Psychiatrists in 80233
![Photo of Carol Oakleaf, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/590c0326-e14e-4292-a985-85588d7cceb2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a Family Practice Physician Assistant for over 27 years, and have come to realize that emotional health is as important, (if not more important), than physical health. If we are not mentally healthy, then it is difficult to focus on trying to become physically healthy. Healthy nutrition, good sleep, and regular exercise are an essential foundation. We can thrive when our body, mind, heart, and soul are all working in harmony together.
I have been a Family Practice Physician Assistant for over 27 years, and have come to realize that emotional health is as important, (if not more important), than physical health. If we are not mentally healthy, then it is difficult to focus on trying to become physically healthy. Healthy nutrition, good sleep, and regular exercise are an essential foundation. We can thrive when our body, mind, heart, and soul are all working in harmony together.
![Photo of Emma Skelton, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca511d4a-4882-4f0a-8ad2-4d82eb86755c/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am deeply passionate about holistic medicine, focusing on the mind, body, and spirit, and understand the elegant interconnectedness of all things. I provide an individualized approach, unique to each person, focusing on identifying the root causes that affect our mental well-being and total body function. This may look like focusing on lifestyle, trauma, emotions, mindset, physical and/or mental stressors, and utilizing medications when needed. I offer a calm and compassionate presence that will allow you to feel safe and supported, meeting you at whatever stage you are at.
I am deeply passionate about holistic medicine, focusing on the mind, body, and spirit, and understand the elegant interconnectedness of all things. I provide an individualized approach, unique to each person, focusing on identifying the root causes that affect our mental well-being and total body function. This may look like focusing on lifestyle, trauma, emotions, mindset, physical and/or mental stressors, and utilizing medications when needed. I offer a calm and compassionate presence that will allow you to feel safe and supported, meeting you at whatever stage you are at.
![Photo of Katherine Willie, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c053252c-4ce3-4177-a257-9add69e8e3b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I receved my medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and completed my psychiatry residency at the Cleveland Clinic. I enjoy working with patient's from different backgrounds and learning about their unique experiences. My favorite quote from Maya Angelou is "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style". My hope is that with my medical knowledge and therapeutic skills I am able to help my patient's get to a place where they feel they are thriving more in life.
I receved my medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and completed my psychiatry residency at the Cleveland Clinic. I enjoy working with patient's from different backgrounds and learning about their unique experiences. My favorite quote from Maya Angelou is "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style". My hope is that with my medical knowledge and therapeutic skills I am able to help my patient's get to a place where they feel they are thriving more in life.
![Photo of Maria Mojica-Rangel, MSN, APN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/884f8187-3350-45f7-9d80-d66c331a8c0f/1/320x400.png)
Maria Mojica-Rangel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Northglenn, CO 80233
Maria Mojica-Rangel is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 2013. Maria provides psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and medication management for the treatment of OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, and Behavioral disorders. She has over ten years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner working with children, adolescents, and adults.
Maria Mojica-Rangel is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 2013. Maria provides psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and medication management for the treatment of OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, and Behavioral disorders. She has over ten years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner working with children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of Jennifer Murdock, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68be8394-a7a0-4420-9149-c707aec27ce6/1/320x400.png)
Jennifer Murdock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Northglenn, CO 80233 (Online Only)
Seeking treatment for mental health issues can be intimidating and difficult. It can also come at a time of challenges and hardships. If you are dealing with mental health issues that don’t seem to be resolving with traditional talk therapy, it may be necessary to consider more intensive outpatient treatment options such as medication and/or alternative strategies to help with symptom relief. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I strive to create an open, inviting, and non-judgmental environment with compassion and acceptance. I am here to support, guide, and empower you in your journey to do the work of recovery.
Seeking treatment for mental health issues can be intimidating and difficult. It can also come at a time of challenges and hardships. If you are dealing with mental health issues that don’t seem to be resolving with traditional talk therapy, it may be necessary to consider more intensive outpatient treatment options such as medication and/or alternative strategies to help with symptom relief. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I strive to create an open, inviting, and non-judgmental environment with compassion and acceptance. I am here to support, guide, and empower you in your journey to do the work of recovery.
![Photo of Sandra Osborne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82396438-4bf9-4711-886a-3d686a04fbe2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! I'm Sandra (she/her), an empathetic mental health provider with a wealth of experience in crisis services, forensics, and veteran care. My mission is to meet you where you are and provide a judgment-free space where your voice is heard and valued. By integrating mind, body, and self, we'll navigate challenging emotions together. I can also prescribe and help with your medication management.
Accepting New Patients! I'm Sandra (she/her), an empathetic mental health provider with a wealth of experience in crisis services, forensics, and veteran care. My mission is to meet you where you are and provide a judgment-free space where your voice is heard and valued. By integrating mind, body, and self, we'll navigate challenging emotions together. I can also prescribe and help with your medication management.
![Photo of Ebony Villarreal, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/272638c8-7f18-41a5-b620-05d2a99cfebb/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have had 7 years in the diverse field of family medicine which encompasses all aspects of physical and mental health. This includes being a part of a Colorado clinic wide Loneliness Project. This project involves providing patients with the resources to combat loneliness which coincides with anxiety and depression.
I have had 7 years in the diverse field of family medicine which encompasses all aspects of physical and mental health. This includes being a part of a Colorado clinic wide Loneliness Project. This project involves providing patients with the resources to combat loneliness which coincides with anxiety and depression.
![Photo of Chad Krumpholz, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30099376-593c-417d-8d76-cdf66babcdc8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chad Krumpholz
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
Thornton, CO 80233 (Online Only)
Offering mental health medication management services for children, adolescents, and adults. I utilize lower-risk medications, avoid over-prescribing, view medication as supportive, and promote therapy as the strongest tool we have available.
Offering mental health medication management services for children, adolescents, and adults. I utilize lower-risk medications, avoid over-prescribing, view medication as supportive, and promote therapy as the strongest tool we have available.
![Photo of Rick Loonam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b5a2c7f-c195-4101-8aec-5059858db133/1/320x400.png)
Now Scheduling New Patients! I'm Rick, a compassionate and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. With a solid foundation as a former flight and emergency department nurse, I bring over 15 years of invaluable experience to my practice. Graduating from Regis University in Denver, I'm dedicated to providing the highest quality care to my clients.
Now Scheduling New Patients! I'm Rick, a compassionate and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. With a solid foundation as a former flight and emergency department nurse, I bring over 15 years of invaluable experience to my practice. Graduating from Regis University in Denver, I'm dedicated to providing the highest quality care to my clients.
![Photo of Michele Groetzinger, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/638f8344-156b-4c22-b4fa-97005d8b88fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Groetzinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80233 (Online Only)
My experience as a nurse expends 20 years and includes nursing education and emergency room practice. My experience as a provider is 10 years and includes emergency medicine, family practice, geriatrics and practicing as a sexual assault nurse examiner for almost 18 years. My hobbies include cooking and traveling with family and friends. I am a dog lover and proud mother to 2 english bulldogs and 3 human children.
My experience as a nurse expends 20 years and includes nursing education and emergency room practice. My experience as a provider is 10 years and includes emergency medicine, family practice, geriatrics and practicing as a sexual assault nurse examiner for almost 18 years. My hobbies include cooking and traveling with family and friends. I am a dog lover and proud mother to 2 english bulldogs and 3 human children.
![Photo of Andrew Nagy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9adf884-dbc1-4395-bd0e-814c09989205/3/320x400.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.
15 Second Videos
Sandra Osborne
Rick Loonam
Michele Groetzinger
Andrew Nagy
Mary Beth Hutchinson
Rick Loonam
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
![Photo of Mary Beth Hutchinson, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f29a9878-c386-4723-8701-46c7328235af/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Beth Hutchinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Thornton, CO 80233
Are you depressed or anxious? I can help with your medication management. My name is Mary "Beth" Hutchinson. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, treating patients ages 4 and up. I am also certified as a family nurse practitioner, which provides a broad base to individualize age appropriate treatment. We can meet and have our sessions through video on our telemedicine platform, so you can be at the comfort of your home while we meet. We will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a practical plan, and I'll support you through the process of improving your life.
Are you depressed or anxious? I can help with your medication management. My name is Mary "Beth" Hutchinson. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, treating patients ages 4 and up. I am also certified as a family nurse practitioner, which provides a broad base to individualize age appropriate treatment. We can meet and have our sessions through video on our telemedicine platform, so you can be at the comfort of your home while we meet. We will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a practical plan, and I'll support you through the process of improving your life.
![Photo of Melanie Sida - Ketamine and Spravato at Mindful Minds Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d380bff-d44a-4097-ad2d-71b769237fd1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ketamine and Spravato at Mindful Minds Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northglenn, CO 80233
Ketamine is a relatively new and innovative psychiatric/psychological treatment approach, involving ketamine administration in a safe and supportive setting. The exact nature of the treatment process varies depending on the particular problems being treated and the specific individual’s needs and goals. Initial sessions will involve an evaluation of a patient’s: current problems, concerns, and needs; prior history and review of current or ongoing treatment; overall health/medical condition; and an assessment of the potential suitability and viability of this type of treatment for that patient.
Ketamine is a relatively new and innovative psychiatric/psychological treatment approach, involving ketamine administration in a safe and supportive setting. The exact nature of the treatment process varies depending on the particular problems being treated and the specific individual’s needs and goals. Initial sessions will involve an evaluation of a patient’s: current problems, concerns, and needs; prior history and review of current or ongoing treatment; overall health/medical condition; and an assessment of the potential suitability and viability of this type of treatment for that patient.
![Photo of Rick Loonam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2abd96fd-ecda-4d55-87b4-1f66e42467aa/2/320x400.png)
Now Scheduling New Patients! I'm Rick, a compassionate and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. With a solid foundation as a former flight and emergency department nurse, I bring over 15 years of invaluable experience to my practice. Graduating from Regis University in Denver, I'm dedicated to providing the highest quality care to my clients.
Now Scheduling New Patients! I'm Rick, a compassionate and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. With a solid foundation as a former flight and emergency department nurse, I bring over 15 years of invaluable experience to my practice. Graduating from Regis University in Denver, I'm dedicated to providing the highest quality care to my clients.
![Photo of Tracy Tyler - Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d232284-ad8e-4db5-9f10-4b2cb4bcf5d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northglenn, CO 80233
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
![Photo of Linda Hilliker, MS, CNS, RXN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b90e4e46-a052-47ee-935d-82fa02992d84/1/320x400.jpeg)
My favorite thing about Psychiatric practice is contributing to your success by working with you to create and sustain your best life. I prescribe, and medications often can be very helpful in supporting health and healing, however they are only part of an optimized treatment plan. I also give a bit of homework, which helps anchor your progress into your life. It may challenge you, but it will grow you. Not only are you likely to experience a relief of the symptoms bothering you, but you may also bring your life to a whole new level. Doesn't that sound good?
My favorite thing about Psychiatric practice is contributing to your success by working with you to create and sustain your best life. I prescribe, and medications often can be very helpful in supporting health and healing, however they are only part of an optimized treatment plan. I also give a bit of homework, which helps anchor your progress into your life. It may challenge you, but it will grow you. Not only are you likely to experience a relief of the symptoms bothering you, but you may also bring your life to a whole new level. Doesn't that sound good?
![Photo of Katie Farley, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bef8a2b4-f933-4439-ba18-ddc74b168ce5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Farley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northglenn, CO 80233
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have over 13 years of nursing experience and have worked in numerous settings including medical oncology, med surg, surgery, infusion therapy, and nurse navigation. My most recent position before joining Mindful Minds Psychiatry, I worked as a registered nurse on an acute inpatient psychiatric unit where we treated adult patients with various mental health disorders including mood, anxiety, psychotic illnesses, substance use, and disorders requiring acute stabilization.
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have over 13 years of nursing experience and have worked in numerous settings including medical oncology, med surg, surgery, infusion therapy, and nurse navigation. My most recent position before joining Mindful Minds Psychiatry, I worked as a registered nurse on an acute inpatient psychiatric unit where we treated adult patients with various mental health disorders including mood, anxiety, psychotic illnesses, substance use, and disorders requiring acute stabilization.
See more therapy options for 80233
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 80233
10+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in 80233 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
88% | ADHD |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Stress |
71% | Medication Management |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 80233 see their clients
83% | In Person and Online | |
17% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 80233?
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.