Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL
![Photo of Maria Siena May, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad2d1a01-3bfd-4fc7-b87a-783801d977bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Siena May, APRN, Dual Certifications as Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, has been practicing since 2020 providing holistic mental health services.
Siena May, APRN, Dual Certifications as Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, has been practicing since 2020 providing holistic mental health services.
![Photo of Julie Haggerty - Julie Haggerty (Now Accepting New Patients), APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5459b533-52f1-4a93-9862-8fab4851ca12/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Haggerty (Now Accepting New Patients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Julie. I'm a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I assist adults and children with mood and other mental health disorders. Via psychotherapy and if needed, support with medication, I work with patients in addressing key mental health challenges in their lives. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment, and provide a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental environment which allows you to feel more comfortable talking about your concerns, issues and stressors. This allows me room to better understand your specific needs.
Hello, I'm Julie. I'm a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I assist adults and children with mood and other mental health disorders. Via psychotherapy and if needed, support with medication, I work with patients in addressing key mental health challenges in their lives. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment, and provide a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental environment which allows you to feel more comfortable talking about your concerns, issues and stressors. This allows me room to better understand your specific needs.
![Photo of Janine Watters, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e4c9bf8-c370-44f7-bc82-02126917c9f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janine Watters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Janine Watters and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in the psychiatric field, serving individuals across all age groups, from pediatric to geriatric. I completed my studies at Walden University and subsequently undertook my internship with Beal Wellness in Atlanta, GA under the guidance of Dr. Eddie Beal. I have 3 years of experience as a PMHNP and 18 years of experience in Critical Care nursing. I have honed a holistic approach to patient care, focusing not only on their physical well-being but also their mental health.
Hello, my name is Janine Watters and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in the psychiatric field, serving individuals across all age groups, from pediatric to geriatric. I completed my studies at Walden University and subsequently undertook my internship with Beal Wellness in Atlanta, GA under the guidance of Dr. Eddie Beal. I have 3 years of experience as a PMHNP and 18 years of experience in Critical Care nursing. I have honed a holistic approach to patient care, focusing not only on their physical well-being but also their mental health.
![Photo of Amer Smajkic - Amer Smajkic M.D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f8ddbe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Since 1995, Dr. Amer Smajkic has been practicing Psychiatry in the Chicago area. As a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr Smajkic is applying his knowledge and skills as a Psycho-pharmacologist, Behaviorist and Cognitive Behavioral therapist. The focus of his care are ADHD disorders, Learning disorders, Developmental disorders, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.
Since 1995, Dr. Amer Smajkic has been practicing Psychiatry in the Chicago area. As a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr Smajkic is applying his knowledge and skills as a Psycho-pharmacologist, Behaviorist and Cognitive Behavioral therapist. The focus of his care are ADHD disorders, Learning disorders, Developmental disorders, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.
![Photo of Monica Samelson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3e08675-9ec1-49cd-a8df-9292c9ac7c6f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Monica Samelson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Our minds are a complex interrelation between our brain, other somatic systems, our social context, and much else about our environment. Improving mental health calls for a creative and adaptive approach that takes all these factors into account. Treatment works by building together a safe environment so that you can investigate the way your life experiences have led to certain ways of being in regards to yourself, relationships, and our sociocultural environment. Once you recognize these patterns, you can move forward with agency in order to live life in accordance with your desires, values, and sense of an authentic self.
Our minds are a complex interrelation between our brain, other somatic systems, our social context, and much else about our environment. Improving mental health calls for a creative and adaptive approach that takes all these factors into account. Treatment works by building together a safe environment so that you can investigate the way your life experiences have led to certain ways of being in regards to yourself, relationships, and our sociocultural environment. Once you recognize these patterns, you can move forward with agency in order to live life in accordance with your desires, values, and sense of an authentic self.
![Photo of Corey Wendell Shumate - Ear to Ear Behavioral Health Solutions, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc842188-3b53-4fc8-b85e-67e0db910bee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ear to Ear Behavioral Health Solutions, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606 (Online Only)
When a person takes the major step of scheduling an appointment & attending their first session, they have taken actionable measures to begin their healing journey. My name is Corey Shumate, I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner. I am a person who prioritizes listening with sensitivity, compassion and care. I approach each session in a judgement free zone. I assist the client in delving into their past and help with identifying patterns that they may not be aware of, in order to gain control over their emotions. I know that with work and faith you can accomplish anything.
When a person takes the major step of scheduling an appointment & attending their first session, they have taken actionable measures to begin their healing journey. My name is Corey Shumate, I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner. I am a person who prioritizes listening with sensitivity, compassion and care. I approach each session in a judgement free zone. I assist the client in delving into their past and help with identifying patterns that they may not be aware of, in order to gain control over their emotions. I know that with work and faith you can accomplish anything.
![Photo of Mira Ebalo, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16473664-1b47-4e49-8e3f-40ec6a151e0c/1/320x400.png)
My passion and appreciation for mental health began at a young age. My mother worked as an inpatient behavioral health Registered Nurse, which provided a roof over our heads and food on our table. As a family, we respected the field not only for what it provided for us but also for teaching us that all human beings need access to the mental health care that they deserve. Watching my mom, I learned that all people from all cultures and all walks of life need compassionate care because our ideas, stories, memories, sanity, and communication skills unify us as human beings.
My passion and appreciation for mental health began at a young age. My mother worked as an inpatient behavioral health Registered Nurse, which provided a roof over our heads and food on our table. As a family, we respected the field not only for what it provided for us but also for teaching us that all human beings need access to the mental health care that they deserve. Watching my mom, I learned that all people from all cultures and all walks of life need compassionate care because our ideas, stories, memories, sanity, and communication skills unify us as human beings.
![Photo of Michael Bonifacio, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c9cab20-cede-41e1-a81c-a37a8cd19e6d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Bonifacio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Michael. I bring over two decades of diverse healthcare experience to my practice, with a genuine commitment to a people-centered, compassionate, and holistic care. I am dedicated to transforming mental healthcare into a journey of understanding, personal growth, and enduring positive outcomes. I tailor individualized treatment plans that prioritize the unique needs of each patient, and I foster a therapeutic alliance, creating a safe space for open dialogue that advances mental well-being. Beyond the clinical setting, I find joy in the culinary arts, travel adventures, and the discipline of aikido.
Hi, I'm Michael. I bring over two decades of diverse healthcare experience to my practice, with a genuine commitment to a people-centered, compassionate, and holistic care. I am dedicated to transforming mental healthcare into a journey of understanding, personal growth, and enduring positive outcomes. I tailor individualized treatment plans that prioritize the unique needs of each patient, and I foster a therapeutic alliance, creating a safe space for open dialogue that advances mental well-being. Beyond the clinical setting, I find joy in the culinary arts, travel adventures, and the discipline of aikido.
![Photo of Tim Yovankin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec67a0d9-973b-4d9c-945c-bd24c2c95b90/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Emilie Emberton, MS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d555c4ea-2c9e-44bd-a910-b669d1a883a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Every person is a mosaic of experiences, relationships, goals, and values across their lifespan - no one is defined by one independent thing. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life, and understand how core developmental aspects connect us all.
Every person is a mosaic of experiences, relationships, goals, and values across their lifespan - no one is defined by one independent thing. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life, and understand how core developmental aspects connect us all.
![Photo of Philippe Silva Tapon, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4715ee97-d1ae-4fa1-9f10-841f4e59b61c/2/320x400.png)
Narrative medicine is a practice, described by Dr. Rita Charon in 2001, in which your story, the one I listen to and for which I create a narrative, not only establishes a healing bond of humanity, held in the utmost confidence, but gives rise also to a diagnosis and to a treatment. You tell your story, I write it down and offer it back so you can in turn reflect and refine it, and once that shared story is told, I have found, healing begins.
Narrative medicine is a practice, described by Dr. Rita Charon in 2001, in which your story, the one I listen to and for which I create a narrative, not only establishes a healing bond of humanity, held in the utmost confidence, but gives rise also to a diagnosis and to a treatment. You tell your story, I write it down and offer it back so you can in turn reflect and refine it, and once that shared story is told, I have found, healing begins.
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![Photo of Sarah Ritter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53501761-9db1-414b-a141-6ee59f26d5a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Tony Amberg - Alan Tony Amberg PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/086e16f0-23ba-4805-ab03-6d71caeeead9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alan Tony Amberg PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FPA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Living with a psychiatric disorder is tough. Ordinary things that should make you happy don’t. Ordinary relationships become difficult. Even if you can see that you’re succeeding, sometimes you just can’t feel it. When you work with me, I’m in there with you: finding positive vision and hope, working week by week with what hurts. I believe that all experiences can be ultimately integrated, and inside that physical machine is a beautiful human being, aching not just to heal, but to blossom into full authentic function.
Living with a psychiatric disorder is tough. Ordinary things that should make you happy don’t. Ordinary relationships become difficult. Even if you can see that you’re succeeding, sometimes you just can’t feel it. When you work with me, I’m in there with you: finding positive vision and hope, working week by week with what hurts. I believe that all experiences can be ultimately integrated, and inside that physical machine is a beautiful human being, aching not just to heal, but to blossom into full authentic function.
![Photo of Shumeka Hill, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CPNP-AC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52589d76-df01-44a6-974e-882c1ef3a272/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shumeka Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CPNP-AC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60629 (Online Only)
Relationship problems, struggles at work, and life events can challenge our ability to cope and ultimately to thrive in life. Patterns may emerge in your life that are confusing, that make you feel stuck, uncertain, and conflicted. Life transitions can tax our internal resources, and we may find ourselves lacking in fulfillment and happiness. Above all, I strive to support my clients to increase their life satisfaction, reduce their suffering, and strengthen their relationships and capacity for joy.
Relationship problems, struggles at work, and life events can challenge our ability to cope and ultimately to thrive in life. Patterns may emerge in your life that are confusing, that make you feel stuck, uncertain, and conflicted. Life transitions can tax our internal resources, and we may find ourselves lacking in fulfillment and happiness. Above all, I strive to support my clients to increase their life satisfaction, reduce their suffering, and strengthen their relationships and capacity for joy.
![Photo of Courtney Leinen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3d55a2a-9787-4fd6-a227-8c8144224263/2/320x400.png)
Courtney Leinen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
Courtney is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner on the Mindful Care team practicing out of Illinois.
Courtney is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner on the Mindful Care team practicing out of Illinois.
![Photo of Bruce Bassi - TelepsychHealth Outpatient Programs, MD, LCPC, CADC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/086941ea-7021-48ba-9928-9aca5776bb16/1/320x400.jpeg)
TelepsychHealth Outpatient Programs
Psychiatrist, MD, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
TelepsychHealth consists of a compassionate psychiatrist, psych PAs, NP, and therapists.
TelepsychHealth consists of a compassionate psychiatrist, psych PAs, NP, and therapists.
![Photo of Katie Edwards Humpal, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e54b4ff0-993d-4984-9e22-8796493f15d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Edwards Humpal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Katie! I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals who are open to personal growth and self-improvement. Whether you're at the beginning of your journey or already motivated to make changes, I'm here to support and guide you. I offer medication management and psychotherapy to address a range of issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Together, we can work towards overcoming challenges, finding new paths, and achieving a sense of freedom, fulfillment, and overall happiness. Let's embark on this journey of transformation together.
Hi, I'm Katie! I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals who are open to personal growth and self-improvement. Whether you're at the beginning of your journey or already motivated to make changes, I'm here to support and guide you. I offer medication management and psychotherapy to address a range of issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Together, we can work towards overcoming challenges, finding new paths, and achieving a sense of freedom, fulfillment, and overall happiness. Let's embark on this journey of transformation together.
![Photo of Eric Tiede, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/165427b3-d1d1-4512-ab7e-d118f47bb840/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Bernadette Namatovu, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b6c5628-3f2a-4549-95bb-8b993d0979d6/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Leo Weinstein, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53619872-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat the full range of emotional issues in adults. After a careful evaluation, I utilize the best of contemporary psychoanalytic thinking, along with modern psychopharmacology (if indicated) to help patients maximize their psychological growth and development.
I treat the full range of emotional issues in adults. After a careful evaluation, I utilize the best of contemporary psychoanalytic thinking, along with modern psychopharmacology (if indicated) to help patients maximize their psychological growth and development.
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:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
66% | ADHD |
66% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
81% | Aetna |
79% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
32% | 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.