Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL
Hi there! My name is Shola, and I'm a seasoned Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in treating mood disorders and oncology. Are you tired of feeling trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts and emotions? Do you struggle to find meaning or purpose in your life? Through leveraging my experience with medication management to adults, I hope we can work together to support your mental health. Our goal of your optimal state of mental health can be achieved if we work together, combining my long-spanning work ethic with your desire to improve yourself, and I for one would be delighted to support you.
Hi there! My name is Shola, and I'm a seasoned Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in treating mood disorders and oncology. Are you tired of feeling trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts and emotions? Do you struggle to find meaning or purpose in your life? Through leveraging my experience with medication management to adults, I hope we can work together to support your mental health. Our goal of your optimal state of mental health can be achieved if we work together, combining my long-spanning work ethic with your desire to improve yourself, and I for one would be delighted to support you.
Bosede Apata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60617 (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my journey in healthcare began in Nigeria, West Africa, and has been enriched by diverse experiences across the world. Starting as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), I have built my career on a foundation of compassion, competence, and a deep commitment to holistic wellness. Through my education at Lake Michigan College, Indiana University Northwest, Governor’s State University, and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, I have equipped myself with the knowledge and skills to provide high-quality care.
As a Board-Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my journey in healthcare began in Nigeria, West Africa, and has been enriched by diverse experiences across the world. Starting as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), I have built my career on a foundation of compassion, competence, and a deep commitment to holistic wellness. Through my education at Lake Michigan College, Indiana University Northwest, Governor’s State University, and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, I have equipped myself with the knowledge and skills to provide high-quality care.
I have extensive experience helping patients with concerns ranging from depression, anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, among others. I've had the privilege of working with diverse populations, and have valuable experience in both clinical and research settings. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered. Utilizing evidence-based treatments including medication management, psychotherapy, and behavioral interventions, I tailor each treatment plan to meet the unique needs and goals of every individual.
I have extensive experience helping patients with concerns ranging from depression, anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, among others. I've had the privilege of working with diverse populations, and have valuable experience in both clinical and research settings. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered. Utilizing evidence-based treatments including medication management, psychotherapy, and behavioral interventions, I tailor each treatment plan to meet the unique needs and goals of every individual.
Brett Stephan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607
I provide medication management and therapy for many conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and other conditions. When we meet for our first video session, we'll discuss your symptoms and treatment goals and we'll carefully select medications that fit your unique needs. I am based in Chicago, and I see clients in IL, WA, OR, AZ, NM, MT, AK, ND, and DE, all via telehealth. I am accepting new patients. I'm excited for the opportunity to work with you.
I provide medication management and therapy for many conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and other conditions. When we meet for our first video session, we'll discuss your symptoms and treatment goals and we'll carefully select medications that fit your unique needs. I am based in Chicago, and I see clients in IL, WA, OR, AZ, NM, MT, AK, ND, and DE, all via telehealth. I am accepting new patients. I'm excited for the opportunity to work with you.
Note: My calendar has gotten quite busy lately, but I'd like to invite you to get in touch, as circumstances can shift, and I have colleagues who may have openings to help you. Dr. Krushen Pillay DO is a highly skilled adult and geriatric psychiatrist with an impressive educational background. He successfully completed his residency training at Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University, where he excelled as the Chief Resident for two years. Prior to that, he obtained his medical education from Des Moines University and completed his undergraduate studies at the prestigious University of Southern California.
Note: My calendar has gotten quite busy lately, but I'd like to invite you to get in touch, as circumstances can shift, and I have colleagues who may have openings to help you. Dr. Krushen Pillay DO is a highly skilled adult and geriatric psychiatrist with an impressive educational background. He successfully completed his residency training at Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University, where he excelled as the Chief Resident for two years. Prior to that, he obtained his medical education from Des Moines University and completed his undergraduate studies at the prestigious University of Southern California.
I became interested in Psychiatry early on while studying psychology in college. From my early experiences in medical training, it became clear to me that I had a natural ability to listen and provide empathetic care for my patients. Providing education and counseling regarding psychiatric treatment is an important aspect of the field which I strive to accomplish in every visit. Throughout my training I have been consistently told that my unique ability to make a patient comfortable and heard is one of my greatest strengths.
I became interested in Psychiatry early on while studying psychology in college. From my early experiences in medical training, it became clear to me that I had a natural ability to listen and provide empathetic care for my patients. Providing education and counseling regarding psychiatric treatment is an important aspect of the field which I strive to accomplish in every visit. Throughout my training I have been consistently told that my unique ability to make a patient comfortable and heard is one of my greatest strengths.
Inspire1Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Hi! I’m Crystal Turner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have learned that, though the complexities that come with mental health are various, the commonality is the desire to be heard, seen, and treated as human and to attain the highest level of functioning in life.
Hi! I’m Crystal Turner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have learned that, though the complexities that come with mental health are various, the commonality is the desire to be heard, seen, and treated as human and to attain the highest level of functioning in life.
Brave Health
Psychiatrist, MD, MSW, LCSW, PhD, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604 (Online Only)
We are a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive through high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Our comprehensive mental health treatment and programs are easy-to-access, affordable and clinically effective. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.
We are a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive through high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Our comprehensive mental health treatment and programs are easy-to-access, affordable and clinically effective. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.
Michelle Wolff
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for a Psychiatry provider that listens to you and includes you in the your treatment plan? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgemental psychiatry provider that provides a comfortable, safe environment to meet? Do you want to feel empowered knowing you are on the proper medications and therapies to overcome your struggles, and turn around your life?
Are you looking for a Psychiatry provider that listens to you and includes you in the your treatment plan? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgemental psychiatry provider that provides a comfortable, safe environment to meet? Do you want to feel empowered knowing you are on the proper medications and therapies to overcome your struggles, and turn around your life?
Nicole Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! I am a Family Nurse Practitioner with a dual certification in Psychiatry and Mental Health.
Accepting new clients! I am a Family Nurse Practitioner with a dual certification in Psychiatry and Mental Health.
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 4 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, insomnia, psychosis.
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 4 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, insomnia, psychosis.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Mental health and wellness is a journey. Whether you are experiencing new or worsening perinatal mood/anxiety symptoms or managing the mood changes that may arise related to hormonal transitions (puberty, location, weaning, fertility treatments, perimenopause), my goal is to ensure you feel safe to share your story. I am here to affirm you are not alone. Throughout my years as a certified nurse midwife and women’s health nurse practitioner, I’ve provided essential care and support across various settings. My approach has always been holistic and adaptive, ensuring accessibility and comfort for all my patients.
Mental health and wellness is a journey. Whether you are experiencing new or worsening perinatal mood/anxiety symptoms or managing the mood changes that may arise related to hormonal transitions (puberty, location, weaning, fertility treatments, perimenopause), my goal is to ensure you feel safe to share your story. I am here to affirm you are not alone. Throughout my years as a certified nurse midwife and women’s health nurse practitioner, I’ve provided essential care and support across various settings. My approach has always been holistic and adaptive, ensuring accessibility and comfort for all my patients.
Accepting new patients: Are you experiencing: mood swings, anxiety, fatigue, suffering from overwhelming work stress, feeling depressed, having sleep difficulties, lack motivation or any other mental health issues? I am dedicated to supporting you in achieving all of your wellness goals. I am a Doctor of Nursing practice dual board-certified Psychiatric mental health and Family nurse practitioner with over 20 years in healthcare, I provide comprehensive evidence-based, holistic healthcare utilizing both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I believe your treatment is a collaborative effort where your input is essential in creating
Accepting new patients: Are you experiencing: mood swings, anxiety, fatigue, suffering from overwhelming work stress, feeling depressed, having sleep difficulties, lack motivation or any other mental health issues? I am dedicated to supporting you in achieving all of your wellness goals. I am a Doctor of Nursing practice dual board-certified Psychiatric mental health and Family nurse practitioner with over 20 years in healthcare, I provide comprehensive evidence-based, holistic healthcare utilizing both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I believe your treatment is a collaborative effort where your input is essential in creating
Jeff K. Abbott, MD is a ABPN board certified psychiatrist. He graduated medical school from UT Southwestern, and completed psychiatry residency training as Chief Resident from Northwestern University. He has received numerous awards for education, merit, and continues to teach trainees at Northwestern. Currently Dr. Abbott only offers telemedicine.
Jeff K. Abbott, MD is a ABPN board certified psychiatrist. He graduated medical school from UT Southwestern, and completed psychiatry residency training as Chief Resident from Northwestern University. He has received numerous awards for education, merit, and continues to teach trainees at Northwestern. Currently Dr. Abbott only offers telemedicine.
Sarah Ritter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647 (Online Only)
I help people who are struggling with neurodivergence and its mood complications as well as depression, anxiety, bipolar II disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and C-PTSD who are open to new and emerging evidenced-based treatments to reduce or resolve their symptoms, feel more confident, and live a healthier life! I am a fully licensed, ANCC board-certified, psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with over 8 years experience.
I help people who are struggling with neurodivergence and its mood complications as well as depression, anxiety, bipolar II disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and C-PTSD who are open to new and emerging evidenced-based treatments to reduce or resolve their symptoms, feel more confident, and live a healthier life! I am a fully licensed, ANCC board-certified, psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with over 8 years experience.
PsychVantage MD, led by Dr. Sam Suhail (also known as Dr. Sam), provides outstanding psychiatric and mental health services in a private office located in downtown Chicago. Our primary objective is to deliver exceptional personalized treatment to our patients, a majority of whom have experienced significant progress under the care of Dr. Sam. Our aim is to bring about enduring positive changes in the lives of our patients. Dr. Sam is of the belief that every individual possesses the ability to thrive and achieve their utmost potential.
PsychVantage MD, led by Dr. Sam Suhail (also known as Dr. Sam), provides outstanding psychiatric and mental health services in a private office located in downtown Chicago. Our primary objective is to deliver exceptional personalized treatment to our patients, a majority of whom have experienced significant progress under the care of Dr. Sam. Our aim is to bring about enduring positive changes in the lives of our patients. Dr. Sam is of the belief that every individual possesses the ability to thrive and achieve their utmost potential.
Dr. Yovankin is a board-certified pediatric psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of mood, anxiety, and behavioral conditions in adolescents and young adults. Dr. Yovankin attended Chicago Medical School and completed his residency and fellowship training at the University of Illinois – Chicago (UIC), where he was named Chief Fellow. He also underwent training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
Dr. Yovankin is a board-certified pediatric psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of mood, anxiety, and behavioral conditions in adolescents and young adults. Dr. Yovankin attended Chicago Medical School and completed his residency and fellowship training at the University of Illinois – Chicago (UIC), where he was named Chief Fellow. He also underwent training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
I provide medication management and Spravato to adult patients. With extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, suicidal ideation, women's issues, self-esteem, grief, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more. I listen attentively to understand each patient's unique story, review treatment histories, and collaborate to set clear goals for their mental health journey.
I provide medication management and Spravato to adult patients. With extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, suicidal ideation, women's issues, self-esteem, grief, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more. I listen attentively to understand each patient's unique story, review treatment histories, and collaborate to set clear goals for their mental health journey.
Situations outside of our control can sometimes leave us feeling confused and unprepared for the most sudden and unexpected of life's changes. All that we can do is our best to rebuild what was lost and taken from us, reestablish the supports we once had, and open up ourselves to new opportunities for growth. Our sessions are designed to be collaborative in nature. For some patients this means working to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve the goals you set for yourself. For others, my role is simply to answer questions and continue clarifying the steps between where you are and where you imagine yourself being.
Situations outside of our control can sometimes leave us feeling confused and unprepared for the most sudden and unexpected of life's changes. All that we can do is our best to rebuild what was lost and taken from us, reestablish the supports we once had, and open up ourselves to new opportunities for growth. Our sessions are designed to be collaborative in nature. For some patients this means working to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve the goals you set for yourself. For others, my role is simply to answer questions and continue clarifying the steps between where you are and where you imagine yourself being.
As a general psychiatrist, I provide treatment for patients 18 years of age and older, mostly for conditions of depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation and psychosis. While I am dedicated to providing care to a general psychiatric population, I feel uniquely privileged in providing care to individuals coping with parenting and marital stressors. Each individual is unique with a specific set of life circumstances. I see an individual’s relationship with self as the foundation of all life experiences, and key for healing and moving forward.
As a general psychiatrist, I provide treatment for patients 18 years of age and older, mostly for conditions of depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation and psychosis. While I am dedicated to providing care to a general psychiatric population, I feel uniquely privileged in providing care to individuals coping with parenting and marital stressors. Each individual is unique with a specific set of life circumstances. I see an individual’s relationship with self as the foundation of all life experiences, and key for healing and moving forward.
See more therapy options for Chicago
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL
400+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
72% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Medication Management |
65% | ADHD |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
82% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
31% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Chicago?
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.