Psychiatrists in Downers Grove, IL
![Photo of Kyleigh Baker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25661cc2-5b68-483d-9455-039705e839de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kyleigh Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
Kyleigh is a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental-health. She completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Prior to working as a nurse practitioner, she worked as a registered nurse at an inpatient psychiatric facility. Kyleigh uses her education and training experience to provide patient-centered care to provide the best outcomes for her patients.
Kyleigh is a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental-health. She completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Prior to working as a nurse practitioner, she worked as a registered nurse at an inpatient psychiatric facility. Kyleigh uses her education and training experience to provide patient-centered care to provide the best outcomes for her patients.
![Photo of Michaeline Steves, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63c41b31-ec67-42e7-861c-c708df01bc46/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 11 years of nursing experience. While caring for my patients as a nurse, I have recognized that physical and mental health are symbiotic and necessary to thrive. I have always wanted to help others; listening is one of my biggest strengths. The mind has always fascinated me as to how powerful thoughts and feelings can be. I believe in a holistic approach and that every person is unique, and so should their care. I am passionate about learning and staying current on evidence-based practice and applying that knowledge to help my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 11 years of nursing experience. While caring for my patients as a nurse, I have recognized that physical and mental health are symbiotic and necessary to thrive. I have always wanted to help others; listening is one of my biggest strengths. The mind has always fascinated me as to how powerful thoughts and feelings can be. I believe in a holistic approach and that every person is unique, and so should their care. I am passionate about learning and staying current on evidence-based practice and applying that knowledge to help my patients.
![Photo of Madison Bertram, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c7b240c-88f3-4cec-9faf-340da15214c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Madison Bertram
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
She began her career as a registered nurse working at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Madison treats patients with a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD.
She began her career as a registered nurse working at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Madison treats patients with a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD.
![Photo of Jessica Moody, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f19bec3d-90f1-44c4-a36d-593ac81fe837/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Moody
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
I truly love psychiatry, and I hold three mental health related science degrees. I have a background that includes research experience which has enabled me to cultivate the use of objective data and self reported outcomes. The patient and I craft a unique path to wellness by examining the patient’s response to their treatment. I am well-trained in not only adult psychiatry, but also child and adolescent psychiatry. I am prepared to serve this population as well as adults to provide an adequate sensitivity to the patient experience throughout the lifespan.
I truly love psychiatry, and I hold three mental health related science degrees. I have a background that includes research experience which has enabled me to cultivate the use of objective data and self reported outcomes. The patient and I craft a unique path to wellness by examining the patient’s response to their treatment. I am well-trained in not only adult psychiatry, but also child and adolescent psychiatry. I am prepared to serve this population as well as adults to provide an adequate sensitivity to the patient experience throughout the lifespan.
![Photo of Shannon Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1728a8af-9a60-401e-978e-2831c0def8e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
Shannon is a Board-Certified PMHNP with 18 years of nursing experience. She is qualified and experienced in treating patients across the lifespan with a wide array of mental health challenges. She uses a collaborative, holistic approach to care which centers the patient’s treatment goals and preferences. Driven by a commitment to enhancing mental healthcare accessibility and addressing barriers to treatment, Shannon is at the forefront of advancing compassionate and effective care within the field.Her practice is guided by the Theory of Human Caring, which fosters an authentic and genuine connection with individuals under her care.
Shannon is a Board-Certified PMHNP with 18 years of nursing experience. She is qualified and experienced in treating patients across the lifespan with a wide array of mental health challenges. She uses a collaborative, holistic approach to care which centers the patient’s treatment goals and preferences. Driven by a commitment to enhancing mental healthcare accessibility and addressing barriers to treatment, Shannon is at the forefront of advancing compassionate and effective care within the field.Her practice is guided by the Theory of Human Caring, which fosters an authentic and genuine connection with individuals under her care.
![Photo of Dr. Amir W. Raad, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d88a07c-8736-4019-991c-9b995f25d408/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Amir W. Raad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
Dr. Amir Raad is a doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He relies on evidence-based research and clinical practice in treating and understanding psychiatric disorders. His practice philosophy recognizes mental health disparities to effectively promote culturally sensitive, high-quality patient-centered care. Dr. Raad believes in helping patients discover a healthy stability, balance, and meaning in their lives. He strives to bring awareness, compassion, and professionalism in understanding the patient as a whole person.
Dr. Amir Raad is a doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He relies on evidence-based research and clinical practice in treating and understanding psychiatric disorders. His practice philosophy recognizes mental health disparities to effectively promote culturally sensitive, high-quality patient-centered care. Dr. Raad believes in helping patients discover a healthy stability, balance, and meaning in their lives. He strives to bring awareness, compassion, and professionalism in understanding the patient as a whole person.
![Photo of Beth Dudley, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62212689-f605-4dd3-a0bd-0ddaa293d3a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Dudley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
Beth is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on delivering high-quality mental health care. She embraces the use of telehealth to deliver safe, discreet, convenient, patient-centered care supported by evidence. Specializing in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment and management of a variety of mental health disorders, Beth is an empathetic listener who believes that each patient requires unique attention. While all individuals can benefit from psychotherapy and some from psychotropic medication in their therapy plan, Beth can explore all effective treatment options with you.
Beth is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on delivering high-quality mental health care. She embraces the use of telehealth to deliver safe, discreet, convenient, patient-centered care supported by evidence. Specializing in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment and management of a variety of mental health disorders, Beth is an empathetic listener who believes that each patient requires unique attention. While all individuals can benefit from psychotherapy and some from psychotropic medication in their therapy plan, Beth can explore all effective treatment options with you.
![Photo of Nandni Gupta, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a1115e6-46d6-4332-a456-c02ab219841e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have several years' experience in treating adults with psychiatric disorders. I will work with you to create a customizable plan to treat your psychiatric illness, that includes not just medications but also lifestyle modifications where appropriate. My goal is to help you reach your optimal functioning and I understand that this process looks different for everyone. Since past experiences can contribute to current behaviors, we can also discuss negative thought processes during treatment.
I have several years' experience in treating adults with psychiatric disorders. I will work with you to create a customizable plan to treat your psychiatric illness, that includes not just medications but also lifestyle modifications where appropriate. My goal is to help you reach your optimal functioning and I understand that this process looks different for everyone. Since past experiences can contribute to current behaviors, we can also discuss negative thought processes during treatment.
![Photo of Anisha Dhan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41830ce1-6e82-40e7-94a4-bae71ca65d93/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anisha Dhan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
Anisha’s goal is to provide patient-centered, empathetic care to every patient she encounters at Bluesky Telepsych. Focus areas include and not limited to major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, schizophrenia , bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Anisha has a passion for working with patients to improve their mental health and well-being. She bases her practice on developing strong therapeutic relationships and using evidence-based practice.
Anisha’s goal is to provide patient-centered, empathetic care to every patient she encounters at Bluesky Telepsych. Focus areas include and not limited to major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, schizophrenia , bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Anisha has a passion for working with patients to improve their mental health and well-being. She bases her practice on developing strong therapeutic relationships and using evidence-based practice.
![Photo of Chloe El-Atoum, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ec509dc-2cd1-4f66-a679-5ed1860919fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chloe El-Atoum is a board-certified general psychiatrist. She completed her undergraduate studies in Biology and Psychology at Syracuse University in Syracuse, NY and earned her medical degree from the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo in Buffalo, NY. She completed her general psychiatry residency at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo in Buffalo, NY.
Dr. Chloe El-Atoum is a board-certified general psychiatrist. She completed her undergraduate studies in Biology and Psychology at Syracuse University in Syracuse, NY and earned her medical degree from the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo in Buffalo, NY. She completed her general psychiatry residency at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo in Buffalo, NY.
![Photo of Jessica Stoelting, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d13e87cf-0110-4261-bfd0-4ed448a6fae0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Stoelting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
I hold both a master's and a doctorate from the University of South Carolina and have experience as a nurse in women's health, psychiatric health, and health coaching. I am passionate about understanding the impact of mental health conditions on my patients and implementing interventions to help them achieve well-being.
I hold both a master's and a doctorate from the University of South Carolina and have experience as a nurse in women's health, psychiatric health, and health coaching. I am passionate about understanding the impact of mental health conditions on my patients and implementing interventions to help them achieve well-being.
![Photo of Dianna Smith, MSN, PMHNPBC, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5257d545-2c93-4373-bcbd-0a5e3106212c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dianna Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, ARNP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
Hi, are you ready to feel better sooner? I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner currently seeing patients virtually in IL, WA, OR, and NC with BlueSky Telepsych. We specialize in PTSD, Depression, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Anxiety, Anger Management, Panic Disorders, Schizophrenia, Mood Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Grief, Bereavement, ADHD, Psychotherapy, Medication Management, Personality Disorders, and More. Book an appointment today and feel better sooner.
Hi, are you ready to feel better sooner? I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner currently seeing patients virtually in IL, WA, OR, and NC with BlueSky Telepsych. We specialize in PTSD, Depression, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Anxiety, Anger Management, Panic Disorders, Schizophrenia, Mood Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Grief, Bereavement, ADHD, Psychotherapy, Medication Management, Personality Disorders, and More. Book an appointment today and feel better sooner.
![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 Sarah Sims, PMHNP, BC, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/513695a1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FPA
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Sarah Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Transcendent Psychiatry treats pediatric, adolescents, and adults. In her practice, she integrates a combination of evidence-based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, compassionate trauma informed care and various cognitive modalities to help you heal. She believes that high quality psychiatric care is more than just treating mental illness. It is a patient centered journey through transitioning mental illness to into mental wellness. Feel free to email us to schedule an intake.
Sarah Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Transcendent Psychiatry treats pediatric, adolescents, and adults. In her practice, she integrates a combination of evidence-based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, compassionate trauma informed care and various cognitive modalities to help you heal. She believes that high quality psychiatric care is more than just treating mental illness. It is a patient centered journey through transitioning mental illness to into mental wellness. Feel free to email us to schedule an intake.
![Photo of Rachel Roberts, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3657b3f-aefb-4ed8-9ba7-5781aca21123/2/320x400.png)
Rachel Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
Rachel obtained her BSN from the University of Louisville and her MSN from Eastern Kentucky University. She has been working in healthcare for almost 20 years, starting as a nurse’s assistant when she was a teenager. She works with patients across the lifespan and particularly enjoys working with seniors, mothers of young children, and those struggling with personality disorders.
Rachel obtained her BSN from the University of Louisville and her MSN from Eastern Kentucky University. She has been working in healthcare for almost 20 years, starting as a nurse’s assistant when she was a teenager. She works with patients across the lifespan and particularly enjoys working with seniors, mothers of young children, and those struggling with personality disorders.
![Photo of Faraz Sultan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc231f21-b56e-41ca-81ca-554c49f6125f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Faraz stresses a comprehensive understanding of a patient’s clinical picture, integrating multiple lines of evidence to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment regimen. His strategies are patient-specific and motivated by quantitative evidence derived from high-quality studies. Still, as an investigator, he understands psychiatry is a rapidly evolving field, and it is the goal of translational scientists to fill the gaps in our knowledge. Faraz consistently uses his best clinical judgement, combining fact and theory to care for his patients. Faraz is a strong proponent of multimodal approaches to patient care.
Faraz stresses a comprehensive understanding of a patient’s clinical picture, integrating multiple lines of evidence to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment regimen. His strategies are patient-specific and motivated by quantitative evidence derived from high-quality studies. Still, as an investigator, he understands psychiatry is a rapidly evolving field, and it is the goal of translational scientists to fill the gaps in our knowledge. Faraz consistently uses his best clinical judgement, combining fact and theory to care for his patients. Faraz is a strong proponent of multimodal approaches to patient care.
![Photo of Caroline Gamble, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/953dda78-74f4-44ca-b585-256e33193cba/3/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Gamble
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
Caroline Gamble is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who treats adolescents and adults. Caroline began her career in mental health working as an inpatient psychiatric mental health nurse at The University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital. After graduating from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with her Master’s degree, she joined BlueSky Telepsych.
Caroline Gamble is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who treats adolescents and adults. Caroline began her career in mental health working as an inpatient psychiatric mental health nurse at The University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital. After graduating from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with her Master’s degree, she joined BlueSky Telepsych.
![Photo of Loving Minds Llc, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdac697b-6424-4d97-a999-8571b4bd5d93/2/320x400.jpeg)
Loving Minds Llc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
Lovelyne Ngeche is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Illinois; I have two years of medication management experience in inpatient and outpatient settings. I have strong work ethic, adaptability, and exceptional interpersonal skills. I manage mental health illnesses across the lifespan, adhering to evidence-based guidelines. I value both patients and families involvement in developing treatment plans.
Lovelyne Ngeche is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Illinois; I have two years of medication management experience in inpatient and outpatient settings. I have strong work ethic, adaptability, and exceptional interpersonal skills. I manage mental health illnesses across the lifespan, adhering to evidence-based guidelines. I value both patients and families involvement in developing treatment plans.
![Photo of Aliya Hussain, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e982f55-39eb-41e2-9fd1-8be572f77448/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aliya Hussain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
Ultimately, my professional goal is to work with mental health patients in disadvantaged communities, where the obstacles impeding adequate healthcare are made worse by financial restrictions and stigma surrounding seeking psychiatric care.
Ultimately, my professional goal is to work with mental health patients in disadvantaged communities, where the obstacles impeding adequate healthcare are made worse by financial restrictions and stigma surrounding seeking psychiatric care.
![Photo of Irmina Fisk, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9ae9fee-46a7-4c72-80d2-30eae49b73a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Irmina Fisk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
Irmina Ragauskaite Fisk is board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of experience in the nursing field. Her most recent work at an acute psychiatric mental health hospital has allowed her to see the impact of severe mental illness on a person's life. Irmina has a genuine passion for improving mental health in individuals by educating them on how to navigate mental illness in their lives through an effective medication management plan and supportive talk therapy.
Irmina Ragauskaite Fisk is board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of experience in the nursing field. Her most recent work at an acute psychiatric mental health hospital has allowed her to see the impact of severe mental illness on a person's life. Irmina has a genuine passion for improving mental health in individuals by educating them on how to navigate mental illness in their lives through an effective medication management plan and supportive talk therapy.
See more therapy options for Downers Grove
Nearby Searches for Downers Grove
- Aurora
- Burr Ridge
- Clarendon Hills
- Darien
- Glen Ellyn
- Hinsdale
- Lisle
- Lombard
- Naperville
- Oak Brook
- Westmont
- Willowbrook
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Downers Grove, IL
30+
Average cost per session
$275
Psychiatrists in Downers Grove, IL who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
64% | Stress |
59% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
77% | Cigna and Evernorth |
77% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Downers Grove, IL see their clients
61% | Online Only | |
39% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
95% | Female | |
5% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Downers Grove?
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.