Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL
![Photo of Elizabeth Kurnat, NPI, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab183bdd-6ac0-472d-a6bc-8ad3444494ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth has been a family nurse practitioner since 2013, receiving a Masters degree in nursing from St. Xavier universory in Chicago. She has worked in a variety of settings, including psychiatry that became her passion. Outside of the office, Elizabeth enjoys traveling, spending time with her husband, two children and their dog, soap making, and spending time outdoors.
Elizabeth has been a family nurse practitioner since 2013, receiving a Masters degree in nursing from St. Xavier universory in Chicago. She has worked in a variety of settings, including psychiatry that became her passion. Outside of the office, Elizabeth enjoys traveling, spending time with her husband, two children and their dog, soap making, and spending time outdoors.
![Photo of Andrew Richardson, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b208deb-2e07-454f-8e56-3c8268c54f33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I am excited to help individuals explore their mental wellness, and find the best modality to improve their quality of life. My background includes a Bachelor's of Science in Exercise Physiology, Master's of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Primary Care. My training in psychiatry includes the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of acute and chronic mental health conditions, along with crisis management.
I am excited to help individuals explore their mental wellness, and find the best modality to improve their quality of life. My background includes a Bachelor's of Science in Exercise Physiology, Master's of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Primary Care. My training in psychiatry includes the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of acute and chronic mental health conditions, along with crisis management.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Illinois Telepsychiatry, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/beee96d0-aabe-48cb-b9c6-53c02e178c96/1/320x400.jpeg)
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
![Photo of 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 Lateef Kelani Pmhnp, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86050677-9755-4fd0-9ba3-18ba1d4695ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there, I'm Lateef I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I provide psychiatric services to patients of diverse backgrounds with cultural sensitivity. My methods include utilizing a pharmacotherapeutic and psychotherapeutic approach in providing beneficial mental health care. I understand that living with a psychiatric illness can be challenging, but a positive outlook on life can be achieved with the right psychiatric care approach, which involves listening to the patient and forming a collaborative plan with patient input.
Hello there, I'm Lateef I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I provide psychiatric services to patients of diverse backgrounds with cultural sensitivity. My methods include utilizing a pharmacotherapeutic and psychotherapeutic approach in providing beneficial mental health care. I understand that living with a psychiatric illness can be challenging, but a positive outlook on life can be achieved with the right psychiatric care approach, which involves listening to the patient and forming a collaborative plan with patient input.
![Photo of Bernadette Namatovu, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7297242a-4505-48db-adb0-4e38d3a59967/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Megan Lindley, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/494a6bf4-0ff8-4681-bb80-7a56086c10f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking mental health treatment can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. Some might say choosing a career in mental health treatment can be the same. I have always been intrigued by, and passionate about, helping patients find the individualized care that fits their unique needs. With over six years of experience in the urgent and primary care setting, I understand the unique and comprehensive approach needed to bridge the gap between medical and mental health. My approach is collaborative, partnering with my patients to determine which intervention is best for them.
Seeking mental health treatment can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. Some might say choosing a career in mental health treatment can be the same. I have always been intrigued by, and passionate about, helping patients find the individualized care that fits their unique needs. With over six years of experience in the urgent and primary care setting, I understand the unique and comprehensive approach needed to bridge the gap between medical and mental health. My approach is collaborative, partnering with my patients to determine which intervention is best for them.
![Photo of Christina Nguyen, APRN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5659cec3-f3e2-4c0e-a3fb-b0c1d7271fde/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60610 (Online Only)
Christina Nguyen is a board-certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She graduated from the University of Kentucky with her bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Biology and Nursing. She then graduated from Northern Kentucky University with a MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health. Christina has extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults diagnosed with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Christina Nguyen is a board-certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She graduated from the University of Kentucky with her bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Biology and Nursing. She then graduated from Northern Kentucky University with a MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health. Christina has extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults diagnosed with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis and post-traumatic stress disorder.
![Photo of Bettina Rodgers - Bettina Rodgers PMHNP, RN, MSN, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6eee6e5-a950-4a93-be51-f08e3fd05de2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bettina Rodgers PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
Yes! I am Super Excited About Mental Health. And once you have a initial encounter with me, you will be excited to start your Mental Health Journey to Happiness! I started my career in the S.F Bay Area, where I worked with diverse populations in different mental health settings. I treat ages across the life span. My Goal is to assist in the restoration and healing of mental health" I believe in a holistic approach and will focus on you being a better you" I am compassionate about mental health, and have over 18 years of experience treating mental illness. Come talk to me!
Yes! I am Super Excited About Mental Health. And once you have a initial encounter with me, you will be excited to start your Mental Health Journey to Happiness! I started my career in the S.F Bay Area, where I worked with diverse populations in different mental health settings. I treat ages across the life span. My Goal is to assist in the restoration and healing of mental health" I believe in a holistic approach and will focus on you being a better you" I am compassionate about mental health, and have over 18 years of experience treating mental illness. Come talk to me!
![Photo of Abhijit Shinde - Balance Ketamine Clinics, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51ef9788-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We provide I.V. Ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders. Clinical studies clearly indicate that ketamine provides rapid relief from depressive symptoms and a significant reduction in suicidal thoughts. Ketamine offers hope to those with severe depression, anxiety and PTSD. This includes major depressive disorders, postpartum depression, bipolar depression, OCD and severe anxiety states. No other severe depression treatment offers such rapid and robust results. We believe that personalized care tailored to you is the best way to succeed in helping you.
We provide I.V. Ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders. Clinical studies clearly indicate that ketamine provides rapid relief from depressive symptoms and a significant reduction in suicidal thoughts. Ketamine offers hope to those with severe depression, anxiety and PTSD. This includes major depressive disorders, postpartum depression, bipolar depression, OCD and severe anxiety states. No other severe depression treatment offers such rapid and robust results. We believe that personalized care tailored to you is the best way to succeed in helping you.
![Photo of Nicole Alexander, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64cc9aff-cd29-4293-8663-4530796b20b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
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![Photo of Monica Stout, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fb17d2d-3189-413e-82b4-9b2707b87e84/1/320x400.jpeg)
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
![Photo of Krista Saum, MCMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d42df75e-40aa-4754-8278-12d507a9c1ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Krista Saum
Physician Assistant, MCMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Traditional psychiatric practices can be rigid and often push patients into boxes established by the DSM. While understanding the importance of identifying specific diagnoses, I strive to break apart labels and eliminate associated stigmas. I believe everyone falls on a continuum of multiple diagnoses, most of which are rooted in generational and childhood trauma. I hope to support my patients both pharmacologically and therapeutically on their journey to understanding and accepting themselves fully. I believe in treating the “whole-person” and emphasize the importance of exploring mind-body connection through mindfulness practices.
Traditional psychiatric practices can be rigid and often push patients into boxes established by the DSM. While understanding the importance of identifying specific diagnoses, I strive to break apart labels and eliminate associated stigmas. I believe everyone falls on a continuum of multiple diagnoses, most of which are rooted in generational and childhood trauma. I hope to support my patients both pharmacologically and therapeutically on their journey to understanding and accepting themselves fully. I believe in treating the “whole-person” and emphasize the importance of exploring mind-body connection through mindfulness practices.
![Photo of Dr. Richard A Shapiro, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c69f0d4-c209-44ed-a00b-4cb71a4fce4f/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Richard A Shapiro
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Richard Shapiro practices at The Juniper Center, PC where our approach for addressing your medical and psychiatric needs is individualized. We work with you to determine which evidence-based treatments are best for you, whether it is with prescription medicines, or a more holistic non-medicine approach. We have specialized expertise in a variety of mental health conditions and will closely collaborate with you and your care providers to offer integrated and coordinated care.
Dr. Richard Shapiro practices at The Juniper Center, PC where our approach for addressing your medical and psychiatric needs is individualized. We work with you to determine which evidence-based treatments are best for you, whether it is with prescription medicines, or a more holistic non-medicine approach. We have specialized expertise in a variety of mental health conditions and will closely collaborate with you and your care providers to offer integrated and coordinated care.
![Photo of My Phon Nguyen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63daa8c3-7e35-4133-a7ab-5e8ae31d3540/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phon Nguyen is a Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 2015. She graduated from Creighton University School of Medicine and completed her Residency and Fellowship at University of Illinois in Chicago health systems. Dr. Nguyen offers medication management services to help optimize patient care in addition to psychotherapeutic interventions. Dr. Nguyen specializes in women’s mental health and has experience working with pregnant and postpartum women who are struggling with a mental illness. Outside of work, Dr.
Dr. Phon Nguyen is a Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 2015. She graduated from Creighton University School of Medicine and completed her Residency and Fellowship at University of Illinois in Chicago health systems. Dr. Nguyen offers medication management services to help optimize patient care in addition to psychotherapeutic interventions. Dr. Nguyen specializes in women’s mental health and has experience working with pregnant and postpartum women who are struggling with a mental illness. Outside of work, Dr.
![Photo of Elizabeth Adekoya (Now Accepting New Patients), PMHNP, BC, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd04b251-45d1-436d-8f89-b9e7032c8bc6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Adekoya (Now Accepting New Patients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Hi there, I'm Elizabeth. Do you suffer from persistent sadness? Are you struggling to find joy in your day to day life? Or do you find yourself constantly worrying, afraid or anxious? Are you in search of a provider that is both compassionate and adequately skilled to help you treat and manage your symptoms? I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner and help adult individuals with mood disorders and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am compassionate about helping you manage your depression, anxiety, ADHD and any other comorbidities.
Hi there, I'm Elizabeth. Do you suffer from persistent sadness? Are you struggling to find joy in your day to day life? Or do you find yourself constantly worrying, afraid or anxious? Are you in search of a provider that is both compassionate and adequately skilled to help you treat and manage your symptoms? I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner and help adult individuals with mood disorders and other mental/psychiatric disorders. I am compassionate about helping you manage your depression, anxiety, ADHD and any other comorbidities.
![Photo of Kyle McKinley, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62b9b8da-6343-4166-bc19-0bbcf5b93a82/4/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I am Kyle (he/him/his) and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been a mental health nurse for over 20 years and have worked in numerous health care settings. My approach to care is greatly informed by my nursing background and the healing power of an affirming, collaborative relationship. I aim to provide holistic, person-centered care utilizing trauma informed, anti-oppressive, and harm reduction approaches. I offer both psychotherapy and medication management. I believe medication can be a helpful tool to turn down the dial of distress so that we can better access our capacity to heal.
Hi, I am Kyle (he/him/his) and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been a mental health nurse for over 20 years and have worked in numerous health care settings. My approach to care is greatly informed by my nursing background and the healing power of an affirming, collaborative relationship. I aim to provide holistic, person-centered care utilizing trauma informed, anti-oppressive, and harm reduction approaches. I offer both psychotherapy and medication management. I believe medication can be a helpful tool to turn down the dial of distress so that we can better access our capacity to heal.
![Photo of Seth Ashok Eappen - Eappen Clinic, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/467a72f5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified adult, child & adolescent psychiatrist. I completed medical school at the University of Illinois in Chicago, a general (adult) psychiatry residency at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, and a child psychiatry fellowship at the Medical University of South Carolina. The training I received in residency and fellowship has prepared me to manage essentially any psychiatric issue that comes through my clinic doors, regardless of severity or complexity.
I am a board certified adult, child & adolescent psychiatrist. I completed medical school at the University of Illinois in Chicago, a general (adult) psychiatry residency at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, and a child psychiatry fellowship at the Medical University of South Carolina. The training I received in residency and fellowship has prepared me to manage essentially any psychiatric issue that comes through my clinic doors, regardless of severity or complexity.
![Photo of Ashley Dodd, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ef37656-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified general adult psychiatrist, and I work with people who have a range of emotional problems including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I use my training in psychiatry to provide comprehensive care to address the well-being of the whole person. I feel comfortable using medications to treat these problems when medications are indicated, and I also enjoy seeing patients for psychotherapy. I attended medical school at the University of Oklahoma, then completed my residency in psychiatry at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, where I was chief resident during my final year of training.
I am a board certified general adult psychiatrist, and I work with people who have a range of emotional problems including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I use my training in psychiatry to provide comprehensive care to address the well-being of the whole person. I feel comfortable using medications to treat these problems when medications are indicated, and I also enjoy seeing patients for psychotherapy. I attended medical school at the University of Oklahoma, then completed my residency in psychiatry at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, where I was chief resident during my final year of training.
![Photo of Sandya Janardhan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/071fcf13-6b51-4a1e-aac8-db55bc2aa2cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a highly motivated, board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering compassionate care to individuals grappling with complex traumas, serious mental illness, and underserved mental health needs. I prioritize the significance of individualized care and am unwavering in my commitment to establishing a supportive and empathetic environment for my patients.
I am a highly motivated, board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering compassionate care to individuals grappling with complex traumas, serious mental illness, and underserved mental health needs. I prioritize the significance of individualized care and am unwavering in my commitment to establishing a supportive and empathetic environment for my patients.
See more therapy options for Chicago
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL
300+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
70% | Bipolar Disorder |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Medication Management |
65% | ADHD |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
82% | Aetna |
79% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
34% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Chicago?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.