Psychiatrists in La Grange Park, IL
![Photo of Susan Costello, DNP, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39bdae9c-74bd-488b-af8a-6f7a99157616/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Costello is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Rush University, a Master’s in Nursing Administration and Business Administration from Lewis University, a Bachelor’s in Science and Nursing from Elmhurst College, and an Associate Degree in Nursing from Moraine Valley Community College. Susan has worked in healthcare for 21 years and has well-rounded experience which helps her to have a unique perspective. Susan has always believed in providing the very best and compassionate care to her patients.
Susan Costello is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Rush University, a Master’s in Nursing Administration and Business Administration from Lewis University, a Bachelor’s in Science and Nursing from Elmhurst College, and an Associate Degree in Nursing from Moraine Valley Community College. Susan has worked in healthcare for 21 years and has well-rounded experience which helps her to have a unique perspective. Susan has always believed in providing the very best and compassionate care to her patients.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Laurie A Kenfield, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92f51f09-20b5-4370-b6fb-12a73599cf3b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist with over 35 years of experience in private practice and community psychiatry. I offer combined medication and intensive psychoanalytic psychotherapy or psychoanalysis. I am not taking new patients for only medication management.
I am a psychiatrist with over 35 years of experience in private practice and community psychiatry. I offer combined medication and intensive psychoanalytic psychotherapy or psychoanalysis. I am not taking new patients for only medication management.
![Photo of Janine Watters, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fa3e7aa-3855-4d99-8f50-0ada2e28dc5a/2/320x400.png)
Janine Watters is a compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC) based in Illinois. With a clinical focus spanning a broad age range from 6 to 65+, Janine has a particular affinity for adolescents and young adults. She possesses a wealth of expertise in addressing various mental health concerns and is committed to delivering individualized care. In her practice, Janine prioritizes thorough and genuine listening to understand the unique needs of her clients.
Janine Watters is a compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC) based in Illinois. With a clinical focus spanning a broad age range from 6 to 65+, Janine has a particular affinity for adolescents and young adults. She possesses a wealth of expertise in addressing various mental health concerns and is committed to delivering individualized care. In her practice, Janine prioritizes thorough and genuine listening to understand the unique needs of her clients.
![Photo of Doris Nwoko, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36b0832a-3886-490d-bedc-24d7dcfb7cfc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Have you ever wondered if you are being heard or searched for a care provider who can relate to your challenges? Are you in need of medication management - initiation, adjustments, and maintenance? I have several years of psychiatric and mental health experience working with individuals aged 5 to 65 and older adults in inpatient, residential, and outpatient settings with various mental health issues. My treatment approach embodies the individual's developmental and bio-psycho-social histories and how they contribute to illness.
Have you ever wondered if you are being heard or searched for a care provider who can relate to your challenges? Are you in need of medication management - initiation, adjustments, and maintenance? I have several years of psychiatric and mental health experience working with individuals aged 5 to 65 and older adults in inpatient, residential, and outpatient settings with various mental health issues. My treatment approach embodies the individual's developmental and bio-psycho-social histories and how they contribute to illness.
![Photo of Semone West, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10a8a1ac-d867-4725-b5e9-847fbfc7efc1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Semone West, MD is board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. She attended medical school at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, MA. She completed a psychiatry residency at Duke University in Durham, NC; and a child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine in Chicago, while also serving as an associate professor.
Semone West, MD is board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. She attended medical school at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, MA. She completed a psychiatry residency at Duke University in Durham, NC; and a child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine in Chicago, while also serving as an associate professor.
![Photo of Elizabeth Kelly, MSN, ANP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b381d66a-e0f9-4ff8-8aff-915e3c6caa26/2/320x400.jpeg)
During my time working in primary care I have observed significant deficits in access to quality mental health care for both the geriatric and adult populations including patients with dementia, major depressive disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance use disorder. I’ve become focused on helping fill in those gaps in care. So often medications are quickly prescribed to manage complex issues that need an interdisciplinary and holistic approach. I obtained my buprenorphine waiver to help contribute to a solution of the opiate crisis which I have seen devastate the lives of people of all ages.
During my time working in primary care I have observed significant deficits in access to quality mental health care for both the geriatric and adult populations including patients with dementia, major depressive disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance use disorder. I’ve become focused on helping fill in those gaps in care. So often medications are quickly prescribed to manage complex issues that need an interdisciplinary and holistic approach. I obtained my buprenorphine waiver to help contribute to a solution of the opiate crisis which I have seen devastate the lives of people of all ages.
![Photo of Kenneth Restor - Generations Behavioral Healthcare, PC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f89b13c6-a5db-4a9b-bc3c-436f08ac83fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Generations Behavioral Healthcare, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
At Generations Behavioral Healthcare, P.C., (GBH) we offer telehealth services so that you can seek help in the comfort, safety and convenience of your home using fully HIPAA compliant meeting software with the flexibility for Live Text, Live Phone or Live Video sessions. We serve the entire states of Illinois and Florida and offer counseling, neuropsychological testing and psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents and adult clients.
At Generations Behavioral Healthcare, P.C., (GBH) we offer telehealth services so that you can seek help in the comfort, safety and convenience of your home using fully HIPAA compliant meeting software with the flexibility for Live Text, Live Phone or Live Video sessions. We serve the entire states of Illinois and Florida and offer counseling, neuropsychological testing and psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents and adult clients.
![Photo of Sarah Tisser, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c191417-a07e-4d36-9025-21ac949415b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Tisser was born and raised in France and lived in Israel for 10 years. She is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children and adults. She has experience treating all psychiatric disorders, including perinatal mental health: She is PSI certified. Sarah also treats patients with sexual dysfunction due to anxiety and depression, and would adjust medications to avoid sexual side effects. She sees clients aged 6 years and up.
Sarah Tisser was born and raised in France and lived in Israel for 10 years. She is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children and adults. She has experience treating all psychiatric disorders, including perinatal mental health: She is PSI certified. Sarah also treats patients with sexual dysfunction due to anxiety and depression, and would adjust medications to avoid sexual side effects. She sees clients aged 6 years and up.
![Photo of Bishara Robert Khoury - OnlyMed Clinic , DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85f78ac1-fa12-4e65-9bbd-71bed1d427cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
OnlyMed Clinic is a compassionate Clinic in Oak Brook serving Mental Health Patients. We offer safe in your home medication management in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety. We do telemedicine mostly but starting 5/1/23 we will be opening on Mondays in Hinsdale, IL!
OnlyMed Clinic is a compassionate Clinic in Oak Brook serving Mental Health Patients. We offer safe in your home medication management in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety. We do telemedicine mostly but starting 5/1/23 we will be opening on Mondays in Hinsdale, IL!
![Photo of Pooja J Patel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a25b3b27-2aac-41df-99cc-3a6a7e6f05b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Debora Ellis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3537820-dca8-4d8c-a506-806607534ec6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Debora Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Waitlist for new clients
Debora Ellis is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who treats a broad range of mental illnesses in patients of all ages. Dr. Ellis completed her Doctorate of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree at Rush University in Chicago. Her areas of interest include personality disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, and addictions. Dr. Ellis’ philosophy of patient care is based on establishing a collaborative, therapeutic relationship with the patient that is founded on effective communication and honesty.
Debora Ellis is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who treats a broad range of mental illnesses in patients of all ages. Dr. Ellis completed her Doctorate of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree at Rush University in Chicago. Her areas of interest include personality disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, and addictions. Dr. Ellis’ philosophy of patient care is based on establishing a collaborative, therapeutic relationship with the patient that is founded on effective communication and honesty.
![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
La Grange, IL 60525 (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 Cynthia Jo Neal, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52382021-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Many of my clients complain of feeling stuck in their present thought processes. They face internal conflicts both big and small. They are aware of the way they want to react to situations and approach life, but often they feel sabotaged by destructive ways of thinking. Often these patterns have developed because of traumatic experiences that have occurred over time. Because of these thought processes, individuals can feel symptoms of anxiety and depression. People usually suffer in silence for years without anyone around them having any indication of their internal battle. This can lead to a strong sense of isolation.
Many of my clients complain of feeling stuck in their present thought processes. They face internal conflicts both big and small. They are aware of the way they want to react to situations and approach life, but often they feel sabotaged by destructive ways of thinking. Often these patterns have developed because of traumatic experiences that have occurred over time. Because of these thought processes, individuals can feel symptoms of anxiety and depression. People usually suffer in silence for years without anyone around them having any indication of their internal battle. This can lead to a strong sense of isolation.
![Photo of Johnny Williamson - Spectrum Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef4de78a-4716-4457-8f34-5fe914cb4279/3/320x400.jpeg)
Spectrum Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521 (Online Only)
Johnny Williamson, MD is board certified in General Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He has a breadth of experience treating children and adults of all ages. He provides psychotherapy and psychotropic medication management to treat attention deficit disorders, autism, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, school phobia, and specializes in the treatment of PTSD and eating disorders. He believes in a holistic approach that combines appropriate therapeutic modalities treating individuals, families, and groups; and, where indicated, effective medication strategies.
Johnny Williamson, MD is board certified in General Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He has a breadth of experience treating children and adults of all ages. He provides psychotherapy and psychotropic medication management to treat attention deficit disorders, autism, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, school phobia, and specializes in the treatment of PTSD and eating disorders. He believes in a holistic approach that combines appropriate therapeutic modalities treating individuals, families, and groups; and, where indicated, effective medication strategies.
![Photo of Mandy Pollard, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b84b3405-dc0b-43fd-b345-6bd0b63f0242/2/320x400.png)
Mandy Pollard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
Mandy (she/her pronouns) is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with patient interests across the lifespan. Mandy completed her nursing degree at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore- most recently, she graduated from Vanderbilt University in Nashville. Mandy is passionate about first responder mental health efforts and women's mental health care, and loves working with children & teens. If she sounds like a provider for you, Mandy is accepting new patients this summer & will work with your schedule because you mental health matters! Please don't hesitate to reach out with questions or for a free 15-minute consult!
Mandy (she/her pronouns) is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with patient interests across the lifespan. Mandy completed her nursing degree at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore- most recently, she graduated from Vanderbilt University in Nashville. Mandy is passionate about first responder mental health efforts and women's mental health care, and loves working with children & teens. If she sounds like a provider for you, Mandy is accepting new patients this summer & will work with your schedule because you mental health matters! Please don't hesitate to reach out with questions or for a free 15-minute consult!
![Photo of Doris Nwoko - Synergy Behavioral Health, APN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a9208de-17a0-4a33-987e-1f7dabafe4d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Synergy Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Westchester, IL 60154 (Online Only)
Hello! I am Doris, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am committed to providing equitable and compassionate psychiatric care to children and adults ages 5 to 65. In my treatment approach, the patient's input is crucial to creating a therapeutic partnership and improving outcomes. I rely on the patient-centered care model in my treatment approach as it offers many perspectives and includes the patient in the decision-making and treatment-planning process. My approach takes into consideration your developmental and bio-psycho-social histories and how they contribute to illness.
Hello! I am Doris, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am committed to providing equitable and compassionate psychiatric care to children and adults ages 5 to 65. In my treatment approach, the patient's input is crucial to creating a therapeutic partnership and improving outcomes. I rely on the patient-centered care model in my treatment approach as it offers many perspectives and includes the patient in the decision-making and treatment-planning process. My approach takes into consideration your developmental and bio-psycho-social histories and how they contribute to illness.
![Photo of Susan Gierczyk, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbff3675-152a-48ea-9c74-e9ad4d8e4563/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services since 2021 in outpatient and in-home settings. I see individuals ages 18 and up. My therapeutic stance is there is no one size fits all. My focus is to provide a realistic approach while still maintaining safety and integrity. I believe to meet people where they are and work to empower them. Working together on individualized plans helps to ensure the best outcome.
I am a double board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services since 2021 in outpatient and in-home settings. I see individuals ages 18 and up. My therapeutic stance is there is no one size fits all. My focus is to provide a realistic approach while still maintaining safety and integrity. I believe to meet people where they are and work to empower them. Working together on individualized plans helps to ensure the best outcome.
![Photo of Patricia Brown, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bda6c9f-b4cb-4bd1-a6b6-ab79733a4979/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia specializes in treating ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, and Anxiety. She is passionate about helping patients gain a deeper understanding of their mental health, believing that knowledge is key to making informed decisions and achieving better outcomes. Her approach is collaborative, empowering patients to take an active role in their treatment. Patricia also employs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address various conditions, ensuring that her therapeutic strategies are evidencebased and effective.
Patricia specializes in treating ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, and Anxiety. She is passionate about helping patients gain a deeper understanding of their mental health, believing that knowledge is key to making informed decisions and achieving better outcomes. Her approach is collaborative, empowering patients to take an active role in their treatment. Patricia also employs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address various conditions, ensuring that her therapeutic strategies are evidencebased and effective.
![Photo of Chung Hsin 'sony' Hu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4859d46c-aa42-4478-b215-2b2a01318b62/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sony Hu, PMHNP-BC, is passionate about providing psychiatric care for people with multiple backgrounds. He started his psychiatric journey since 2015 and continues on today. He is happy to provide care for children, adolescents and adults. Please feel free to contact him if you or your child is experiencing anxiety, OCD, depression, mood instability, behavioral concerns, ADHD, sleep disturbances or psychosis. If you are unsure if you are experiencing a psychiatric symptom, Sony will be happy to help you navigate and explore your area of need.
Sony Hu, PMHNP-BC, is passionate about providing psychiatric care for people with multiple backgrounds. He started his psychiatric journey since 2015 and continues on today. He is happy to provide care for children, adolescents and adults. Please feel free to contact him if you or your child is experiencing anxiety, OCD, depression, mood instability, behavioral concerns, ADHD, sleep disturbances or psychosis. If you are unsure if you are experiencing a psychiatric symptom, Sony will be happy to help you navigate and explore your area of need.
See more therapy options for La Grange Park
Nearby Searches for La Grange Park
- Berwyn
- Burr Ridge
- Clarendon Hills
- Elmhurst
- Hinsdale
- La Grange
- Oak Brook
- Oak Park
- Oakbrook Terrace
- Villa Park
- Westmont
- Willowbrook
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in La Grange Park, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in La Grange Park, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Autism |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in La Grange Park, IL see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in La Grange Park?
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.