Psychiatrists in Palatine, IL
![Photo of Gundu Anupama Reddy - llinois Telepsychiatrist, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9129697-b64d-41e0-bc16-3f2c1d3c2843/1/320x400.jpeg)
llinois Telepsychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067 (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 Christopher Lynn, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd8148b5-04fb-48f7-b6a3-7782746e026c/1/320x400.png)
I look forward to the prospect of working with you. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, psychiatric medication management and supportive therapy for adult clients ages 18 and above. I am double board-certified as a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated to maximizing your health and wellness by integrating traditional healthcare with complementary/alternative therapies in order to prevent/manage chronic illness and promote a healthy lifestyle.
I look forward to the prospect of working with you. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, psychiatric medication management and supportive therapy for adult clients ages 18 and above. I am double board-certified as a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated to maximizing your health and wellness by integrating traditional healthcare with complementary/alternative therapies in order to prevent/manage chronic illness and promote a healthy lifestyle.
![Photo of Joanna Missygar (Addiction Speciality), PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d379363d-978e-459b-87e2-50d4e2b97c51/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Missygar (Addiction Speciality)
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074
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 Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0054dda2-133d-4dc2-9193-6aa29b83b5ab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Orlando Malate, DNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bd21942-bb14-4719-9c31-1134ce4913da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Orlando Malate is a compassionate mental health nurse practitioner offering therapy and medication management in Illinois. Dr. Malate treats depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders. He approaches his practice with a deeper, wider, relational approach that centers on listening to you. His practice setting offers a safe, confidential, and trusting space to talk about your feelings and to develop individualized treatment plans.
Dr. Orlando Malate is a compassionate mental health nurse practitioner offering therapy and medication management in Illinois. Dr. Malate treats depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders. He approaches his practice with a deeper, wider, relational approach that centers on listening to you. His practice setting offers a safe, confidential, and trusting space to talk about your feelings and to develop individualized treatment plans.
![Photo of Sharyl Balkin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9b9e63f-818e-4b56-b6b9-2cc7c940e27a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I attended the University of Florida for my undergraduate degree and went on to complete a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies at Florida State. I earned Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry in 2022. Every visit, I aim to supply an inclusive, transparent, and team-based environment. I am a LGBTIQA+ ally.
I attended the University of Florida for my undergraduate degree and went on to complete a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies at Florida State. I earned Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry in 2022. Every visit, I aim to supply an inclusive, transparent, and team-based environment. I am a LGBTIQA+ ally.
![Photo of Armanda Keci, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75742f07-fea6-4b12-84a6-a7344efcd553/1/320x400.jpeg)
Treating holistically, listening empathetically, and developing relationships are important in helping my patients with their journey in mental health.
Treating holistically, listening empathetically, and developing relationships are important in helping my patients with their journey in mental health.
![Photo of Abigail Wilson, APRN, PMHNP , RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77f45e8a-35ff-42a0-b4b9-abaf776579b5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abigail Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP , RN
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074 (Online Only)
I have expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/ trauma, OCD, and sleep disorders. Additionally, I offer support for individuals struggling with obesity and related mental health concerns. when treating any condition, I prioritize creating mutual goals with my patients. Oftentimes, patients visit a psychiatric provider and don’t feel they had a voice in their treatment. My passion is helping my patients achieve their goals. In other words, your goals are my goals too. I want you to feel heard and feel we are working towards what you want in treatment.
I have expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/ trauma, OCD, and sleep disorders. Additionally, I offer support for individuals struggling with obesity and related mental health concerns. when treating any condition, I prioritize creating mutual goals with my patients. Oftentimes, patients visit a psychiatric provider and don’t feel they had a voice in their treatment. My passion is helping my patients achieve their goals. In other words, your goals are my goals too. I want you to feel heard and feel we are working towards what you want in treatment.
![Photo of Tangee Ximena Moscoso - Holistic Mental Health Wellness Inc., A, P, N, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bde803cd-a075-43f4-a898-5f29e1358df6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Mental Health Wellness Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, A, P, N
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
Ready to delve deep into the root of your struggles? I believe in body, mind, spirit connection & in one's ability to heal. I appreciate the opportunity to be able to have a positive impact in the lives of each person that comes into my life. My goal is to help guide you to understand the problem & not just symptom management, in this way minimizing the amounts of medications, if any, in time. Medications can be part of the puzzle yet not the whole answer. If you are ready to delve into the deepest parts of your being, I can guide you on your life journey with the aim to help you reach your healthiest and highest potential!
Ready to delve deep into the root of your struggles? I believe in body, mind, spirit connection & in one's ability to heal. I appreciate the opportunity to be able to have a positive impact in the lives of each person that comes into my life. My goal is to help guide you to understand the problem & not just symptom management, in this way minimizing the amounts of medications, if any, in time. Medications can be part of the puzzle yet not the whole answer. If you are ready to delve into the deepest parts of your being, I can guide you on your life journey with the aim to help you reach your healthiest and highest potential!
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Devika Patel, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec807b24-4c97-44f0-9671-5b866ba498ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently accepting new patients**** I have been providing excellent care for over 5 years with great compassion. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients 7 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems. I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
I am currently accepting new patients**** I have been providing excellent care for over 5 years with great compassion. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients 7 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems. I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
![Photo of Karelis Sierra-Cintron, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dec26de5-eed1-4f0e-b63f-7d659de57cd3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sierra-Cintron is board-certified in adult psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has been in practice for 12 years. Dr. Sierra-Cintron focuses her practice on medication management. She also engages in supportive therapy in a comprehensive way, focusing on the patient as a whole and not just the symptoms. Dr. Sierra-Cintron has a comprehensive approach to treatment, and might consider the addition of therapy, either by referral or collaborating with an existing therapist for a more rounded approach and improved outcome.
Dr. Sierra-Cintron is board-certified in adult psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has been in practice for 12 years. Dr. Sierra-Cintron focuses her practice on medication management. She also engages in supportive therapy in a comprehensive way, focusing on the patient as a whole and not just the symptoms. Dr. Sierra-Cintron has a comprehensive approach to treatment, and might consider the addition of therapy, either by referral or collaborating with an existing therapist for a more rounded approach and improved outcome.
![Photo of Daniel Ross, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40d24ecd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
It is not uncommon to find ourselves somehow off track and disconnected from who we thought we were. Our relationships may seem stuck and deeply unsatisfying. We feel lost and unsure of our place in the world. This may be accompanied by feelings of depression, anxiety or as physical problems. It can be experienced as a deep alienation, sadness and suffering. When we are called to make a change and resist, it can cause havoc in our lives; this can happen whether the change is in the outer circumstances of our life, our inner attitude, our world view, or some combination.
It is not uncommon to find ourselves somehow off track and disconnected from who we thought we were. Our relationships may seem stuck and deeply unsatisfying. We feel lost and unsure of our place in the world. This may be accompanied by feelings of depression, anxiety or as physical problems. It can be experienced as a deep alienation, sadness and suffering. When we are called to make a change and resist, it can cause havoc in our lives; this can happen whether the change is in the outer circumstances of our life, our inner attitude, our world view, or some combination.
![Photo of Shalini Varma - Shalini Varma, M.D., Doctor, BdCert, Meds, COACH, Therapy, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/408d5f5e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shalini Varma, M.D.
Psychiatrist, Doctor, BdCert, Meds, COACH, Therapy
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Accepting people of all ages within one week! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
Accepting people of all ages within one week! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
![Photo of Dr. Aderonke Oshibajo, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39965ade-0f24-4fcf-a475-60a4a659efb2/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Aderonke Oshibajo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
Dr. Aderonke Oshibajo is a skilled Adolescent & Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She practices at Adewell Health Mental Services in Rolling Meadows, IL, offering in-person and virtual consultations. With a comprehensive approach to healthcare, She supports adults and children through their unique journeys toward mental wellness. Her expertise spans a wide range of conditions, including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Binge Eating Disorders, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, and more. We Are Now Accepting New Patients!
Dr. Aderonke Oshibajo is a skilled Adolescent & Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She practices at Adewell Health Mental Services in Rolling Meadows, IL, offering in-person and virtual consultations. With a comprehensive approach to healthcare, She supports adults and children through their unique journeys toward mental wellness. Her expertise spans a wide range of conditions, including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Binge Eating Disorders, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, and more. We Are Now Accepting New Patients!
![Photo of Grace Esmalla, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d9331da-b17e-48d6-ae0e-eacae651f69b/1/320x400.png)
Our clinic is accepting new patients. We endeavors 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 treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders. Email us or call us today to book an appointment. You shouldn’t have to struggle to also find a provider.
Our clinic is accepting new patients. We endeavors 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 treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders. Email us or call us today to book an appointment. You shouldn’t have to struggle to also find a provider.
![Photo of Jeff Bondora - BZA Behavioral Health - Arlington Heights office, MEd, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/890d8c13-c167-4820-9969-a407bfab6c7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
BZA Behavioral Health - Arlington Heights office
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
![Photo of Inna Dilman, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d8e9f67-f360-49f3-bfe5-62873fd73a11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inna Dilman is nationally certified and state licensed to practice medical and psychiatric care in the state of Illinois. She has over 10 years of experience including preventive, medical and mental health care. She has a special interest in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and insomnia. She is a compassionate and empathetic provider that strives to understand and heal the whole patient. As a PA, she is skilled in providing individualized, judgement free and comprehensive care using both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical approaches, as well as offering brief psychotherapy. For more information: www.psychwellnessgroup.com
Inna Dilman is nationally certified and state licensed to practice medical and psychiatric care in the state of Illinois. She has over 10 years of experience including preventive, medical and mental health care. She has a special interest in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and insomnia. She is a compassionate and empathetic provider that strives to understand and heal the whole patient. As a PA, she is skilled in providing individualized, judgement free and comprehensive care using both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical approaches, as well as offering brief psychotherapy. For more information: www.psychwellnessgroup.com
![Photo of Alexandra Whitaker, MSN, ANP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b553481-0444-4c95-aef7-9e34783a0f0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Whitaker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ANP-BC
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Alexandra Whitaker has treated patients with depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, Bipolar depressive disorder, ADHD, and substance use. She believes that mental health is as important as physical health. She aims to deliver the best evidence-based care with respect and compassion. She has experience working with patients from various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds and is fluent in Polish. She recognizes each person for their individuality which is reflected in her holistic treatment plans. She enjoys collaborating with patients to help them identify and overcome barriers.
Alexandra Whitaker has treated patients with depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, Bipolar depressive disorder, ADHD, and substance use. She believes that mental health is as important as physical health. She aims to deliver the best evidence-based care with respect and compassion. She has experience working with patients from various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds and is fluent in Polish. She recognizes each person for their individuality which is reflected in her holistic treatment plans. She enjoys collaborating with patients to help them identify and overcome barriers.
![Photo of Layna Glenn, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64194cf3-7707-4fd2-a0c0-7918bb0136b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Glenn is a board-certified psychiatrist in psychiatry. She has worked mostly as an outpatient psychiatrist for the last 3 years after completing her residency. Dr. Glenn mainly practices in the traditional psychiatric model with a combination of medication management and basic psychotherapy techniques. Dr. Glenn’s goal with every patient is to meet the patient where they are, get a good understanding of their concerns and work together to determine the best treatment plan and obtain the best outcomes. She hopes to continue to learn new evidence-based treatments and grow in her personal interests to better help the patients.
Dr. Glenn is a board-certified psychiatrist in psychiatry. She has worked mostly as an outpatient psychiatrist for the last 3 years after completing her residency. Dr. Glenn mainly practices in the traditional psychiatric model with a combination of medication management and basic psychotherapy techniques. Dr. Glenn’s goal with every patient is to meet the patient where they are, get a good understanding of their concerns and work together to determine the best treatment plan and obtain the best outcomes. She hopes to continue to learn new evidence-based treatments and grow in her personal interests to better help the patients.
![Photo of Aleksandr Dekhtyar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab48b5ff-7554-4af6-9426-609ed0a459f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Aleksandr Dekhtyar, MD and Associates! You are a step closer to a new you, where you feel empowered to start your journey on a positive path toward personal growth and well-being. Aleksandr Dekhtyar has been in private practice serving the needs of adults and adolescents in the Northwest Suburbs for over 15 years and is affiliated with Amita Health. We strive to offer a pleasant and relaxing environment, conducive to the establishment of rapport between patient and provider. Through reimagining the medical model, we are able to provide a level of service that is second to none and personalized for each individual.
Welcome to Aleksandr Dekhtyar, MD and Associates! You are a step closer to a new you, where you feel empowered to start your journey on a positive path toward personal growth and well-being. Aleksandr Dekhtyar has been in private practice serving the needs of adults and adolescents in the Northwest Suburbs for over 15 years and is affiliated with Amita Health. We strive to offer a pleasant and relaxing environment, conducive to the establishment of rapport between patient and provider. Through reimagining the medical model, we are able to provide a level of service that is second to none and personalized for each individual.
See more therapy options for Palatine
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Palatine, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Palatine, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Depression |
78% | Medication Management |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
86% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Palatine, IL see their clients
78% | In Person and Online | |
22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Palatine?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.