Psychiatrists in 60613
![Photo of Rebecca Gilfillan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9301e85c-da3e-4800-a1ff-6e6c93ab1a54/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Rebecca Gilfillan is a board certified psychiatrist, with expertise in a wide variety of psychiatric disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. She received her psychiatric training at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and is currently an attending psychiatrist and the psychiatric medical student site director at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center. She has a strong background in both medication management and psychotherapy, and believes in tailoring treatments to the individual, considering holistic and lifestyle changes equally as important as medications.
Dr. Rebecca Gilfillan is a board certified psychiatrist, with expertise in a wide variety of psychiatric disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. She received her psychiatric training at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and is currently an attending psychiatrist and the psychiatric medical student site director at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center. She has a strong background in both medication management and psychotherapy, and believes in tailoring treatments to the individual, considering holistic and lifestyle changes equally as important as medications.
![Photo of Andrew Richardson, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b208deb-2e07-454f-8e56-3c8268c54f33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I am excited to help individuals explore their mental wellness, and find the best modality to improve their quality of life. My background includes a Bachelor's of Science in Exercise Physiology, Master's of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Primary Care. My training in psychiatry includes the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of acute and chronic mental health conditions, along with crisis management.
I am excited to help individuals explore their mental wellness, and find the best modality to improve their quality of life. My background includes a Bachelor's of Science in Exercise Physiology, Master's of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Primary Care. My training in psychiatry includes the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of acute and chronic mental health conditions, along with crisis management.
![Photo of Jonathan Kolakowski, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/944cb16e-b463-4881-9f1c-27b6b3e9f374/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist, I am dedicated to empathetic and patient-focused care. My mission is to use my extensive training and experience in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry to treat patients of all ages in the Chicago community.
As a psychiatrist, I am dedicated to empathetic and patient-focused care. My mission is to use my extensive training and experience in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry to treat patients of all ages in the Chicago community.
![Photo of Mira Ebalo, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16473664-1b47-4e49-8e3f-40ec6a151e0c/1/320x400.png)
My passion and appreciation for mental health began at a young age. My mother worked as an inpatient behavioral health Registered Nurse, which provided a roof over our heads and food on our table. As a family, we respected the field not only for what it provided for us but also for teaching us that all human beings need access to the mental health care that they deserve. Watching my mom, I learned that all people from all cultures and all walks of life need compassionate care because our ideas, stories, memories, sanity, and communication skills unify us as human beings.
My passion and appreciation for mental health began at a young age. My mother worked as an inpatient behavioral health Registered Nurse, which provided a roof over our heads and food on our table. As a family, we respected the field not only for what it provided for us but also for teaching us that all human beings need access to the mental health care that they deserve. Watching my mom, I learned that all people from all cultures and all walks of life need compassionate care because our ideas, stories, memories, sanity, and communication skills unify us as human beings.
![Photo of Ajit Kalayil, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbe91fa6-112a-433a-8835-3aed1056aaf2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ajit Kalayil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Appointments available as soon as 24 hours. Ajit Kalayil is trained to use both medication and talk therapy to treat all psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and perinatal mental health. He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of emotional and mental health conditions at his clinic in Chicago, Illinois. Kalayil works with patients from a broad range of backgrounds. He also has a particular interest and experience in LGBTQIA+ issues. All patients are treated equally and in a non-judgemental, warm, and strictly confidential environment.
Appointments available as soon as 24 hours. Ajit Kalayil is trained to use both medication and talk therapy to treat all psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and perinatal mental health. He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of emotional and mental health conditions at his clinic in Chicago, Illinois. Kalayil works with patients from a broad range of backgrounds. He also has a particular interest and experience in LGBTQIA+ issues. All patients are treated equally and in a non-judgemental, warm, and strictly confidential environment.
![Photo of Trevor Cavness, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5406cfe9-36b4-4576-ba78-1e560a3498d8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Trevor Cavness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
I look forward to working with individuals to explore their mental health and to improve their well-being based on their individual goals by utilizing a holistic, collaborative, person-centered approach. My educational background includes a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing and a Master’s of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health. I am also board-certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
I look forward to working with individuals to explore their mental health and to improve their well-being based on their individual goals by utilizing a holistic, collaborative, person-centered approach. My educational background includes a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing and a Master’s of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health. I am also board-certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
![Photo of Steffanie Meeks (Addiction Treatment), NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d8106ff-fa36-451f-8a30-cdb1f6ed358b/1/320x400.png)
Steffanie Meeks (Addiction Treatment)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug or alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug or alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
![Photo of Aiden Nicholson, APN, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8988516c-8398-45d3-8c25-1f2a272eb4be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aiden Nicholson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, CNM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
Trauma-informed and passionate about mental health, I bring personal and professional experience to folx facing anxiety, depression, and difficulties navigating the many challenges of life. Whether you are facing infertility, IVF/assisted reproduction, pregnancy loss, difficult and high-risk pregnancy, anxiety/depression during and after pregnancy, previous trauma, chronic pain, low sexual desire and sexual pain/ dysfunction, unhealthy relationships with food, or midlife changes, I want to support you to be your best self. I promise to provide a safe judgment-free space to persons seeking medication management and support.
Trauma-informed and passionate about mental health, I bring personal and professional experience to folx facing anxiety, depression, and difficulties navigating the many challenges of life. Whether you are facing infertility, IVF/assisted reproduction, pregnancy loss, difficult and high-risk pregnancy, anxiety/depression during and after pregnancy, previous trauma, chronic pain, low sexual desire and sexual pain/ dysfunction, unhealthy relationships with food, or midlife changes, I want to support you to be your best self. I promise to provide a safe judgment-free space to persons seeking medication management and support.
![Photo of Vesna Pirec, MD PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59fea6d2-1d85-4db8-8584-07657f5ddebd/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist who has been working in both academic and private sectors for the past 20 years in Chicago area. My areas of expertise are reproductive psychiatry (pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, infertility), as well as mood and anxiety disorders in both genders. My extensive experience, knowledge and multicultural sensitivity, have shaped my approach to treatment as individualized and holistic. I am combining integrative methods with psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic modalities to address complex mental health difficulties and treat them successfully. My practice is via tele-psychiatry only.
I am a board certified psychiatrist who has been working in both academic and private sectors for the past 20 years in Chicago area. My areas of expertise are reproductive psychiatry (pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, infertility), as well as mood and anxiety disorders in both genders. My extensive experience, knowledge and multicultural sensitivity, have shaped my approach to treatment as individualized and holistic. I am combining integrative methods with psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic modalities to address complex mental health difficulties and treat them successfully. My practice is via tele-psychiatry only.
![Photo of Kalyan N Rao, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28d9076d-3cd9-4d1b-8d57-20215f408db7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a specialization in addiction psychiatrist. I collaboratively work with my patients to provide the most personalized care directed toward their overall wellbeing using a holistic approach deploying all the modern tools available including but not limited to medication when appropriate, individual supportive psychotherapy, and motivational interviewing.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a specialization in addiction psychiatrist. I collaboratively work with my patients to provide the most personalized care directed toward their overall wellbeing using a holistic approach deploying all the modern tools available including but not limited to medication when appropriate, individual supportive psychotherapy, and motivational interviewing.
![Photo of Saba Syed - Saba Syed, M.D. S.C., Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/440fb6bc-833a-4bae-a8f8-df551f02f960/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatrist in private practice in Chicago. I specialize in working with adults living with mood and anxiety disorders, which can significantly impact one’s quality of life. I tailor treatments to meet the individual needs and comfort level of each person. I pride myself on offering people new ways to cope during difficult times in their lives, as well as treating chronic conditions that can prevent an individual from functioning at their highest potential.
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatrist in private practice in Chicago. I specialize in working with adults living with mood and anxiety disorders, which can significantly impact one’s quality of life. I tailor treatments to meet the individual needs and comfort level of each person. I pride myself on offering people new ways to cope during difficult times in their lives, as well as treating chronic conditions that can prevent an individual from functioning at their highest potential.
![Photo of Jacqueline Arant, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3a570ed-675b-4d14-903a-88dccf877c52/2/320x400.png)
I put patients at ease by creating a comfortable, supportive space to address their concerns. I want patients to leave feeling good about the treatment they receive and look forward to returning. Throughout my career, I worked in hospital systems and clinics helping people cope with complex neurological and behavioral conditions. I serve adult clients struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, and more.
I put patients at ease by creating a comfortable, supportive space to address their concerns. I want patients to leave feeling good about the treatment they receive and look forward to returning. Throughout my career, I worked in hospital systems and clinics helping people cope with complex neurological and behavioral conditions. I serve adult clients struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, and more.
![Photo of Brittnai Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14b6905c-dd66-437c-825c-30fd5e539c93/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittnai Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
![Photo of Juan Romero-Gaddi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13d5c1d8-cf7e-4ca8-a157-ab3c0b8d09a8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there, I’m Dr. Gaddi, a physician and psychiatrist. I was born and raised in Venezuela, where I attended medical school. I completed my training as a psychiatrist at the University of Illinois in Peoria. I am the founder of Equal Mental Health, a practice dedicated to providing mental health services to the LGBTQ+ community and allies in the Northalsted neighborhood (formerly known as Boystown) in Chicago.
Hello there, I’m Dr. Gaddi, a physician and psychiatrist. I was born and raised in Venezuela, where I attended medical school. I completed my training as a psychiatrist at the University of Illinois in Peoria. I am the founder of Equal Mental Health, a practice dedicated to providing mental health services to the LGBTQ+ community and allies in the Northalsted neighborhood (formerly known as Boystown) in Chicago.
![Photo of Rita Vaitauskaite, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c890323-cf72-4511-bf71-68520930e3c0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rita Vaitauskaite
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
You are not alone, and your mental health matters! Navigating life's complexities can be daunting, especially when anxiety or depression weigh heavily on your shoulders. My goal is to empower you on your journey toward mental wellness, granting you the tools and support needed to regain control and embrace a fulfilling life.
You are not alone, and your mental health matters! Navigating life's complexities can be daunting, especially when anxiety or depression weigh heavily on your shoulders. My goal is to empower you on your journey toward mental wellness, granting you the tools and support needed to regain control and embrace a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Illinois Telepsychiatry, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/beee96d0-aabe-48cb-b9c6-53c02e178c96/1/320x400.jpeg)
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613 (Online Only)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
![Photo of Nicole Demikis-Bayron, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d48f104-3d07-44fd-9fea-82363131ffd3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Physician Assistant and have been providing psychiatry services for 2 years in outpatient, in home and treatment settings. I see adults 18 and over and address depression, mood disorders, disordered eating, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, insomnia, personality disorders, and other mental health differences.
I am a Physician Assistant and have been providing psychiatry services for 2 years in outpatient, in home and treatment settings. I see adults 18 and over and address depression, mood disorders, disordered eating, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, insomnia, personality disorders, and other mental health differences.
![Photo of Joanna Cunningham, ARNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/379b2482-a4f8-4bae-8d9f-e1e8fa8893ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Cunningham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
*I strive to provide compassionate, understanding and patient driven care, with each patient I see. Our goals are to help them reach their optimum mental health. We use the latest, most effective assessment and clinical tools to provide excellent, sound judgement in treatment protocols. I go to great lengths to listen and learn how to help each, specific patient along their journey. No one will be treated like a number.
*I strive to provide compassionate, understanding and patient driven care, with each patient I see. Our goals are to help them reach their optimum mental health. We use the latest, most effective assessment and clinical tools to provide excellent, sound judgement in treatment protocols. I go to great lengths to listen and learn how to help each, specific patient along their journey. No one will be treated like a number.
![Photo of Theresa Towle, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e3c2410-179d-4e36-8d1d-38bc1022d997/1/320x400.jpeg)
Theresa Towle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
Greetings! My name is Dr. Theresa Towle. I have decades of experience providing holistic care to help heal hurt, process trauma, build resilience, and find balance. As a dual-certified family & psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner, I use evidence-based techniques to treat mind and body, including addressing the role of the gut-brain axis in anxiety, depression, trauma, attention issues, weight loss and a host of other issues. I am dedicated to working with you develop a holistic approach to care.
Greetings! My name is Dr. Theresa Towle. I have decades of experience providing holistic care to help heal hurt, process trauma, build resilience, and find balance. As a dual-certified family & psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner, I use evidence-based techniques to treat mind and body, including addressing the role of the gut-brain axis in anxiety, depression, trauma, attention issues, weight loss and a host of other issues. I am dedicated to working with you develop a holistic approach to care.
![Photo of Elizabeth Adekoya, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f2788d3-a329-4ff2-9350-53d94fe7069b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Elizabeth. Do you you suffer from persistent sadness? Are you struggling to find joy in your day to day life? Or do you find yourself constantly worrying, afraid or anxious? Are you in search of a provider that is both compassionate and adequately skilled to help you treat and manage your symptoms? I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner. I help adult individuals with mood disorders and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am compassionate about helping you manage your depression, anxiety and any other comorbidities.
Hi there, I'm Elizabeth. Do you you suffer from persistent sadness? Are you struggling to find joy in your day to day life? Or do you find yourself constantly worrying, afraid or anxious? Are you in search of a provider that is both compassionate and adequately skilled to help you treat and manage your symptoms? I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner. I help adult individuals with mood disorders and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am compassionate about helping you manage your depression, anxiety and any other comorbidities.
See more therapy options for 60613
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 60613
20+
Average cost per session
$210
Psychiatrists in 60613 who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | ADHD |
65% | Medication Management |
62% | Stress |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in 60613 see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
62% | Female | |
27% | Male | |
11% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 60613?
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.