Psychiatrists in Canon City, CO
![Photo of Sandra Osborne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a19e3d9-aa8b-489a-b0fd-42337fc5fea2/2/320x400.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 Chris Archer, PMHNP, GNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/298e645c-d5f7-46f3-911e-e8dde4db82b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Innocent Omale - Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/900f8bb9-687a-4a55-8635-1b91528fd705/4/320x400.jpeg)
Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202 (Online Only)
Are you feeling sad? Are you broken? Do you feel like you are carrying a heavy burden? Come see us @ Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness, and we can help get you to your TURNING POINT...... Dr. Innocent Omale DNP, has a dual board certification as a Family NP and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders. Some of his practice specialties include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse and Men's health. Services includes medication management, and counseling based on Christian faith (transpersonal psychiatry).
Are you feeling sad? Are you broken? Do you feel like you are carrying a heavy burden? Come see us @ Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness, and we can help get you to your TURNING POINT...... Dr. Innocent Omale DNP, has a dual board certification as a Family NP and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders. Some of his practice specialties include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse and Men's health. Services includes medication management, and counseling based on Christian faith (transpersonal psychiatry).
![Photo of Dayanara Gohil, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e747a1c0-c0ac-4b70-b323-2ce04f6356ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Daya, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. My clinical experience has concentrated on complex high-acuity clients with co-morbidities. This experience has provided perspicuity into the unique interdisciplinary tools required to best support my patient's treatment success.
My name is Daya, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. My clinical experience has concentrated on complex high-acuity clients with co-morbidities. This experience has provided perspicuity into the unique interdisciplinary tools required to best support my patient's treatment success.
![Photo of Ebelechukwu Ekwenugo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/277ae8c1-a1cc-4d59-869c-0da0340c4fb9/3/320x400.png)
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Book a Free 10 minutes Consultation Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Book a Free 10 minutes Consultation Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available.
![Photo of Amanda Befferman, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a154ed7-78da-41e2-9eb1-8d66b60d2802/1/320x400.png)
I am a board certified physician assistant. My treatment goal is to use evidence-based medicine to provide holistic and patient-centered care. It is important to me that I treat my patients as individuals to provide a treatment plan that will work for their unique set of circumstances. My extensive background in adult primary care and geriatric medicine means that I am confident in my ability to consider other medical comorbidities when deciding on treatment for my patients.
I am a board certified physician assistant. My treatment goal is to use evidence-based medicine to provide holistic and patient-centered care. It is important to me that I treat my patients as individuals to provide a treatment plan that will work for their unique set of circumstances. My extensive background in adult primary care and geriatric medicine means that I am confident in my ability to consider other medical comorbidities when deciding on treatment for my patients.
![Photo of Briana Haight - Briana Haight Rocky Heights Wellness , PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42920bed-466c-4ee5-b22a-cf86cfef2a56/2/320x400.jpeg)
Briana Haight Rocky Heights Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parker, CO 80134
*ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS* OFFERING BOTH IN PERSON AND TELEHEALTH. IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. In network with Cigna, Anthem and United as well as accepting medicaid! Specializing in children and adolescents as well as adults of all ages with mental health concerns. I have worked with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, attention disorders, trauma disorders and a variety of other mood disorders. I have experience in inpatient, outpatient, crisis stabilization units, and emergency room settings. I also worked in an inpatient eating disorder unit for many years.
*ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS* OFFERING BOTH IN PERSON AND TELEHEALTH. IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. In network with Cigna, Anthem and United as well as accepting medicaid! Specializing in children and adolescents as well as adults of all ages with mental health concerns. I have worked with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, attention disorders, trauma disorders and a variety of other mood disorders. I have experience in inpatient, outpatient, crisis stabilization units, and emergency room settings. I also worked in an inpatient eating disorder unit for many years.
![Photo of Stephanie Hetzel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0310f46-972b-4370-b429-1ac295142529/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Texan who came to Colorado as a travel nurse and never left. I love the mountains, the rivers, and all outdoor activities. The weather in Colorado is amazing! A true animal lover, I have three Newfoundlands and a parrot. They are my babies and enjoy hiking and the rivers as well. We spend time at a parrot rescue often. Mental health is my passion. As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I strive to provide compassionate and respectful care.
I am a Texan who came to Colorado as a travel nurse and never left. I love the mountains, the rivers, and all outdoor activities. The weather in Colorado is amazing! A true animal lover, I have three Newfoundlands and a parrot. They are my babies and enjoy hiking and the rivers as well. We spend time at a parrot rescue often. Mental health is my passion. As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I strive to provide compassionate and respectful care.
![Photo of Amanda Farrell, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7cc8646-2eff-4cc1-b19d-7bc6bdcae418/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Farrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Golden, CO 80401
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have worked outpatient for the last 8 years, providing medication management and ketamine treatment. Previously I worked in-patient with those in acute crisis & additionally in home health, providing psychiatric care in the patient's home. I provide integrative care, working with the patient's health care provider & therapist when indicated. I believe in a holistic treatment approach & I practice evidence-based treatment. My treatment goals include providing improved quality of life & I am eager to work with patients who are motivated to make personal changes.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have worked outpatient for the last 8 years, providing medication management and ketamine treatment. Previously I worked in-patient with those in acute crisis & additionally in home health, providing psychiatric care in the patient's home. I provide integrative care, working with the patient's health care provider & therapist when indicated. I believe in a holistic treatment approach & I practice evidence-based treatment. My treatment goals include providing improved quality of life & I am eager to work with patients who are motivated to make personal changes.
![Photo of Katelyn Forsyth Pmhnp-Bc, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b06d33d2-8e28-4f0a-b3bd-7da8f4ec5759/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katelyn Forsyth Pmhnp-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
Do you find yourself thinking "I'm not good enough" or constantly second-guessing yourself? Does shame or guilt keep you stuck? Is anxiety or past trauma making it feel like life is out of control? Maybe you find yourself thinking unwanted negative thoughts that you just ruminate on daily. You might be feeling frustrated because it feels like you've tried everything to stop feeling this way. Perhaps you're seeing patterns in your relationships: poor or no communication, not setting important boundaries in your relationships, or avoiding conflict in your relationships which only makes things worse. You're not sure how to fix it.
Do you find yourself thinking "I'm not good enough" or constantly second-guessing yourself? Does shame or guilt keep you stuck? Is anxiety or past trauma making it feel like life is out of control? Maybe you find yourself thinking unwanted negative thoughts that you just ruminate on daily. You might be feeling frustrated because it feels like you've tried everything to stop feeling this way. Perhaps you're seeing patterns in your relationships: poor or no communication, not setting important boundaries in your relationships, or avoiding conflict in your relationships which only makes things worse. You're not sure how to fix it.
![Photo of Erika Faria, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f48a5474-0c8b-428c-92e6-afd9414e83fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a board-certified Physician Assistant and having been working in Psychiatry since the beginning of 2022.
Hello! I am a board-certified Physician Assistant and having been working in Psychiatry since the beginning of 2022.
![Photo of Samuel Mingle, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/928491bf-2fe5-48ec-9011-d943fdca56b8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Samuel Mingle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an extensive amount of inpatient, outpatient and crisis stabilization experience. I specialize in psychiatric medication evaluation and management for adults (18+) who are struggling with symptoms of depression, mood instability, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, sleep disturbances, substance use, OCD and ADHD.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an extensive amount of inpatient, outpatient and crisis stabilization experience. I specialize in psychiatric medication evaluation and management for adults (18+) who are struggling with symptoms of depression, mood instability, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, sleep disturbances, substance use, OCD and ADHD.
![Photo of Neil Weiner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46dd91a8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have practiced psychiatry in Denver for the past thirty years and have been both an educator and leader in the Denver psychiatric community. I currently serve on the senior clinical faculty in the departments of psychiatry and family medicine at the University of Colorado. I served as medical director at the University of Colorado's Depression Center, The Colorado Anxiety Disorders Institute, the Health-One hospital system and Bethesda Psychiatric Hospital. Treatment approaches include psychotherapy, medication management when needed, and holistic approaches. Visit my website at neilweinermd.com for information about my qualifications, treatment philosophy and areas of specialization.
I have practiced psychiatry in Denver for the past thirty years and have been both an educator and leader in the Denver psychiatric community. I currently serve on the senior clinical faculty in the departments of psychiatry and family medicine at the University of Colorado. I served as medical director at the University of Colorado's Depression Center, The Colorado Anxiety Disorders Institute, the Health-One hospital system and Bethesda Psychiatric Hospital. Treatment approaches include psychotherapy, medication management when needed, and holistic approaches. Visit my website at neilweinermd.com for information about my qualifications, treatment philosophy and areas of specialization.
![Photo of Zachary Wight - Inner Joy Psychiatry | Zachary Wight PMHNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc4c93ce-9130-4ed7-9cc7-3be03ea2282d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inner Joy Psychiatry | Zachary Wight PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Castle Rock, CO 80109
Accepting New Patients! I specialize in integrative psychiatry for individuals ages 16+ combining evidence-based medication management with holistic and non-traditional "whole-body" approaches for full-spectrum treatment of mental illnesses and substance abuse. I am accepting of all people and I provide non-judgmental care. Viewing the mind, body, emotions, and soul as beautifully interconnected, I will strive to gain a deep understanding of your unique history, the current struggles that are hindering mental wellness, and adaptation skills that can be enhanced to inspire a lasting sense of inner joy.
Accepting New Patients! I specialize in integrative psychiatry for individuals ages 16+ combining evidence-based medication management with holistic and non-traditional "whole-body" approaches for full-spectrum treatment of mental illnesses and substance abuse. I am accepting of all people and I provide non-judgmental care. Viewing the mind, body, emotions, and soul as beautifully interconnected, I will strive to gain a deep understanding of your unique history, the current struggles that are hindering mental wellness, and adaptation skills that can be enhanced to inspire a lasting sense of inner joy.
![Photo of Lorraine Victorian-Burks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe2d673a-c164-43bf-b0de-00593c98f36f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lorraine Victorian-Burks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80907 (Online Only)
Hello! I am an experienced, licensed, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the psychological assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I provide medication management and other evidence-based approaches to treat a wide range of psychological, emotional, and behavioral problems.
Hello! I am an experienced, licensed, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the psychological assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I provide medication management and other evidence-based approaches to treat a wide range of psychological, emotional, and behavioral problems.
![Photo of Amanda VanConant, PMHNP, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2fd104a-b240-4010-869b-96ebdab0f01c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda VanConant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. I received my Master of Science degree as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner from the University of Colorado and have worked in the Denver area specializing in internal medicine as a nurse practitioner.
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. I received my Master of Science degree as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner from the University of Colorado and have worked in the Denver area specializing in internal medicine as a nurse practitioner.
![Photo of Robert H Benge, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65a9d55c-14db-4c6e-98f7-eb2d0b09384b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 16 years of experience in mental healthcare. I specialize is in diagnosing and treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD. Prior to becoming a Nurse Practitioner, I worked as a Registered Psychiatric Nurse for 10 years.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 16 years of experience in mental healthcare. I specialize is in diagnosing and treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD. Prior to becoming a Nurse Practitioner, I worked as a Registered Psychiatric Nurse for 10 years.
![Photo of Christopher Flinton, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c526b876-6a55-46ef-aa7c-bd946d4d33d2/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal patient is a person or family motivated for change now. I offer cutting-edge treatments with intakes and followups within seven days to all of my patients. All patients have direct email, phone, and text access to my medical team. From young children to elite adult athletes with ADHD to people challenged by other behavioral health issues, I am enthusiastic and eager to help!
My ideal patient is a person or family motivated for change now. I offer cutting-edge treatments with intakes and followups within seven days to all of my patients. All patients have direct email, phone, and text access to my medical team. From young children to elite adult athletes with ADHD to people challenged by other behavioral health issues, I am enthusiastic and eager to help!
![Photo of Tracy Tyler - Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b98b9a2d-5a5a-4b44-8ec5-7cd80d2be1c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centennial, CO 80122
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 Chelsey Lahr, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1598fc1-40da-4e5c-9d90-e3d27c9d6853/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsey Lahr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
You deserve a care experience that is safe, empowering, and free from judgment. That's why I am committed to providing just that - a positive and supportive space where you can feel confident and understood. Since beginning my work as a psychiatric nurse practitioner in 2015, I have been dedicated to supporting adults facing challenges such as food addiction, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or bipolar disorder/mood disorders. I believe in building lasting therapeutic relationships with my clients, taking the time to understand their unique circumstances and symptoms, and together creating a treatment plan.
You deserve a care experience that is safe, empowering, and free from judgment. That's why I am committed to providing just that - a positive and supportive space where you can feel confident and understood. Since beginning my work as a psychiatric nurse practitioner in 2015, I have been dedicated to supporting adults facing challenges such as food addiction, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or bipolar disorder/mood disorders. I believe in building lasting therapeutic relationships with my clients, taking the time to understand their unique circumstances and symptoms, and together creating a treatment plan.
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Nearby Searches for Canon City
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Canon City, CO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Canon City, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Autism |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Canon City, CO see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Canon City?
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.