Psychiatrists in 80124
My goal is for my sessions with you to be a collaboration in which we together define your goals, discuss your holistic treatment plan, and decide which options fit your needs best. I enjoy incorporating encouragement, self-compassion and self-love, and a bit of laughter into our sessions together. I see both adolescents (13+) and adults. I welcome all, but I especially enjoy working with young adults in times of transition (high school seniors, college students, and young adults entering their post-school lives), patients with OCD and/or social anxiety, and patients in the LGTBQIA+ community.
My goal is for my sessions with you to be a collaboration in which we together define your goals, discuss your holistic treatment plan, and decide which options fit your needs best. I enjoy incorporating encouragement, self-compassion and self-love, and a bit of laughter into our sessions together. I see both adolescents (13+) and adults. I welcome all, but I especially enjoy working with young adults in times of transition (high school seniors, college students, and young adults entering their post-school lives), patients with OCD and/or social anxiety, and patients in the LGTBQIA+ community.
Dr. Erica Guerrero is a board-certified psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner who graduated with a doctorate from Regis College. She is experienced in treating a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses including depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, trauma and mental health disparities among the LGBTQIA+ community. She is a Life Span psychiatric nurse practitioner, who incorporates multiple treatment modalities including psychopharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy, along with the utmost gentle and compassionate care.
Dr. Erica Guerrero is a board-certified psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner who graduated with a doctorate from Regis College. She is experienced in treating a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses including depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, trauma and mental health disparities among the LGBTQIA+ community. She is a Life Span psychiatric nurse practitioner, who incorporates multiple treatment modalities including psychopharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy, along with the utmost gentle and compassionate care.
Welcome! My goal as your psychiatric provider is to listen to your goals and help you achieve them. I specialize in treating ADHD (ADHD-CCSP certified), anxiety disorders, PTSD and trauma, depression, bipolar disorders, binge eating disorder, and OCD. I believe in a partnership approach that emphasizes education, open communication, and meeting each individual where they are in their personal journey. Whether it is medication management, therapy, or a combination of the two, one size does not fit all.
Welcome! My goal as your psychiatric provider is to listen to your goals and help you achieve them. I specialize in treating ADHD (ADHD-CCSP certified), anxiety disorders, PTSD and trauma, depression, bipolar disorders, binge eating disorder, and OCD. I believe in a partnership approach that emphasizes education, open communication, and meeting each individual where they are in their personal journey. Whether it is medication management, therapy, or a combination of the two, one size does not fit all.
Kristin Demmert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
Lone Tree, CO 80124
Kristin Demmert, WHNP, PMHNP, MSN, RN attended Johns Hopkins for her bachelor's degree and the University of Colorado for her master's and post-master's. She has practiced as a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner for over a decade and then added mental health nursing to her scope of practice. Kristin treats all mental health concerns and has a particular interest in women's behavioral health including perinatal mental health, infertility, menstrual disorders, and menopause.
Kristin Demmert, WHNP, PMHNP, MSN, RN attended Johns Hopkins for her bachelor's degree and the University of Colorado for her master's and post-master's. She has practiced as a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner for over a decade and then added mental health nursing to her scope of practice. Kristin treats all mental health concerns and has a particular interest in women's behavioral health including perinatal mental health, infertility, menstrual disorders, and menopause.
I am proud of you for taking this step to improve your mental health and well-being. As your provider, I am here to listen to you and understand your goals. I encourage you to be an active participant in your treatment, and together we can create an individualized treatment plan to include a combination of medications, therapy, and other interventions to address your specific needs.
I am proud of you for taking this step to improve your mental health and well-being. As your provider, I am here to listen to you and understand your goals. I encourage you to be an active participant in your treatment, and together we can create an individualized treatment plan to include a combination of medications, therapy, and other interventions to address your specific needs.
Rose NeuroSpa is a locally owned clinic that was opened to help individuals and families deal with the devastating issues relating to mental health and related co-occurring conditions. Not only do we offer traditional mental health services (med mgmt and therapy), but we are bringing break through treatments to our communities. Our team includes Scott Akridge (medical director), Shantel Gallegos (psychiatric mental health nurse practioner (PMHNP), Rachel Hiatt (PMHNP), Mark McNary (therapist) and various accredited technicians.
Rose NeuroSpa is a locally owned clinic that was opened to help individuals and families deal with the devastating issues relating to mental health and related co-occurring conditions. Not only do we offer traditional mental health services (med mgmt and therapy), but we are bringing break through treatments to our communities. Our team includes Scott Akridge (medical director), Shantel Gallegos (psychiatric mental health nurse practioner (PMHNP), Rachel Hiatt (PMHNP), Mark McNary (therapist) and various accredited technicians.
I am here to provide guidance, expertise, and treatment approaches for stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, concentration problems, relationship difficulties, drug or alcohol use, or life/career transitions. No matter what their age, many of the clients who eventually find me have done everything they can on their own and/or with the help of loved ones to manage these issues and are just in need of a little more information, help and support. They are all seeking a professional who can offer insight into what is happening with them or their loved one and provide an assortment of treatment approaches.
I am here to provide guidance, expertise, and treatment approaches for stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, concentration problems, relationship difficulties, drug or alcohol use, or life/career transitions. No matter what their age, many of the clients who eventually find me have done everything they can on their own and/or with the help of loved ones to manage these issues and are just in need of a little more information, help and support. They are all seeking a professional who can offer insight into what is happening with them or their loved one and provide an assortment of treatment approaches.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. Since joining the Dodson ADHD Center in 2018, I have been specializing exclusively in adult ADHD. I see people over the age of 15. In my experience, people with ADHD are bright, creative, and hardworking, but have struggled for decades to fully express their talents. They know they are working overtime but aren't getting the results other people seem to get. They know something isn't quite right and that it's sabotaging their work, friendships and families. They are always slightly anxious and find it hard to be in the moment. After so many years of this, they want something different!
Thank you for your interest in my practice. Since joining the Dodson ADHD Center in 2018, I have been specializing exclusively in adult ADHD. I see people over the age of 15. In my experience, people with ADHD are bright, creative, and hardworking, but have struggled for decades to fully express their talents. They know they are working overtime but aren't getting the results other people seem to get. They know something isn't quite right and that it's sabotaging their work, friendships and families. They are always slightly anxious and find it hard to be in the moment. After so many years of this, they want something different!
Carol Dowd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80124
Carol Dowd is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has a passion for helping people in all stages of life. Through her extensive nursing experience, she has gained valuable insights into the unique mental and emotional challenges individuals face. Her empathetic approach and commitment to providing holistic care makes her a trusted ally in promoting mental well-being.
Carol Dowd is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has a passion for helping people in all stages of life. Through her extensive nursing experience, she has gained valuable insights into the unique mental and emotional challenges individuals face. Her empathetic approach and commitment to providing holistic care makes her a trusted ally in promoting mental well-being.
Alison Schmitt--Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lone Tree, CO 80124
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat ages 13+, bringing a holistic approach to patient treatment. I see patients as individuals who've had unique experiences that have shaped them. I identify the root cause of a mental health concern, taking the time to learn about you, to be able to. offer treatment with long term success. I have experience treating ADHD, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and Disordered Eating in addition to other mental health concerns. If you are looking for a new provider, I can help.
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat ages 13+, bringing a holistic approach to patient treatment. I see patients as individuals who've had unique experiences that have shaped them. I identify the root cause of a mental health concern, taking the time to learn about you, to be able to. offer treatment with long term success. I have experience treating ADHD, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and Disordered Eating in addition to other mental health concerns. If you are looking for a new provider, I can help.
Plus by APN: Interventional Psychiatry & Neurotech
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Lone Tree, CO 80124
We're Plus by APN in Colorado - a team of psychiatry, therapy, and medical providers who have come together to provide real, comprehensive, interventional care for your mental health and well-being. Traditional psychiatry involves diagnosis and medication management. And we certainly do those. But at Plus by APN, we also provide in-depth psychiatric assessments to help you determine the best comprehensive treatment plan for your needs - whether that be therapy, medication, Deep TMS, ketamine-assisted healing, brain mapping, neurofeedback, stellate ganglion block (SGB) or some combination of the above.
We're Plus by APN in Colorado - a team of psychiatry, therapy, and medical providers who have come together to provide real, comprehensive, interventional care for your mental health and well-being. Traditional psychiatry involves diagnosis and medication management. And we certainly do those. But at Plus by APN, we also provide in-depth psychiatric assessments to help you determine the best comprehensive treatment plan for your needs - whether that be therapy, medication, Deep TMS, ketamine-assisted healing, brain mapping, neurofeedback, stellate ganglion block (SGB) or some combination of the above.
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Clarity Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80124
At Clarity Mental Health we offer medication management and therapy services for a wide variety of mental disorders. Our Nurse Practitioner and LCSW help clients improve their lives by offering traditional treatment plans and recommendations based on the most current evidence and research in our field. While we will offer recommendations, we understand that the final choice is always yours and encourage patients to be active participants in their care.
At Clarity Mental Health we offer medication management and therapy services for a wide variety of mental disorders. Our Nurse Practitioner and LCSW help clients improve their lives by offering traditional treatment plans and recommendations based on the most current evidence and research in our field. While we will offer recommendations, we understand that the final choice is always yours and encourage patients to be active participants in their care.
Naira Numanovic - Avena Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80124
Accepting new clients! Appointments are typically available within 3 business days. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my dedication is centered on supporting you through life's challenges and assisting you in realizing your utmost potential. I provide a secure environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns.
Accepting new clients! Appointments are typically available within 3 business days. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my dedication is centered on supporting you through life's challenges and assisting you in realizing your utmost potential. I provide a secure environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns.
Experiencing intense highs or lows? Do you ever have moments of both high energy and intense sadness or agitation at the same time? Feeling these emotions can be overwhelming, but don’t have to navigate this alone. Whether it's moments of euphoria or deep sadness, or even when both seem to collide, know that there's hope for improvement. With the right guidance and support, things can get better.
Experiencing intense highs or lows? Do you ever have moments of both high energy and intense sadness or agitation at the same time? Feeling these emotions can be overwhelming, but don’t have to navigate this alone. Whether it's moments of euphoria or deep sadness, or even when both seem to collide, know that there's hope for improvement. With the right guidance and support, things can get better.
My approach to patient care is one of an open mind with an understanding that each patient is unique and should be treated as such. I believe my purpose is to work with the patient to develop a treatment plan specific to the individuals needs.
My approach to patient care is one of an open mind with an understanding that each patient is unique and should be treated as such. I believe my purpose is to work with the patient to develop a treatment plan specific to the individuals needs.
Heather Ford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80124 (Online Only)
With backgrounds in both conventional and alternative therapies, I love personalizing care to your individual mental health needs. Your symptoms are often rooted in a deeper cause (or causes) that require considering your mind, body, daily habits and relationships. I specialize in working with adults 18 and older who want to go beyond just 'a pill for every ill' worldview and incorporate lifestyle changes, hormone optimization and effective supplement regimes. Appointments Online -Lunch Time and After Work or After Class Options Available! With
With backgrounds in both conventional and alternative therapies, I love personalizing care to your individual mental health needs. Your symptoms are often rooted in a deeper cause (or causes) that require considering your mind, body, daily habits and relationships. I specialize in working with adults 18 and older who want to go beyond just 'a pill for every ill' worldview and incorporate lifestyle changes, hormone optimization and effective supplement regimes. Appointments Online -Lunch Time and After Work or After Class Options Available! With
Integratefull, LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80124 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, post traumatic stress, substance use, binge eating and other disorders. I am very personable, down to earth, and easy to talk to and am happy to help. I accept Aetna, Anthem BCBS of Colorado, Cigna, BCBS of MA, Horizon BCBS of New Jersey and cash pay clients. Other insurances coming soon. Call or book online at integratefull.com, Headway.com, or Psychology Today. I look forward to meeting you.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, post traumatic stress, substance use, binge eating and other disorders. I am very personable, down to earth, and easy to talk to and am happy to help. I accept Aetna, Anthem BCBS of Colorado, Cigna, BCBS of MA, Horizon BCBS of New Jersey and cash pay clients. Other insurances coming soon. Call or book online at integratefull.com, Headway.com, or Psychology Today. I look forward to meeting you.
I am a licensed physician, board certified in psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. I'm also a fully trained psychoanalyst. After medical school and psychiatric residency at the University of Colorado, I opted for over four additional years of training in intensive psychotherapy (psychoanalysis) beyond what most psychiatrists undertake. While I spend most of my time doing psychotherapy, I also prescribe medications when appropriate. I have a particular interest in treating physicians of all specialties who struggle with work related burnout, depression, or other mental health issues
I am a licensed physician, board certified in psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. I'm also a fully trained psychoanalyst. After medical school and psychiatric residency at the University of Colorado, I opted for over four additional years of training in intensive psychotherapy (psychoanalysis) beyond what most psychiatrists undertake. While I spend most of my time doing psychotherapy, I also prescribe medications when appropriate. I have a particular interest in treating physicians of all specialties who struggle with work related burnout, depression, or other mental health issues
Larson Mental Health - Olga Baturenko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lone Tree, CO 80124
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat patients ages 8+ for most psychiatric conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders, OCD, addiction, psychotic disorders, and trauma-related disorders. I offer an integrative approach to psychiatric treatment that encompasses a mindful selection of psychiatric medication for each patient combined with recommendations for supplements, lifestyle interventions, and appropriate referrals to functional medicine providers, including acupuncturists, chiropractors, and naturopaths.
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat patients ages 8+ for most psychiatric conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders, OCD, addiction, psychotic disorders, and trauma-related disorders. I offer an integrative approach to psychiatric treatment that encompasses a mindful selection of psychiatric medication for each patient combined with recommendations for supplements, lifestyle interventions, and appropriate referrals to functional medicine providers, including acupuncturists, chiropractors, and naturopaths.
Are you frustrated with the one-size fits all, rushed approach to mental health care? My name is Kari Underwood and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a variety of conditions. With every medication management appointment, I offer compassion, kindness, and collaboration and a guarantee that I will care for you the absolute best I can! Each initial appointment is 60 minutes long, and follow-ups are scheduled for 30 minutes to allow for the time it takes to develop trust and connection, complete a thorough assessment, and educate on your condition and available treatment options.
Are you frustrated with the one-size fits all, rushed approach to mental health care? My name is Kari Underwood and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a variety of conditions. With every medication management appointment, I offer compassion, kindness, and collaboration and a guarantee that I will care for you the absolute best I can! Each initial appointment is 60 minutes long, and follow-ups are scheduled for 30 minutes to allow for the time it takes to develop trust and connection, complete a thorough assessment, and educate on your condition and available treatment options.
See more therapy options for 80124
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 80124
20+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in 80124 who prioritize treating:
88% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Medication Management |
58% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 80124 see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 80124?
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.