Psychiatrists in Elburn, IL
![Photo of Carol Lynn Craig, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0432e810-423b-4ad5-bf8e-fffe8c4af458/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Carol Lynn Craig is a Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 1991. She has a B.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Michigan, an M.D. from Wayne State University School of Medicine, and an M. P. H. from Northern Illinois University. Dr. Craig approaches care of her patients from a holistic biopsychosocial model which allows her to develop a treatment plan that helps her patients to function at their highest optimal potential. Outside of work, Dr. Craig enjoys practicing Vinyasa Yoga. She enjoys cooking and has become quite the Vegan Chef and Vegan Baker.
Dr. Carol Lynn Craig is a Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 1991. She has a B.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Michigan, an M.D. from Wayne State University School of Medicine, and an M. P. H. from Northern Illinois University. Dr. Craig approaches care of her patients from a holistic biopsychosocial model which allows her to develop a treatment plan that helps her patients to function at their highest optimal potential. Outside of work, Dr. Craig enjoys practicing Vinyasa Yoga. She enjoys cooking and has become quite the Vegan Chef and Vegan Baker.
![Photo of Jaya Luis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69696839-13d7-4c96-8c83-4f889b66b4c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jaya Luis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. Jaya offers mental health treatment and support that promotes healing and growth, while empowering clients to take control of their own mental health journey. Outside of work, Jaya passionately follows/practices Christian beliefs and doctrine. Her day begins and ends with prayer and connection with her Creator. This keeps her grounded. Her hunger for family time never ends! She enjoys going on bikes rides and walks with family, it gives them a chance to connect. She has a gym membership and likes to work out.
Jaya Luis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. Jaya offers mental health treatment and support that promotes healing and growth, while empowering clients to take control of their own mental health journey. Outside of work, Jaya passionately follows/practices Christian beliefs and doctrine. Her day begins and ends with prayer and connection with her Creator. This keeps her grounded. Her hunger for family time never ends! She enjoys going on bikes rides and walks with family, it gives them a chance to connect. She has a gym membership and likes to work out.
![Photo of Heidi Napolitano, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86236771-b8e2-4559-bf9b-d732b8c2044f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work to help my patients understand themselves while defining clear goals for treatment and identifying how I can help them reach those goals.
I work to help my patients understand themselves while defining clear goals for treatment and identifying how I can help them reach those goals.
![Photo of Melissa Welch, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/355143f9-4925-4e1f-ac5a-1d36ea0e999a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Welch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elburn, IL 60119
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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 Georgina Srinivas Rao - In Step Behavioral Health SC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f437875f-6704-4c7e-ba6b-ab7cd56f2b11/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist that appreciated the importance of being part of a multidisciplinary team that can incorporate a patient centered comprehensive care that emphasize the bio-psycho-social model of care treating the whole person. I provide person specific treatment options through the life span from children to older adults integrating the mind and the body to achieve mental wellness. working with your team, which may include your primary care, doctor, medical specialist, psychotherapist, and support system maybe part of your treatment plan.
I am a psychiatrist that appreciated the importance of being part of a multidisciplinary team that can incorporate a patient centered comprehensive care that emphasize the bio-psycho-social model of care treating the whole person. I provide person specific treatment options through the life span from children to older adults integrating the mind and the body to achieve mental wellness. working with your team, which may include your primary care, doctor, medical specialist, psychotherapist, and support system maybe part of your treatment plan.
![Photo of Suzanne Butler, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/093a16a9-2cf2-4214-b7bc-36635df49a17/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and have been practicing since 2022 in outpatient and in-home settings. I work with individuals to address anxiety, depression, hyperactive disorder (ADD/ADHD), mood disorder, and psychosis. I completed my graduate studies at Rush University College of Nursing and have 15 years of experience working with adolescent and adult patients with mental health concerns.
I am a doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and have been practicing since 2022 in outpatient and in-home settings. I work with individuals to address anxiety, depression, hyperactive disorder (ADD/ADHD), mood disorder, and psychosis. I completed my graduate studies at Rush University College of Nursing and have 15 years of experience working with adolescent and adult patients with mental health concerns.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Illinois Telepsychiatry, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da9e6c63-fccb-4443-bf28-679a92acbe67/1/320x400.jpeg)
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Geneva, IL 60134 (Online Only)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting 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 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 Franchesca Hammond, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d58450a-9849-4890-9503-9b9023c51582/1/320x400.jpeg)
Franchesca Hammond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Geneva, IL 60134 (Online Only)
Hello I'm Franchesca Has life been getting increasingly difficult for you? Are you losing hope and feeling defeated about your future? Do you feel alone or that everything is working against you? Have you lost control of your life or feel unworthy? Do you struggle with relationships? Do you have difficulty adjusting to change and making decisions? Do you want to change the dynamics of your life? Are you ready to experience self-empowerment and growth?
Hello I'm Franchesca Has life been getting increasingly difficult for you? Are you losing hope and feeling defeated about your future? Do you feel alone or that everything is working against you? Have you lost control of your life or feel unworthy? Do you struggle with relationships? Do you have difficulty adjusting to change and making decisions? Do you want to change the dynamics of your life? Are you ready to experience self-empowerment and growth?
![Photo of Pollyanna C Vujovic, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48b2e087-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pollyanna C Vujovic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60175
I am passionate about life and people! My goal is to make a real difference in patients' lives with comprehensive, compassionate care in a relaxed setting. I will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a clear and practical plan, and support you through the process of improving your life so you function at your very best. My role as a psychiatric nurse practitioner revolves largely around medication management and psychotherapy, utilizing evidence-based treatments for a wide variety of mental health problems. This creates a strong therapeutic alliance with high patient satisfaction.
I am passionate about life and people! My goal is to make a real difference in patients' lives with comprehensive, compassionate care in a relaxed setting. I will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a clear and practical plan, and support you through the process of improving your life so you function at your very best. My role as a psychiatric nurse practitioner revolves largely around medication management and psychotherapy, utilizing evidence-based treatments for a wide variety of mental health problems. This creates a strong therapeutic alliance with high patient satisfaction.
![Photo of Amy Drescher-Crumpley, DNP, CNM, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d17c49a6-529f-434f-9b50-9c28dd5a6ee3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Drescher-Crumpley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNM, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). My goal is to build a strong alliance with patients and provide them with hope, knowledge and tools to participate effectively in their own unique healing process. I can address a broad range of mental health issues. My scope of practice includes men and women 12 years old and up. I have over 20 years’ experience in health care including my years as a nurse midwife.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). My goal is to build a strong alliance with patients and provide them with hope, knowledge and tools to participate effectively in their own unique healing process. I can address a broad range of mental health issues. My scope of practice includes men and women 12 years old and up. I have over 20 years’ experience in health care including my years as a nurse midwife.
![Photo of Angela Sohn, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e15c940-6600-496f-876f-956b7fe43889/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to behavioral health care considers all aspects of my clients’ lives, including their unique strengths, sources of support, challenges, and goals for treatment.
My approach to behavioral health care considers all aspects of my clients’ lives, including their unique strengths, sources of support, challenges, and goals for treatment.
![Photo of Ike Uzowulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dfba615-1a8c-43b2-91af-b6d6f969e1c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders. I tend to be practical and hands-on rather than presuming or committing to one treatment approach. My goal is to work with you to find what works best for you. I provide urgent & routine telehealth Psychiatric services that is interactive, urgent and seamless; such that fosters continuity of care while improving access to patient's in need.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders. I tend to be practical and hands-on rather than presuming or committing to one treatment approach. My goal is to work with you to find what works best for you. I provide urgent & routine telehealth Psychiatric services that is interactive, urgent and seamless; such that fosters continuity of care while improving access to patient's in need.
![Photo of Fatima M. Hadi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2958a114-8db1-4165-b1c0-1f2c5be55d43/3/320x400.jpeg)
I was trained at the world renowned Cleveland Clinic Health System in Cleveland, Ohio. The training included residency in adult/general psychiatry and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry. This was a tertiary care facility and the training involved providing consultations to local practitioners/therapists for complicated patients not responding to the traditional treatment modalities.
I was trained at the world renowned Cleveland Clinic Health System in Cleveland, Ohio. The training included residency in adult/general psychiatry and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry. This was a tertiary care facility and the training involved providing consultations to local practitioners/therapists for complicated patients not responding to the traditional treatment modalities.
![Photo of Psychiatry At Fcs, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e343d654-d141-4ae2-a74e-6afcf9e51ce2/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are a group of psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical psychologists, social workers and therapists with nearly 100 years of experience in behavioral health care. In our practice at Family Counseling Service, we treat children, adolescents, and adults. Our team of professional counselors/social workers and medication providers work together to help individuals achieve successful outcomes in their lives.
We are a group of psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical psychologists, social workers and therapists with nearly 100 years of experience in behavioral health care. In our practice at Family Counseling Service, we treat children, adolescents, and adults. Our team of professional counselors/social workers and medication providers work together to help individuals achieve successful outcomes in their lives.
![Photo of Michael McDowell, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, MSBA, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b601dd91-d68d-45c6-9567-acf4b5569a0d/2/320x400.png)
Michael McDowell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, MSBA, MBA
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
In my practice, I prioritize providing psychiatric care through a combination of traditional methods and innovative treatments. I specialize in medication management and the administration of Spravato, an intranasal esketamine and the only FDA-approved psychedelic therapy on the market. Spravato is designed to help patients with treatment-resistant depression and major depression with suicidal thoughts or actions.
In my practice, I prioritize providing psychiatric care through a combination of traditional methods and innovative treatments. I specialize in medication management and the administration of Spravato, an intranasal esketamine and the only FDA-approved psychedelic therapy on the market. Spravato is designed to help patients with treatment-resistant depression and major depression with suicidal thoughts or actions.
![Photo of Sarah Skea, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65e020b1-d1db-4e96-8da1-6351a66d0e3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Skea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60175 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Sarah Skea, MSN, ARPN, PMHNP-BC, is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Board Certification. Sarah graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, known for having one of the best nursing programs in the country. With twelve years of experience, Sarah is an expert in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and life adjustments. Sarah is empathic and patient-centered. She approaches treatment with the belief that each client is an individual, with the goal of helping you regain a sense of wholeness. Sarah specializes in seeing children, adolescents, and adults.
Accepting New Clients. Sarah Skea, MSN, ARPN, PMHNP-BC, is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Board Certification. Sarah graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, known for having one of the best nursing programs in the country. With twelve years of experience, Sarah is an expert in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and life adjustments. Sarah is empathic and patient-centered. She approaches treatment with the belief that each client is an individual, with the goal of helping you regain a sense of wholeness. Sarah specializes in seeing children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of Elizabeth Adekoya, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f2788d3-a329-4ff2-9350-53d94fe7069b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Elizabeth. Do you you suffer from persistent sadness? Are you struggling to find joy in your day to day life? Or do you find yourself constantly worrying, afraid or anxious? Are you in search of a provider that is both compassionate and adequately skilled to help you treat and manage your symptoms? I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner. I help adult individuals with mood disorders and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am compassionate about helping you manage your depression, anxiety and any other comorbidities.
Hi there, I'm Elizabeth. Do you you suffer from persistent sadness? Are you struggling to find joy in your day to day life? Or do you find yourself constantly worrying, afraid or anxious? Are you in search of a provider that is both compassionate and adequately skilled to help you treat and manage your symptoms? I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner. I help adult individuals with mood disorders and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am compassionate about helping you manage your depression, anxiety and any other comorbidities.
![Photo of Lawrence Abah - Holistic Behavioral and TMS therapy , PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59046caa-207b-4afe-90fe-526e491cbf8d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Behavioral and TMS therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Lawrence Abah, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider that truly cares about your holistic wellness.
Lawrence Abah, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider that truly cares about your holistic wellness.
![Photo of JOSEPH Spagnola, PMHNPBC, NP, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d6702a6-56ba-4f29-ac72-1cca1d7f463b/2/320x400.jpeg)
JOSEPH Spagnola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, NP, FPA
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60175
Joseph Spagnola III, delivers extensive and holistic psychiatric care for those who are 16 years old and older. Joseph works carefully with each of his clients to ensure that they are meeting their unique health and wellness goals. Joseph pioneers the increasing of awareness for behavioral and mental health disorders. Joseph is a clinical preceptor supervising nurse practitioner PMHNP students at universities such as NKU, EKU, Walden University, and Herzing University.
Joseph Spagnola III, delivers extensive and holistic psychiatric care for those who are 16 years old and older. Joseph works carefully with each of his clients to ensure that they are meeting their unique health and wellness goals. Joseph pioneers the increasing of awareness for behavioral and mental health disorders. Joseph is a clinical preceptor supervising nurse practitioner PMHNP students at universities such as NKU, EKU, Walden University, and Herzing University.
See more therapy options for Elburn
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Elburn, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Elburn, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Elburn, 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 Elburn?
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.