Psychiatrists in Joliet, IL
![Photo of Kristine L Kitchener, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b474aaf-88cc-4909-b95f-282d0ed5e97e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristine L Kitchener
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I have worked with individuals from 13 through end of life, couples, families and groups. I am most comfortable working with college students, midlife through geriatric age. I work with individuals struggling with PTSD, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, addiction/chemical illness, chronic pain, eating disorders, sexual abuse/trauma, and sleep disturbances.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I have worked with individuals from 13 through end of life, couples, families and groups. I am most comfortable working with college students, midlife through geriatric age. I work with individuals struggling with PTSD, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, addiction/chemical illness, chronic pain, eating disorders, sexual abuse/trauma, and sleep disturbances.
![Photo of Rhonda L Sykes, APRN, PMHNP, LCPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c314e40-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
When you are dealing with anxiety and stress in life, I understand that it can seem overwhelming, and you can feel really alone, not sure where to turn. It is important at these times to find the right kind of knowledgeable support and to feel comfortable with the clinician with whom you work. I would like to help you in the process of bringing understanding and solutions to the problems you are facing and to improve the quality of your daily life. I have 35 years of experience providing therapy services to individuals (children, adolescents and adults). I use an individualized approach and build on client strengths to heal.
When you are dealing with anxiety and stress in life, I understand that it can seem overwhelming, and you can feel really alone, not sure where to turn. It is important at these times to find the right kind of knowledgeable support and to feel comfortable with the clinician with whom you work. I would like to help you in the process of bringing understanding and solutions to the problems you are facing and to improve the quality of your daily life. I have 35 years of experience providing therapy services to individuals (children, adolescents and adults). I use an individualized approach and build on client strengths to heal.
![Photo of Medinat Balogun, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a230f25d-a42d-4512-a2e2-7e512de86cce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Medinat Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435 (Online Only)
Dr. Medina Balogun is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) whose graduate education allows her to prescribe medication with integrated therapy in collaboration with a psychiatrist. She manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, sleep/insomnia, and trauma. Medina is passionate about providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive mental health to adults and geriatric patients. As a DNP, Medina's role is multifaceted as she practices with evidence-based practice, as an educator, mental health advocate, therapist and medication manager.
Dr. Medina Balogun is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) whose graduate education allows her to prescribe medication with integrated therapy in collaboration with a psychiatrist. She manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, sleep/insomnia, and trauma. Medina is passionate about providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive mental health to adults and geriatric patients. As a DNP, Medina's role is multifaceted as she practices with evidence-based practice, as an educator, mental health advocate, therapist and medication manager.
![Photo of Kristine L Kitchener - Owl Tree Therapy, RN, BSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db647a36-8b97-4db8-b5f2-9962193ba7e9/1/320x400.png)
Owl Tree Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60435
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I have worked with individuals from 13 through end of life, couples, families and groups. I am most comfortable working with college students, midlife through geriatric age. I work with individuals struggling with PTSD, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, addiction/chemical illness, chronic pain, eating disorders, sexual abuse/trauma, and sleep disturbances.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I have worked with individuals from 13 through end of life, couples, families and groups. I am most comfortable working with college students, midlife through geriatric age. I work with individuals struggling with PTSD, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, addiction/chemical illness, chronic pain, eating disorders, sexual abuse/trauma, and sleep disturbances.
![Photo of Dr. Pamela Solowski (Addiction Treatment), MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7b24cbc-8165-416c-8ac0-5fce25067557/1/320x400.jpeg)
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug or alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug or alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35d66910-274a-45e9-9b5e-9102af647021/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60432 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
![Photo of Cosme O Lozano, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43ec2545-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lozano is the Medical Director of the Joliet Center for Clinical Research, founded in 2003. Dr. Lozano received his M.D. from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and completed his residency in Psychiatry at Loyola University of Chicago. Dr Lozano completed his Geriatric Fellowship at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center before starting his clinical practice in Joliet in 1994. Dr. Lozano is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Lozano sees patients from ages to 18 and older and with all disorders from the surrounding Intermediate Care Facilities, Hospitals and office.
Dr. Lozano is the Medical Director of the Joliet Center for Clinical Research, founded in 2003. Dr. Lozano received his M.D. from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and completed his residency in Psychiatry at Loyola University of Chicago. Dr Lozano completed his Geriatric Fellowship at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center before starting his clinical practice in Joliet in 1994. Dr. Lozano is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Lozano sees patients from ages to 18 and older and with all disorders from the surrounding Intermediate Care Facilities, Hospitals and office.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Illinois Telepsychiatry, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6484c85d-2322-4230-9289-23f7a10a4e6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60435 (Online Only)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
![Photo of Queen Ajiere, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aea8f66b-a5fb-4753-9a5b-05ddf8c7df31/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients for telehealth or in-office visits in Illinois
Accepting new patients for telehealth or in-office visits in Illinois
![Photo of Sarah Amo-Mensah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2873a8ee-520b-4d95-9699-92026339ab1d/1/320x400.png)
Sarah Amo-Mensah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60431
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have 7 years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field ranging from child, adolescent, and adult inpatient care as well as mental health crisis stabilization.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have 7 years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field ranging from child, adolescent, and adult inpatient care as well as mental health crisis stabilization.
![Photo of Dr. Ola Fapohunda, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/176952fe-8471-489a-a32e-d10748146213/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ola Fapohunda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60403 (Online Only)
Do you miss your old self? Do you still enjoy the things that you once upon a time found very enjoyable? Are you struggling with keeping up with your work, daily tasks and social life? Are you overwhelmed by the general worries of life? My goal is to help you get back to your optimal mental health by bringing you back to a place where you can do your work, take care of things at home, or get along with other people without any difficulty.
Do you miss your old self? Do you still enjoy the things that you once upon a time found very enjoyable? Are you struggling with keeping up with your work, daily tasks and social life? Are you overwhelmed by the general worries of life? My goal is to help you get back to your optimal mental health by bringing you back to a place where you can do your work, take care of things at home, or get along with other people without any difficulty.
![Photo of Aleksandr Zverinsky - Brave Health, MD, MSW, LCSW, PhD, FNP-C, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd479d59-7485-42db-a01a-1176fe114c14/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brave Health
Psychiatrist, MD, MSW, LCSW, PhD, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60403 (Online Only)
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists and nurse practitioners with expertise in treating mental health. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists and nurse practitioners with expertise in treating mental health. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
![Photo of Derik Johnson, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2fb817d-cc20-4ec6-b90b-be18c56dc7f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Derik Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60435 (Online Only)
I'm a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners passionate about helping people find their best selves. I understand that everyone's journey is unique, and I'm here to listen, support, and collaborate with you as you navigate yours.
I'm a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners passionate about helping people find their best selves. I understand that everyone's journey is unique, and I'm here to listen, support, and collaborate with you as you navigate yours.
![Photo of Audrey Rolandelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e01fd40-e12d-4f92-bbb9-bf733ea5d76a/4/320x400.jpeg)
Audrey Rolandelli
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60403
Audrey is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats psychiatric conditions using a holistic approach with therapeutic intervention and medication management. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of disorders and behavioral symptoms. In 2018, She completed her Advanced Practice degree through St. Francis University in Joliet. Prior to this, Audrey worked as psychiatric nurse. Audrey has had extensive experience within multiple settings including inpatient, residential, PHP/IOP, and outpatient practice across the lifespan.
Audrey is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats psychiatric conditions using a holistic approach with therapeutic intervention and medication management. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of disorders and behavioral symptoms. In 2018, She completed her Advanced Practice degree through St. Francis University in Joliet. Prior to this, Audrey worked as psychiatric nurse. Audrey has had extensive experience within multiple settings including inpatient, residential, PHP/IOP, and outpatient practice across the lifespan.
![Photo of Mofoluwa Amiyan, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51b25dd1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mofoluwa Amiyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60431 (Online Only)
My goal as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is to help the patient get the best solutions that will make them feel their best. Whether that is psychiatric evaluations and/ or treatments for any mental health problem; my style of giving help is by doing it with lots of care and deep listening, and viewing each of my patients as unique individual people. This is very important because a successful treatment results from having an understanding on someone's needs, environment, and circumstance(s).
My goal as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is to help the patient get the best solutions that will make them feel their best. Whether that is psychiatric evaluations and/ or treatments for any mental health problem; my style of giving help is by doing it with lots of care and deep listening, and viewing each of my patients as unique individual people. This is very important because a successful treatment results from having an understanding on someone's needs, environment, and circumstance(s).
![Photo of Sarah Purdy - Today Telemedicine , PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4845fabc-99d7-4709-bfa5-f0293a4a52ab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Full virtual telemedicine medical office specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD non stimulant care ( strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management ( semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (birth control, blood work ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing and much more! Self-schedule from our website www.TodayTelemedicine.com and be seen this week!
Full virtual telemedicine medical office specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD non stimulant care ( strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management ( semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (birth control, blood work ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing and much more! Self-schedule from our website www.TodayTelemedicine.com and be seen this week!
![Photo of Tamra Williams, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/630c4096-1e69-499b-9298-fcb60d939e92/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Nurse Practitioner, I provide care for patients of all ages. My expertise is treating mood, behavioral disorders and other disorders in children and adults. I am passionate about helping my patients obtain stable mental health so that they may live their lives to the fullest. I work with each patient to ensure that they have the proper mental health counseling as well as the proper medication if medication is needed. I also encourage patients to engage in hobbies which will promote mental wellness. Self-care is so important for mental and physical well-being.
As a Nurse Practitioner, I provide care for patients of all ages. My expertise is treating mood, behavioral disorders and other disorders in children and adults. I am passionate about helping my patients obtain stable mental health so that they may live their lives to the fullest. I work with each patient to ensure that they have the proper mental health counseling as well as the proper medication if medication is needed. I also encourage patients to engage in hobbies which will promote mental wellness. Self-care is so important for mental and physical well-being.
![Photo of Dr. Rose Ampadu - Zoelife Psychiatric Services - Dr. Rose Ampadu, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ca46bd0-72ae-4e4a-998a-3a71c3ead00b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zoelife Psychiatric Services - Dr. Rose Ampadu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, FPA
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60432
** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ** YOU CAN BOOK DIRECTLY, EMAIL or CALL to, set up an initial appointment. Untreated mental illness can unravel one’s life, causing stress, loss of hope, loss of relationships, loss of employment, and sadly the loss of one's life. I am a Family Psychiatrist Nurse Practitioner and pride in partnering with my patients to provide quality, individualized care and medication management of Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, and eating disorders, disorders.
** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ** YOU CAN BOOK DIRECTLY, EMAIL or CALL to, set up an initial appointment. Untreated mental illness can unravel one’s life, causing stress, loss of hope, loss of relationships, loss of employment, and sadly the loss of one's life. I am a Family Psychiatrist Nurse Practitioner and pride in partnering with my patients to provide quality, individualized care and medication management of Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, and eating disorders, disorders.
![Photo of Pooja J Patel, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32b78caa-e132-4c92-aa29-51e8e9f65b87/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pooja J Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60435
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
![Photo of Heta Shah, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb53e7e4-e674-41d9-9b0c-de57c487aa15/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heta Shah is accepting new patients. Heta is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health conditions. She is known for her compassionate and patient-centered approach, taking the time to listen to her patients’ concerns and develop individualized treatment plans that meet their unique needs. Her comprehensive assessments, evidence-based treatment plans, and ongoing support aim to promote mental wellness and improve the overall quality of life for her patients.
Heta Shah is accepting new patients. Heta is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health conditions. She is known for her compassionate and patient-centered approach, taking the time to listen to her patients’ concerns and develop individualized treatment plans that meet their unique needs. Her comprehensive assessments, evidence-based treatment plans, and ongoing support aim to promote mental wellness and improve the overall quality of life for her patients.
See more therapy options for Joliet
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Joliet, IL
20+
Average cost per session
$195
Psychiatrists in Joliet, IL who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
82% | ADHD |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
64% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Joliet, IL see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Joliet?
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.