Psychiatrists in Vernon Hills, IL

Photo of James Marks - Northshore TMS, Psychiatrist, MD
Northshore TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Have you tried medication and therapy, but are still struggling with depression, anxious depression, or OCD? TMS Therapy is an FDA-Approved treatment that can help those with treatment resistant mood disorders get relief in as little as 6 weeks. TMS Therapy is a non-invasive, 20 minute treatment done in the outpatient setting that uses a magnetic field to stimulate a targeted area of the brain. Patients are awake during the treatment and can drive themselves to and from the treatment. TMS is tolerable, with less than 2% of patients discontinuing TMS for discomfort.
Have you tried medication and therapy, but are still struggling with depression, anxious depression, or OCD? TMS Therapy is an FDA-Approved treatment that can help those with treatment resistant mood disorders get relief in as little as 6 weeks. TMS Therapy is a non-invasive, 20 minute treatment done in the outpatient setting that uses a magnetic field to stimulate a targeted area of the brain. Patients are awake during the treatment and can drive themselves to and from the treatment. TMS is tolerable, with less than 2% of patients discontinuing TMS for discomfort.
(847) 916-0461 View (847) 916-0461
Photo of Terri Gray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Terri Gray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Terri Gray, PMHNP-BC, is an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, offering compassionate mental health care to individuals across Illinois. She provides medication management and supportive therapy, using a culturally sensitive approach to ensure each patient feels seen and understood. Her empathetic, respectful approach creates a safe space where clients can explore their concerns and receive tailored support for their mental health needs. Terri specializes in treating a range of conditions, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression.
Terri Gray, PMHNP-BC, is an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, offering compassionate mental health care to individuals across Illinois. She provides medication management and supportive therapy, using a culturally sensitive approach to ensure each patient feels seen and understood. Her empathetic, respectful approach creates a safe space where clients can explore their concerns and receive tailored support for their mental health needs. Terri specializes in treating a range of conditions, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression.
(224) 490-0425 View (224) 490-0425
Photo of Vanessa Wrobel - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(224) 362-0502 View (224) 362-0502
Photo of Patricia Roy, Psychiatrist, MD
Patricia Roy
Psychiatrist, MD
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Dr. Roy has a particular focus on trauma and autism spectrum disorders, bringing both clinical expertise and personal sensitivity to these areas. Her work with children and teens emphasizes helping them build resilience and overcome barriers to emotional and developmental wellbeing. She also specializes in addressing school avoidance, depression, and sleep disorders, ensuring that her approach is holistic and tailored to the unique needs of each patient. In addition to treating individuals, Dr. Roy provides family therapy and parenting skills training to support caregivers in fostering healthier dynamics within the home.
Dr. Roy has a particular focus on trauma and autism spectrum disorders, bringing both clinical expertise and personal sensitivity to these areas. Her work with children and teens emphasizes helping them build resilience and overcome barriers to emotional and developmental wellbeing. She also specializes in addressing school avoidance, depression, and sleep disorders, ensuring that her approach is holistic and tailored to the unique needs of each patient. In addition to treating individuals, Dr. Roy provides family therapy and parenting skills training to support caregivers in fostering healthier dynamics within the home.
(224) 378-0648 View (224) 378-0648
Dustin Pilat
Psychiatrist, DO
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Dr. Pilat's expertise in medication management is complemented by his formal training in psychotherapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. He prioritizes making accurate diagnoses and tailoring treatment plans informed by biopsychosocial factors affecting his patients' well-being. Dr. Pilat's treatment approach includes selfcare strategies, enhancing insight, behavioral modification, cognitive restructuring and psychopharmacology.
Dr. Pilat's expertise in medication management is complemented by his formal training in psychotherapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. He prioritizes making accurate diagnoses and tailoring treatment plans informed by biopsychosocial factors affecting his patients' well-being. Dr. Pilat's treatment approach includes selfcare strategies, enhancing insight, behavioral modification, cognitive restructuring and psychopharmacology.
(224) 263-0823 View (224) 263-0823
Photo of Christian Charvet, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Christian Charvet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-C) with a strong commitment to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my clients. Together, we will explore the best treatment options and strategies to manage your condition, with the ultimate aim of improving your quality of life. With 13 years of experience as a Registered Nurse, including 8 years at Northwestern Medicine, I havecultivated a deep passion for mental health care and a dedication to improving the well-being of my clients.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-C) with a strong commitment to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my clients. Together, we will explore the best treatment options and strategies to manage your condition, with the ultimate aim of improving your quality of life. With 13 years of experience as a Registered Nurse, including 8 years at Northwestern Medicine, I havecultivated a deep passion for mental health care and a dedication to improving the well-being of my clients.
(224) 328-1877 View (224) 328-1877
Photo of Shalini Varma - Shalini Varma, M.D., Psychiatrist, Doctor, BdCert, Meds, COACH, Therapy
Shalini Varma, M.D.
Psychiatrist, Doctor, BdCert, Meds, COACH, Therapy
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Accepting people of all ages within one week! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
Accepting people of all ages within one week! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
(224) 374-1918 View (224) 374-1918
Photo of Vanessa Wrobel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Vanessa Wrobel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Vanessa Wrobel, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate and dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to supporting individuals and families in their journey towards improved mental well-being. With over a decade of nursing experience and a master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University, Vanessa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice. Her areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, psychosis, and trauma. Vanessa takes a holistic and integrative approach to care, tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Vanessa Wrobel, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate and dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to supporting individuals and families in their journey towards improved mental well-being. With over a decade of nursing experience and a master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University, Vanessa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice. Her areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, psychosis, and trauma. Vanessa takes a holistic and integrative approach to care, tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(847) 565-2453 View (847) 565-2453
Photo of Alexis Henion (Addiction Speciality), Physician Assistant, PA-C
Alexis Henion (Addiction Speciality)
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug and alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug and alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(847) 278-2871 View (847) 278-2871
Photo of Dena Lynn Hinkle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Dena Lynn Hinkle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I hold national board certifications with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and my Doctorate of Nursing Practice and Master of Science degrees in Nursing at Lewis University. I worked as a Certified School Nurse for ten years while pursing my advanced degrees as a Nurse Practitioner.
I hold national board certifications with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and my Doctorate of Nursing Practice and Master of Science degrees in Nursing at Lewis University. I worked as a Certified School Nurse for ten years while pursing my advanced degrees as a Nurse Practitioner.
(847) 380-2584 View (847) 380-2584
Photo of Brianne Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FPA, FNP-BC
Brianne Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FPA, FNP-BC
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or like the world is moving too fast? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m a Nurse Practitioner with full practice authority in Illinois, specializing in integrative mental health, trauma-informed care, and thoughtful medication management. I work with high-performing adults navigating burnout, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma histories—especially those who’ve “tried everything” and still don’t feel quite right.
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or like the world is moving too fast? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m a Nurse Practitioner with full practice authority in Illinois, specializing in integrative mental health, trauma-informed care, and thoughtful medication management. I work with high-performing adults navigating burnout, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma histories—especially those who’ve “tried everything” and still don’t feel quite right.
(847) 973-5890 View (847) 973-5890
Photo of Ngozi Eboru, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Ngozi Eboru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
7 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Life can be challenging, but hope is within reach! If you’re struggling with worry, low moods, difficulty focusing, or past trauma, know that you’re not alone. You deserve to feel in control, find clarity, and reconnect with yourself. With the right support, healing is possible—let’s take that step together!
Life can be challenging, but hope is within reach! If you’re struggling with worry, low moods, difficulty focusing, or past trauma, know that you’re not alone. You deserve to feel in control, find clarity, and reconnect with yourself. With the right support, healing is possible—let’s take that step together!
(331) 241-6286 View (331) 241-6286
PRA consists of a comprehensive, quality team of highly experienced and dedicated behavioral healthcare specialists. PRA offers individuals a continuum of care with professionals consisting of child, adolescent and adult psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and professional counselors whose range of services encompasses every population, from young children to older adult. Some of the clinical areas of focus include: Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Phobias, Relationship Issues, Parenting Stress, Women's Issues as PMS, Post Partum Depression, PTSD, OCD and Life Stage Transitions.
PRA consists of a comprehensive, quality team of highly experienced and dedicated behavioral healthcare specialists. PRA offers individuals a continuum of care with professionals consisting of child, adolescent and adult psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and professional counselors whose range of services encompasses every population, from young children to older adult. Some of the clinical areas of focus include: Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Phobias, Relationship Issues, Parenting Stress, Women's Issues as PMS, Post Partum Depression, PTSD, OCD and Life Stage Transitions.
(847) 581-6451 View (847) 581-6451
Photo of Ishaq Lachin, Psychiatrist, MD
Ishaq Lachin
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Ishaq (Isaac) Lachin sees individuals aged 6 to 65. He received his bachelor’s degree from Loyola University Chicago, and then received his MD from the world-renowned Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He completed both his general psychiatry residency training and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Chicago Medical Center. He is board certified in both adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, and has received multiple awards from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and the Illinois Council of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
Dr. Ishaq (Isaac) Lachin sees individuals aged 6 to 65. He received his bachelor’s degree from Loyola University Chicago, and then received his MD from the world-renowned Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He completed both his general psychiatry residency training and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Chicago Medical Center. He is board certified in both adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, and has received multiple awards from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and the Illinois Council of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
(630) 517-9367 View (630) 517-9367
Photo of Esther Harris - Thrive Psychiatric Services, Esther Harris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, RN
Thrive Psychiatric Services, Esther Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, RN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a caring, compassionate and approachable provider who enjoys helping my patients discover hope, engage in healing and begin the process of living their lives to the fullest. I provide medication management and basic psychotherapy in Grayslake, IL. I treat all ages including children 6 years and up. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine allows me to provide a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions. Let me use my experience and symptom-targeted treatment planning to help you manage the symptoms that are causing you challenges and stress in your life.
I am a caring, compassionate and approachable provider who enjoys helping my patients discover hope, engage in healing and begin the process of living their lives to the fullest. I provide medication management and basic psychotherapy in Grayslake, IL. I treat all ages including children 6 years and up. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine allows me to provide a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions. Let me use my experience and symptom-targeted treatment planning to help you manage the symptoms that are causing you challenges and stress in your life.
(224) 241-6487 View (224) 241-6487
Photo of Lisa Hengen - Thrive Psychiatric Services, Lisa Hengen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Thrive Psychiatric Services, Lisa Hengen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Thrive Psychiatric Services, I provide personalized, comprehensive and compassionate Psychiatric Care. I love what I do and never feel like it is work. I enjoy helping people to feel better, so they can have better quality of life. I strive to provide every patient with the best possible care. I feel it is an honor and a privilege to be part of my patient’s healthcare journey, and I am always mindful of the respect and trust that is needed to maintain a therapeutic relationship. I provide comprehensive mental health services, psychiatric evaluation, medication management, substance abuse/addiction treatment and psychotherapy.
At Thrive Psychiatric Services, I provide personalized, comprehensive and compassionate Psychiatric Care. I love what I do and never feel like it is work. I enjoy helping people to feel better, so they can have better quality of life. I strive to provide every patient with the best possible care. I feel it is an honor and a privilege to be part of my patient’s healthcare journey, and I am always mindful of the respect and trust that is needed to maintain a therapeutic relationship. I provide comprehensive mental health services, psychiatric evaluation, medication management, substance abuse/addiction treatment and psychotherapy.
(224) 298-8260 View (224) 298-8260
Photo of Dr. Jennie Elizabeth Zavaleta, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Jennie Elizabeth Zavaleta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
22 Endorsed
Serves Area
I completed my Doctor of Nursing Practice and Masters of Nursing at Capella University. My post-master’s degree in Psychiatry and Mental Health from Frontier University in Versailles, Kentucky. I worked with children/pediatrics during the 2020 pandemic. I have also worked in a psychiatric hospital setting. Experienced working with grief, loss and life transitions. Specializing in ADHD, anxiety, bipolar II, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, and depression. My focus is creating a personalized treatment plan with a preventative holistic approach. I understand each condition affecting people isn’t a simple or single disorder. I treat Ages 6-75.
I completed my Doctor of Nursing Practice and Masters of Nursing at Capella University. My post-master’s degree in Psychiatry and Mental Health from Frontier University in Versailles, Kentucky. I worked with children/pediatrics during the 2020 pandemic. I have also worked in a psychiatric hospital setting. Experienced working with grief, loss and life transitions. Specializing in ADHD, anxiety, bipolar II, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, and depression. My focus is creating a personalized treatment plan with a preventative holistic approach. I understand each condition affecting people isn’t a simple or single disorder. I treat Ages 6-75.
(224) 344-6456 View (224) 344-6456
Photo of Orlando Malate, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Orlando Malate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Dr. Orlando Malate is a compassionate mental health nurse practitioner offering therapy and medication management in Illinois. Dr. Malate treats depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders. He approaches his practice with a deeper, wider, relational approach that centers on listening to you. His practice setting offers a safe, confidential, and trusting space to talk about your feelings and to develop individualized treatment plans.
Dr. Orlando Malate is a compassionate mental health nurse practitioner offering therapy and medication management in Illinois. Dr. Malate treats depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders. He approaches his practice with a deeper, wider, relational approach that centers on listening to you. His practice setting offers a safe, confidential, and trusting space to talk about your feelings and to develop individualized treatment plans.
(224) 243-5112 View (224) 243-5112

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Andrea Fried, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Andrea Fried
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Andrea is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who strives to provide an all-inclusive, safe, and open space for patients across the lifespan. Andrea offers compassionate and comprehensive mental health assessments and medication management visits for adults, adolescents, and children who have a variety of mental health conditions and concerns, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and OCD.
Andrea is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who strives to provide an all-inclusive, safe, and open space for patients across the lifespan. Andrea offers compassionate and comprehensive mental health assessments and medication management visits for adults, adolescents, and children who have a variety of mental health conditions and concerns, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and OCD.
(847) 349-4455 View (847) 349-4455
Photo of Michaeline Steves, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michaeline Steves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I’m Michaeline Steves! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with well over a decade of experience in healthcare. Over the years, I've gained a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in balancing work, family, and self-care. I not only specialize in medication management, but I can also tailor a holistic treatment plan.
Hi, I’m Michaeline Steves! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with well over a decade of experience in healthcare. Over the years, I've gained a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in balancing work, family, and self-care. I not only specialize in medication management, but I can also tailor a holistic treatment plan.
(872) 275-2554 View (872) 275-2554

See more therapy options for Vernon Hills

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Vernon Hills, IL

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Vernon Hills, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
83% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
78% Trauma and PTSD
78% Medication Management
56% Grief

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
82% Aetna
76% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Vernon Hills, IL see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

91% Female
9% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Vernon Hills?

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.