Psychiatrists in 80121
![Photo of Cher Li Ang, MS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dd71bb1-aa08-408a-b307-c2172d044bf1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cher Li Ang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80121
Western meets Eastern medicine. Affordable telepsychiatry. Medications and therapy. Practicing since 2018 in-patient psychiatric hospital, co-occurring rehabilitation program, and private practice. Private pay: $100 for 30-minute med management and $200 for 1-hour intake or therapy/counseling & psychiatric medication. $50 off for any referrals. Virtual/online appointments. Two physical locations in Littleton and Pueblo, Colorado. Monday through Thursday 9 AM- 3 PM and Saturday 9 AM- 1 PM.
Western meets Eastern medicine. Affordable telepsychiatry. Medications and therapy. Practicing since 2018 in-patient psychiatric hospital, co-occurring rehabilitation program, and private practice. Private pay: $100 for 30-minute med management and $200 for 1-hour intake or therapy/counseling & psychiatric medication. $50 off for any referrals. Virtual/online appointments. Two physical locations in Littleton and Pueblo, Colorado. Monday through Thursday 9 AM- 3 PM and Saturday 9 AM- 1 PM.
![Photo of Angela Graham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e706481e-2265-4e44-a77d-1f103db6606b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Graham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Centennial, CO 80121 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and the founder of authentic mental health, PLLC. I am a compassionate, down-to-earth provider, who is dedicated to helping individuals manage their mental and emotional well-being while creating healthy, fulfilling lives. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions within a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working towards their mental health goals. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance and involving clients in their own treatment plans.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and the founder of authentic mental health, PLLC. I am a compassionate, down-to-earth provider, who is dedicated to helping individuals manage their mental and emotional well-being while creating healthy, fulfilling lives. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions within a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working towards their mental health goals. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance and involving clients in their own treatment plans.
![Photo of Frances Rhodes, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8a62b8c-d78e-4a58-a08a-1e6a65f30e05/2/320x400.jpeg)
Frani Rhodes is a Nurse Practitioner in Colorado with 11 years of experience. She has an Associates Degree in Nursing from Advocate Northside Kutsch College of Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education from Purdue University, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Metropolitan State College of Denver, a Master of Science in Nursing from University of Colorado Health Sciences, and a Post-Master's Degree-PMHNP from Frontier Nursing University.
Frani Rhodes is a Nurse Practitioner in Colorado with 11 years of experience. She has an Associates Degree in Nursing from Advocate Northside Kutsch College of Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education from Purdue University, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Metropolitan State College of Denver, a Master of Science in Nursing from University of Colorado Health Sciences, and a Post-Master's Degree-PMHNP from Frontier Nursing University.
![Photo of Grace Ann Pittari, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1482e3ce-6548-4569-a7c0-dca67ec8a17e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Grace Ann Pittari
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Cherry Hills Village, CO 80121 (Online Only)
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of overall nursing experience with an emphasis on mental health. I see adult clients between the ages of 18-64 for a variety of psychiatric illnesses including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. In my free time, I prioritize my own mental health through exercise, spending quality time with loved ones, and getting out into nature.
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of overall nursing experience with an emphasis on mental health. I see adult clients between the ages of 18-64 for a variety of psychiatric illnesses including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. In my free time, I prioritize my own mental health through exercise, spending quality time with loved ones, and getting out into nature.
![Photo of Jesse Maizels, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e8785f9-99e7-4904-b00b-0b7ae942b45a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jesse Maizels
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Cherry Hills Village, CO 80121
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am licensed and trained to assess and diagnose mental health conditions, provide supportive therapy, and write medication prescriptions where appropriate. Additionally, I have a broad range of experience working with clients across the lifespan and with many different presenting concerns including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD and ADHD. I also have a special interest in providing care to LGBTQIA+ individuals and aim to provide nonjudgmental care to people from all walks of life.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am licensed and trained to assess and diagnose mental health conditions, provide supportive therapy, and write medication prescriptions where appropriate. Additionally, I have a broad range of experience working with clients across the lifespan and with many different presenting concerns including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD and ADHD. I also have a special interest in providing care to LGBTQIA+ individuals and aim to provide nonjudgmental care to people from all walks of life.
![Photo of Andrew Nagy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/191d0c5c-f4d9-485d-be5d-e022bb870cda/3/320x400.jpeg)
*Accepting New Patients!* I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call.
*Accepting New Patients!* I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call.
![Photo of Leslie Vannucci, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fdce705-fc69-4776-97f3-73e8656365bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leslie Vannucci
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cherry Hills Village, CO 80121
My passion is to provide care that is more than a ten-minute conversation, and the only answer is more medication that is not working. My care focuses on the client and their individual needs. First and foremost, I will listen to you. I believe that the best results come from a care plan that looks at all options, and is created with you. Combining integrative treatments, traditional treatments and outside-of-the-box plans will result in a tailored approach that works for you. I will meet you right where you are at. Mental Health is complex and requires an open mindset, and it is my belief that everyone has hope. Let me help you.
My passion is to provide care that is more than a ten-minute conversation, and the only answer is more medication that is not working. My care focuses on the client and their individual needs. First and foremost, I will listen to you. I believe that the best results come from a care plan that looks at all options, and is created with you. Combining integrative treatments, traditional treatments and outside-of-the-box plans will result in a tailored approach that works for you. I will meet you right where you are at. Mental Health is complex and requires an open mindset, and it is my belief that everyone has hope. Let me help you.
![Photo of Prescott Coe, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce61151b-f726-4db5-9d4b-b932a8b38c9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Prescott Coe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Cherry Hills Village, CO 80121 (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Prescott Coe and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been working in the mental health field for over five years. Shoring up my studies, I became passionate about mental health early in life, as I lived and grew up with multiple family members with varying mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, traumatic brain injury, addiction, and autism.
Hi there! My name is Prescott Coe and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been working in the mental health field for over five years. Shoring up my studies, I became passionate about mental health early in life, as I lived and grew up with multiple family members with varying mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, traumatic brain injury, addiction, and autism.
![Photo of Beth Ballen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c640133-f21a-435c-9284-149b35cbbbc1/3/320x400.jpeg)
We specialize in treating a range of disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar mood disorder, addiction, phobias, anxiety, and OCD among others. We work with you, with the respect and understanding that you are a partner in all decision-making regarding what is best for your individual needs and preferences. We are experienced with all levels of trauma and stress, which have increased dramatically in our modern, fast-paced world. We pride ourselves in our ability to connect with individuals and families and thoughtfully assist our clients through challenges with warmth and compassion.
We specialize in treating a range of disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar mood disorder, addiction, phobias, anxiety, and OCD among others. We work with you, with the respect and understanding that you are a partner in all decision-making regarding what is best for your individual needs and preferences. We are experienced with all levels of trauma and stress, which have increased dramatically in our modern, fast-paced world. We pride ourselves in our ability to connect with individuals and families and thoughtfully assist our clients through challenges with warmth and compassion.
![Photo of Jeffrey Byrne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb4331f1-cafe-4cc2-963d-60e87d676325/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeffrey Byrne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Cherry Hills Village, CO 80121 (Online Only)
I have been working in healthcare since 2015, starting as a behavioral health technician with the Cleveland Clinic. I began work as a nurse in 2017, and have worked in various mental health settings including inpatient adult/adolescent psychiatry, as well as the psychiatric emergency department before graduating with a master’s degree from the University of Colorado.
I have been working in healthcare since 2015, starting as a behavioral health technician with the Cleveland Clinic. I began work as a nurse in 2017, and have worked in various mental health settings including inpatient adult/adolescent psychiatry, as well as the psychiatric emergency department before graduating with a master’s degree from the University of Colorado.
![Photo of Adrienne Long, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cfee74e-b9a7-4d88-aa56-8f3061759083/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adrienne Long
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenwood Village, CO 80121
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I view people holistically and individually. I approach client care from the bio-psycho-social framework and with compassion. In addition to prescribing psychiatric medications and ketamine-assisted therapy, I often incorporate genetic testing, brief psychotherapy, and neurofeedback into our sessions. Assessment of other influencing factors to well-being, such as sleep, potential nutritional deficiencies, lifestyle and stress, hormone fluctuations, and genetics is also crucial to a comprehensive and effective treatment plan. I also work closely with my client’s existing team.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I view people holistically and individually. I approach client care from the bio-psycho-social framework and with compassion. In addition to prescribing psychiatric medications and ketamine-assisted therapy, I often incorporate genetic testing, brief psychotherapy, and neurofeedback into our sessions. Assessment of other influencing factors to well-being, such as sleep, potential nutritional deficiencies, lifestyle and stress, hormone fluctuations, and genetics is also crucial to a comprehensive and effective treatment plan. I also work closely with my client’s existing team.
15 Second Videos
Angela Graham
Grace Ann Pittari
Andrew Nagy
Prescott Coe
Jeffrey Byrne
Naseem Smith
Alyssa Strazzulla
![Photo of Naseem Smith, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cda04b0-86de-4874-a442-a80be580e5c6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Personal growth and a happier life can happen in different ways. Sometimes the focus is on removing obstacles, using therapy to improve patterns in thinking, behaving and relating, or medication to address symptoms standing in your way. Other times it focuses mainly on building new skills, understanding links between the past & present, expanding one's identity, or balancing lifestyle choices. I strive to help people identify and believe in the person they really wish to be, what inspires them, and the life they wish to create. I support using lowest effective medicine doses, but am experienced with complex meds when necessary.
Personal growth and a happier life can happen in different ways. Sometimes the focus is on removing obstacles, using therapy to improve patterns in thinking, behaving and relating, or medication to address symptoms standing in your way. Other times it focuses mainly on building new skills, understanding links between the past & present, expanding one's identity, or balancing lifestyle choices. I strive to help people identify and believe in the person they really wish to be, what inspires them, and the life they wish to create. I support using lowest effective medicine doses, but am experienced with complex meds when necessary.
![Photo of Dr. Sean Paul, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/522171e4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a medical doctor (MD) psychiatrist and see children and teenagers, and adults with all types of mental health conditions. I can see patients virtually (for patients anywhere in Colorado or Florida) or in my office in Sarasota Florida. I specialize in autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, behavioral issues and trauma. Typical issues include struggle with school, behavioral issues at home or interpersonal relationships. Feel free to google my practice: NowPsych Sean Paul, MD for more information
I am a medical doctor (MD) psychiatrist and see children and teenagers, and adults with all types of mental health conditions. I can see patients virtually (for patients anywhere in Colorado or Florida) or in my office in Sarasota Florida. I specialize in autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, behavioral issues and trauma. Typical issues include struggle with school, behavioral issues at home or interpersonal relationships. Feel free to google my practice: NowPsych Sean Paul, MD for more information
![Photo of Alyssa Nadolny, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58aa542e-1d57-4c92-b8c5-e847d9407356/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Nadolny
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cherry Hills Village, CO 80121
I believe it takes serious courage to ask for help of any kind, and I am in awe of my clients’ strength, resilience, and grit on their road to mental health recovery. It is my ultimate goal to empower my clients through education, making them feel engaged and valued, and being the loudest cheerleader in their corner. No matter what life journey you’ve travelled, you will be treated warmly, with respect and dignity, always. I treat patients ages 6 and up for a range of mental health concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, mood disorders, and insomnia.
I believe it takes serious courage to ask for help of any kind, and I am in awe of my clients’ strength, resilience, and grit on their road to mental health recovery. It is my ultimate goal to empower my clients through education, making them feel engaged and valued, and being the loudest cheerleader in their corner. No matter what life journey you’ve travelled, you will be treated warmly, with respect and dignity, always. I treat patients ages 6 and up for a range of mental health concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, mood disorders, and insomnia.
![Photo of Alyssa Strazzulla, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42b80d95-5fd3-45a7-9080-d8cb575a04d6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Strazzulla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80121
Are you frequently plagued by thoughts of inadequacy or persistent self-doubt? Do feelings of shame or guilt hold you back? Is anxiety or past traumas causing chaos in your life? Perhaps unwanted negative thoughts consume your mind daily. Despite your efforts, you can't seem to shake off these feelings. Maybe you've noticed recurring patterns in your relationships: lack of communication, failure to establish boundaries, or avoiding conflict, resulting in further complications. If you're feeling lost on how to address these issues, you're not alone.
Are you frequently plagued by thoughts of inadequacy or persistent self-doubt? Do feelings of shame or guilt hold you back? Is anxiety or past traumas causing chaos in your life? Perhaps unwanted negative thoughts consume your mind daily. Despite your efforts, you can't seem to shake off these feelings. Maybe you've noticed recurring patterns in your relationships: lack of communication, failure to establish boundaries, or avoiding conflict, resulting in further complications. If you're feeling lost on how to address these issues, you're not alone.
See more therapy options for 80121
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 80121
10+
Average cost per session
$212
Psychiatrists in 80121 who prioritize treating:
94% | Trauma and PTSD |
88% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
88% | ADHD |
88% | Medication Management |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
59% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
90% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 80121 see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
31% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 80121?
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.