Find a Schizophrenia Therapist

Medically reviewed by Gabriela Asturias, MD on May 23, 2025
Written by the MiResource team

Living with schizophrenia can be challenging—but it’s not hopeless. With the right treatment, support, and understanding, people with schizophrenia can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. A qualified schizophrenia therapist can help you or a loved one navigate the path toward stability, independence, and recovery.

  • Katy Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    Katy Jones

    Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    54 Park Place, Grand Chute, Wisconsin 54914

    Katy Jones is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Grand Chute, Wisconsin and has been in practice for 22 years. They treat Schizophrenia, Gaming/Internet Concerns, Gender Identity.

    Katy specializes in divorce mediation, depression, anxiety and stress management, assertiveness training, and various relational issues.

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  • Benitho Louissaint, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

    Benitho Louissaint

    Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    6197 South Rural Road, Tempe, Arizona 85283

    Benitho Louissaint is a Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in Tempe, Arizona. They treat Schizophrenia, Self-Harm, Borderline Personality.

    We see clients of all genders, ethnicities, and cultures.

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  • Derrick Brooks, Psychiatrist

    Derrick Brooks

    Psychiatrist

    1015 15th Street Northwest, Washington, District of Columbia 20005

    Derrick Brooks is a Psychiatrist in Washington, District of Columbia and has been in practice for 5 years. They treat Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Personality.

    I offer services to those seeking a physician with insight and experience in treating individuals from various ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds.

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  • Christina Earley, Psychotherapist

    Christina Earley

    Psychotherapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA)

    801 Cascade Pointe Lane, Suite 101, Cary, NC 27513, Cary, North Carolina 27513

    Christina Earley is a Psychotherapist in Cary, North Carolina. They treat Schizophrenia, Parenting Concerns, Suicidal Ideation.

    Warm welcome to my profile! I work with clients from all walks of life to improve their mental health and relationships.

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  • Anthony Nichols, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC)

    Anthony Nichols

    Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)

    1800 Woodfield Drive, Savoy, IL, USA, Savoy, Illinois 61874

    Anthony Nichols is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in Savoy, Illinois and has been in practice for 20 years. They treat Schizophrenia, Social Anxiety, Alcohol Use.

    I am a trauma informed counselor that provides a kind space and helps clients overcome past trauma, depression & anxiety to start enjoying their life.

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  • Vinay Saranga, Psychiatrist

    Vinay Saranga

    Psychiatrist

    1600 Olive Chapel Road, Apex, North Carolina 27502

    Vinay Saranga is a Psychiatrist in Apex, North Carolina. They treat Schizophrenia, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Depression.

    Mental health disorders are unique. In addition to medication management, we offer TMS Therapy and IV Ketamine that can help when nothing else does.

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What is psychosis?

Psychosis refers to a break from reality. It can involve:

  • Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things others don’t)
  • Delusions (strong beliefs that aren’t based in reality)
  • Disorganized thinking or speech
  • Difficulty distinguishing what’s real

Psychosis is a symptom, not a diagnosis itself. It can occur in schizophrenia, but also in mood disorders, trauma, or medical conditions. A therapist for schizophrenia can help determine whether psychosis is part of a broader diagnosis and what steps to take next.


How do I know if I have schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia affects thoughts, emotions, and behavior. While it usually develops in the late teens to early 30s, it can look different for everyone.

You might have schizophrenia if you:

  • See or hear things others don’t (hallucinations)
  • Hold beliefs that seem strange or untrue to others (delusions)
  • Speak in ways that are hard to follow or disconnected
  • Have trouble organizing thoughts or completing tasks
  • Feel emotionally flat or socially withdrawn
  • Struggle to distinguish what’s real from what isn’t

These symptoms often lead to distress and interfere with relationships, work, or school. A psychologist for schizophrenia or psychiatrist can perform a full assessment and guide you toward a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Recognizing the symptoms

Schizophrenia symptoms can be confusing—especially at first. They often begin gradually and may be mistaken for anxiety, depression, or even stress. Recognizing the signs early can make a big difference in getting the right help and starting effective treatment.

Symptoms of schizophrenia are typically grouped into three categories: positive, negative, and cognitive.

Positive symptoms are “added” experiences that aren’t typical in reality. These include hallucinations, which are perceptions that aren’t real—such as hearing voices or seeing things that others don’t. Delusions are also common; these are fixed beliefs that don’t align with reality, like believing someone is following you or that you have special powers. Disorganized speech, where a person jumps between topics or talks in ways that are hard to follow, is another sign. Disorganized or unusual behaviors may also occur, making everyday interactions more difficult.

Negative symptoms involve a loss of typical functions or abilities. This might include having a flat or limited emotional expression, speaking very little, struggling to begin or finish everyday tasks, withdrawing from friends and family, or feeling unable to enjoy things you used to care about. These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for laziness or depression, but they are part of how schizophrenia affects motivation and connection.

Cognitive symptoms can be more subtle but equally impactful. People may have difficulty concentrating, remembering information, organizing their thoughts, or making decisions. This can make work, school, and relationships harder to manage, even if the person doesn’t appear visibly unwell.

Not everyone with schizophrenia experiences all of these symptoms, and their intensity can vary from person to person. In some cases, symptoms may come and go, or worsen during times of stress. Early intervention with a trained schizophrenia therapist can help manage symptoms more effectively and improve quality of life. Whether you're seeking diagnosis, treatment, or tools for coping with schizophrenia, knowing the signs is the first step toward getting support.

What do the diagnostic criteria mean?

To be diagnosed with schizophrenia, someone must experience at least two of the core symptoms (hallucinations, delusions, disorganized speech, etc.) for at least one month, with signs of illness lasting six months or more. The symptoms must cause significant distress or impair daily functioning.

A licensed therapist specializing in schizophrenia can help distinguish schizophrenia from other conditions that may look similar, like bipolar disorder or schizoaffective disorder.

Getting diagnosed

Diagnosis usually involves:

  • A clinical interview and mental status exam
  • Review of medical history and family history
  • Psychological testing or assessments
  • Ruling out other causes (like substance use, trauma, or medical issues)

The goal is to get a clear, compassionate understanding of what’s happening—not to label or judge. Early diagnosis often leads to better outcomes.


Is schizophrenia the same in everyone?

No. Schizophrenia is a spectrum disorder, which means symptoms, severity, and recovery look different for each person. Some people may hear voices but function well in daily life. Others may experience more disabling symptoms that require ongoing support.

Treatment must be tailored to the individual. That’s why working with a therapist for schizophrenia who takes a personalized, holistic approach is key.


What causes schizophrenia?

There’s no single cause, but most experts agree it involves a combination of:

  • Genetics: Schizophrenia often runs in families.
  • Brain chemistry: Imbalances in dopamine and glutamate are linked to symptoms.
  • Brain structure: Imaging studies show differences in certain brain areas.
  • Prenatal or birth complications
  • Environmental stressors: Trauma, stress, or drug use (especially in youth) may trigger symptoms in someone already at risk.

Schizophrenia is not caused by bad parenting or personal weakness. It’s a real, medical condition that deserves real support.


Does schizophrenia affect only adults?

Schizophrenia typically appears in late adolescence or early adulthood, but it can affect younger people too. When it appears before age 18, it’s called early-onset schizophrenia, which may be more severe and harder to recognize at first.

Children and teens may:

  • Withdraw socially
  • Struggle in school
  • Appear depressed or anxious
  • Talk about unusual fears or ideas

If you notice these signs, seeking early help for schizophrenia can greatly improve long-term outcomes.


How do I treat schizophrenia?

Treatment for schizophrenia is most effective when it combines multiple strategies:

Medication

Antipsychotic medications are usually the first line of treatment. They help reduce hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. Your provider may try different medications or doses to find what works best with the fewest side effects.

Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Schizophrenia (CBT): Helps people challenge unhelpful thoughts, manage symptoms, and improve functioning.
  • CBT for schizophrenia is especially helpful for those who continue to experience distressing symptoms even with medication.
  • Family therapy for schizophrenia supports loved ones in understanding the illness and building communication skills.

Psychoeducation

Learning about the condition helps people understand symptoms, avoid triggers, and recognize early warning signs of relapse.

Social Skills Training & Supportive Counseling

Helps with work, relationships, self-care, and coping with schizophrenia on a daily basis.

Environmental Support

  • Stable housing, structure, and community programs make a big difference.
  • Case management or supported employment programs may help with independent living.

A trusted schizophrenia therapist can coordinate care and ensure all pieces of your treatment plan work together.


Who can treat schizophrenia?

Treatment may involve:

  • Psychiatrists: Diagnose and prescribe medications
  • Psychologists for schizophrenia: Provide assessments and therapy
  • Social workers, counselors, or therapists: Offer talk therapy and family support
  • Case managers or peer support workers: Assist with life skills and community access

Whether you’re seeking in-person or online therapy for schizophrenia, choose a provider experienced in psychosis and long-term care.


Is schizophrenia treatable?

Yes. While there is no cure, schizophrenia is absolutely treatable. With ongoing care:

  • Symptoms can be managed or reduced
  • Many people can work, live independently, and build meaningful relationships
  • Relapses can become less frequent and less severe

Recovery doesn’t always mean being symptom-free. It means living a full, satisfying life—even with the illness.


What is the difference between schizophrenia and bipolar disorder?

Both conditions can involve psychosis, but they’re different:

Schizophrenia:

  • Psychotic symptoms are the core feature
  • Mood symptoms (if present) are secondary
  • Daily functioning is often more consistently impaired

Bipolar Disorder:

  • Mood episodes (mania, depression) are the primary feature
  • Psychosis occurs only during mood episodes
  • People return to baseline between episodes

A therapist specializing in schizophrenia can help distinguish between the two and ensure the right treatment.


What is the difference between schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder?

Schizoaffective disorder includes symptoms of both schizophrenia and a mood disorder (like bipolar or depression).

In schizoaffective disorder:

  • Psychosis and mood symptoms both occur
  • Psychotic symptoms also happen outside of mood episodes

Proper diagnosis helps guide whether mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, or both are needed.

Find care for you

Recovery is possible. With early intervention, a supportive community, and the right professional care, you can overcome challenges and build a fulfilling life. We’re here to help you find the support you need.

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