Psychiatrists in Westmont, IL

Photo of Kalee Sweeney, MMS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Kalee Sweeney
Physician Assistant, MMS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Westmont, IL 60559
I am a Physician Assistant and have been providing psychiatry services for three years in outpatient and in-home treatment settings. I see young adults and adults and address anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, hyperactive disorder (ADD/ADHD), and anxiety.
I am a Physician Assistant and have been providing psychiatry services for three years in outpatient and in-home treatment settings. I see young adults and adults and address anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, hyperactive disorder (ADD/ADHD), and anxiety.
(331) 246-0925 View (331) 246-0925
Photo of Shalini Chawla, MD, Psychiatrist
Shalini Chawla
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Westmont, IL 60559
I am passionate about what I do and I love working with all kinds of people to help them with their problems whether its anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, family, school, marital, work, or relationship problems. My goal is to help my clients feel safe, heard, understood, and to help them reach their goals. I believe in individualized care and treatment as everyone is different and has different needs and aspirations for themselves. I love working with kids, parents, adults, and couples to help them solve whatever communication issues they are having in order to facilitate care. I want to help people live their best life every day.
I am passionate about what I do and I love working with all kinds of people to help them with their problems whether its anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, family, school, marital, work, or relationship problems. My goal is to help my clients feel safe, heard, understood, and to help them reach their goals. I believe in individualized care and treatment as everyone is different and has different needs and aspirations for themselves. I love working with kids, parents, adults, and couples to help them solve whatever communication issues they are having in order to facilitate care. I want to help people live their best life every day.
(630) 338-0460 View (630) 338-0460
Photo of Benjamin Roth, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Benjamin Roth
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Westmont, IL 60559
I am a Physician Assistant dedicated to providing collaborative and holistic mental health care. I enjoy helping people achieve their mental health and wellness goals by matching evidence-based treatment modalities to individual patient needs.
I am a Physician Assistant dedicated to providing collaborative and holistic mental health care. I enjoy helping people achieve their mental health and wellness goals by matching evidence-based treatment modalities to individual patient needs.
(331) 267-7857 View (331) 267-7857
Photo of Francesco Incandela, DO, Psychiatrist
Francesco Incandela
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Westmont, IL 60559
I’m Dr. Incandela, a psychiatrist committed to helping people achieve their mental health goals and wellness. I graduated from psychiatry residency in 2023 and began practicing that same year. I collaborate with each person to develop a comprehensive and wholistic treatment plan that is tailored to the individual while incorporating evidence-based treatment models. For me, the wholistic process includes working to understand and target mental health concerns from a biological, psychological, and social perspective understanding that many things affect a person's mental health that medication alone may not address.
I’m Dr. Incandela, a psychiatrist committed to helping people achieve their mental health goals and wellness. I graduated from psychiatry residency in 2023 and began practicing that same year. I collaborate with each person to develop a comprehensive and wholistic treatment plan that is tailored to the individual while incorporating evidence-based treatment models. For me, the wholistic process includes working to understand and target mental health concerns from a biological, psychological, and social perspective understanding that many things affect a person's mental health that medication alone may not address.
(331) 321-4984 View (331) 321-4984
Photo of Dr. Ahmed Hussain - Burlington Health Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Burlington Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westmont, IL 60559
Who am I? I am a board-certified psychiatrist trained in child adolescent and adult psychiatry. I was trained at Harvard Medical School for general psychiatry and at the University of Chicago for child and adolescent psychiatry. I have over 30 years of experience in mental health services and I trained hundreds of medical students and residents from several universities including the University of Chicago, University of Illinois at Chicago, and Midwestern University. I am Currently the chairman of psychiatry at Loyola McNeal Hospital and chief medical officer at Streamwood Behavioral Health Systems a premier psychiatric hospital.
Who am I? I am a board-certified psychiatrist trained in child adolescent and adult psychiatry. I was trained at Harvard Medical School for general psychiatry and at the University of Chicago for child and adolescent psychiatry. I have over 30 years of experience in mental health services and I trained hundreds of medical students and residents from several universities including the University of Chicago, University of Illinois at Chicago, and Midwestern University. I am Currently the chairman of psychiatry at Loyola McNeal Hospital and chief medical officer at Streamwood Behavioral Health Systems a premier psychiatric hospital.
(224) 337-4052 View (224) 337-4052
Photo of Heather Miller | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Spravato | Sgb | Ketamine | Tms, APRN, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Miller | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Spravato | Sgb | Ketamine | Tms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Westmont, IL 60559
Hello, I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a provider at Stella Mental Health. I specialize in psychiatric medication management and biological treatments for mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I completed my doctoral training at Rush University Medical Center. I understand that each patient must have an individualized treatment plan unique to their experience to bring true healing. I have worked with patients with severe childhood, combat, and sexual trauma. My practice is based on identifying root causes, setting individual goals, and cultivating hope and resilience.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a provider at Stella Mental Health. I specialize in psychiatric medication management and biological treatments for mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I completed my doctoral training at Rush University Medical Center. I understand that each patient must have an individualized treatment plan unique to their experience to bring true healing. I have worked with patients with severe childhood, combat, and sexual trauma. My practice is based on identifying root causes, setting individual goals, and cultivating hope and resilience.
(708) 883-5287 View (708) 883-5287
Photo of Dr. Karen DeCocker - Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Sgb | Spravato, PMHNP, DNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Sgb | Spravato
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, CNM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westmont, IL 60559
I'm the Director of Advanced Practice Providers at Stella Mental Health and oversee our assessment team. I became a nurse practitioner in 2007 after 10 years of hospital nursing experience. I specialize in identifying innovative treatments & therapies that can help relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, TBI and more.
I'm the Director of Advanced Practice Providers at Stella Mental Health and oversee our assessment team. I became a nurse practitioner in 2007 after 10 years of hospital nursing experience. I specialize in identifying innovative treatments & therapies that can help relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, TBI and more.
(708) 934-8044 View (708) 934-8044
Photo of Haneen Al-Sheikh, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Haneen Al-Sheikh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westmont, IL 60559
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric. I have a true passion for mental health and helping others. I believe my patients deserve quality compassionate care. I have experience in different areas of medicine such as emergency medicine, urgent care, and family medicine
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric. I have a true passion for mental health and helping others. I believe my patients deserve quality compassionate care. I have experience in different areas of medicine such as emergency medicine, urgent care, and family medicine
(847) 416-8601 View (847) 416-8601
Photo of Medication Management Oak Park, Physician Assistant
Medication Management Oak Park
Physician Assistant
Verified Verified
Westmont, IL 60559
Stella Mental Health, located in Oak Park, Illinois is specialized in psychiatric medication management to treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, OCD, Bi-polar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. From initial evaluation and prescription recommendations to ongoing medication management and treatment support, Stella's certified mental health experts will work with you one on one to identify the best plan forward to get you back to feeling better faster. We also provide Spravato treatment for those who experience treatment resistant depression or severe depression with suicidal ideation.
Stella Mental Health, located in Oak Park, Illinois is specialized in psychiatric medication management to treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, OCD, Bi-polar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. From initial evaluation and prescription recommendations to ongoing medication management and treatment support, Stella's certified mental health experts will work with you one on one to identify the best plan forward to get you back to feeling better faster. We also provide Spravato treatment for those who experience treatment resistant depression or severe depression with suicidal ideation.
(708) 726-6931 View (708) 726-6931
Photo of Casey Pennel - Stella Mental Health - Psychiatric Med Management , Physician Assistant
Stella Mental Health - Psychiatric Med Management
Physician Assistant
Verified Verified
Westmont, IL 60559
Stella Mental Health, located in Oak Park, Illinois is specialized in psychiatric medication management to treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, OCD, Bi-polar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. From initial evaluation and prescription recommendations to ongoing medication management and treatment support, Stella's certified mental health experts will work with you one on one to identify the best plan forward to get you back to feeling better faster. We also provide Spravato treatment for those who experience treatment resistant depression or severe depression with suicidal ideation.
Stella Mental Health, located in Oak Park, Illinois is specialized in psychiatric medication management to treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, OCD, Bi-polar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. From initial evaluation and prescription recommendations to ongoing medication management and treatment support, Stella's certified mental health experts will work with you one on one to identify the best plan forward to get you back to feeling better faster. We also provide Spravato treatment for those who experience treatment resistant depression or severe depression with suicidal ideation.
(708) 578-6763 View (708) 578-6763
Photo of Ashley George, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Ashley George
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Westmont, IL 60559
Hello, I am a certified psychiatric PA at Stella Mental Health Oak Park, and I specialize in medication management for mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder and more. I am passionate about delivering the best care tailored to each person's needs and developing a relationship with each patient to help them meet their goals. I obtained a Master degree of Medical Science, Physician Assistant at Lincoln Memorial University.
Hello, I am a certified psychiatric PA at Stella Mental Health Oak Park, and I specialize in medication management for mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder and more. I am passionate about delivering the best care tailored to each person's needs and developing a relationship with each patient to help them meet their goals. I obtained a Master degree of Medical Science, Physician Assistant at Lincoln Memorial University.
(708) 332-8427 View (708) 332-8427
Photo of Casey Pennel, PA-C, PMH-C, CAQ-psy, Physician Assistant
Casey Pennel
Physician Assistant, PA-C, PMH-C, CAQ-psy
Verified Verified
Westmont, IL 60559
Hello. I am a certified psychiatric PA at Stella Mental Health and I specialize in medication management for a wide range of mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, perinatal disorders, and more. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, marginalized, misunderstood, unheard or unseen, I would like to help. Together, we will work to identify your unique goals and develop a plan to achieve them.
Hello. I am a certified psychiatric PA at Stella Mental Health and I specialize in medication management for a wide range of mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, perinatal disorders, and more. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, marginalized, misunderstood, unheard or unseen, I would like to help. Together, we will work to identify your unique goals and develop a plan to achieve them.
(708) 853-6059 View (708) 853-6059
Photo of Rochelle Butler, MMS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Rochelle Butler
Physician Assistant, MMS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Westmont, IL 60559
As a psychiatry PA at Stella Mental Health, I specialize in medication management for mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder and more. My approach to mental health care is grounded in fostering a compassionate and personalized connection with each individual. With a commitment to understanding the unique aspects of each patient, I strive to tailor treatment plans to their specific needs and goals. I believe in collaborative decision-making, working together to explore various treatment options, and finding the optimal solutions. I obtained a Master’s degree at Rush University.
As a psychiatry PA at Stella Mental Health, I specialize in medication management for mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder and more. My approach to mental health care is grounded in fostering a compassionate and personalized connection with each individual. With a commitment to understanding the unique aspects of each patient, I strive to tailor treatment plans to their specific needs and goals. I believe in collaborative decision-making, working together to explore various treatment options, and finding the optimal solutions. I obtained a Master’s degree at Rush University.
(708) 627-9164 View (708) 627-9164
Photo of Endia McDonald, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Endia McDonald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Endia McDonald is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She obtained her Bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University and Master of Science in Nursing from DePaul University. She has several years of working in outpatient psychiatry. Endia believes every patient has their own unique set of roots, tied to a distinct biological and social story. Learning about these stories and working with her patients to overcome the challenges within them is what Endia enjoys most about her career.
Endia McDonald is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She obtained her Bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University and Master of Science in Nursing from DePaul University. She has several years of working in outpatient psychiatry. Endia believes every patient has their own unique set of roots, tied to a distinct biological and social story. Learning about these stories and working with her patients to overcome the challenges within them is what Endia enjoys most about her career.
(331) 207-3896 View (331) 207-3896
Photo of Janine Watters, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janine Watters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Janine Watters is a compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC) based in Illinois. With a clinical focus spanning a broad age range from 6 to 65+, Janine has a particular affinity for adolescents and young adults. She possesses a wealth of expertise in addressing various mental health concerns and is committed to delivering individualized care. In her practice, Janine prioritizes thorough and genuine listening to understand the unique needs of her clients.
Janine Watters is a compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC) based in Illinois. With a clinical focus spanning a broad age range from 6 to 65+, Janine has a particular affinity for adolescents and young adults. She possesses a wealth of expertise in addressing various mental health concerns and is committed to delivering individualized care. In her practice, Janine prioritizes thorough and genuine listening to understand the unique needs of her clients.
(630) 361-0543 View (630) 361-0543
Photo of Onetha Davis, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Onetha Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Onetha Davis is a compassionate and dedicated Advanced Practice Nurse (PMHNP) serving patients across Illinois. With a focus on creating an inclusive and collaborative environment, she strives to ensure that every client feels heard, informed, and actively involved in their treatment journey. Onetha offers support to individuals of all ages, including children, teens, adults, and seniors. Her approach to care includes a combination of individual and family therapy, alongside medication management, tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
Onetha Davis is a compassionate and dedicated Advanced Practice Nurse (PMHNP) serving patients across Illinois. With a focus on creating an inclusive and collaborative environment, she strives to ensure that every client feels heard, informed, and actively involved in their treatment journey. Onetha offers support to individuals of all ages, including children, teens, adults, and seniors. Her approach to care includes a combination of individual and family therapy, alongside medication management, tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
(331) 276-6396 View (331) 276-6396
Photo of Patricia Brown, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Patricia specializes in treating ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, and Anxiety. She is passionate about helping patients gain a deeper understanding of their mental health, believing that knowledge is key to making informed decisions and achieving better outcomes. Her approach is collaborative, empowering patients to take an active role in their treatment. Patricia also employs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address various conditions, ensuring that her therapeutic strategies are evidencebased and effective.
Patricia specializes in treating ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, and Anxiety. She is passionate about helping patients gain a deeper understanding of their mental health, believing that knowledge is key to making informed decisions and achieving better outcomes. Her approach is collaborative, empowering patients to take an active role in their treatment. Patricia also employs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address various conditions, ensuring that her therapeutic strategies are evidencebased and effective.
(331) 241-6442 View (331) 241-6442
Photo of Endia McDonald - LifeStance Health, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(331) 296-1228 View (331) 296-1228

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Haili Campanella, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Haili Campanella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Haili Campanella is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner, specializing in mental health, admired for her intelligence, hard work, and compassionate care. She has earned both her FNP and PMHNP, making her a dual certified Nurse Practitioner. With over a decade of experience, Haili Campanella has built a reputation for her personable and friendly approach, creating a warm and supportive environment for her clients. She is committed to advancing mental health care through evidence-based practices and a deep understanding of individual client needs.
Haili Campanella is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner, specializing in mental health, admired for her intelligence, hard work, and compassionate care. She has earned both her FNP and PMHNP, making her a dual certified Nurse Practitioner. With over a decade of experience, Haili Campanella has built a reputation for her personable and friendly approach, creating a warm and supportive environment for her clients. She is committed to advancing mental health care through evidence-based practices and a deep understanding of individual client needs.
(224) 269-8202 View (224) 269-8202
Photo of Chime Ajiere - Zoelife Psychiatric Services - Chime Ajiere APRN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zoelife Psychiatric Services - Chime Ajiere APRN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits. 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 today to book an appointment.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits. 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 today to book an appointment.
(217) 217-2659 View (217) 217-2659

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Westmont, IL

10+

Average cost per session

$271

Psychiatrists in Westmont, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
94% Trauma and PTSD
89% ADHD
89% Bipolar Disorder
78% Sleep or Insomnia
78% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
89% Aetna
89% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Westmont, IL see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Westmont?

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.