) 905-0329 View (406) 905-0329
Photo of Zoelife Psychiatric Services- Ally Wade, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Zoelife Psychiatric Services- Ally Wade
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703  (Online Only)
Our clinic is accepting new patients. We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders. Email us or call us today to book an appointment.
Our clinic is accepting new patients. We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders. Email us or call us today to book an appointment.
(708) 834-6346 View (708) 834-6346
Photo of Dr. Andrew J Matrick, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrew J Matrick
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701
I am a Northwestern-trained, board-certified physician psychiatrist with experience treating a broad range of mental health conditions. I utilize evidence-based medication strategies, integrative strategies (exercise, sleep hygiene and psychotherapy) to provide a comprehensive treatment approach that takes the whole person into account.
I am a Northwestern-trained, board-certified physician psychiatrist with experience treating a broad range of mental health conditions. I utilize evidence-based medication strategies, integrative strategies (exercise, sleep hygiene and psychotherapy) to provide a comprehensive treatment approach that takes the whole person into account.
(312) 779-0921 View (312) 779-0921
1

See more therapy options for Sangamon County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Sangamon County, IL

20+

Average cost per session

$180

Psychiatrists in Sangamon County, IL who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
90% Anxiety
76% Medication Management
71% ADHD
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Sleep or Insomnia
62% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
94% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Sangamon County, IL see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Sangamon County?

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.