Psychiatrists in Sycamore, IL
![Photo of Tricia Ward, RN, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52fa8400-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management to adults and adolescents with concerns in all areas of mental health including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management to adults and adolescents with concerns in all areas of mental health including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
![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 Michelle Gosnell, APN CNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b070da7d-f6b8-416b-83a1-9f8210416cb6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Gosnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN CNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sycamore, IL 60178
I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children 6 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children 6 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
![Photo of Muhammad Nouman Azhar - Shifa Therapeutics LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43a2c519-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
SHIFA THERAPEUTICS LLC HAS IN OFFICE AND TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR PSYCHIATRIC AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION TREATMENT. INITIAL APPOINTMENT MUST BE IN OFFICE (630) 761-5670.
SHIFA THERAPEUTICS LLC HAS IN OFFICE AND TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR PSYCHIATRIC AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION TREATMENT. INITIAL APPOINTMENT MUST BE IN OFFICE (630) 761-5670.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Olukemi Ajayi - AZE Mind & Wellness Center, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/687dacef-f991-4c32-a2ea-c3fe08298011/1/320x400.jpeg)
AZE Mind & Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115 (Online Only)
I have a Master of Science in Nursing graduate of Walden University and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner across the Lifespan. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am responsible for providing my patients with superior, evidence-based care to improve their quality of life. I place a lot of value on developing long-lasting relationships with people.
I have a Master of Science in Nursing graduate of Walden University and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner across the Lifespan. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am responsible for providing my patients with superior, evidence-based care to improve their quality of life. I place a lot of value on developing long-lasting relationships with people.
![Photo of Danielle Silva, NP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f39a743e-6660-4f87-99ee-d33805c83a61/1/320x400.png)
Hello, I'm Danielle Silva, a licensed and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with four years of experience. I specialize in providing compassionate care and evidence-based therapies to support individuals in managing mental health challenges. I'm dedicated to collaborating with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and enhance overall well-being. I typically work with patients across the lifespan who are struggling with a variety of mental health conditions.
Hello, I'm Danielle Silva, a licensed and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with four years of experience. I specialize in providing compassionate care and evidence-based therapies to support individuals in managing mental health challenges. I'm dedicated to collaborating with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and enhance overall well-being. I typically work with patients across the lifespan who are struggling with a variety of mental health conditions.
![Photo of Bethany Potempa - EQ Perspectives, APN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6111112f-1fa7-4478-a40f-6216ac832b8b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I use evidenced based practice therapies and medications to help my clients live a more productive and fulfilling life. I take a biopsychosocial approach to uncovering where the feelings of disconnection may be coming from. I treat and diagnosis depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, substance abuse and personality disorders.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I use evidenced based practice therapies and medications to help my clients live a more productive and fulfilling life. I take a biopsychosocial approach to uncovering where the feelings of disconnection may be coming from. I treat and diagnosis depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, substance abuse and personality disorders.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Janeen Paul, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03c96fe0-2b80-426d-9e75-de035cb8b9d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Paul has worked in outpatient private practice psychiatry for nearly 20 years. Throughout her career, she has combined medication management with talk therapy, to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient's needs. Dr. Paul received her MD from The University of Iowa. She completed an intern year in Obstetrics and Gynecology at The University of Illinois, Chicago, and went on to psychiatry residency at Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL. Dr. Janeen Paul is board certified in Adult Psychiatry.
Dr. Paul has worked in outpatient private practice psychiatry for nearly 20 years. Throughout her career, she has combined medication management with talk therapy, to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient's needs. Dr. Paul received her MD from The University of Iowa. She completed an intern year in Obstetrics and Gynecology at The University of Illinois, Chicago, and went on to psychiatry residency at Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL. Dr. Janeen Paul is board certified in Adult Psychiatry.
![Photo of Tracy Cushing - The Center for Insight and Connection, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb8a5d50-ba82-4468-93bb-f7505d7e2d84/1/320x400.png)
The Center for Insight and Connection
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532 (Online Only)
I help my clients achieve their best possible outcomes. I am a good listener and feel that collaboration with other mental health professionals is very important. I have over 20 years of experience working with people in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I look forward to helping you reach your goals.
I help my clients achieve their best possible outcomes. I am a good listener and feel that collaboration with other mental health professionals is very important. I have over 20 years of experience working with people in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I look forward to helping you reach your goals.
![Photo of Kyle McKinley, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62b9b8da-6343-4166-bc19-0bbcf5b93a82/4/320x400.jpeg)
Kyle McKinley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I am Kyle (he/him/his) and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been a mental health nurse for over 20 years and have worked in numerous health care settings. My approach to care is greatly informed by my nursing background and the healing power of an affirming, collaborative relationship. I aim to provide holistic, person-centered care utilizing trauma informed, anti-oppressive, and harm reduction approaches. I offer both psychotherapy and medication management. I believe medication can be a helpful tool to turn down the dial of distress so that we can better access our capacity to heal.
Hi, I am Kyle (he/him/his) and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been a mental health nurse for over 20 years and have worked in numerous health care settings. My approach to care is greatly informed by my nursing background and the healing power of an affirming, collaborative relationship. I aim to provide holistic, person-centered care utilizing trauma informed, anti-oppressive, and harm reduction approaches. I offer both psychotherapy and medication management. I believe medication can be a helpful tool to turn down the dial of distress so that we can better access our capacity to heal.
![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
Des Plaines, IL 60016
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 Abosede Rachel Babalola - Best Option Behavioral Health Services, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f1b2314-415b-469d-92f7-a416d3a61356/1/320x400.jpeg)
Best Option Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462
Abosede Babalola specializes in evaluating and treating a comprehensive range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and psychotic disorders like schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. Dr. Babalola understands the emotional and physical suffering people experience with mental health disorders and dedicates herself to easing patients’ distress, offering empowerment and hope for mental well-being.
Abosede Babalola specializes in evaluating and treating a comprehensive range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and psychotic disorders like schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. Dr. Babalola understands the emotional and physical suffering people experience with mental health disorders and dedicates herself to easing patients’ distress, offering empowerment and hope for mental well-being.
![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 Samuel Assam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4097d3a1-ade1-4095-a393-ac482d45318a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to enhancing mental well-being. I began my journey in the field of psychiatry in 2007, and my passion for healing continues to drive my practice. I believe in addressing mental health from every angle and I’m committed to providing comprehensive care that considers the interconnectedness of our lives and relationships.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to enhancing mental well-being. I began my journey in the field of psychiatry in 2007, and my passion for healing continues to drive my practice. I believe in addressing mental health from every angle and I’m committed to providing comprehensive care that considers the interconnectedness of our lives and relationships.
![Photo of Min Wang, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e3ec5e8-ae76-42f2-8528-23c8b176b182/2/320x400.jpeg)
My training in the field of internal medicine has helped my psychiatry practice, especially in the care of geriatric patients, who often have chronic medical conditions. I am very conscious of the side effects of the medications commonly used in the treatment of mental illness, some of which may affect a patient's physical health.
My training in the field of internal medicine has helped my psychiatry practice, especially in the care of geriatric patients, who often have chronic medical conditions. I am very conscious of the side effects of the medications commonly used in the treatment of mental illness, some of which may affect a patient's physical health.
![Photo of Brad Pechter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/691e4ce3-c542-45ab-8c50-2355981df409/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bradley Pechter, MD is a psychiatrist with over 25 years of clinical experience. He has attended school at Stanford University, Northwestern Medical School, and the Universities of Illinois and Colorado. He has been board-certified in adult, child & adolescent and addiction psychiatry over the course of his career. Dr. Pechter has also been on the faculty at Northwestern, Rush and the University of Illinois. He has been in private practice for the past 10 years and has a special interest in Child, Adolescent and Young Adult Psychiatry.
Bradley Pechter, MD is a psychiatrist with over 25 years of clinical experience. He has attended school at Stanford University, Northwestern Medical School, and the Universities of Illinois and Colorado. He has been board-certified in adult, child & adolescent and addiction psychiatry over the course of his career. Dr. Pechter has also been on the faculty at Northwestern, Rush and the University of Illinois. He has been in private practice for the past 10 years and has a special interest in Child, Adolescent and Young Adult Psychiatry.
![Photo of Bess Levin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfa63ce4-c8e5-46f8-b2bf-a5e375392eb8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients and meeting them wherever they are on the path towards bettering their mental health, whether they are seeking treatment for the first time or looking to explore new options when other treatments have failed. I believe that each patient is unique and deserves an individualized, evidence-based and collaborative approach to their treatment plan.
I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients and meeting them wherever they are on the path towards bettering their mental health, whether they are seeking treatment for the first time or looking to explore new options when other treatments have failed. I believe that each patient is unique and deserves an individualized, evidence-based and collaborative approach to their treatment plan.
![Photo of Jennifer Gray Schmidt, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d084d96-8ef4-4030-ad95-7f4c0b88b78f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Gray Schmidt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
My approach to treatment is to introduce and guide you down a pathway that you feel is suitable for you and your lifestyle. I use my sessions to learn and understand who you are as a person. It is essential for me to identify your specific concerns and then provide psychiatric treatment that aligns with your goals and values in life. I am passionate about discussing more than medication as treatment as I feel it takes more than medicine to develop a balanced, comfortable lifestyle. I also utilize a collaborative approach with other professionals to ensure that I provide the safest possible care.
My approach to treatment is to introduce and guide you down a pathway that you feel is suitable for you and your lifestyle. I use my sessions to learn and understand who you are as a person. It is essential for me to identify your specific concerns and then provide psychiatric treatment that aligns with your goals and values in life. I am passionate about discussing more than medication as treatment as I feel it takes more than medicine to develop a balanced, comfortable lifestyle. I also utilize a collaborative approach with other professionals to ensure that I provide the safest possible care.
![Photo of Olubukola E Shodiya, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4867908d-3307-486a-9086-46ab725af82d/1/320x400.png)
Olubukola E Shodiya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441 (Online Only)
As an advocate for mental health, I am deeply committed to fostering understanding, support, and resources for individuals facing mental health challenges.
As an advocate for mental health, I am deeply committed to fostering understanding, support, and resources for individuals facing mental health challenges.
![Photo of Rachel Ramaswamy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edc014ae-02b1-4eb3-9f41-e630bdeda1c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients as soon as this week. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist with an emphasis on reproductive psychiatry, including issues related to pregnancy, postpartum, menstruation and menopause. I utilize a holistic approach to understand my patients beyond a simple diagnosis. Through a supportive, collaborative relationship, we can work together toward sustainable growth and achieving your aspirational Self.
Accepting new patients as soon as this week. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist with an emphasis on reproductive psychiatry, including issues related to pregnancy, postpartum, menstruation and menopause. I utilize a holistic approach to understand my patients beyond a simple diagnosis. Through a supportive, collaborative relationship, we can work together toward sustainable growth and achieving your aspirational Self.
See more therapy options for Sycamore
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sycamore, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Sycamore, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Medication Management |
75% | Anxiety |
75% | Child |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Autism |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Sycamore, IL see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sycamore?
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.