Psychiatrists in Durango, CO
![Photo of Emily Epstein, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9529727c-ae38-4ddb-951c-90ceaa05edd0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Epstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301 (Online Only)
I help people who want to move beyond symptom relief and towards optimal well-being; who aren’t certain whether medication is right for them but know they could be feeling better than they currently do. I strive to meet my clients where they are and guide treatment to align with their needs, wishes and values.
I help people who want to move beyond symptom relief and towards optimal well-being; who aren’t certain whether medication is right for them but know they could be feeling better than they currently do. I strive to meet my clients where they are and guide treatment to align with their needs, wishes and values.
![Photo of Zachary Wight - Inner Joy Psychiatry | Zachary Wight PMHNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16bcfa7f-9e17-449f-8fb0-c10654a48cb7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inner Joy Psychiatry | Zachary Wight PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301
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 Dr. Sarah Alsgaard, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c4d6e34-571f-4bc2-b63e-c0af2b0a358f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sarah Alsgaard is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia and other psychiatric diagnoses. She earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice in 2017 from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Following, she joined the Durango, Colorado community and has practice psychiatric care across the lifespan in multiple settings for patients ages 12 and older.
Dr. Sarah Alsgaard is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia and other psychiatric diagnoses. She earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice in 2017 from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Following, she joined the Durango, Colorado community and has practice psychiatric care across the lifespan in multiple settings for patients ages 12 and older.
![Photo of Sonya Riske - Desert Foothills Mental Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a80721a5-125f-4f44-9661-e54201013f00/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sonya Riske - Desert Foothills Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81301 (Online Only)
I help people who are worried and feeling anxious about many issues in their lives. Are you experiencing worry, feeling edgy, tired, and not sleeping well? I can help you with that. Do you find yourself constantly on edge, anticipating the possibility of an impending anxiety attack? I understand the sensations all too well: the rapid heartbeat, the breathlessness, the overwhelming sense of needing an immediate escape. These attacks can be frightening, and I want to help you break free from their grip. I am eager to guide you in acquiring the tools to regain control of your life.
I help people who are worried and feeling anxious about many issues in their lives. Are you experiencing worry, feeling edgy, tired, and not sleeping well? I can help you with that. Do you find yourself constantly on edge, anticipating the possibility of an impending anxiety attack? I understand the sensations all too well: the rapid heartbeat, the breathlessness, the overwhelming sense of needing an immediate escape. These attacks can be frightening, and I want to help you break free from their grip. I am eager to guide you in acquiring the tools to regain control of your life.
![Photo of Caitlin Prescott, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf618f60-3ad8-4b2f-ab8c-8d44e9d5fc51/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Red Mountain Psychiatry! With a master's in nursing and doctorate in nursing practice, I bring a wealth of expertise to mental health care. Specializing in general psychiatry, medication for opioid use disorder, and gender-affirming care hormone treatment, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate treatment tailored to each individual I see. Please visit www.redmountainpsychiatry.com to connect and make an appointment.
Welcome to Red Mountain Psychiatry! With a master's in nursing and doctorate in nursing practice, I bring a wealth of expertise to mental health care. Specializing in general psychiatry, medication for opioid use disorder, and gender-affirming care hormone treatment, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate treatment tailored to each individual I see. Please visit www.redmountainpsychiatry.com to connect and make an appointment.
![Photo of Chidi Enwere, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a76ae5b-990a-4dc7-96ab-f451661f933e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Chidi Enwere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81301 (Online Only)
I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I started my healthcare career working in a mental health hospital while obtaining my undergraduate degree. I completed my Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees at Case Western Reserve University. I went on to complete my Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner certification from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I started my healthcare career working in a mental health hospital while obtaining my undergraduate degree. I completed my Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees at Case Western Reserve University. I went on to complete my Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner certification from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
![Photo of Monique Carrera, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52985e4f-5e36-4fee-b236-d703c8775194/1/320x400.jpeg)
My patients are actively seeking to improve their mental well-being and are open to a collaborative approach to treatment. They value the importance of mental health and understand the benefits of therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication when necessary. They are committed to engaging in the therapeutic process, willing to communicate openly with their providers, and are proactive in their care journey. Whether facing anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, my patients are ready to take the next step toward a better day.
My patients are actively seeking to improve their mental well-being and are open to a collaborative approach to treatment. They value the importance of mental health and understand the benefits of therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication when necessary. They are committed to engaging in the therapeutic process, willing to communicate openly with their providers, and are proactive in their care journey. Whether facing anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, my patients are ready to take the next step toward a better day.
![Photo of David Edwin Drake, DO, MTS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44dcdb87-c94d-49f4-b320-d0a9aca80541/3/320x400.jpeg)
Fees are negotiable! As a psychiatrist I have a unique practice where I offer combined talk work (psychotherapy) along with conservative use of medication, where helpful. I work with individuals, couples, and families from a family systems perspective, having trained extensively in Bowen Family Systems Theory. A Colorado native, I live in Des Moines, Iowa and provide televideo psychiatry throughout both Iowa and Colorado. I negotiate fees with my patients. I am able to see folks on Medicare if they sign a waiver that allows me to bill them on a self-pay basis. Call me and let's talk.
Fees are negotiable! As a psychiatrist I have a unique practice where I offer combined talk work (psychotherapy) along with conservative use of medication, where helpful. I work with individuals, couples, and families from a family systems perspective, having trained extensively in Bowen Family Systems Theory. A Colorado native, I live in Des Moines, Iowa and provide televideo psychiatry throughout both Iowa and Colorado. I negotiate fees with my patients. I am able to see folks on Medicare if they sign a waiver that allows me to bill them on a self-pay basis. Call me and let's talk.
![Photo of Carrie Shahbahrami - Lifespan Psychiatry of Colorado, PMHNP, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ddca5bf-08dd-4088-9560-afc79019a448/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lifespan Psychiatry of Colorado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNS
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81302
Our provider, Carrie Shahbahrami, MSN, APRN, ACCNS-AG, PMHNP-BC, is dually boarded in medical and psychiatric care allowing a comprehensive assessment of each client's needs. Carrie began her nursing career in 2000 focusing on the needs of patients within the acute hospital setting. Upon furthering her education at Johns Hopkins University and University of Cincinnati, Carrie chose to focus on client's needing specialized psychiatric care and treatment. Carrie's passion is serving the underrepresented while reducing the stigma associated with mental health.
Our provider, Carrie Shahbahrami, MSN, APRN, ACCNS-AG, PMHNP-BC, is dually boarded in medical and psychiatric care allowing a comprehensive assessment of each client's needs. Carrie began her nursing career in 2000 focusing on the needs of patients within the acute hospital setting. Upon furthering her education at Johns Hopkins University and University of Cincinnati, Carrie chose to focus on client's needing specialized psychiatric care and treatment. Carrie's passion is serving the underrepresented while reducing the stigma associated with mental health.
![Photo of Breanna Millsap, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, RNCOB, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f0a500c-e810-47ce-8167-f0f33052f4dd/1/320x400.png)
Breanna Millsap
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, RNCOB
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81301
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap . Schedule your consultation today!
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap . Schedule your consultation today!
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69e9a888-3527-4448-8dbe-7c25eaab4ac7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
15 Second Videos
Emily Epstein
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Chidi Enwere
David Edwin Drake
Breanna Millsap
Ronil Shah
Colorado Psychiatric
![Photo of Laura Wells, MSN, BSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbc0b62c-163f-416c-9cb2-e63d17e4c5bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Wells
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81302 (Online Only)
Our world makes it tough to prioritize our mental well-being. Sometimes it may feel like we are reaching for super-human strength to navigate our days. I would be honored to be a source of support for you. I am dedicated to optimizing mental health care and self-care through safe spaces, a holistic approach, and collaboration. I believe empathy and empowerment are essential to fostering our mental wellbeing and helping us flourish. I would be honored to offer support for anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, work-related stressors, healthcare provider burnout, thoughts of suicide, cancer journeys, grief and loss.
Our world makes it tough to prioritize our mental well-being. Sometimes it may feel like we are reaching for super-human strength to navigate our days. I would be honored to be a source of support for you. I am dedicated to optimizing mental health care and self-care through safe spaces, a holistic approach, and collaboration. I believe empathy and empowerment are essential to fostering our mental wellbeing and helping us flourish. I would be honored to offer support for anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, work-related stressors, healthcare provider burnout, thoughts of suicide, cancer journeys, grief and loss.
![Photo of Melissa Shulman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b307d7a0-884e-44a0-bf42-8ac8f59b3148/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Shulman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Melissa Shulman and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with The 40/20 Collective. As your provider, it is my goal that you feel truly seen and supported. During our sessions I will get to know you and your unique needs, and we will develop a treatment plan that is guided by what’s most important to you. Wherever you are on your mental health journey, I will meet you where you’re at. I provide holistic care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs, including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Substance Use Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Complex Trauma, PTSD and OCD.
Hello! My name is Melissa Shulman and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with The 40/20 Collective. As your provider, it is my goal that you feel truly seen and supported. During our sessions I will get to know you and your unique needs, and we will develop a treatment plan that is guided by what’s most important to you. Wherever you are on your mental health journey, I will meet you where you’re at. I provide holistic care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs, including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Substance Use Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Complex Trauma, PTSD and OCD.
![Photo of Eileen Spangler - Colorado Psychiatric, Psych, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01d0dfd8-60bf-45bb-a096-7cc664c121b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Colorado Psychiatric
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psych, NP
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301 (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, addressing, avoiding 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, addressing, avoiding 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.
April Phillps
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81301 (Online Only)
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Lisa Boffa - Montrose Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, PMHNP, FNP, ND, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39a1d4cc-5429-4659-bcfc-1becd27048ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
Montrose Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, ND
Verified Verified
Montrose, CO 81401
My name is Dr. Lisa Boffa. My ideal clients would be motivated to partner with me to help themselves and improve their lives.
My name is Dr. Lisa Boffa. My ideal clients would be motivated to partner with me to help themselves and improve their lives.
![Photo of Mila Mirdo, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56b9f972-f951-4907-9891-47f312dda602/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatric nurse NP specializing in psychopharmacology. As much as people do not want to take medication for their mental health, it is essential for some in order to get healthy. It takes a village to keep your mental health at its optimum prime. My goal is to be part of your team and get you on the right medication that will help you get where you want to be.
I am a psychiatric nurse NP specializing in psychopharmacology. As much as people do not want to take medication for their mental health, it is essential for some in order to get healthy. It takes a village to keep your mental health at its optimum prime. My goal is to be part of your team and get you on the right medication that will help you get where you want to be.
![Photo of Lisa Isenberg, DNP, CPNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0907b9e5-e2a3-4ebf-b172-b9b1e24b3287/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of mental health concerns. I work hard to maintain a strong relationship with my clients, so I get to know them well, and they are comfortable talking to me about their concerns, what they feel is working, or any changes they think are needed. I value continuity in the provider-client relationship as it is essential for stable mental health. Appointments consist of a psychiatric evaluation and medication discussion in a nonjudgmental, therapeutic, and counseling environment.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of mental health concerns. I work hard to maintain a strong relationship with my clients, so I get to know them well, and they are comfortable talking to me about their concerns, what they feel is working, or any changes they think are needed. I value continuity in the provider-client relationship as it is essential for stable mental health. Appointments consist of a psychiatric evaluation and medication discussion in a nonjudgmental, therapeutic, and counseling environment.
See more therapy options for Durango
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Durango, CO
10+
Average cost per session
$137
Psychiatrists in Durango, CO who prioritize treating:
87% | Anxiety |
87% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
87% | Trauma and PTSD |
87% | Medication Management |
80% | Depression |
73% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
82% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Durango, CO see their clients
53% | Online Only | |
47% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
21% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Durango?
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.