Psychiatrists in Elgin, IL
![Photo of Allison Sikorsky - At Your Service Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fc5480b-b542-46f6-8ef7-e7cf0b343123/1/320x400.png)
At Your Service Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123
To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. We care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.
To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. We care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.
![Photo of Cheryl Ischar - Ci Psychiatry PLLC , PMHNP, APN, CEO, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c563104-a5dc-4abe-9654-331ba1e3663c/1/320x400.png)
Ci Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN, CEO
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60123
I utilize a holistic and comprehensive treatment approach. By combining genetic testing with a variety of assessment screenings (done before your first appointment with me) and fasting lab work- I collect, review, diagnose and then treat to identify just exactly what your body needs to feel well again.
I utilize a holistic and comprehensive treatment approach. By combining genetic testing with a variety of assessment screenings (done before your first appointment with me) and fasting lab work- I collect, review, diagnose and then treat to identify just exactly what your body needs to feel well again.
![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
Elgin, IL 60120 (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 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
Elgin, IL 60120 (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 Sherann Ivy - Sunshine Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53036dae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sunshine Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123
*****NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS**** Whether you need psychiatric evaluation and treatment for addiction, anxiety, depression, a mood disorder, ADHD, PTSD, or another mental health problem, as your provider, my goal is to help you get the solutions that will let you feel better soon. The belief in giving help with deep caring, and my style of listening, form the soul of my practice today. I see all patients as unique in their own way, and I value the privilege of giving the best care that my private practice in psychiatric medicine can provide.
*****NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS**** Whether you need psychiatric evaluation and treatment for addiction, anxiety, depression, a mood disorder, ADHD, PTSD, or another mental health problem, as your provider, my goal is to help you get the solutions that will let you feel better soon. The belief in giving help with deep caring, and my style of listening, form the soul of my practice today. I see all patients as unique in their own way, and I value the privilege of giving the best care that my private practice in psychiatric medicine can provide.
![Photo of Sarah Skea - Values Based Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f985367-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Values Based Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120 (Online Only)
Values Based Psychiatry offers flexible appointment scheduling including early morning, late evening, and weekend availability. In fact, we will do our very best to schedule your first appointment within a week of your call.
Values Based Psychiatry offers flexible appointment scheduling including early morning, late evening, and weekend availability. In fact, we will do our very best to schedule your first appointment within a week of your call.
![Photo of Devika Patel, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03838c8f-46b7-40ef-bea2-c0ff7ff38ce5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently accepting new patients** I have been providing excellent care for over 4 years with great compassion. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients 5 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems. I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
I am currently accepting new patients** I have been providing excellent care for over 4 years with great compassion. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients 5 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems. I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
![Photo of Shalom A Odefadehan - Greater Heights P Medical services, FNP-BC, APRN-FP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53c4a633-334b-42fa-8d7b-d9edf78dffab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Greater Heights P Medical services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, APRN-FP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120
Shalom is a board-certified advanced practitioner with Full Practice Authority (FPA). He has worked in various behavioral health Hospitals since past 15 years in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient, managing care from adolescents with autism to older adults with dementia. His expertise lies in listening to patients and astute ability to develop a care plan/medication management cultured to each patient needs. Everyone is different and should be treated as such. Shalom brings humor to set people at ease while building healthy therapeutic relationships with individuals.
Shalom is a board-certified advanced practitioner with Full Practice Authority (FPA). He has worked in various behavioral health Hospitals since past 15 years in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient, managing care from adolescents with autism to older adults with dementia. His expertise lies in listening to patients and astute ability to develop a care plan/medication management cultured to each patient needs. Everyone is different and should be treated as such. Shalom brings humor to set people at ease while building healthy therapeutic relationships with individuals.
![Photo of Khyati V Patel, MSN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58ca355e-ebb2-4871-bd05-a809b02e2191/2/320x400.jpeg)
Khyati V Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60120
Khyati Patel is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner. She has experienced working with adults and adolescents. She has exceptional clinical skills in treating both pediatric and adult population. She is specializing in Adhd, Anxiety, Depression, and Ptsd. Khyati, approaches her patient Holistic rather than focusing on their diagnosis. She believes it is important to understand the patient holistically to receive benefits from the treatment. Listening to patients’ concerns is one of her empower skills that she carries with her.
Khyati Patel is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner. She has experienced working with adults and adolescents. She has exceptional clinical skills in treating both pediatric and adult population. She is specializing in Adhd, Anxiety, Depression, and Ptsd. Khyati, approaches her patient Holistic rather than focusing on their diagnosis. She believes it is important to understand the patient holistically to receive benefits from the treatment. Listening to patients’ concerns is one of her empower skills that she carries with her.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0054dda2-133d-4dc2-9193-6aa29b83b5ab/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 Iyad Alkhouri, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f5da18b-ec4f-4440-bd16-611457ae0167/1/320x400.png)
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist with a dedicated focus on early onset depression, anxiety, and developmental disorders, particularly autism. My professional passion lies in assisting families as they navigate the challenges of childhood emotional difficulties. I am committed to implementing state-of-the-art interventions that aim to improve the well-being of young patients and their families.
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist with a dedicated focus on early onset depression, anxiety, and developmental disorders, particularly autism. My professional passion lies in assisting families as they navigate the challenges of childhood emotional difficulties. I am committed to implementing state-of-the-art interventions that aim to improve the well-being of young patients and their families.
![Photo of Aleksandr Zverinskiy - Brave Health, MD, MSW, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c3da24d-464a-4595-9f3c-8a007965fde4/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Jessica Stier, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae585bb6-648e-4893-ade2-1f77c40625b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist with expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I earned my medical degree from Rosalind Franklin University and completed my psychiatry residency training at the University of Chicago. As a general psychiatrist, I have experience working with a wide range of psychiatric disorders and with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. I understand that many people have difficulty accessing psychiatric services. Therefore, my practice utilizes a virtual platform to provide patients located in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin with high quality and confidential care.
I am a psychiatrist with expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I earned my medical degree from Rosalind Franklin University and completed my psychiatry residency training at the University of Chicago. As a general psychiatrist, I have experience working with a wide range of psychiatric disorders and with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. I understand that many people have difficulty accessing psychiatric services. Therefore, my practice utilizes a virtual platform to provide patients located in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin with high quality and confidential care.
![Photo of Zeba Madni, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06eb6dab-a669-4587-8c81-b92c15c94a41/1/320x400.jpeg)
I understand that your health and wellness are your priority and I will work collaboratively with you towards your goals. I believe in providing holistic and individualized care. My area of expertise includes Major depressive disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, PostPartum Depression, Personality Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, OCD, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder and Psychosis.
I understand that your health and wellness are your priority and I will work collaboratively with you towards your goals. I believe in providing holistic and individualized care. My area of expertise includes Major depressive disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, PostPartum Depression, Personality Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, OCD, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder and Psychosis.
![Photo of Alexandria Hernandez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ab56f1a-9009-4f0f-9a24-b3d2230f8fcd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandria Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Leena Vala, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e16e900b-77e0-4e10-b6ce-129fef8fcd84/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leena Vala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
I am a board certified Nurse Practitioner, providing compassionate and supportive care, to promote healing and growth of my patients. As a strong advocate for mental wellbeing, I understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. I offer same week appointment accommodate my patients. I am an empathetic care provider approaching each patient from an individualistic perspective and emphasizing patient specific treatment goals. I provide a thorough evaluation and treatment plan in coherence with medication management focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, mood disorder, PTSD and other mental health conditions.
I am a board certified Nurse Practitioner, providing compassionate and supportive care, to promote healing and growth of my patients. As a strong advocate for mental wellbeing, I understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. I offer same week appointment accommodate my patients. I am an empathetic care provider approaching each patient from an individualistic perspective and emphasizing patient specific treatment goals. I provide a thorough evaluation and treatment plan in coherence with medication management focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, mood disorder, PTSD and other mental health conditions.
![Photo of Heidi Napolitano, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86236771-b8e2-4559-bf9b-d732b8c2044f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Napolitano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60175
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 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 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 Diane Shallcross, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/816cd057-7510-4fbb-bf11-1abbf79a09f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dee, an independently licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, offering psychotherapy, psychiatric medication management, & bariatric consultations. I specialize in working with adults (ages 21-65) and have been providing care to mental health consumers for 15+ years as a nurse and >3 years as a psychiatric prescriber. As a bariatric recipient myself, I am also very passionate about helping people achieve weight loss & getting their lives back!
My name is Dee, an independently licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, offering psychotherapy, psychiatric medication management, & bariatric consultations. I specialize in working with adults (ages 21-65) and have been providing care to mental health consumers for 15+ years as a nurse and >3 years as a psychiatric prescriber. As a bariatric recipient myself, I am also very passionate about helping people achieve weight loss & getting their lives back!
See more therapy options for Elgin
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Elgin, IL
10+
Average cost per session
$287
Psychiatrists in Elgin, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
87% | Medication Management |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | ADHD |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
90% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Elgin, IL see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
92% | Female | |
8% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Elgin?
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.