Psychiatrists in Algonquin, IL
![Photo of Abigail Wilson, APRN, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6073d1aa-4c5e-416a-b465-59e8c7278b70/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abigail Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102 (Online Only)
I have expertise in treating and diagnosing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/ trauma, OCD, and sleep/wakefulness disorders. Additionally, I offer support for individuals struggling with obesity and related mental health concerns. When treating any condition, I prioritize creating mutual goals with my patients. Oftentimes, patients visit a psychiatric provider and don’t feel they had a voice in their treatment. My passion is helping my patients achieve their goals. In other words, your goals are my goals too. I want you to feel heard and feel we are working towards what you want in treatment.
I have expertise in treating and diagnosing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/ trauma, OCD, and sleep/wakefulness disorders. Additionally, I offer support for individuals struggling with obesity and related mental health concerns. When treating any condition, I prioritize creating mutual goals with my patients. Oftentimes, patients visit a psychiatric provider and don’t feel they had a voice in their treatment. My passion is helping my patients achieve their goals. In other words, your goals are my goals too. I want you to feel heard and feel we are working towards what you want in treatment.
![Photo of Michelle Gosnell, APN CNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b070da7d-f6b8-416b-83a1-9f8210416cb6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Gosnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN CNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children 6 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children 6 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
![Photo of Tricia Ward, RN, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52fa8400-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management to adults and adolescents with concerns in all areas of mental health including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management to adults and adolescents with concerns in all areas of mental health including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
![Photo of Grant Tyler, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44455049-c138-4443-a934-60caab8722f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 10 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals, Couples, Families and I address Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mood Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Grant Tyler is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with almost 20 years of service in the medical profession. Having experience as a FNP, Grant has a strong foundation in both primary care and preventative medicine.
I am a Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 10 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals, Couples, Families and I address Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mood Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Grant Tyler is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with almost 20 years of service in the medical profession. Having experience as a FNP, Grant has a strong foundation in both primary care and preventative medicine.
![Photo of Dennis Brightwell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9f3e918-4d34-4544-925d-f7b9cda58bd5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 49 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address Addiction / Substance Abuse, Cognitive Disorders, Mood Disorder, Schizophrenia, Sleep Disorders.
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 49 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address Addiction / Substance Abuse, Cognitive Disorders, Mood Disorder, Schizophrenia, Sleep Disorders.
![Photo of Jeff Bondora - BZA Behavioral Health - Arlington Heights office, MEd, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/890d8c13-c167-4820-9969-a407bfab6c7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
BZA Behavioral Health - Arlington Heights office
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60156
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Robert G Kohn, DO FAAN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa3f2e13-2c6c-43f3-a7f8-60b64348ae93/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer the medical knowledge learned from a thirty year career in Neuropsychiatry. The brain and mind work in harmony seeking balance. The difficulty that you are experiencing, whether this affects your emotions, thinking or behavior, is something I may be able to help. Life is both complicated and simple. I would like to help.
I offer the medical knowledge learned from a thirty year career in Neuropsychiatry. The brain and mind work in harmony seeking balance. The difficulty that you are experiencing, whether this affects your emotions, thinking or behavior, is something I may be able to help. Life is both complicated and simple. I would like to help.
![Photo of Jennie Krull, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57cd65f7-06de-44d2-8a63-4fc4949a08ef/2/320x400.png)
Jennie Krull
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Jennie Krull, MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who also is Board Certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has experience treating patients with acute and chronic psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from outpatient clinics to nursing homes to addiction treatment centers. She specializes in treating ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, PTSD/trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, serious mental illness, and addiction.
Jennie Krull, MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who also is Board Certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has experience treating patients with acute and chronic psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from outpatient clinics to nursing homes to addiction treatment centers. She specializes in treating ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, PTSD/trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, serious mental illness, and addiction.
![Photo of Grace Roxas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/219a9452-a819-4530-9619-74c656400ab0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Grace Roxas is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and board certified family nurse practitioner. Her treatment approach begins with patient education and using evidence-based treatment options.
Grace Roxas is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and board certified family nurse practitioner. Her treatment approach begins with patient education and using evidence-based treatment options.
![Photo of Idowu O Oshokoya, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68c862ff-636b-4483-b53e-f5c569352e5e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Idowu O Oshokoya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake In The Hills, IL 60102 (Online Only)
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.
![Photo of Jacqueline Nabukeera, BSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5cafad0-f5a1-49f0-842d-72453038db7f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Nabukeera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Jackie Nabukeera, PMHNP-BC, brings compassionate expertise as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving diverse populations aged 15 to 65+ in Illinois. With a holistic approach, Jackie addresses a wide spectrum of mental health concerns, offering empathetic listening and evidence-based interventions tailored to each individual's needs. Drawing from a rich background as a generalist, Jackie is adept at navigating the complexities of mental health, empowering clients to embark on their journey towards wellness.
Jackie Nabukeera, PMHNP-BC, brings compassionate expertise as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving diverse populations aged 15 to 65+ in Illinois. With a holistic approach, Jackie addresses a wide spectrum of mental health concerns, offering empathetic listening and evidence-based interventions tailored to each individual's needs. Drawing from a rich background as a generalist, Jackie is adept at navigating the complexities of mental health, empowering clients to embark on their journey towards wellness.
![Photo of Allyson Guzman Monelli, APRN, MSN, FNP-BC, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/719c2a71-afcb-437c-ba5b-d1846286639f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Allyson Guzman Monelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, FNP-BC, FPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Hey there, I'm Ally- and yes, you guessed it, I prefer Ally over the whole "Allyson" thing. I've been a nurse practitioner for a few years now, but let me take you on a journey from where it all began. Picture this: I was a mere 15-year old diving into the world of healthcare as a dietary aide at Alexian Village. Yeah, that's right, I started right at the bottom, soaking up the experiences like a sponge. Fast forward a bit, and I found myself rocking new titles of CNA, PCT, and eventually a full-fledged registered nurse. It's like that song "Started from the Bottom," and trust me, I can hum it in my sleep.
Hey there, I'm Ally- and yes, you guessed it, I prefer Ally over the whole "Allyson" thing. I've been a nurse practitioner for a few years now, but let me take you on a journey from where it all began. Picture this: I was a mere 15-year old diving into the world of healthcare as a dietary aide at Alexian Village. Yeah, that's right, I started right at the bottom, soaking up the experiences like a sponge. Fast forward a bit, and I found myself rocking new titles of CNA, PCT, and eventually a full-fledged registered nurse. It's like that song "Started from the Bottom," and trust me, I can hum it in my sleep.
![Photo of Devika Patel, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec807b24-4c97-44f0-9671-5b866ba498ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Abigail Wilson, APRN, PMHNP , RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77f45e8a-35ff-42a0-b4b9-abaf776579b5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abigail Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP , RN
Verified Verified
Lake In The Hills, IL 60102 (Online Only)
I have expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/ trauma, OCD, and sleep/wakefulness disorders. Additionally, I offer support for individuals struggling with obesity and related mental health concerns. when treating any condition, I prioritize creating mutual goals with my patients. Oftentimes, patients visit a psychiatric provider and don’t feel they had a voice in their treatment. My passion is helping my patients achieve their goals. In other words, your goals are my goals too. I want you to feel heard and feel we are working towards what you want in treatment.
I have expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/ trauma, OCD, and sleep/wakefulness disorders. Additionally, I offer support for individuals struggling with obesity and related mental health concerns. when treating any condition, I prioritize creating mutual goals with my patients. Oftentimes, patients visit a psychiatric provider and don’t feel they had a voice in their treatment. My passion is helping my patients achieve their goals. In other words, your goals are my goals too. I want you to feel heard and feel we are working towards what you want in treatment.
![Photo of Khyati V Patel, MSN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58ca355e-ebb2-4871-bd05-a809b02e2191/2/320x400.jpeg)
Khyati V Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60120
Khyati Patel is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner. She has experienced working with adults and adolescents. She has exceptional clinical skills in treating both pediatric and adult population. She is specializing in Adhd, Anxiety, Depression, and Ptsd. Khyati, approaches her patient Holistic rather than focusing on their diagnosis. She believes it is important to understand the patient holistically to receive benefits from the treatment. Listening to patients’ concerns is one of her empower skills that she carries with her.
Khyati Patel is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner. She has experienced working with adults and adolescents. She has exceptional clinical skills in treating both pediatric and adult population. She is specializing in Adhd, Anxiety, Depression, and Ptsd. Khyati, approaches her patient Holistic rather than focusing on their diagnosis. She believes it is important to understand the patient holistically to receive benefits from the treatment. Listening to patients’ concerns is one of her empower skills that she carries with her.
![Photo of Deena Schwartz - Altasano Integrative Wellness Center, MSN, CRNA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eecd5bf8-f70f-4629-8e25-4b9cb2885a16/1/320x400.png)
Altasano Integrative Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Are you trying to manage an issue such as treatment resistant depression, insomnia, brain fog, fatigue, loss of libido or trichotillomania/body-focused repetitive disorders, without the use of conventional psychiatric medications? Mental health conditions like these affect overall quality life and impact the way you engage in relationships and in the world, and ultimately, interfere with your ability to reach your full potential. If you think that mental and physical health are interconnected and that complex mind-body health issues sometimes require non-conventional treatments, you might find the solutions you are seeking with us.
Are you trying to manage an issue such as treatment resistant depression, insomnia, brain fog, fatigue, loss of libido or trichotillomania/body-focused repetitive disorders, without the use of conventional psychiatric medications? Mental health conditions like these affect overall quality life and impact the way you engage in relationships and in the world, and ultimately, interfere with your ability to reach your full potential. If you think that mental and physical health are interconnected and that complex mind-body health issues sometimes require non-conventional treatments, you might find the solutions you are seeking with us.
![Photo of Alyssa Ellis, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/557f89c3-a6bb-4c3d-b848-3841ec47c69d/1/320x400.png)
I am a provider that comes from a long-standing background in nursing with various experiences in multiple health care settings. Throughout my years of working with patients, it has become obvious how mental health effects people, not only mentally and emotionally, but physically as well.
I am a provider that comes from a long-standing background in nursing with various experiences in multiple health care settings. Throughout my years of working with patients, it has become obvious how mental health effects people, not only mentally and emotionally, but physically as well.
![Photo of Tana Lombardo, DNP, APRN , FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d6bfa24-fbf4-452e-8c0e-ae1294a3ce20/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tana Lombardo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Hi there, my name is Tana and I am a Rush trained, certified nurse practitioner. Before becoming a nurse practitioner I worked bedside in the hospital as a nurse for over 15 years. This is where I developed a deep passion for helping others heal. My goal is to help you feel your very best. I want to hear your input and listen to your preferences when coming up with a plan that best fits your needs. I believe that working together and having an open & honest relationship is the best way to get you back to enjoying your life again.
Hi there, my name is Tana and I am a Rush trained, certified nurse practitioner. Before becoming a nurse practitioner I worked bedside in the hospital as a nurse for over 15 years. This is where I developed a deep passion for helping others heal. My goal is to help you feel your very best. I want to hear your input and listen to your preferences when coming up with a plan that best fits your needs. I believe that working together and having an open & honest relationship is the best way to get you back to enjoying your life again.
![Photo of Lin Lu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e701156-8b70-4995-ad71-7a1f71b45e9a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lu specializes in Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry, who has been practicing since 2010. She also has a PhD in Microbiology & Immunology. Her extensive training in both fields leads her to a unique understanding of the mind and body. She believes in people's potential and strives to develop a personal connection with them.
Dr. Lu specializes in Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry, who has been practicing since 2010. She also has a PhD in Microbiology & Immunology. Her extensive training in both fields leads her to a unique understanding of the mind and body. She believes in people's potential and strives to develop a personal connection with them.
![Photo of Faith Caster - Independence Health & Therapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0436253-7514-4705-95f8-2088bac61ab7/1/320x400.png)
Independence Health & Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Welcome to Independence Health & Therapy, where compassionate care meets expertise. Located in Woodstock, Illinois, we offer comprehensive behavioral health services through both in-person and hybrid telehealth sessions. Our dedicated team of Psychiatrists, Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors, and Licensed Clinical Social Workers are committed to providing exceptional therapy and medication management services to clients of all ages.
Welcome to Independence Health & Therapy, where compassionate care meets expertise. Located in Woodstock, Illinois, we offer comprehensive behavioral health services through both in-person and hybrid telehealth sessions. Our dedicated team of Psychiatrists, Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors, and Licensed Clinical Social Workers are committed to providing exceptional therapy and medication management services to clients of all ages.
See more therapy options for Algonquin
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Algonquin, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Algonquin, IL who prioritize treating:
83% | Depression |
67% | Anxiety |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Medication Management |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
50% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
83% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Algonquin, IL see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Algonquin?
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.