Psychiatrists in Winnebago County, IL

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Photo of Sarah Bier, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Bier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Women and birthing people face unique mental health challenges. Sarah specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry, valuing a holistic approach to mental health. She provides comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Her services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. With additional training in integrative psychiatry, Sarah offers natural treatment options for those who prefer to limit medication, addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PMDD.
Women and birthing people face unique mental health challenges. Sarah specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry, valuing a holistic approach to mental health. She provides comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Her services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. With additional training in integrative psychiatry, Sarah offers natural treatment options for those who prefer to limit medication, addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PMDD.
(815) 605-8205 View (815) 605-8205
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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Photo of Amanda Lantow, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Lantow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
I find the greatest fulfillment in assisting individuals who are grappling with anxiety or depression and find themselves in a state of stagnation. Guiding them to envision possibilities beyond their current challenges is immensely rewarding. These individuals aspire to feel better, break free from the constraints of anxiety and depression, and regain the confidence to pursue their goals unhindered. Ultimately, their journey involves building self-esteem, unraveling the barriers that hold them back, and ascending to a more gratifying and fulfilling life.
I find the greatest fulfillment in assisting individuals who are grappling with anxiety or depression and find themselves in a state of stagnation. Guiding them to envision possibilities beyond their current challenges is immensely rewarding. These individuals aspire to feel better, break free from the constraints of anxiety and depression, and regain the confidence to pursue their goals unhindered. Ultimately, their journey involves building self-esteem, unraveling the barriers that hold them back, and ascending to a more gratifying and fulfilling life.
(815) 859-8275 View (815) 859-8275
Photo of Lana Lindgren, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lana Lindgren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I'm a board certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois. I received my masters from University of Illinois and St. Francis Unversity.
Hi! I'm a board certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois. I received my masters from University of Illinois and St. Francis Unversity.
(815) 665-5084 View (815) 665-5084
Photo of Carrie Lynne Helle - Carrie Helle, PMHNP and FNP at Beacon Health LLC, PMHNP, FNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carrie Helle, PMHNP and FNP at Beacon Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois and Indiana. Are you feeling weighed down by substance abuse, depression, anxiety, mood swings, or having sleep issues? Do these challenges impact your daily life, relationships, or career, leaving you feeling drained, overwhelmed, or frustrated? You're not alone. At Beacon Health LLC, we understand the unique struggles that so many face, especially now when stress and mental health challenges are at an all-time high. But there is hope, and there are effective treatments to help you feel better.
I am a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois and Indiana. Are you feeling weighed down by substance abuse, depression, anxiety, mood swings, or having sleep issues? Do these challenges impact your daily life, relationships, or career, leaving you feeling drained, overwhelmed, or frustrated? You're not alone. At Beacon Health LLC, we understand the unique struggles that so many face, especially now when stress and mental health challenges are at an all-time high. But there is hope, and there are effective treatments to help you feel better.
(815) 889-0437 View (815) 889-0437
Photo of Amanda Hahn, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Hahn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Women and birthing people face unique mental health challenges. Mandy specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry, valuing a holistic approach to mental health. She provides comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Her services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. With additional training in integrative psychiatry, Mandy offers natural treatment options for those who prefer to limit medication.
Women and birthing people face unique mental health challenges. Mandy specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry, valuing a holistic approach to mental health. She provides comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Her services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. With additional training in integrative psychiatry, Mandy offers natural treatment options for those who prefer to limit medication.
(815) 402-2364 View (815) 402-2364
Photo of Kimberly Baldwin - Better Me Psychiatry LLC, BC, FPA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Better Me Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC, FPA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can be challenging, demanding, overwhelming and sometimes painful. But suffering does not have to be a part of your life. Mental health symptoms are unique to each individual. In addition there are many factors to consider when seeking mental health services. There are so many treatment options and approaches, it can be confusing. Together we will explore your specific needs and find the treatment options that work for you.
Life can be challenging, demanding, overwhelming and sometimes painful. But suffering does not have to be a part of your life. Mental health symptoms are unique to each individual. In addition there are many factors to consider when seeking mental health services. There are so many treatment options and approaches, it can be confusing. Together we will explore your specific needs and find the treatment options that work for you.
(815) 623-0395 View (815) 623-0395
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
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Photo of Raymond C. Garcia, MD, FAPA, ABAM, Psychiatrist
Raymond C. Garcia
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, ABAM
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
I am Dr. Raymond Garcia and I oversee all medical operations for Rosecrance Behavioral Health and am the Medical Director for Rosecrance Therapies at Aspen Counseling in Rockford, Illinois, where I collaborate with and supervise nurse practitioners. I am board-certified in psychiatry and neurology, licensed in Illinois, a member of the Illinois Psychiatric Society, and a fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. I am also a board-certified Addictionologist by the American Board of Addiction Medicine (ABAM) and am on faculty at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford. I joined the Rosecrance team in 2009.
I am Dr. Raymond Garcia and I oversee all medical operations for Rosecrance Behavioral Health and am the Medical Director for Rosecrance Therapies at Aspen Counseling in Rockford, Illinois, where I collaborate with and supervise nurse practitioners. I am board-certified in psychiatry and neurology, licensed in Illinois, a member of the Illinois Psychiatric Society, and a fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. I am also a board-certified Addictionologist by the American Board of Addiction Medicine (ABAM) and am on faculty at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford. I joined the Rosecrance team in 2009.
(815) 989-2351 View (815) 989-2351
Photo of Stephanie Onyeforo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Onyeforo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Stephanie. I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who provides high-quality psychiatric services to children aged ten and above and adolescent and adult psychiatric services.
Hello, I'm Stephanie. I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who provides high-quality psychiatric services to children aged ten and above and adolescent and adult psychiatric services.
(815) 369-0135 View (815) 369-0135
Photo of Jessica Stier, MD, Psychiatrist
Jessica Stier
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a psychiatrist with expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I earned my medical degree from Rosalind Franklin University and completed my psychiatry residency training at the University of Chicago. As a general psychiatrist, I have experience working with a wide range of psychiatric disorders and with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. I understand that many people have difficulty accessing psychiatric services. Therefore, my practice utilizes a virtual platform to provide patients located in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin with high quality and confidential care.
I am a psychiatrist with expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I earned my medical degree from Rosalind Franklin University and completed my psychiatry residency training at the University of Chicago. As a general psychiatrist, I have experience working with a wide range of psychiatric disorders and with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. I understand that many people have difficulty accessing psychiatric services. Therefore, my practice utilizes a virtual platform to provide patients located in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin with high quality and confidential care.
(779) 204-5944 View (779) 204-5944
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth for entire state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We 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 on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting BCBS of IL, Optum/UHC insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth for entire state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We 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 on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting BCBS of IL, Optum/UHC insurances.
(855) 910-6739 View (855) 910-6739
Photo of Kim McCoy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kim McCoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello Everyone, My name is Kim McCoy. I am a PMHNP-BC in Illinois. I earned my Bachelor's degree in nursing from St. Xavier University and my Master's degree from U.I.C.'s psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program.
Hello Everyone, My name is Kim McCoy. I am a PMHNP-BC in Illinois. I earned my Bachelor's degree in nursing from St. Xavier University and my Master's degree from U.I.C.'s psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program.
(224) 339-7313 View (224) 339-7313
Photo of Senami Edalere-Lukula, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Senami Edalere-Lukula
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101
Hi there, I'm Senami Do you feel like you are trying to juggle a million things at once? Are you finding it challenging to balance your relationships, career, and health? Is treating oneself kindly difficult for you? As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry, I provide anxiety disorder management and burnout prevention for high achievers. Together, we can figure out what is not working and restore balance to your life. I utilize a holistic and evidence-based model, in caring for your mind, body, and spirit's needs for you to have a better relationship with yourself and others.
Hi there, I'm Senami Do you feel like you are trying to juggle a million things at once? Are you finding it challenging to balance your relationships, career, and health? Is treating oneself kindly difficult for you? As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry, I provide anxiety disorder management and burnout prevention for high achievers. Together, we can figure out what is not working and restore balance to your life. I utilize a holistic and evidence-based model, in caring for your mind, body, and spirit's needs for you to have a better relationship with yourself and others.
(630) 866-8266 View (630) 866-8266
Photo of Nicole Alexander, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new clients! I am a Family Nurse Practitioner with a dual certification in Psychiatry and Mental Health.
Accepting new clients! I am a Family Nurse Practitioner with a dual certification in Psychiatry and Mental Health.
(872) 259-5364 View (872) 259-5364
Photo of Chime Ajiere - Zoelife psychiatric services, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zoelife psychiatric services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
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.
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.
(319) 214-7918 View (319) 214-7918
Photo of Juliette Murphy, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Juliette Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
I want to know your story. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my job to make sure you feel seen and heard in order to provide the best care possible. I have been in the field of mental health since 2018, working in both the inpatient and outpatient sectors. I have experience across the lifespan working with a broad range of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, and serious mental illness. Together, we will collaborate using a biopsychosocial approach to meet your individual goals.
I want to know your story. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my job to make sure you feel seen and heard in order to provide the best care possible. I have been in the field of mental health since 2018, working in both the inpatient and outpatient sectors. I have experience across the lifespan working with a broad range of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, and serious mental illness. Together, we will collaborate using a biopsychosocial approach to meet your individual goals.
(630) 339-5160 View (630) 339-5160
Photo of Kenisha D. Davis - Dr. Kenisha Davis, (Integrative Holistic Wellness), PhD, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Kenisha Davis, (Integrative Holistic Wellness)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
Are you feeling powerless, tired, stressed? Are you ready to experience a healthier balanced life with stronger relationships with others? Kenisha takes a completely different approach to health. It's less about medicating symptoms and more about finding the underlying cause and fixing it, so you get back on track towards vibrant health. Our wellness programs have successfully helped clients address many conditions/symptoms including: Depression, ADHD, Trauma, Bipolar, Stress, Alcohol Use Disorder, Pre-Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Chronic Fatigue, Horomone Imbalances, AutoImmune Disease, Gut Issues, Headaches & Obesity.
Are you feeling powerless, tired, stressed? Are you ready to experience a healthier balanced life with stronger relationships with others? Kenisha takes a completely different approach to health. It's less about medicating symptoms and more about finding the underlying cause and fixing it, so you get back on track towards vibrant health. Our wellness programs have successfully helped clients address many conditions/symptoms including: Depression, ADHD, Trauma, Bipolar, Stress, Alcohol Use Disorder, Pre-Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Chronic Fatigue, Horomone Imbalances, AutoImmune Disease, Gut Issues, Headaches & Obesity.
(217) 882-0654 View (217) 882-0654
Photo of Mya Yee Nandar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mya Yee Nandar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Since 2020, I have practiced as a family and psychiatry mental health nurse practitioner, providing care to multigenerational families.
Since 2020, I have practiced as a family and psychiatry mental health nurse practitioner, providing care to multigenerational families.
(224) 537-0160 View (224) 537-0160
Photo of Idowu O Oshokoya, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Idowu O Oshokoya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61101
Idowu Oshokoya is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Chicago, IL. He works with adolescents, adults, and older adults, and provides care for patients who are battling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolars, and other mental disorders. Idowu studied at Walden University, where he obtained a Master of Science in PMHNP. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University. He has extensive training and 10 years of experience with behavioral health. He has provided cares for Veterans, minorities, children, homeless, and others at over 6 different teaching hospitals.
Idowu Oshokoya is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Chicago, IL. He works with adolescents, adults, and older adults, and provides care for patients who are battling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolars, and other mental disorders. Idowu studied at Walden University, where he obtained a Master of Science in PMHNP. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University. He has extensive training and 10 years of experience with behavioral health. He has provided cares for Veterans, minorities, children, homeless, and others at over 6 different teaching hospitals.
(773) 232-5526 View (773) 232-5526
1

See more therapy options for Winnebago County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Winnebago County, IL

30+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Winnebago County, IL who prioritize treating:

87% Anxiety
84% Depression
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Bipolar Disorder
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
65% Medication Management
61% ADHD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Cigna and Evernorth
87% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Winnebago County, IL see their clients

58% Online Only
42% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Winnebago 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.