Psychiatrists in Franklin County, IL
![Photo of Christopher Lynn, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53baa3fd-54fa-448c-87eb-b42197cb011f/1/320x400.png)
I look forward to the prospect of working with you. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, psychiatric medication management and supportive therapy for adult clients ages 18 and above. I am double board-certified as a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated to maximizing your health and wellness by integrating traditional healthcare with complementary/alternative therapies in order to prevent/manage chronic illness and promote a healthy lifestyle.
I look forward to the prospect of working with you. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, psychiatric medication management and supportive therapy for adult clients ages 18 and above. I am double board-certified as a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated to maximizing your health and wellness by integrating traditional healthcare with complementary/alternative therapies in order to prevent/manage chronic illness and promote a healthy lifestyle.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Brandy Eichelberger, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3160e883-3fe5-42a1-92e4-6a9dfc1f2e0b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brandy Eichelberger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Swansea, IL 62226
I found my greatest worth in treating individuals struggling with the challenges of life using a patient-centered and evidence-based approach. I connect and build therapeutic rapport with my patients through compassion, integrity, good communication skills and simply treating them how I want myself and my family to be treated.
I found my greatest worth in treating individuals struggling with the challenges of life using a patient-centered and evidence-based approach. I connect and build therapeutic rapport with my patients through compassion, integrity, good communication skills and simply treating them how I want myself and my family to be treated.
![Photo of Crystal Stone - New Leaf Behavioral Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02b888b0-e7b1-405e-8a40-2636bb9eb51c/1/320x400.jpeg)
New Leaf Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62220
Empowering Minds, Transforming Lives: Your Path to Holistic Wellness! As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care that bridges the gap between mental and physical health. My approach is holistic, focusing on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—to help you achieve your wellness goals.
Empowering Minds, Transforming Lives: Your Path to Holistic Wellness! As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care that bridges the gap between mental and physical health. My approach is holistic, focusing on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—to help you achieve your wellness goals.
![Photo of Gerthy Cipus Pierre - Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8151757-133e-401f-ad0a-75a731f8b6da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
![Photo of Gil Gutierrez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/049e7913-fb1d-4127-9363-e970087a19a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gil Gutierrez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62226 (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am here to help people who prioritize their mental health but don't necessarily work traditional hours. I have worked the night shift for the last 13 years and know the challenges of such a schedule. The stressors of life are more difficult when you can't sleep, feel stressed, or have anxiety. Finding help shouldn't be that difficult so I offer flexible scheduling so you get the help when you need it most.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am here to help people who prioritize their mental health but don't necessarily work traditional hours. I have worked the night shift for the last 13 years and know the challenges of such a schedule. The stressors of life are more difficult when you can't sleep, feel stressed, or have anxiety. Finding help shouldn't be that difficult so I offer flexible scheduling so you get the help when you need it most.
![Photo of Carrie Helle - Carrie Helle Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/485f6fe0-2946-44dc-b42f-0c1a6854d3f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carrie Helle Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Carbondale, IL 62901 (Online Only)
Are you seeking a supportive partner on your journey to mental well-being? Look no further. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in providing personalized, compassionate care to individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges. That is why I take the time to listen, empathize, and tailor our approach to meet your individual needs. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or other mental health concerns, I am here to help.
Are you seeking a supportive partner on your journey to mental well-being? Look no further. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in providing personalized, compassionate care to individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges. That is why I take the time to listen, empathize, and tailor our approach to meet your individual needs. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or other mental health concerns, I am here to help.
![Photo of Monique L Manderson - Stages Health & Wellness, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/937a1e6a-2557-4be2-83e3-48aebfd4ca6d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stages Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, stress, or anxiety? As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Family Medicine, I offer compassionate, holistic care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're a preteen, teen, adult, or elderly, I provide evaluations and medication management via secure, HIPAA-compliant Tele-psychiatry video conferences.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, stress, or anxiety? As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Family Medicine, I offer compassionate, holistic care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're a preteen, teen, adult, or elderly, I provide evaluations and medication management via secure, HIPAA-compliant Tele-psychiatry video conferences.
![Photo of Gerthy Cipus Pierre - Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4aab82fb-6c7a-489f-b380-789d9cf33982/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269 (Online Only)
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
![Photo of Ebele Nnenna Iloabachie, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/443397c4-7e87-4d01-80f0-b385d1108e61/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ebele Nnenna Iloabachie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fairview Heights, IL 62208 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia or any other mood alterations ? I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois with prescriptive authority. I received a BSN and master's degrees from Saint Louis University, a post- master degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati. I believe that my dual certification puts me in a unique position to provide highly specialized, patient-centered holistic care that takes into consideration, the patient's physical ailments.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia or any other mood alterations ? I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois with prescriptive authority. I received a BSN and master's degrees from Saint Louis University, a post- master degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati. I believe that my dual certification puts me in a unique position to provide highly specialized, patient-centered holistic care that takes into consideration, the patient's physical ailments.
![Photo of Brittni Roldan - Britt the NP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9929d3b-9067-4478-befd-9e0cc00b5a41/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I'm Britt ;) Thank you for visiting! My goals are to help your reach your goals and full potential. I love getting to know people and hearing your unique story. My goals are to use my listening skills and experience as a family & psych NP to help you identify and work on any issues. I am developing more interest in the integrative approach to health so will be exploring that more. I am open to working with you in flexible ways to deliver care that is meaningful to you. I have an open mind approach to life and care. I do not prescribe controlled meds.
Hello! I'm Britt ;) Thank you for visiting! My goals are to help your reach your goals and full potential. I love getting to know people and hearing your unique story. My goals are to use my listening skills and experience as a family & psych NP to help you identify and work on any issues. I am developing more interest in the integrative approach to health so will be exploring that more. I am open to working with you in flexible ways to deliver care that is meaningful to you. I have an open mind approach to life and care. I do not prescribe controlled meds.
![Photo of Tamara Young, DNP, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9df4dd9e-06f1-4c27-bdfd-99ca1791c2d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
HI! My name is Tamara Young. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a certified nurse midwife. I am the provider and the Owner of Innovative Women's Healthcare. I believe in providing care to the woman both mind and body, providing both psychiatric and gynecological care. Being a Midwife for 20 years, I am very comfortable with pregnancy and postpartum depression, anxiety and mood disorders. Please call to schedule an evaluation. In most cases, we are able to get you scheduled within a week, and often, same-day appointments can be available.
HI! My name is Tamara Young. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a certified nurse midwife. I am the provider and the Owner of Innovative Women's Healthcare. I believe in providing care to the woman both mind and body, providing both psychiatric and gynecological care. Being a Midwife for 20 years, I am very comfortable with pregnancy and postpartum depression, anxiety and mood disorders. Please call to schedule an evaluation. In most cases, we are able to get you scheduled within a week, and often, same-day appointments can be available.
![Photo of Madelyn Hindia, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f56ea6ac-888d-4f61-aca8-dbbe287b01e3/1/320x400.png)
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Swansea, IL 62226
Hello, I'm Madelyn Hindia, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a certification in perinatal mental health. My passion lies in supporting women through their unique mental health journeys, especially during pivotal moments such as pregnancy, postpartum, and when facing challenges like infertility or pregnancy and infant loss. I also have a strong background in addressing sexual dysfunction and a wide range of general psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I believe in treating each of my patients with a non-judgmental, empathetic approach.
Hello, I'm Madelyn Hindia, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a certification in perinatal mental health. My passion lies in supporting women through their unique mental health journeys, especially during pivotal moments such as pregnancy, postpartum, and when facing challenges like infertility or pregnancy and infant loss. I also have a strong background in addressing sexual dysfunction and a wide range of general psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I believe in treating each of my patients with a non-judgmental, empathetic approach.
![Photo of Rachel L Thomas - Rachel Thomas Psychiatry, APRN-BC, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ca1a9e5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Thomas Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Waterloo, IL 62298
"Whatever it Takes!!" is my motto. My practice style is highly dynamic, collaborative and is developed for and based on YOU!! I provide insightful evaluation and understanding of your concerns and we work closely together to quickly implement whatever therapeutic modality is needed to help you perform and live to your potential. My patients are gifted, professional and top performers. It is my joy to be included on your journey. :)
"Whatever it Takes!!" is my motto. My practice style is highly dynamic, collaborative and is developed for and based on YOU!! I provide insightful evaluation and understanding of your concerns and we work closely together to quickly implement whatever therapeutic modality is needed to help you perform and live to your potential. My patients are gifted, professional and top performers. It is my joy to be included on your journey. :)
![Photo of Brandy Eichelberger, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/629088cd-7dca-40e5-8492-0d9945ecbbed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of not being able to think, feel and react in the ways that you need and want to live your life? Are you ready for a change? I can help you by gathering an extensive psychiatric evaluation, brief psychotherapy and initiation and monitoring psychopharmacological treatment. I am Brandy, founder of Optimum Mental Health Healing. I am a highly respected board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP) and psychiatric nurse practitioner located in Illinois. I have 20 years of experience in mental health 14 years as a registered nurse and 6 years as a nurse practitioner.
Are you tired of not being able to think, feel and react in the ways that you need and want to live your life? Are you ready for a change? I can help you by gathering an extensive psychiatric evaluation, brief psychotherapy and initiation and monitoring psychopharmacological treatment. I am Brandy, founder of Optimum Mental Health Healing. I am a highly respected board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP) and psychiatric nurse practitioner located in Illinois. I have 20 years of experience in mental health 14 years as a registered nurse and 6 years as a nurse practitioner.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7171edd-2d24-486d-9b4b-0fc5bdcf1832/1/320x400.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 JoEllen Juenger - Fundamental Behavioral Health, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0afb893e-7274-4eee-a09b-52794b996a25/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fundamental Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Collinsville, IL 62234 (Online Only)
As Nurse Practitioners, with specialized training in both Family and Psychiatric medicine, our core objective is to enhance the overall well-being and mental healthcare of our patients. We take utmost pride in our commitment to deliver the highest quality care, utilizing our gained knowledge and expertise to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. This is achieved by adopting a comprehensive approach to patient care, where we recognize that the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of our patient’s health are interconnected.
As Nurse Practitioners, with specialized training in both Family and Psychiatric medicine, our core objective is to enhance the overall well-being and mental healthcare of our patients. We take utmost pride in our commitment to deliver the highest quality care, utilizing our gained knowledge and expertise to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. This is achieved by adopting a comprehensive approach to patient care, where we recognize that the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of our patient’s health are interconnected.
See more therapy options for Franklin County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Franklin County, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Franklin County, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Anger Management |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Franklin County, IL see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Franklin County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.