Psychiatrists in De Kalb County, IL
![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 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 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
Sycamore, IL 60178
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 Danielle Silva, NP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f39a743e-6660-4f87-99ee-d33805c83a61/1/320x400.png)
Hello, I'm Danielle Silva, a licensed and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with four years of experience. I specialize in providing compassionate care and evidence-based therapies to support individuals in managing mental health challenges. I'm dedicated to collaborating with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and enhance overall well-being. I typically work with patients across the lifespan who are struggling with a variety of mental health conditions.
Hello, I'm Danielle Silva, a licensed and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with four years of experience. I specialize in providing compassionate care and evidence-based therapies to support individuals in managing mental health challenges. I'm dedicated to collaborating with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and enhance overall well-being. I typically work with patients across the lifespan who are struggling with a variety of mental health conditions.
![Photo of Bethany Potempa - EQ Perspectives, APN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6111112f-1fa7-4478-a40f-6216ac832b8b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I use evidenced based practice therapies and medications to help my clients live a more productive and fulfilling life. I take a biopsychosocial approach to uncovering where the feelings of disconnection may be coming from. I treat and diagnosis depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, substance abuse and personality disorders.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I use evidenced based practice therapies and medications to help my clients live a more productive and fulfilling life. I take a biopsychosocial approach to uncovering where the feelings of disconnection may be coming from. I treat and diagnosis depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, substance abuse and personality disorders.
![Photo of Muhammad Nouman Azhar - Shifa Therapeutics LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43a2c519-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
SHIFA THERAPEUTICS LLC HAS IN OFFICE AND TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR PSYCHIATRIC AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION TREATMENT. INITIAL APPOINTMENT MUST BE IN OFFICE (630) 761-5670.
SHIFA THERAPEUTICS LLC HAS IN OFFICE AND TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR PSYCHIATRIC AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION TREATMENT. INITIAL APPOINTMENT MUST BE IN OFFICE (630) 761-5670.
![Photo of Olukemi Ajayi - AZE Mind & Wellness Center, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/687dacef-f991-4c32-a2ea-c3fe08298011/1/320x400.jpeg)
AZE Mind & Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115 (Online Only)
I have a Master of Science in Nursing graduate of Walden University and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner across the Lifespan. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am responsible for providing my patients with superior, evidence-based care to improve their quality of life. I place a lot of value on developing long-lasting relationships with people.
I have a Master of Science in Nursing graduate of Walden University and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner across the Lifespan. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am responsible for providing my patients with superior, evidence-based care to improve their quality of life. I place a lot of value on developing long-lasting relationships with people.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Eitan D Schwarz, MD, DLFAPA, FAACAP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4326f82f-7cb2-40f2-935e-462001ec53c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer uniquely broad and deep expert experience and judgement, accumulated during a career marked by decades of consistent compassionate professional competence, helping folks of all ages with stresses at work, school, or in relationships, or unhappy with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma. Expect me to send you medical and other questionnaires to bring with you so we can be thorough and remain focused on your needs. You can usually count on some relief and a clear plan when you leave. Most of my patients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first week or two and sustained improvement thereafter.
I offer uniquely broad and deep expert experience and judgement, accumulated during a career marked by decades of consistent compassionate professional competence, helping folks of all ages with stresses at work, school, or in relationships, or unhappy with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma. Expect me to send you medical and other questionnaires to bring with you so we can be thorough and remain focused on your needs. You can usually count on some relief and a clear plan when you leave. Most of my patients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first week or two and sustained improvement thereafter.
![Photo of Saad Khan, F, N, P, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ebc02bb-95b5-41c4-bbe9-6a702d820cf9/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am Family Nurse Practitioner certified in the treatment of substance abuse / opioid use disorder using Suboxone. It can treat addiction and withdrawal that can arise from Heroin, Norco, Vicodin, Oxycodone, Fentanyl, and other medications that are in the Opioid family. I do Suboxone home induction so you do not have to go to the hospital or a detox center to get started. I also manage Anxiety, Depression. ADHD, PTSD, OCD, & Alcohol use disorder. Finally, I also do Ketamine nasal spray (Spravato) in Schaumburg, IL.
I am Family Nurse Practitioner certified in the treatment of substance abuse / opioid use disorder using Suboxone. It can treat addiction and withdrawal that can arise from Heroin, Norco, Vicodin, Oxycodone, Fentanyl, and other medications that are in the Opioid family. I do Suboxone home induction so you do not have to go to the hospital or a detox center to get started. I also manage Anxiety, Depression. ADHD, PTSD, OCD, & Alcohol use disorder. Finally, I also do Ketamine nasal spray (Spravato) in Schaumburg, IL.
![Photo of Ashley George, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93cb7ff4-bf18-4658-bd20-05d04cebb533/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe every patient represents so much more than just a name on a chart. They are individuals with unique stories, backgrounds and challenges and I consider it a privilege to be part of their mental health journey. I am passionate about delivering the best care tailored to each person's needs and developing a relationship with each patient to help them meet their goals.
I believe every patient represents so much more than just a name on a chart. They are individuals with unique stories, backgrounds and challenges and I consider it a privilege to be part of their mental health journey. I am passionate about delivering the best care tailored to each person's needs and developing a relationship with each patient to help them meet their goals.
![Photo of Mandi Troli, PMHNP, APN, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf0e88f3-b7df-4a75-9535-d3e8a01a2524/1/320x400.png)
Mandi Troli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN, FNP
Verified Verified
Clifton, IL 60927 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Illinois. I received my Masters in Nursing degree from University of St. Francis in Joliet Illinois at the same time I received my post-masters degree as a Family Nurse practitioner (FNP-BC) and have been in practice as an FNP for over 11 years.
Hi! I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Illinois. I received my Masters in Nursing degree from University of St. Francis in Joliet Illinois at the same time I received my post-masters degree as a Family Nurse practitioner (FNP-BC) and have been in practice as an FNP for over 11 years.
![Photo of Dana Eason - Becoming Behavioral Health & Wellness PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5384834a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Becoming Behavioral Health & Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
NOW accepting NEW Patients. Facing life’s challenges are difficult enough without struggling to find a provider that will take the time to listen & partner with you in your care. Well...search no more! Dana believes providing compassion & building a strong rapport are the foundations to creating a trusting partnership. She doesn't believe in "cookie cutter" approaches. Rather, Dana tailors each partners treatment plan according to their specific needs & stressors. She utilizes several different types of intervention including psychotherapy, psychotropic medication & naturopathy to help partners achieve an optimal quality of life.
NOW accepting NEW Patients. Facing life’s challenges are difficult enough without struggling to find a provider that will take the time to listen & partner with you in your care. Well...search no more! Dana believes providing compassion & building a strong rapport are the foundations to creating a trusting partnership. She doesn't believe in "cookie cutter" approaches. Rather, Dana tailors each partners treatment plan according to their specific needs & stressors. She utilizes several different types of intervention including psychotherapy, psychotropic medication & naturopathy to help partners achieve an optimal quality of life.
![Photo of Sharyl Balkin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9b9e63f-818e-4b56-b6b9-2cc7c940e27a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I attended the University of Florida for my undergraduate degree and went on to complete a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies at Florida State. I earned Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry in 2022. Every visit, I aim to supply an inclusive, transparent, and team-based environment. I am a LGBTIQA+ ally.
I attended the University of Florida for my undergraduate degree and went on to complete a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies at Florida State. I earned Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry in 2022. Every visit, I aim to supply an inclusive, transparent, and team-based environment. I am a LGBTIQA+ ally.
![Photo of Harmony Rich, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5347ca76-25b2-4cb4-92fb-edddbf76b1ab/3/320x400.jpeg)
Harmony Rich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Getting help shouldn't be hard! Finding the right provider can often be worse than online dating. Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will spend time getting to know you, your unique needs, and actually explain treatment recommendations? I take an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. I focus on the whole person and use evidence-based treatments to guide care. I value the patient experience and want every client to feel fully informed and comfortable with their treatment recommendations. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgemental environment to help support your mental wellness goals.
Getting help shouldn't be hard! Finding the right provider can often be worse than online dating. Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will spend time getting to know you, your unique needs, and actually explain treatment recommendations? I take an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. I focus on the whole person and use evidence-based treatments to guide care. I value the patient experience and want every client to feel fully informed and comfortable with their treatment recommendations. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgemental environment to help support your mental wellness goals.
![Photo of Karriann Longtin, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c4eddba-338b-4b1c-9c55-5994840e9677/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karriann Longtin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2008. As a seasoned healthcare professional with a successful track record, Karriann has expanded her expertise and is embarking on an enriching journey as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Her commitment to providing exceptional care remains unwavering, now focused on the dynamic realm of mental health. Karriann's diverse background equips her with a holistic understanding of healthcare, allowing her to approach mental health with a multidimensional perspective.
Karriann Longtin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2008. As a seasoned healthcare professional with a successful track record, Karriann has expanded her expertise and is embarking on an enriching journey as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Her commitment to providing exceptional care remains unwavering, now focused on the dynamic realm of mental health. Karriann's diverse background equips her with a holistic understanding of healthcare, allowing her to approach mental health with a multidimensional perspective.
![Photo of Stephanie Onyeforo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a168124d-bb73-4db4-a19b-517070b5012d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Onyeforo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Stephanie. I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who provides high-quality psychiatric services to children aged ten and above and adolescent and adult psychiatric services.
Hello, I'm Stephanie. I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who provides high-quality psychiatric services to children aged ten and above and adolescent and adult psychiatric services.
![Photo of Dr. Magdalena Malloy, DNP, PMH, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eaea2b42-be08-4418-b29a-e5f03b5facdc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Magdalena Malloy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMH, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601 (Online Only)
To schedule an appointment, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I provide psychiatric prescription services for children, teens, and adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, attention deficit, and many other psychiatric disorders.
To schedule an appointment, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I provide psychiatric prescription services for children, teens, and adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, attention deficit, and many other psychiatric disorders.
![Photo of Kimberly Hunt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3761d5c1-f908-4f18-a49c-bb4936624366/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ideal client seeks support, coping tools, and medication management for mental health challenges. They aim to improve daily functioning and find relief from distressing symptoms, driven by a desire for better quality of life and overall well-being.
Ideal client seeks support, coping tools, and medication management for mental health challenges. They aim to improve daily functioning and find relief from distressing symptoms, driven by a desire for better quality of life and overall well-being.
![Photo of Monica Stout, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51677dc2-841e-4aed-ba2e-d00fbdeae97b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Monica Stout
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60619
If you are in Illinois, Arizona or Texas-I am accepting new clients: Are you experiencing: Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Fatigue, Irritability, Mood swings, Overwhelming work stress, Sleep difficulties, Lack motivation, Trouble focusing, Concentrating or any other mental health issues? I am dedicated to supporting you in achieving all of your wellness goals. I am a Doctor of Nursing practice double board-certified Psychiatric mental health and Family nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. I provide comprehensive evidence-based, holistic healthcare utilizing both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy.
If you are in Illinois, Arizona or Texas-I am accepting new clients: Are you experiencing: Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Fatigue, Irritability, Mood swings, Overwhelming work stress, Sleep difficulties, Lack motivation, Trouble focusing, Concentrating or any other mental health issues? I am dedicated to supporting you in achieving all of your wellness goals. I am a Doctor of Nursing practice double board-certified Psychiatric mental health and Family nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. I provide comprehensive evidence-based, holistic healthcare utilizing both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Kirsten Book - Kirsten Book, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61b96c20-7f12-485e-ab38-5b13c68ed9d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kirsten Book, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Licensed in AZ, WA, and IL. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My treatment philosophy includes a combination of evidence-based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and other cognitive modalities to aid in recovery. I am confident that combining medication with other treatments is more effective than medication alone. I also believe a multidisciplinary treatment team approach with therapists and other professionals is optimal for the patient's recovery.
Licensed in AZ, WA, and IL. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My treatment philosophy includes a combination of evidence-based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and other cognitive modalities to aid in recovery. I am confident that combining medication with other treatments is more effective than medication alone. I also believe a multidisciplinary treatment team approach with therapists and other professionals is optimal for the patient's recovery.
See more therapy options for De Kalb County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in De Kalb County, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in De Kalb County, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
86% | Anxiety |
86% | ADHD |
86% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
86% | Medication Management |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in De Kalb County, IL see their clients
86% | In Person and Online | |
14% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in De Kalb County?
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.