Psychiatrists in Castle Rock, CO
![Photo of Sara Van Anrooy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f6eda7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
At The Center for Stress Medicine we are passionate about helping our patients achieve optimal physical and emotional health. Dr. Van Anrooy supervises and is supported by a Physician Assistant, Jessica Botts, PA-C, and a Health and Wellness Coach, Kayli Meyers, MCWC. This allows us to provide comprehensive medical care in all areas of health. Dr. Van Anrooy is double board certified in Psychiatry and Integrative Health.
At The Center for Stress Medicine we are passionate about helping our patients achieve optimal physical and emotional health. Dr. Van Anrooy supervises and is supported by a Physician Assistant, Jessica Botts, PA-C, and a Health and Wellness Coach, Kayli Meyers, MCWC. This allows us to provide comprehensive medical care in all areas of health. Dr. Van Anrooy is double board certified in Psychiatry and Integrative Health.
![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 Leslie Vannucci - Integrative Mind, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/604728ae-2d74-4af7-95d6-c11cfba51757/2/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize traditional and integrative approaches for treatment of mental health issues. Optimizing results and improvement of symptoms with minimal use of medication to achieve the best outcome.
I utilize traditional and integrative approaches for treatment of mental health issues. Optimizing results and improvement of symptoms with minimal use of medication to achieve the best outcome.
![Photo of Ivy Gugat, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/020abd29-3046-4da8-ad28-a7903a3f9d60/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ivy Gugat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Castle Rock, CO 80104 (Online Only)
When I am meeting a client for the first time, I understand that it can be nerve-wracking and I will try to put you at ease. I fully believe in “meeting people where they are.” The path to healing is always a team effort and I will ensure that the client always is in the driver’s seat of the plan. I am ready to join your team and get to work. My goal is to tailor every care plan to the patient and their life. I will begin by asking you about your goals and how you would like to measure our progress toward those goals. We will build a comprehensive plan around therapy, medications, exercise, and nutrition.
When I am meeting a client for the first time, I understand that it can be nerve-wracking and I will try to put you at ease. I fully believe in “meeting people where they are.” The path to healing is always a team effort and I will ensure that the client always is in the driver’s seat of the plan. I am ready to join your team and get to work. My goal is to tailor every care plan to the patient and their life. I will begin by asking you about your goals and how you would like to measure our progress toward those goals. We will build a comprehensive plan around therapy, medications, exercise, and nutrition.
![Photo of Prescott Coe, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce61151b-f726-4db5-9d4b-b932a8b38c9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Prescott Coe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80108 (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Prescott Coe and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been working in the mental health field for over five years. Shoring up my studies, I became passionate about mental health early in life, as I lived and grew up with multiple family members with varying mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, traumatic brain injury, addiction, and autism.
Hi there! My name is Prescott Coe and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been working in the mental health field for over five years. Shoring up my studies, I became passionate about mental health early in life, as I lived and grew up with multiple family members with varying mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, traumatic brain injury, addiction, and autism.
![Photo of Paul Garraty - Blossom Psychiatric Services, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcace1e2-c874-441c-a8b1-0529256ee689/1/320x400.jpeg)
Blossom Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Castle Rock, CO 80108
Not accepting new clients
Blossom Psychiatric Services, is a family operated business offering compassionate patient centered therapeutic care and understanding with responsible psychiatric medication management . We are welcoming clients interested in an initial 90 minute Psychiatric Evaluation "in person" followed by 30 minute "tele-psych" follow ups thereafter. Provider will NOT prescribe for IR stimulants or benzodiazepine over use.
Blossom Psychiatric Services, is a family operated business offering compassionate patient centered therapeutic care and understanding with responsible psychiatric medication management . We are welcoming clients interested in an initial 90 minute Psychiatric Evaluation "in person" followed by 30 minute "tele-psych" follow ups thereafter. Provider will NOT prescribe for IR stimulants or benzodiazepine over use.
![Photo of April Chamberlin - Clarity Mental Health, PLLC, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2f3d910-24f4-493f-819c-39c1a218d3c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clarity Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80108
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.
![Photo of Ashley Benally-Ross, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ab5941e-e7be-452f-b7f1-46cbfee7235e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Benally-Ross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80104 (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a holistic approach to mental health care. My educational background includes a BSN, RN, and MSN. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders. In my practice, I utilize both traditional and integrative approaches to provide comprehensive care. My goal is to provide medication management and supportive therapy with a balanced approach that respects and incorporates the diverse needs and preferences of my clients.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a holistic approach to mental health care. My educational background includes a BSN, RN, and MSN. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders. In my practice, I utilize both traditional and integrative approaches to provide comprehensive care. My goal is to provide medication management and supportive therapy with a balanced approach that respects and incorporates the diverse needs and preferences of my clients.
![Photo of Christy Short, PMHNPBC, APN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00c4eda0-c8f6-4303-9e88-94ace410671e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christy Short
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APN, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80104
I am currently accepting new patients and have same week availability. The first step is always the hardest to take when asking for help and I am here to make it as easy as possible for you. My aim is to provide you superb mental health care tailored for deeper healing, unique to your specific needs and journey to help you achieve your desired goals.
I am currently accepting new patients and have same week availability. The first step is always the hardest to take when asking for help and I am here to make it as easy as possible for you. My aim is to provide you superb mental health care tailored for deeper healing, unique to your specific needs and journey to help you achieve your desired goals.
![Photo of Angela Graham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c72c5be-bed6-4efb-8cb2-6605b87fe9b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Graham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Castle Rock, CO 80108 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and the founder of authentic mental health, PLLC. I am a compassionate, down-to-earth provider, who is dedicated to helping individuals manage their mental and emotional well-being while creating healthy, fulfilling lives. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions within a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working towards their mental health goals. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance and involving clients in their own treatment plans.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and the founder of authentic mental health, PLLC. I am a compassionate, down-to-earth provider, who is dedicated to helping individuals manage their mental and emotional well-being while creating healthy, fulfilling lives. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions within a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working towards their mental health goals. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance and involving clients in their own treatment plans.
![Photo of Tracy D Tyler - Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90fda44e-2a9d-4518-a52f-3e1d3cdb3942/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Castle Rock, CO 80104
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!
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![Photo of Dr. Daniel Daylamani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2c48f8b-f351-46eb-b39a-45208694034d/1/320x400.png)
I am a board certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
I am a board certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
![Photo of Beverly Ann White, MSN, APN RXN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf40e834-5d7e-4dd0-93f2-6f11e0d6a2ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Beverly Ann White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN RXN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Castle Rock, CO 80104
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Life is full of changes that can disrupt sleep, cause anxiety, panic, mood dysregulation and a wide array of other symptoms. People may struggle with these symptoms throughout their lives or they can be brought on by new, expected or unexpected life stressors. It isn’t always easy to know where to turn to feel welcomed and accepted without judgment and to find yourself in a place of safety and security. This is where the broken road meets the journey of empowerment of healing.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Life is full of changes that can disrupt sleep, cause anxiety, panic, mood dysregulation and a wide array of other symptoms. People may struggle with these symptoms throughout their lives or they can be brought on by new, expected or unexpected life stressors. It isn’t always easy to know where to turn to feel welcomed and accepted without judgment and to find yourself in a place of safety and security. This is where the broken road meets the journey of empowerment of healing.
![Photo of Meagan Holland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/440612b5-d6c9-47b9-82d4-61dd0d170def/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meagan -pronounced May-gan- here! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, driven by a lifelong passion for supporting mental well-being. My journey began at Denver College of Nursing, where I earned my BSN. Eager to dive into the world of psychiatry, I spent over 6 years as a Mental Health Registered Nurse. Those years were invaluable, giving me experience in diverse settings like outpatient, inpatient, detox, and crisis care.
Meagan -pronounced May-gan- here! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, driven by a lifelong passion for supporting mental well-being. My journey began at Denver College of Nursing, where I earned my BSN. Eager to dive into the world of psychiatry, I spent over 6 years as a Mental Health Registered Nurse. Those years were invaluable, giving me experience in diverse settings like outpatient, inpatient, detox, and crisis care.
![Photo of Grace Ann Pittari, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1482e3ce-6548-4569-a7c0-dca67ec8a17e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Grace Ann Pittari
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80104 (Online Only)
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of overall nursing experience with an emphasis on mental health. I see adult clients between the ages of 18-64 for a variety of psychiatric illnesses including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. In my free time, I prioritize my own mental health through exercise, spending quality time with loved ones, and getting out into nature.
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of overall nursing experience with an emphasis on mental health. I see adult clients between the ages of 18-64 for a variety of psychiatric illnesses including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. In my free time, I prioritize my own mental health through exercise, spending quality time with loved ones, and getting out into nature.
![Photo of Alyssa Strazzulla, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42b80d95-5fd3-45a7-9080-d8cb575a04d6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Strazzulla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80104
Are you frequently plagued by thoughts of inadequacy or persistent self-doubt? Do feelings of shame or guilt hold you back? Is anxiety or past traumas causing chaos in your life? Perhaps unwanted negative thoughts consume your mind daily. Despite your efforts, you can't seem to shake off these feelings. Maybe you've noticed recurring patterns in your relationships: lack of communication, failure to establish boundaries, or avoiding conflict, resulting in further complications. If you're feeling lost on how to address these issues, you're not alone.
Are you frequently plagued by thoughts of inadequacy or persistent self-doubt? Do feelings of shame or guilt hold you back? Is anxiety or past traumas causing chaos in your life? Perhaps unwanted negative thoughts consume your mind daily. Despite your efforts, you can't seem to shake off these feelings. Maybe you've noticed recurring patterns in your relationships: lack of communication, failure to establish boundaries, or avoiding conflict, resulting in further complications. If you're feeling lost on how to address these issues, you're not alone.
![Photo of Eileen Spangler - Colorado Psychiatric, PsychNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5145a0b4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Colorado Psychiatric
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsychNP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80104 (Online Only)
Although carefully chosen medications can quickly achieve much needed relief of anxiety, depression, insomnia and trauma symptoms, a thorough evaluation can also identify many opportunities for improvement without medications. The most effective treatment plan may include work-life balance, nutrition and sleep strategies, address, avoid or adapting to triggers, in addition to multiple psychotherapies. When needed, medications with the lowest side effects, easiest to use, most predictably effective & not addictive are recommended. Ultimately, it is up to each person to decide which strategies they will use to achieve wellness.
Although carefully chosen medications can quickly achieve much needed relief of anxiety, depression, insomnia and trauma symptoms, a thorough evaluation can also identify many opportunities for improvement without medications. The most effective treatment plan may include work-life balance, nutrition and sleep strategies, address, avoid or adapting to triggers, in addition to multiple psychotherapies. When needed, medications with the lowest side effects, easiest to use, most predictably effective & not addictive are recommended. Ultimately, it is up to each person to decide which strategies they will use to achieve wellness.
![Photo of Jaimee Troyer - Journey Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, RXN-P, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d14fbaf-8d8d-4e02-abea-11ca3638eef6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Journey Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, RXN-P
Verified Verified
Castle Rock, CO 80108
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience in mental health. I previously specialized in counseling teenagers and young adults and have specialized training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I offer both medication management and counseling services to all age groups. Most of my appointments are offered virtually, providing convenience and comfort to clients throughout the state of Colorado.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience in mental health. I previously specialized in counseling teenagers and young adults and have specialized training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I offer both medication management and counseling services to all age groups. Most of my appointments are offered virtually, providing convenience and comfort to clients throughout the state of Colorado.
![Photo of Laurie Reeder, RxN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d578024-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
You can find joy! As an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, and adults prescribing medication and providing therapy services. I provide traditional psychiatric services in conjunction with holistic and complementary approaches. I believe that medication may be necessary yet is only part of the healing process. I offer alternatives to medication and help people safely get off psychiatric meds. I frequently order genetic testing and lab tests to evaluate potential root causes to symptoms and medication response.
You can find joy! As an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, and adults prescribing medication and providing therapy services. I provide traditional psychiatric services in conjunction with holistic and complementary approaches. I believe that medication may be necessary yet is only part of the healing process. I offer alternatives to medication and help people safely get off psychiatric meds. I frequently order genetic testing and lab tests to evaluate potential root causes to symptoms and medication response.
![Photo of Thomas Kittelsen Physician, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38a64cac-65e1-49b9-8082-6f3560e637be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kittelsen specializes in empowering highly intelligent, self-driven individuals. His ideal clients often excel in remote work environments, valuing the efficiency and convenience of virtual meetings. Sessions, typically lasting one hour, prioritize interactive engagement to ensure productivity. Dr. Kittelsen is deeply committed to helping clients navigate challenges like Adult ADHD, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to their personal growth and success.
Dr. Kittelsen specializes in empowering highly intelligent, self-driven individuals. His ideal clients often excel in remote work environments, valuing the efficiency and convenience of virtual meetings. Sessions, typically lasting one hour, prioritize interactive engagement to ensure productivity. Dr. Kittelsen is deeply committed to helping clients navigate challenges like Adult ADHD, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to their personal growth and success.
See more therapy options for Castle Rock
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Castle Rock, CO
40+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Castle Rock, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
98% | Anxiety |
96% | Medication Management |
89% | ADHD |
87% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Stress |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
83% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Castle Rock, CO see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Castle Rock?
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.