Psychiatrists in Dunlap, IL
![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
Dunlap, IL 61525 (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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf5f42f1-d6db-4f14-93b7-db2b1f72b870/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Layne D. Stambaugh, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94ce939b-6545-44b6-b794-31241b65900a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Layne D. Stambaugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61603
My name is Layne Stambaugh and I am a Board Certified- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the care of adults and children struggling with acute and chronic conditions, including: PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorders and Schizophrenia. I operate an independent virtual practice called Braintique.
My name is Layne Stambaugh and I am a Board Certified- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the care of adults and children struggling with acute and chronic conditions, including: PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorders and Schizophrenia. I operate an independent virtual practice called Braintique.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35d66910-274a-45e9-9b5e-9102af647021/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61603 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
![Photo of Minna Jinn O#39;leary - MJO Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7f8ef89-0ef1-4c8b-9afb-0c718e4dbc57/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Minna Jinn O'Leary, MD and Welcome to MJO Psychiatry. I am a general adult psychiatrist who is willing to work with you to achieve your goals in mental health. I wholeheartedly believe in working as a team with you, your general practitioner and therapist. I was trained at Loyola University Medical Center and I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I run my practice with a focus on compassion, confidentiality, and a comprehensive approach.
My name is Minna Jinn O'Leary, MD and Welcome to MJO Psychiatry. I am a general adult psychiatrist who is willing to work with you to achieve your goals in mental health. I wholeheartedly believe in working as a team with you, your general practitioner and therapist. I was trained at Loyola University Medical Center and I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I run my practice with a focus on compassion, confidentiality, and a comprehensive approach.
![Photo of Elizabeth D'Amore, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bd46403-555b-4ef8-8c21-baaa0c609e1d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth D'Amore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Are you a woman who is seeking support while navigating depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PMDD, perimenopause, fertility treatments, family planning, pregnancy or infant loss, pregnancy & postpartum? I have been surrounded by strong women who have weathered the storm despite every sign telling them to quit. I am a fierce believer that every woman has a unique story and within every woman is a power that is unmatched by anything else in this world. I love this work because I get to witness & help women explore and discover their capacity to love and heal. I would consider it a privilege to be a part of your journey.
Are you a woman who is seeking support while navigating depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PMDD, perimenopause, fertility treatments, family planning, pregnancy or infant loss, pregnancy & postpartum? I have been surrounded by strong women who have weathered the storm despite every sign telling them to quit. I am a fierce believer that every woman has a unique story and within every woman is a power that is unmatched by anything else in this world. I love this work because I get to witness & help women explore and discover their capacity to love and heal. I would consider it a privilege to be a part of your journey.
![Photo of Ingrid Suazo, DHA, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ee3aa30-4a44-4db8-9e6d-286bcf866bd2/1/320x400.png)
Ingrid Suazo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DHA, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61602 (Online Only)
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years. Driven by her passion and a strong commitment to helping people achieve their life goals and potential, she takes pride in providing the best quality care for her clients to transform their mindset to live their best lives.
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years. Driven by her passion and a strong commitment to helping people achieve their life goals and potential, she takes pride in providing the best quality care for her clients to transform their mindset to live their best lives.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/770c28bd-0f20-4345-ba59-257e96b93d1a/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 Aleksandr Zverinsky - Brave Health, MD, MSW, LCSW, PhD, FNP-C, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd479d59-7485-42db-a01a-1176fe114c14/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brave Health
Psychiatrist, MD, MSW, LCSW, PhD, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61604 (Online Only)
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists and nurse practitioners with expertise in treating mental health. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists and nurse practitioners with expertise in treating mental health. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Illinois Telepsychiatry, MBBS, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14cde23b-3ad6-4f03-ab8d-f97f57c01030/1/320x400.jpeg)
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MBBS, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61603 (Online Only)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
![Photo of Sherri Bowald, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ab60e80-3ed0-4b22-a004-93ceaae7a373/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer short wait time for appointment and convenient telehealth or office psychiatric care utilizing a professional approach. As a Psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurse, I offer expertise from a 20-plus nursing background. With the ability to prescribe psychotropic medication and/or controlled substances if needed, my ability to assist clients through a rough patch or chronic disability is enhanced. No need to wait 3-4 months to see a psychiatrist for urgent mental health needs!
I offer short wait time for appointment and convenient telehealth or office psychiatric care utilizing a professional approach. As a Psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurse, I offer expertise from a 20-plus nursing background. With the ability to prescribe psychotropic medication and/or controlled substances if needed, my ability to assist clients through a rough patch or chronic disability is enhanced. No need to wait 3-4 months to see a psychiatrist for urgent mental health needs!
![Photo of Tara Livingston, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9200cecc-7ff1-4ac5-bbca-1dfd8d6854e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a Full Practice Authority Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, board certified to provide medication management for a variety of mental health issues. I've been working in the mental health field since 2010 and as a PMHNP since 2019. I am non-judgmental and here to help others.
I'm a Full Practice Authority Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, board certified to provide medication management for a variety of mental health issues. I've been working in the mental health field since 2010 and as a PMHNP since 2019. I am non-judgmental and here to help others.
Online Psychiatrists
![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 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
Bolingbrook, IL 60490 (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 Ruhina Ali, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/330b4afa-3d6f-44d4-a7af-d8a5214577b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ruhina N. Ali is a Psychiatrist in Illinois. She studied General Psychiatry and completed a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Virginia Tech Carilion Clinic and graduated from St. Matthew's College of Medicine. Dr. Ali looks at the whole person, the family, and all environmental factors when she approaches patient care. She uses the latest scientific research and evidence-based practice to build a treatment plan with the patient and family. And Dr. Ali uses compassion and empathy to help patients and families heal.
Dr. Ruhina N. Ali is a Psychiatrist in Illinois. She studied General Psychiatry and completed a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Virginia Tech Carilion Clinic and graduated from St. Matthew's College of Medicine. Dr. Ali looks at the whole person, the family, and all environmental factors when she approaches patient care. She uses the latest scientific research and evidence-based practice to build a treatment plan with the patient and family. And Dr. Ali uses compassion and empathy to help patients and families heal.
![Photo of Stacey Davis, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3582157-a8bc-4838-982b-5f21b0968dec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
I believe in patient-led care. As your provider, I am here to listen and to answer any questions that you may have.
I believe in patient-led care. As your provider, I am here to listen and to answer any questions that you may have.
![Photo of Semone West, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10a8a1ac-d867-4725-b5e9-847fbfc7efc1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Semone West, MD is board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. She attended medical school at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, MA. She completed a psychiatry residency at Duke University in Durham, NC; and a child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine in Chicago, while also serving as an associate professor.
Semone West, MD is board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. She attended medical school at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, MA. She completed a psychiatry residency at Duke University in Durham, NC; and a child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine in Chicago, while also serving as an associate professor.
![Photo of Maricela Perez, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e896977-eb40-43b5-adc9-06107c5b9715/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maricela Perez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60505
After 30 years of healthcare experience, it's become very evident that there is no separation between wellness of the body and wellness of the mind. Unfortunately in most healthcare settings, only the wellness of the body is assessed. My philosophy is to assess the whole person. And in order to achieve this, I listen to my patients' concerns, but most importantly, I listen to their stories.I believe in providing patient centered care in a professional, yet compassionate nature, with emphasis of balance of mind, body, and spirit.
After 30 years of healthcare experience, it's become very evident that there is no separation between wellness of the body and wellness of the mind. Unfortunately in most healthcare settings, only the wellness of the body is assessed. My philosophy is to assess the whole person. And in order to achieve this, I listen to my patients' concerns, but most importantly, I listen to their stories.I believe in providing patient centered care in a professional, yet compassionate nature, with emphasis of balance of mind, body, and spirit.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d5d3a40-1751-48fa-a58a-a1b07e7ddf22/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
![Photo of Diana Wells, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7789a278-c81f-43c0-a349-f043969f5410/1/320x400.png)
Diana Wells is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She started her medical journal from the University of St. Francis, Joliet IL, where she obtained a bachelorette of science in Nursing. She practiced as a Registered Nurse for three years focusing on behavioral/mental health. She gained a vast knowledge in mental health disorders and Emergency medicine before advancing her career as an Advanced Practice Nurse with a specialty in psychiatric. Her practicum/residency experiences were in an inpatient/outpatient setting, and Telehealth.
Diana Wells is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She started her medical journal from the University of St. Francis, Joliet IL, where she obtained a bachelorette of science in Nursing. She practiced as a Registered Nurse for three years focusing on behavioral/mental health. She gained a vast knowledge in mental health disorders and Emergency medicine before advancing her career as an Advanced Practice Nurse with a specialty in psychiatric. Her practicum/residency experiences were in an inpatient/outpatient setting, and Telehealth.
See more therapy options for Dunlap
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dunlap, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Dunlap, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Dunlap, IL see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dunlap?
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.