Psychiatrists in 60563
New patients welcome! I have a genuine passion for the field of psychiatry and my treatment approach is integrated, compassionate and patient-centered. I aim to foster an empathic and effective collaboration with you as we examine core conflicts and patterns of behavior obstructing your relationships, work and sense of self. My approach is balanced, holistic and collaborative. I believe the best care combines both medication management and psychotherapy and I am happy to provide psychotherapy as well as refer to other therapists.
New patients welcome! I have a genuine passion for the field of psychiatry and my treatment approach is integrated, compassionate and patient-centered. I aim to foster an empathic and effective collaboration with you as we examine core conflicts and patterns of behavior obstructing your relationships, work and sense of self. My approach is balanced, holistic and collaborative. I believe the best care combines both medication management and psychotherapy and I am happy to provide psychotherapy as well as refer to other therapists.
My goal is to help all of my patients live their fullest and most fulfilling lives. As a nurse practitioner certified in both psychiatry-mental health and primary care, I use a holistic approach to care, as mental health and physical health are often interconnected.
My goal is to help all of my patients live their fullest and most fulfilling lives. As a nurse practitioner certified in both psychiatry-mental health and primary care, I use a holistic approach to care, as mental health and physical health are often interconnected.
Rubabetu Abimbola Akinola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry.
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry.
Tamra Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
As a Nurse Practitioner, I provide care for patients of all ages. My expertise is treating mood, behavioral disorders and other disorders in children and adults. I am passionate about helping my patients obtain stable mental health so that they may live their lives to the fullest. I work with each patient to ensure that they have the proper mental health counseling as well as the proper medication if medication is needed. I also encourage patients to engage in hobbies which will promote mental wellness. Self-care is so important for mental and physical well-being.
As a Nurse Practitioner, I provide care for patients of all ages. My expertise is treating mood, behavioral disorders and other disorders in children and adults. I am passionate about helping my patients obtain stable mental health so that they may live their lives to the fullest. I work with each patient to ensure that they have the proper mental health counseling as well as the proper medication if medication is needed. I also encourage patients to engage in hobbies which will promote mental wellness. Self-care is so important for mental and physical well-being.
Arturo Ventura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563 (Online Only)
Art Ventura, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, has more than 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience. Art completed his nursing school at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, obtained his masters degree at Chamberlain College of Nursing and his postmasters certification in psychiatric nursing at Regis College. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine, Art provides a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions particularly in evaluating and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, insomnia, dementia, OCD and other issues.
Art Ventura, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, has more than 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience. Art completed his nursing school at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, obtained his masters degree at Chamberlain College of Nursing and his postmasters certification in psychiatric nursing at Regis College. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine, Art provides a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions particularly in evaluating and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, insomnia, dementia, OCD and other issues.
Mitchell Kordzikowski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
My approach to care is open, nonjudgmental, and collaborative. I make use of motivational interviewing techniques and dialogue during my sessions mixed with aspects of both solution focused brief therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I strongly believe in a holistic approach to treatment; addressing issues related to clients’ physical, mental, spiritual, and social needs.
My approach to care is open, nonjudgmental, and collaborative. I make use of motivational interviewing techniques and dialogue during my sessions mixed with aspects of both solution focused brief therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I strongly believe in a holistic approach to treatment; addressing issues related to clients’ physical, mental, spiritual, and social needs.
Advanced Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Advanced Behavioral Health Services is guided by the principle of giving people the best possible service. Our mission is to help people enjoy life to the fullest. We are committed to helping people cope with their behavioral and mental health issues so that they are able to live independently and - if possible - take a proactive stance on their own treatment. Advanced Behavioral Health Services puts the welfare of their clients first. Our specialists take time to establish rapport and get to know each client. This way, we are able to determine early on if our professional relationship would lead to progress in the client's quality of life. Each expert at Advanced Behavioral Health Services operates from the perspective that each client is our partner in treatment. After all, it is the client's response to treatment that determines our success or failure.
Advanced Behavioral Health Services is guided by the principle of giving people the best possible service. Our mission is to help people enjoy life to the fullest. We are committed to helping people cope with their behavioral and mental health issues so that they are able to live independently and - if possible - take a proactive stance on their own treatment. Advanced Behavioral Health Services puts the welfare of their clients first. Our specialists take time to establish rapport and get to know each client. This way, we are able to determine early on if our professional relationship would lead to progress in the client's quality of life. Each expert at Advanced Behavioral Health Services operates from the perspective that each client is our partner in treatment. After all, it is the client's response to treatment that determines our success or failure.
Welcome to my practice! I am Ngozi Eboru, APRN, PMHNP-BC. A compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental health Nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in Nursing and mental health care. My goal is to provide a supportive and healing environment where my patients can explore their challenges and work toward healthy mental and emotional well-being.
Welcome to my practice! I am Ngozi Eboru, APRN, PMHNP-BC. A compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental health Nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in Nursing and mental health care. My goal is to provide a supportive and healing environment where my patients can explore their challenges and work toward healthy mental and emotional well-being.
Caryn works with clients ages 15+ in providing prescriber services and medication management for anything from Anxiety, Depression, Social Anxiety, ADHD, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive (OCD), PTSD, PostPartum Depression, Sleep Disturbances & Insomnia to Mood Disorders / BiPolar and more.
Caryn works with clients ages 15+ in providing prescriber services and medication management for anything from Anxiety, Depression, Social Anxiety, ADHD, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive (OCD), PTSD, PostPartum Depression, Sleep Disturbances & Insomnia to Mood Disorders / BiPolar and more.
You may notice that your mental health difficulties go hand in hand with physical complaints. Or that life stressors are exacerbating anxiety or triggering a depression. Therefore, you may want a more holistic approach which looks at your medical conditions, but also potentially involves therapy, supplements, genetic testing, lifestyle interventions, and other coping tools. For example, a medical diagnosis such as infertility can feel lonely, stressful, & traumatic and at TreeLight Wellness we can develop a plan to help you deal with the complicated psychological impact of serious medical diagnoses such as infertility.
You may notice that your mental health difficulties go hand in hand with physical complaints. Or that life stressors are exacerbating anxiety or triggering a depression. Therefore, you may want a more holistic approach which looks at your medical conditions, but also potentially involves therapy, supplements, genetic testing, lifestyle interventions, and other coping tools. For example, a medical diagnosis such as infertility can feel lonely, stressful, & traumatic and at TreeLight Wellness we can develop a plan to help you deal with the complicated psychological impact of serious medical diagnoses such as infertility.
Dr. Courtney Wiseman, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, expertly treats psychiatric disorders for patients over the age of 18. Dr. Wiseman received BA from University of Notre Dame and an MD from Georgetown University. She completed her residency in psychiatry at University of Illinois, Chicago while simultaneously earning an MA in public health at University of Chicago. Following her residency, she moved to Boston to become the attending psychiatrist at Cambridge Hospital.
Dr. Courtney Wiseman, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, expertly treats psychiatric disorders for patients over the age of 18. Dr. Wiseman received BA from University of Notre Dame and an MD from Georgetown University. She completed her residency in psychiatry at University of Illinois, Chicago while simultaneously earning an MA in public health at University of Chicago. Following her residency, she moved to Boston to become the attending psychiatrist at Cambridge Hospital.
I am a board certified Nurse Practitioner, providing compassionate and supportive care, to promote healing and growth of my patients. As a strong advocate for mental wellbeing, I understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. I offer same week appointment accommodate my patients. I am an empathetic care provider approaching each patient from an individualistic perspective and emphasizing patient specific treatment goals. I provide a thorough evaluation and treatment plan in coherence with medication management focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, mood disorder, PTSD and other mental health conditions.
I am a board certified Nurse Practitioner, providing compassionate and supportive care, to promote healing and growth of my patients. As a strong advocate for mental wellbeing, I understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. I offer same week appointment accommodate my patients. I am an empathetic care provider approaching each patient from an individualistic perspective and emphasizing patient specific treatment goals. I provide a thorough evaluation and treatment plan in coherence with medication management focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, mood disorder, PTSD and other mental health conditions.
I am currently accepting new patients. I have been providing excellent care for over 5 years with great compassion. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients age of 5 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems. I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
I am currently accepting new patients. I have been providing excellent care for over 5 years with great compassion. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients age of 5 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems. I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
I am currently accepting new patients**** I have been providing excellent care for over 5 years with great compassion. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients 7 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems. I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
I am currently accepting new patients**** I have been providing excellent care for over 5 years with great compassion. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients 7 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems. I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
Yemi Lasaki (Now Accepting New Patients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Hi, I'm Yemi. Do you often feel persistently sad? Is finding joy in your daily activities a struggle? Are you frequently anxious? As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I support individuals with mood and other psychiatric disorders. I'm passionate about helping you manage depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other comorbidities. We'll work together to uncover underlying issues, evaluate your symptoms, and consider any coexisting conditions in a comfortable environment. Then, we'll develop a personalized treatment plan with evidence-based methods and/or medication to manage your care.
Hi, I'm Yemi. Do you often feel persistently sad? Is finding joy in your daily activities a struggle? Are you frequently anxious? As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I support individuals with mood and other psychiatric disorders. I'm passionate about helping you manage depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other comorbidities. We'll work together to uncover underlying issues, evaluate your symptoms, and consider any coexisting conditions in a comfortable environment. Then, we'll develop a personalized treatment plan with evidence-based methods and/or medication to manage your care.
Kirsten Book
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
**Please email me to set up an appointment ** I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I integrate a combination of evidence- based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and other cognitive modalities to aid in recovery. I am confident that combining medication with other treatments is more effective than medication alone. I also believe a multidisciplinary treatment team approach with therapists and other professionals is optimal for the patient's recovery.
**Please email me to set up an appointment ** I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I integrate a combination of evidence- based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and other cognitive modalities to aid in recovery. I am confident that combining medication with other treatments is more effective than medication alone. I also believe a multidisciplinary treatment team approach with therapists and other professionals is optimal for the patient's recovery.
Dr. Evelyn Ukpolo (Now Accepting New Patients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563 (Online Only)
Hi there! I'm Evelyn, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing respectful and compassionate care for individuals struggling with mood disorders and other mental health concerns. Are you plagued by persistent sadness, anxiety, or ADHD? Do you feel lost and uncertain about how to find joy in your life again? Together, we'll explore the underlying causes of your specific symptoms, assess any co-occurring conditions, and create a client-centric treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.
Hi there! I'm Evelyn, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing respectful and compassionate care for individuals struggling with mood disorders and other mental health concerns. Are you plagued by persistent sadness, anxiety, or ADHD? Do you feel lost and uncertain about how to find joy in your life again? Together, we'll explore the underlying causes of your specific symptoms, assess any co-occurring conditions, and create a client-centric treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.
Faderin Boti (Now Accepting New Patients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563 (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Faderin. Are you frequently anxious or fearful? Do you you suffer from persistent sadness or struggling to find joy? I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and help individuals with mood and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am passionate about helping people manage depression, anxiety, ADHD and any other comorbidities.
Hi there, I'm Faderin. Are you frequently anxious or fearful? Do you you suffer from persistent sadness or struggling to find joy? I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and help individuals with mood and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am passionate about helping people manage depression, anxiety, ADHD and any other comorbidities.
Kimberly Lopez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN, ADHDCCS, CCTP-II, DNP
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist Intensive Training (ASDCS), Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), Certified Complex PTSD and Trauma (CCTP-II). I assess, diagnose, and treat all ages of life; from pediatric to geriatric. Each patient is unique in what their needs are, and will be treated to meet those needs.
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist Intensive Training (ASDCS), Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), Certified Complex PTSD and Trauma (CCTP-II). I assess, diagnose, and treat all ages of life; from pediatric to geriatric. Each patient is unique in what their needs are, and will be treated to meet those needs.
Holistic behavioral and TMS therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, FPA
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Dr. Lawrence Abah, DNP, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider.
Dr. Lawrence Abah, DNP, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider.
See more therapy options for 60563
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 60563
20+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in 60563 who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
86% | Anxiety |
86% | ADHD |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
57% | Borderline Personality (BPD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | Aetna |
70% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 60563 see their clients
86% | In Person and Online | |
14% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 60563?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.