Psychiatrists in Belvidere, IL
![Photo of Leena Vala, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e16e900b-77e0-4e10-b6ce-129fef8fcd84/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jeannette Collier, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ede55f61-cae3-4d7c-8a38-64088f65660e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I believe the mind and body are connected, and my approach to psychiatric care is to treat your symptoms without over-medicating. I use an integrative approach to combine nutrition, supplements, and medications to reach remission of your mental health disorder and improve your quality of life. You shouldn't have to struggle with your mental health and help is available.
Welcome! I believe the mind and body are connected, and my approach to psychiatric care is to treat your symptoms without over-medicating. I use an integrative approach to combine nutrition, supplements, and medications to reach remission of your mental health disorder and improve your quality of life. You shouldn't have to struggle with your mental health and help is available.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff2df666-6d18-4b56-988b-3dbc54f158be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Kimberly Baldwin - Better Me Psychiatry LLC, BC, FPA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6436091-aed3-43dc-8b6c-650e3c023ed1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Better Me Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC, FPA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Belvidere, IL 61008 (Online Only)
Life can be challenging, demanding, overwhelming and sometimes painful. But suffering does not have to be a part of your life. Mental health symptoms are unique to each individual. In addition there are many factors to consider when seeking mental health services. There are so many treatment options and approaches, it can be confusing. Together we will explore your specific needs and find the treatment options that work for you.
Life can be challenging, demanding, overwhelming and sometimes painful. But suffering does not have to be a part of your life. Mental health symptoms are unique to each individual. In addition there are many factors to consider when seeking mental health services. There are so many treatment options and approaches, it can be confusing. Together we will explore your specific needs and find the treatment options that work for you.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Amanda Lantow, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f24639b-9220-4d4e-bd09-f32b2b0f173c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I find the greatest fulfillment in assisting individuals who are grappling with anxiety or depression and find themselves in a state of stagnation. Guiding them to envision possibilities beyond their current challenges is immensely rewarding. These individuals aspire to feel better, break free from the constraints of anxiety and depression, and regain the confidence to pursue their goals unhindered. Ultimately, their journey involves building self-esteem, unraveling the barriers that hold them back, and ascending to a more gratifying and fulfilling life.
I find the greatest fulfillment in assisting individuals who are grappling with anxiety or depression and find themselves in a state of stagnation. Guiding them to envision possibilities beyond their current challenges is immensely rewarding. These individuals aspire to feel better, break free from the constraints of anxiety and depression, and regain the confidence to pursue their goals unhindered. Ultimately, their journey involves building self-esteem, unraveling the barriers that hold them back, and ascending to a more gratifying and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Jessica Stier, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae585bb6-648e-4893-ade2-1f77c40625b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist with expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I earned my medical degree from Rosalind Franklin University and completed my psychiatry residency training at the University of Chicago. As a general psychiatrist, I have experience working with a wide range of psychiatric disorders and with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. I understand that many people have difficulty accessing psychiatric services. Therefore, my practice utilizes a virtual platform to provide patients located in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin with high quality and confidential care.
I am a psychiatrist with expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I earned my medical degree from Rosalind Franklin University and completed my psychiatry residency training at the University of Chicago. As a general psychiatrist, I have experience working with a wide range of psychiatric disorders and with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. I understand that many people have difficulty accessing psychiatric services. Therefore, my practice utilizes a virtual platform to provide patients located in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin with high quality and confidential care.
![Photo of Amanda Hahn, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2e30318-e2ac-458e-8745-eaaf9675fb88/1/320x400.png)
Amanda Hahn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108 (Online Only)
Women and birthing people face unique mental health challenges. Mandy specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry, valuing a holistic approach to mental health. She provides comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Her services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. With additional training in integrative psychiatry, Mandy offers natural treatment options for those who prefer to limit medication.
Women and birthing people face unique mental health challenges. Mandy specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry, valuing a holistic approach to mental health. She provides comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Her services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. With additional training in integrative psychiatry, Mandy offers natural treatment options for those who prefer to limit medication.
![Photo of Amanda Lantow, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca62b499-b1bb-4072-9871-0fb41cf1c986/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Lantow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
Not accepting new clients
Many of us have times during which we just cannot quite feel okay, whether it’s anxiety, depression, insomnia, dementia, or any number of other mental health difficulties. I would like to help you get to a mentally good place again! I do not seek to simply add medication to your daily life but to assess and determine if medication would be something that could help. I like to work with my patients, encouraging them to be a part of the decision-making process when it comes to medications. I will work with you to get you feeling the best you can.
Many of us have times during which we just cannot quite feel okay, whether it’s anxiety, depression, insomnia, dementia, or any number of other mental health difficulties. I would like to help you get to a mentally good place again! I do not seek to simply add medication to your daily life but to assess and determine if medication would be something that could help. I like to work with my patients, encouraging them to be a part of the decision-making process when it comes to medications. I will work with you to get you feeling the best you can.
![Photo of Chime Ajiere - Zoelife psychiatric services, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e732855f-83f1-4145-94f9-523af0e2f970/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zoelife psychiatric services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Cherry Valley, IL 61016
We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders.
We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders.
![Photo of Sarah Bier, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dac097d-3933-46d9-a00f-ed9774cc289b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Bier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108 (Online Only)
Women and birthing people face unique mental health challenges. Sarah specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry, valuing a holistic approach to mental health. She provides comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Her services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. With additional training in integrative psychiatry, Sarah offers natural treatment options for those who prefer to limit medication, addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PMDD.
Women and birthing people face unique mental health challenges. Sarah specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry, valuing a holistic approach to mental health. She provides comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Her services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. With additional training in integrative psychiatry, Sarah offers natural treatment options for those who prefer to limit medication, addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PMDD.
![Photo of Juliette Murphy, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23346260-82b8-4825-af48-cddc81b30ec0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Juliette Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
I want to know your story. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my job to make sure you feel seen and heard in order to provide the best care possible. I have been in the field of mental health since 2018, working in both the inpatient and outpatient sectors. I have experience across the lifespan working with a broad range of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, and serious mental illness. Together, we will collaborate using a biopsychosocial approach to meet your individual goals.
I want to know your story. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my job to make sure you feel seen and heard in order to provide the best care possible. I have been in the field of mental health since 2018, working in both the inpatient and outpatient sectors. I have experience across the lifespan working with a broad range of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, and serious mental illness. Together, we will collaborate using a biopsychosocial approach to meet your individual goals.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Sarah Skea, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65e020b1-d1db-4e96-8da1-6351a66d0e3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Skea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60175 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Sarah Skea, MSN, ARPN, PMHNP-BC, is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Board Certification. Sarah graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, known for having one of the best nursing programs in the country. With twelve years of experience, Sarah is an expert in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and life adjustments. Sarah is empathic and patient-centered. She approaches treatment with the belief that each client is an individual, with the goal of helping you regain a sense of wholeness. Sarah specializes in seeing children, adolescents, and adults.
Accepting New Clients. Sarah Skea, MSN, ARPN, PMHNP-BC, is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Board Certification. Sarah graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, known for having one of the best nursing programs in the country. With twelve years of experience, Sarah is an expert in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and life adjustments. Sarah is empathic and patient-centered. She approaches treatment with the belief that each client is an individual, with the goal of helping you regain a sense of wholeness. Sarah specializes in seeing children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of Inna Dilman, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d8e9f67-f360-49f3-bfe5-62873fd73a11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inna Dilman is nationally certified and state licensed to practice medical and psychiatric care in the state of Illinois. She has over 10 years of experience including preventive, medical and mental health care. She has a special interest in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and insomnia. She is a compassionate and empathetic provider that strives to understand and heal the whole patient. As a PA, she is skilled in providing individualized, judgement free and comprehensive care using both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical approaches, as well as offering brief psychotherapy. For more information: www.psychwellnessgroup.com
Inna Dilman is nationally certified and state licensed to practice medical and psychiatric care in the state of Illinois. She has over 10 years of experience including preventive, medical and mental health care. She has a special interest in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and insomnia. She is a compassionate and empathetic provider that strives to understand and heal the whole patient. As a PA, she is skilled in providing individualized, judgement free and comprehensive care using both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical approaches, as well as offering brief psychotherapy. For more information: www.psychwellnessgroup.com
![Photo of Dr. Pamela Solowski (Addiction Treatment), MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7b24cbc-8165-416c-8ac0-5fce25067557/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 Philippe Silva Tapon, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4715ee97-d1ae-4fa1-9f10-841f4e59b61c/2/320x400.png)
Narrative medicine is a practice, described by Dr. Rita Charon in 2001, in which your story, the one I listen to and for which I create a narrative, not only establishes a healing bond of humanity, held in the utmost confidence, but gives rise also to a diagnosis and to a treatment. You tell your story, I write it down and offer it back so you can in turn reflect and refine it, and once that shared story is told, I have found, healing begins.
Narrative medicine is a practice, described by Dr. Rita Charon in 2001, in which your story, the one I listen to and for which I create a narrative, not only establishes a healing bond of humanity, held in the utmost confidence, but gives rise also to a diagnosis and to a treatment. You tell your story, I write it down and offer it back so you can in turn reflect and refine it, and once that shared story is told, I have found, healing begins.
![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 Mia Chapple - Peace of Serenity Psychiatry, MSN CNP, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89c42327-d034-44e0-8049-847b07d2b6b9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peace of Serenity Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN CNP, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
We care. At Peace of Serenity Psychiatry, we have over 15 years specializing in helping children and families ages 0-75 with ASD, ADHD, DMDD, ODD, Psychotic Disorders, and Trauma. We also can assist families with children with Depression and Anxiety Related Disorders. We understand how challenging it can be to navigate through mental health issues for people of all ages. Our aim is to restore peace and understanding in your workplace by working with schools, teachers, support providers, employers, and other liaisons to "Restore Calm." We also help parents navigate IEPs and 504 Plans through school advocacy and consulting support.
We care. At Peace of Serenity Psychiatry, we have over 15 years specializing in helping children and families ages 0-75 with ASD, ADHD, DMDD, ODD, Psychotic Disorders, and Trauma. We also can assist families with children with Depression and Anxiety Related Disorders. We understand how challenging it can be to navigate through mental health issues for people of all ages. Our aim is to restore peace and understanding in your workplace by working with schools, teachers, support providers, employers, and other liaisons to "Restore Calm." We also help parents navigate IEPs and 504 Plans through school advocacy and consulting support.
![Photo of Davena Beal, DNP, APN, PMH-NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54897c1b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
After 20 years of working in the mental health field, I have learned that although psychotherapy can be a life changing experience, it is not always enough to adequately manage mental health symptoms. When patients are still experiencing debilitating symptoms of depression, anxiety, impulsiveness, or difficulty with concentration, then psychotropic medications may be beneficial. Medications may bring patients relief from overwhelming worry or panic symptoms, low mood and motivation, and mood swings or irritability.
After 20 years of working in the mental health field, I have learned that although psychotherapy can be a life changing experience, it is not always enough to adequately manage mental health symptoms. When patients are still experiencing debilitating symptoms of depression, anxiety, impulsiveness, or difficulty with concentration, then psychotropic medications may be beneficial. Medications may bring patients relief from overwhelming worry or panic symptoms, low mood and motivation, and mood swings or irritability.
![Photo of Samuel Assam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4097d3a1-ade1-4095-a393-ac482d45318a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to enhancing mental well-being. I began my journey in the field of psychiatry in 2007, and my passion for healing continues to drive my practice. I believe in addressing mental health from every angle and I’m committed to providing comprehensive care that considers the interconnectedness of our lives and relationships.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to enhancing mental well-being. I began my journey in the field of psychiatry in 2007, and my passion for healing continues to drive my practice. I believe in addressing mental health from every angle and I’m committed to providing comprehensive care that considers the interconnectedness of our lives and relationships.
![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.
See more therapy options for Belvidere
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Belvidere, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Belvidere, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Suicidal Ideation |
75% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Belvidere, IL see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Belvidere?
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.