Psychiatrists in Bloomingdale, IL
![Photo of Allison Sikorsky - At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/522e3b2e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomingdale, IL 60108
To see available appointments and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com, and click the Book Online button. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind—no need to call into an office and wait in a crowded waiting. With over a decade in psychiatric mental health practice, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to provide convenience with the ability to text us if needed between visits and receive compassionate care.
To see available appointments and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com, and click the Book Online button. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind—no need to call into an office and wait in a crowded waiting. With over a decade in psychiatric mental health practice, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to provide convenience with the ability to text us if needed between visits and receive compassionate care.
Jacqueline Nabukeera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bloomingdale, IL 60108
If you're tired of struggling with depression, anxiety, or other conditions/issues that have been getting in your way of living life fully, I can help. I take a holistic and integrative treatment approach with my patients. I take a lot of time to fully understand my patients need and goals. Practicing psychiatry is more than just prescribing medications, it's about getting to the heart of the matter and finding which treatments work best for my patients, as well as educating them about safer and often more effective treatments that can successfully treat their issues and conditions. I welcome the opportunity to work together!
If you're tired of struggling with depression, anxiety, or other conditions/issues that have been getting in your way of living life fully, I can help. I take a holistic and integrative treatment approach with my patients. I take a lot of time to fully understand my patients need and goals. Practicing psychiatry is more than just prescribing medications, it's about getting to the heart of the matter and finding which treatments work best for my patients, as well as educating them about safer and often more effective treatments that can successfully treat their issues and conditions. I welcome the opportunity to work together!
![Photo of Marlene Tang, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70bd43a0-4aed-48a6-82b5-8465fe6d9d54/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marlene Tang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Bloomingdale, IL 60108
It is through empathy that we are able to see in the eyes of another, listen with the ears of another and feel with the heart of another ( Alfred Adler). I am a board-certified and licensed Psychiatry-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take pride in taking my time to get to know my patient's concerns and goals for the visits, offering mental health evaluations & medication management. My practice is open to clients 16-64 yo with particular interest in anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD & Suboxone maintenance treatment.
It is through empathy that we are able to see in the eyes of another, listen with the ears of another and feel with the heart of another ( Alfred Adler). I am a board-certified and licensed Psychiatry-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take pride in taking my time to get to know my patient's concerns and goals for the visits, offering mental health evaluations & medication management. My practice is open to clients 16-64 yo with particular interest in anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD & Suboxone maintenance treatment.
![Photo of Armanda Keci, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75742f07-fea6-4b12-84a6-a7344efcd553/1/320x400.jpeg)
Treating holistically, listening empathetically, and developing relationships are important in helping my patients with their journey in mental health.
Treating holistically, listening empathetically, and developing relationships are important in helping my patients with their journey in mental health.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Shannon Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1728a8af-9a60-401e-978e-2831c0def8e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
Shannon is a Board-Certified PMHNP with 18 years of nursing experience. She is qualified and experienced in treating patients across the lifespan with a wide array of mental health challenges. She uses a collaborative, holistic approach to care which centers the patient’s treatment goals and preferences. Driven by a commitment to enhancing mental healthcare accessibility and addressing barriers to treatment, Shannon is at the forefront of advancing compassionate and effective care within the field.Her practice is guided by the Theory of Human Caring, which fosters an authentic and genuine connection with individuals under her care.
Shannon is a Board-Certified PMHNP with 18 years of nursing experience. She is qualified and experienced in treating patients across the lifespan with a wide array of mental health challenges. She uses a collaborative, holistic approach to care which centers the patient’s treatment goals and preferences. Driven by a commitment to enhancing mental healthcare accessibility and addressing barriers to treatment, Shannon is at the forefront of advancing compassionate and effective care within the field.Her practice is guided by the Theory of Human Caring, which fosters an authentic and genuine connection with individuals under her care.
![Photo of Jess Casey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1308f8c0-9e98-4166-a19a-f3e8e3b417b1/1/320x400.png)
I am genuinely passionate about helping individuals navigate through life's challenges. Everyone is on a unique journey with their own background, so I am committed to creating a welcoming and supportive space to make this process as smooth as possible. In my approach, I focus on empathy and active listening, relying on practices that have been proven to work. I have extensive experience working with a wide range of mental health issues, from anxiety and depression to trauma. Together, we will build personalized treatment plans that empowers you to achieve your goals, recognizing that there's no one-size-fits-all solution.
I am genuinely passionate about helping individuals navigate through life's challenges. Everyone is on a unique journey with their own background, so I am committed to creating a welcoming and supportive space to make this process as smooth as possible. In my approach, I focus on empathy and active listening, relying on practices that have been proven to work. I have extensive experience working with a wide range of mental health issues, from anxiety and depression to trauma. Together, we will build personalized treatment plans that empowers you to achieve your goals, recognizing that there's no one-size-fits-all solution.
![Photo of Dr. Bill Papagiannopoulos, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cada0cb-6088-4f3a-be39-03bfcff9d6dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bill Papagiannopoulos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60195 (Online Only)
Dr. Papagiannopoulos offers weekly psychotherapy, with optional concurrent medication management. His approach involves the formation of a dependable relationship characterized by understanding and trust. Over time, people can come to understand themselves more deeply, which can help lead to change, reduced stress levels, improved relationships, and increased quality of life. He uses a variety of approaches, including psychodynamic therapy, CBT, family systems theory, person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, and existential therapy. Weekly 45-minute appointments allow a deeper understanding of the patient’s concerns.
Dr. Papagiannopoulos offers weekly psychotherapy, with optional concurrent medication management. His approach involves the formation of a dependable relationship characterized by understanding and trust. Over time, people can come to understand themselves more deeply, which can help lead to change, reduced stress levels, improved relationships, and increased quality of life. He uses a variety of approaches, including psychodynamic therapy, CBT, family systems theory, person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, and existential therapy. Weekly 45-minute appointments allow a deeper understanding of the patient’s concerns.
![Photo of Dominique Holmes, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4211fccf-da3d-4a32-8dbb-a75bdd3e28a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dominique Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I understand the importance of treating the whole person. Sometimes life can feel so complex that we forget laughter can be the best medicine. What makes you laugh? For me it’s a good stand up comedy show with one of my favorite comedians. What makes you happy? For me it’s a clear schedule and my comfy couch. What motivates you? For me it’s touching lives one by one even it’s it’s via tele-visit.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I understand the importance of treating the whole person. Sometimes life can feel so complex that we forget laughter can be the best medicine. What makes you laugh? For me it’s a good stand up comedy show with one of my favorite comedians. What makes you happy? For me it’s a clear schedule and my comfy couch. What motivates you? For me it’s touching lives one by one even it’s it’s via tele-visit.
![Photo of Dr. Utpal Dhruve, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8c369e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
PeaklifeMD.com is a boutique clinic focused on life optimization. Our members feel they are not performing to their true potential at work, school, or home. Together, we will work to identify your concerns, goals, and strengths in order to make substantial progress towards achieving a better you.
PeaklifeMD.com is a boutique clinic focused on life optimization. Our members feel they are not performing to their true potential at work, school, or home. Together, we will work to identify your concerns, goals, and strengths in order to make substantial progress towards achieving a better you.
![Photo of Arturo Ventura, MSN, RN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72d6cd75-d6e4-4873-8f30-4f91f6e43938/1/320x400.jpeg)
Arturo Ventura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555 (Online Only)
Art Ventura, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, has more than 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience. Art completed his nursing school at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, obtained his masters degree at Chamberlain College of Nursing and his postmasters certification in psychiatric nursing at Regis College. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine, Art provides a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions particularly in evaluating and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, insomnia, dementia, OCD and other issues.
Art Ventura, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, has more than 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience. Art completed his nursing school at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, obtained his masters degree at Chamberlain College of Nursing and his postmasters certification in psychiatric nursing at Regis College. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine, Art provides a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions particularly in evaluating and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, insomnia, dementia, OCD and other issues.
![Photo of Beata Janton - Balanced Psychiatric Solutions, Beata Janton, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a09fa720-a884-4ec1-aeb0-409c8069fa7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Balanced Psychiatric Solutions, Beata Janton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188 (Online Only)
I am a double board-certified nurse practitioner in family and psychiatric practice. I have been in practice since 2015, initially in family practice. I worked for a few years in a community health care clinic with patients from underserved populations. I became aware that my patients have complex medical healthcare problems and often have severe mental illnesses that were not treated. I realized that I needed to add a psychiatric specialty to become a competent psychiatric provider. I completed my psychiatric degree from the University of St. Francis. After graduation, I started to work with the underserved population again.
I am a double board-certified nurse practitioner in family and psychiatric practice. I have been in practice since 2015, initially in family practice. I worked for a few years in a community health care clinic with patients from underserved populations. I became aware that my patients have complex medical healthcare problems and often have severe mental illnesses that were not treated. I realized that I needed to add a psychiatric specialty to become a competent psychiatric provider. I completed my psychiatric degree from the University of St. Francis. After graduation, I started to work with the underserved population again.
![Photo of Danielle Stern, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc0322c1-d68b-4cfe-9ef7-3d0b8ac0cb59/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Danielle Stern is a trained adult psychiatrist. She completed her undergraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University and earned her medical degree from the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. She specializes in evidence-based psychiatric medication management of adults, with a focus on treatment of anxiety and depression without the use of controlled substances.
Dr. Danielle Stern is a trained adult psychiatrist. She completed her undergraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University and earned her medical degree from the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. She specializes in evidence-based psychiatric medication management of adults, with a focus on treatment of anxiety and depression without the use of controlled substances.
![Photo of Pooja J Patel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a25b3b27-2aac-41df-99cc-3a6a7e6f05b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
![Photo of Nandni Gupta, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a1115e6-46d6-4332-a456-c02ab219841e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have several years' experience in treating adults with psychiatric disorders. I will work with you to create a customizable plan to treat your psychiatric illness, that includes not just medications but also lifestyle modifications where appropriate. My goal is to help you reach your optimal functioning and I understand that this process looks different for everyone. Since past experiences can contribute to current behaviors, we can also discuss negative thought processes during treatment.
I have several years' experience in treating adults with psychiatric disorders. I will work with you to create a customizable plan to treat your psychiatric illness, that includes not just medications but also lifestyle modifications where appropriate. My goal is to help you reach your optimal functioning and I understand that this process looks different for everyone. Since past experiences can contribute to current behaviors, we can also discuss negative thought processes during treatment.
![Photo of Rana J Clarizio, MSN, CDCES , PMHNP, DNP stu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f4b598c-bd89-453f-b3ec-bf666629ac38/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rana J Clarizio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CDCES , PMHNP, DNP stu
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60189
Rana Clarizio, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), Diabetes Specialist (CDCES) With over 30 years of experience as a nurse, Rana Clarizio is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Diabetes Specialist (CDCES) dedicated to integrating the mind and body for holistic balance. Her practice is built on the foundation of providing empathetic mental health support to her patients. Rana sees patients from age 13 through the end of life, offering her expertise and compassionate care to those who need it most.
Rana Clarizio, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), Diabetes Specialist (CDCES) With over 30 years of experience as a nurse, Rana Clarizio is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Diabetes Specialist (CDCES) dedicated to integrating the mind and body for holistic balance. Her practice is built on the foundation of providing empathetic mental health support to her patients. Rana sees patients from age 13 through the end of life, offering her expertise and compassionate care to those who need it most.
![Photo of Chloe El-Atoum, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ec509dc-2cd1-4f66-a679-5ed1860919fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chloe El-Atoum is a board-certified general psychiatrist. She completed her undergraduate studies in Biology and Psychology at Syracuse University in Syracuse, NY and earned her medical degree from the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo in Buffalo, NY. She completed her general psychiatry residency at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo in Buffalo, NY.
Dr. Chloe El-Atoum is a board-certified general psychiatrist. She completed her undergraduate studies in Biology and Psychology at Syracuse University in Syracuse, NY and earned her medical degree from the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo in Buffalo, NY. She completed her general psychiatry residency at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo in Buffalo, NY.
![Photo of Basirat Sulaiman, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8e83629-7912-4614-b622-ee09d1d75e9c/2/320x400.png)
Basirat Sulaiman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lombard, IL 60148
My passion is comprehensive healthcare and a commitment to promoting well-being. I am a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) awaiting my board certification in mental health as a PMHNP. I specialize in providing personalized and compassionate care. I have experience in addressing conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, and PTSD. I am dedicated to providing holistic care that considers the individual within the context of their family, community, and broader societal influences. I am also committed to addressing systemic issues, particularly the impact of racism on mental health outcomes.
My passion is comprehensive healthcare and a commitment to promoting well-being. I am a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) awaiting my board certification in mental health as a PMHNP. I specialize in providing personalized and compassionate care. I have experience in addressing conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, and PTSD. I am dedicated to providing holistic care that considers the individual within the context of their family, community, and broader societal influences. I am also committed to addressing systemic issues, particularly the impact of racism on mental health outcomes.
![Photo of Dorysel Diaz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7eae8d8-ad7b-4e1e-8f0a-f352a6d60a01/1/320x400.png)
Dorysel Diaz Diaz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
My diverse experiences contribute to a holistic approach to addressing the complex needs of my patients. I am passionate about making a positive impact on the well-being of those I serve. My typical process involves fostering a therapeutic alliance, conducting thorough assessments, and collaboratively developing personalized treatment plans.
My diverse experiences contribute to a holistic approach to addressing the complex needs of my patients. I am passionate about making a positive impact on the well-being of those I serve. My typical process involves fostering a therapeutic alliance, conducting thorough assessments, and collaboratively developing personalized treatment plans.
![Photo of David Lott - Lott Behavioral Health and Springview Ketamine, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63cdf5af-3aea-4035-a892-f2b6977504af/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lott Behavioral Health and Springview Ketamine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Lott Behavioral Health offers a personalized approach to treatment, developing a custom treatment plan to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you are seeking help for addiction, depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, we're here to help. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation for yourself or your loved one.
Lott Behavioral Health offers a personalized approach to treatment, developing a custom treatment plan to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you are seeking help for addiction, depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, we're here to help. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation for yourself or your loved one.
![Photo of Michelle Heyland, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f788f2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Heyland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523 (Online Only)
Please email to set up an initial appointment. I am a doctorally prepared, board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have experience treating a variety of conditions such as such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and thought disorders. I specialize in depression and anxiety. I am also an Associate Professor at Rush University. I am accepting new adult (18+) patients at my practice. A key part of my role is medication management. However, I also spend time getting to know you as a person and determining the aspects of your life that are contributing to the way you feel.
Please email to set up an initial appointment. I am a doctorally prepared, board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have experience treating a variety of conditions such as such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and thought disorders. I specialize in depression and anxiety. I am also an Associate Professor at Rush University. I am accepting new adult (18+) patients at my practice. A key part of my role is medication management. However, I also spend time getting to know you as a person and determining the aspects of your life that are contributing to the way you feel.
See more therapy options for Bloomingdale
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bloomingdale, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Bloomingdale, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Medication Management |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Bloomingdale, IL see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bloomingdale?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.