Psychiatrists in Moline, IL
![Photo of Maria Lynn Sonnack, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f106a56d-3c76-4b24-a2e3-efab5e2f2ec2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I truly enjoy working with all psychiatric diagnoses, but I especially enjoy working with borderline personality disorder and facilitating STEPPS group for this group of patients. I also have a strong passion in treating child and adult ADHD. I firmly believe in psychiatric wellness and work with my patients from a “whole person” approach to not only treat their illness with medication, but also therapy, good nutrition and general health.
I truly enjoy working with all psychiatric diagnoses, but I especially enjoy working with borderline personality disorder and facilitating STEPPS group for this group of patients. I also have a strong passion in treating child and adult ADHD. I firmly believe in psychiatric wellness and work with my patients from a “whole person” approach to not only treat their illness with medication, but also therapy, good nutrition and general health.
![Photo of Elizabeth D'Amore, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bd46403-555b-4ef8-8c21-baaa0c609e1d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth D'Amore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moline, IL 61265
Are you a woman who is seeking support while navigating depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PMDD, perimenopause, fertility treatments, family planning, pregnancy or infant loss, pregnancy & postpartum? I have been surrounded by strong women who have weathered the storm despite every sign telling them to quit. I am a fierce believer that every woman has a unique story and within every woman is a power that is unmatched by anything else in this world. I love this work because I get to witness & help women explore and discover their capacity to love and heal. I would consider it a privilege to be a part of your journey.
Are you a woman who is seeking support while navigating depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PMDD, perimenopause, fertility treatments, family planning, pregnancy or infant loss, pregnancy & postpartum? I have been surrounded by strong women who have weathered the storm despite every sign telling them to quit. I am a fierce believer that every woman has a unique story and within every woman is a power that is unmatched by anything else in this world. I love this work because I get to witness & help women explore and discover their capacity to love and heal. I would consider it a privilege to be a part of your journey.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Tara Livingston, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9200cecc-7ff1-4ac5-bbca-1dfd8d6854e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a Full Practice Authority Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, board certified to provide medication management for a variety of mental health issues. I've been working in the mental health field since 2010 and as a PMHNP since 2019. I am non-judgmental and here to help others.
I'm a Full Practice Authority Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, board certified to provide medication management for a variety of mental health issues. I've been working in the mental health field since 2010 and as a PMHNP since 2019. I am non-judgmental and here to help others.
![Photo of Imuentiyan Oyesiku, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/185ea9b8-94f7-4a77-80a5-66117196d89f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! Welcome to my professional profile! I am Faith Oyesiku, a highly skilled Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a master's degree in nursing. With three years of dedicated practice, I bring a wealth of experience across diverse healthcare settings. Are you looking for a provider who is Kind? Empathetic? Compassionate? then look no further!
Hi there! Welcome to my professional profile! I am Faith Oyesiku, a highly skilled Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a master's degree in nursing. With three years of dedicated practice, I bring a wealth of experience across diverse healthcare settings. Are you looking for a provider who is Kind? Empathetic? Compassionate? then look no further!
![Photo of Ingrid Suazo, DHA, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ee3aa30-4a44-4db8-9e6d-286bcf866bd2/1/320x400.png)
Ingrid Suazo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DHA, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61602 (Online Only)
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years. Driven by her passion and a strong commitment to helping people achieve their life goals and potential, she takes pride in providing the best quality care for her clients to transform their mindset to live their best lives.
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years. Driven by her passion and a strong commitment to helping people achieve their life goals and potential, she takes pride in providing the best quality care for her clients to transform their mindset to live their best lives.
![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
Peoria, IL 61603 (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 Stephanie Onyeforo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a168124d-bb73-4db4-a19b-517070b5012d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Onyeforo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Stephanie. I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who provides high-quality psychiatric services to children aged ten and above and adolescent and adult psychiatric services.
Hello, I'm Stephanie. I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who provides high-quality psychiatric services to children aged ten and above and adolescent and adult psychiatric services.
![Photo of Juliette Murphy, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23346260-82b8-4825-af48-cddc81b30ec0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Juliette Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
I want to know your story. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my job to make sure you feel seen and heard in order to provide the best care possible. I have been in the field of mental health since 2018, working in both the inpatient and outpatient sectors. I have experience across the lifespan working with a broad range of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, and serious mental illness. Together, we will collaborate using a biopsychosocial approach to meet your individual goals.
I want to know your story. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my job to make sure you feel seen and heard in order to provide the best care possible. I have been in the field of mental health since 2018, working in both the inpatient and outpatient sectors. I have experience across the lifespan working with a broad range of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, and serious mental illness. Together, we will collaborate using a biopsychosocial approach to meet your individual goals.
![Photo of Senami Edalere-Lukula, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a886aa93-1afb-4703-bb78-ead1bc258a97/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Senami Do you feel like you are trying to juggle a million things at once? Are you finding it challenging to balance your relationships, career, and health? Is treating oneself kindly difficult for you? As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry, I provide anxiety disorder management and burnout prevention for high achievers. Together, we can figure out what is not working and restore balance to your life. I utilize a holistic and evidence-based model, in caring for your mind, body, and spirit's needs for you to have a better relationship with yourself and others.
Hi there, I'm Senami Do you feel like you are trying to juggle a million things at once? Are you finding it challenging to balance your relationships, career, and health? Is treating oneself kindly difficult for you? As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry, I provide anxiety disorder management and burnout prevention for high achievers. Together, we can figure out what is not working and restore balance to your life. I utilize a holistic and evidence-based model, in caring for your mind, body, and spirit's needs for you to have a better relationship with yourself and others.
![Photo of Tina Iyer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd7801f3-bb70-46a0-9dc1-0d151731c3dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with children (6+), adolescents, as well as adults suffering from a variety of emotional, behavioral, or learning disorders, including but not limited to ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, autism, eating disorders, mood disorder, sleep issues, and OCD.
I work with children (6+), adolescents, as well as adults suffering from a variety of emotional, behavioral, or learning disorders, including but not limited to ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, autism, eating disorders, mood disorder, sleep issues, and OCD.
![Photo of Layne D. Stambaugh, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94ce939b-6545-44b6-b794-31241b65900a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Layne D. Stambaugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canton, IL 61520
My name is Layne Stambaugh and I am a Board Certified- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the care of adults and children struggling with acute and chronic conditions, including: PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorders and Schizophrenia. I operate an independent virtual practice called Braintique.
My name is Layne Stambaugh and I am a Board Certified- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the care of adults and children struggling with acute and chronic conditions, including: PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorders and Schizophrenia. I operate an independent virtual practice called Braintique.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff2df666-6d18-4b56-988b-3dbc54f158be/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 Alyssa Ellis, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/557f89c3-a6bb-4c3d-b848-3841ec47c69d/1/320x400.png)
I am a provider that comes from a long-standing background in nursing with various experiences in multiple health care settings. Throughout my years of working with patients, it has become obvious how mental health effects people, not only mentally and emotionally, but physically as well.
I am a provider that comes from a long-standing background in nursing with various experiences in multiple health care settings. Throughout my years of working with patients, it has become obvious how mental health effects people, not only mentally and emotionally, but physically as well.
![Photo of Shakita Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/432ff4a4-b8d9-4b2b-afdc-71fe5d46ff7e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shakita Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101 (Online Only)
The first session we are establishing goals and what you hope to accomplish with treatment.
The first session we are establishing goals and what you hope to accomplish with treatment.
![Photo of Amanda Lantow, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f24639b-9220-4d4e-bd09-f32b2b0f173c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I find the greatest fulfillment in assisting individuals who are grappling with anxiety or depression and find themselves in a state of stagnation. Guiding them to envision possibilities beyond their current challenges is immensely rewarding. These individuals aspire to feel better, break free from the constraints of anxiety and depression, and regain the confidence to pursue their goals unhindered. Ultimately, their journey involves building self-esteem, unraveling the barriers that hold them back, and ascending to a more gratifying and fulfilling life.
I find the greatest fulfillment in assisting individuals who are grappling with anxiety or depression and find themselves in a state of stagnation. Guiding them to envision possibilities beyond their current challenges is immensely rewarding. These individuals aspire to feel better, break free from the constraints of anxiety and depression, and regain the confidence to pursue their goals unhindered. Ultimately, their journey involves building self-esteem, unraveling the barriers that hold them back, and ascending to a more gratifying and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Sarah Bier, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dac097d-3933-46d9-a00f-ed9774cc289b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Bier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108 (Online Only)
Women and birthing people face unique mental health challenges. Sarah specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry, valuing a holistic approach to mental health. She provides comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Her services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. With additional training in integrative psychiatry, Sarah offers natural treatment options for those who prefer to limit medication, addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PMDD.
Women and birthing people face unique mental health challenges. Sarah specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry, valuing a holistic approach to mental health. She provides comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Her services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. With additional training in integrative psychiatry, Sarah offers natural treatment options for those who prefer to limit medication, addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PMDD.
![Photo of Amanda Hahn, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2e30318-e2ac-458e-8745-eaaf9675fb88/1/320x400.png)
Amanda Hahn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108 (Online Only)
Women and birthing people face unique mental health challenges. Mandy specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry, valuing a holistic approach to mental health. She provides comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Her services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. With additional training in integrative psychiatry, Mandy offers natural treatment options for those who prefer to limit medication.
Women and birthing people face unique mental health challenges. Mandy specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry, valuing a holistic approach to mental health. She provides comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Her services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. With additional training in integrative psychiatry, Mandy offers natural treatment options for those who prefer to limit medication.
![Photo of Tara Livingston, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b5a6fdb-536e-4c9d-b6d4-0c1010b2fdc2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm grateful for this opportunity I have to help people - such as yourself - to feel their best! I want to learn about you: your goals, your struggles, your strengths and your areas in need of strengthening. I pride myself in my ability to listen empathetically and non-judgmentally. During each session I provide support and work with my clients in a way that they feel understood, cared for, and confident that things can get better. Life can be overwhelming at times, and while the struggle is real, you don't have to fight it alone. I want to empower you and help you to overcome the things that have been holding you back from feel
I'm grateful for this opportunity I have to help people - such as yourself - to feel their best! I want to learn about you: your goals, your struggles, your strengths and your areas in need of strengthening. I pride myself in my ability to listen empathetically and non-judgmentally. During each session I provide support and work with my clients in a way that they feel understood, cared for, and confident that things can get better. Life can be overwhelming at times, and while the struggle is real, you don't have to fight it alone. I want to empower you and help you to overcome the things that have been holding you back from feel
![Photo of Chime Ajiere - Zoelife psychiatric services, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e732855f-83f1-4145-94f9-523af0e2f970/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zoelife psychiatric services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Cherry Valley, IL 61016
We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders.
We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eca123b4-330e-4c40-a4b3-30570fd7b2b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61109 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth for entire state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We 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 on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting BCBS of IL, Optum/UHC insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth for entire state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We 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 on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting BCBS of IL, Optum/UHC insurances.
See more therapy options for Moline
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Moline, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Moline, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Moline, 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 Moline?
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.