Psychiatrists in Edwards, CO
![Photo of Adriana Manygoats de Julio, MD, MSPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e51239f7-ef0c-4b0b-a5be-d6b3082c0b00/1/320x400.jpeg)
My motto is, “You’re the expert on you.” I have expert knowledge in psychiatry, and you are the expert on your life, body, and needs. My goal is to work together with you to assess your unique story and create a plan to help you address your needs and meet your goals. I work with my team at Plus by APN to help you evaluate additional psychiatric options like Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Spravato or ketamine-assisted healing, or neurofeedback.
My motto is, “You’re the expert on you.” I have expert knowledge in psychiatry, and you are the expert on your life, body, and needs. My goal is to work together with you to assess your unique story and create a plan to help you address your needs and meet your goals. I work with my team at Plus by APN to help you evaluate additional psychiatric options like Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Spravato or ketamine-assisted healing, or neurofeedback.
![Photo of Joanna Kluender, APN, PMHNP, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29416ddc-1620-4ee9-b10c-62061453f135/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Kluender
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
Edwards, CO 81632 (Online Only)
In-person appointments coming soon! Teleheath appointments currently available. As a psychiatric provider living in the Rocky Mountains, I understand the unique challenges our rural lifestyle can have on mental health. I'm here to make psychiatric support accessible, compassionate, and tailored to your needs. From adolescents to adults, I offer medication management for mental health issues.
In-person appointments coming soon! Teleheath appointments currently available. As a psychiatric provider living in the Rocky Mountains, I understand the unique challenges our rural lifestyle can have on mental health. I'm here to make psychiatric support accessible, compassionate, and tailored to your needs. From adolescents to adults, I offer medication management for mental health issues.
![Photo of Alexis Adams, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4939db47-7fdc-452a-81e6-1b54496d9edc/1/320x400.jpeg)
As an experienced Nurse Practitioner with 12 years in healthcare, my passion lies in providing exceptional mental health services and medication management. Throughout my journey, I have honed my expertise across multiple specialties, catering to diverse age groups to include pediatrics and adults. Working closely with clients facing various mental health diagnoses, I have developed a deep understanding of their unique needs. My commitment to empowering individuals is reflected in my ability to create personalized treatment plans that align with clients' goals and values.
As an experienced Nurse Practitioner with 12 years in healthcare, my passion lies in providing exceptional mental health services and medication management. Throughout my journey, I have honed my expertise across multiple specialties, catering to diverse age groups to include pediatrics and adults. Working closely with clients facing various mental health diagnoses, I have developed a deep understanding of their unique needs. My commitment to empowering individuals is reflected in my ability to create personalized treatment plans that align with clients' goals and values.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Rebecca I Katz, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b98f486-ce22-4346-874a-273635a7ef63/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wellcova Health is excited to announce that Dr. Katz has joined our team. She brings a vast amount of knowledge and expertise in psychiatric medication management in both pediatric and adult patients. Dr. Rebecca Katz is a Board Certified Psychiatrist. Prior to becoming a physician, Dr. Katz received a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Pittsburgh and was a High School Science and Math Teacher as well as an Athletic coach in Pennsylvania for 6 years. She went on to receive a Master’s in Biomedical Sciences with a focus in stroke research from Rutgers’s University before changing careers to study medicine.
Wellcova Health is excited to announce that Dr. Katz has joined our team. She brings a vast amount of knowledge and expertise in psychiatric medication management in both pediatric and adult patients. Dr. Rebecca Katz is a Board Certified Psychiatrist. Prior to becoming a physician, Dr. Katz received a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Pittsburgh and was a High School Science and Math Teacher as well as an Athletic coach in Pennsylvania for 6 years. She went on to receive a Master’s in Biomedical Sciences with a focus in stroke research from Rutgers’s University before changing careers to study medicine.
![Photo of Ryan Sheridan, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afa9b527-40f0-4155-8c3c-28b9b71de73e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Sheridan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avon, CO 81620
Hey There! I'm Ryan... My mindset: you can and will improve. Collaboration means you + me. My process is body, mind, & spirt. Success means empowering you. Take control of your wellness, improve your relationships, and optimize your life... I help individuals enhance their mental health. My approach is based on the premise that nutrition, physical activity, and how we recover are foundational to our well-being. We will optimize your life with thoughtful prescriptions, psychotherapy, nutritional and supplement counseling, and routine development.
Hey There! I'm Ryan... My mindset: you can and will improve. Collaboration means you + me. My process is body, mind, & spirt. Success means empowering you. Take control of your wellness, improve your relationships, and optimize your life... I help individuals enhance their mental health. My approach is based on the premise that nutrition, physical activity, and how we recover are foundational to our well-being. We will optimize your life with thoughtful prescriptions, psychotherapy, nutritional and supplement counseling, and routine development.
![Photo of Kris Vandenberg, PMHNP, FNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f92d42c5-6a9d-41c0-baae-8d93bc9d3431/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kris Vandenberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Avon, CO 81620 (Online Only)
Appointments Available ! Taking Olivia's Fund, Mountain Strong EAP, private pay and most Colorado commercial insurances. I am a Vail Valley local with over 30 years of experience in mental health treatment. As a board certified advanced nurse practitioner with a clinical doctorate, I have extensive training providing psychiatric medication management for all ages. With a background in both family practice and psychiatric mental health, I recognize the importance of treating the whole person, mind and body.
Appointments Available ! Taking Olivia's Fund, Mountain Strong EAP, private pay and most Colorado commercial insurances. I am a Vail Valley local with over 30 years of experience in mental health treatment. As a board certified advanced nurse practitioner with a clinical doctorate, I have extensive training providing psychiatric medication management for all ages. With a background in both family practice and psychiatric mental health, I recognize the importance of treating the whole person, mind and body.
![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 Theresa Clark, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/547cda31-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Ten Mile Health and Wellness, the offices of Dr. Theresa Clark, MD. Located in Dillon, CO we serve Summit County and surrounding areas. This physician based practice focuses on providing high quality, individualized psychiatric care in a safe and caring environment. Evidence based medication management, psychotherapy and diet/lifestyle changes are involved in all evaluations.
Welcome to Ten Mile Health and Wellness, the offices of Dr. Theresa Clark, MD. Located in Dillon, CO we serve Summit County and surrounding areas. This physician based practice focuses on providing high quality, individualized psychiatric care in a safe and caring environment. Evidence based medication management, psychotherapy and diet/lifestyle changes are involved in all evaluations.
![Photo of Elizabeth A. Rademacher, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce435a94-9c5b-4541-b58b-7ddbad8f2e35/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth A. Rademacher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vail, CO 81657 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fostering care across the life span fully licensed in Colorado, Florida, and Oregon. I provide initial evaluation and ongoing management of psychiatric medications, supportive counseling, health education, ketamine evaluations, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy sessions.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fostering care across the life span fully licensed in Colorado, Florida, and Oregon. I provide initial evaluation and ongoing management of psychiatric medications, supportive counseling, health education, ketamine evaluations, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy sessions.
![Photo of Sandra Osborne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a4aee6d-c8e6-4936-a89d-c638e5bb6a0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! I'm Sandra (she/her), an empathetic mental health provider with a wealth of experience in crisis services, forensics, and veteran care. My mission is to meet you where you are and provide a judgment-free space where your voice is heard and valued. By integrating mind, body, and self, we'll navigate challenging emotions together. I can also prescribe and help with your medication management.
Accepting New Patients! I'm Sandra (she/her), an empathetic mental health provider with a wealth of experience in crisis services, forensics, and veteran care. My mission is to meet you where you are and provide a judgment-free space where your voice is heard and valued. By integrating mind, body, and self, we'll navigate challenging emotions together. I can also prescribe and help with your medication management.
![Photo of Austin James Mallory - Concierge Home Detox , BSN RN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f67a211-9899-4ad2-aa26-957090521af2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide private, on-demand, in-home nursing services to treat alcohol and drug withdrawal.
I provide private, on-demand, in-home nursing services to treat alcohol and drug withdrawal.
![Photo of Rudy Spector, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b2d4ba2-48dd-4532-850f-12ffbcbab786/2/320x400.jpeg)
Optimal health begins with understanding the connection between your brain and body. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I look forward to helping you achieve your best mental wellness. Together we will look at your psychiatric symptoms, sleep patterns, and lifestyle. The initial interview will include a thorough psychiatric assessment, family history, and medical history. Medication management, supplements, laboratory draws, adrenal testing, and micronutrient testing are all avenues to consider during this initial interview.
Optimal health begins with understanding the connection between your brain and body. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I look forward to helping you achieve your best mental wellness. Together we will look at your psychiatric symptoms, sleep patterns, and lifestyle. The initial interview will include a thorough psychiatric assessment, family history, and medical history. Medication management, supplements, laboratory draws, adrenal testing, and micronutrient testing are all avenues to consider during this initial interview.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Carol Oakleaf, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/590c0326-e14e-4292-a985-85588d7cceb2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a Family Practice Physician Assistant for over 27 years, and have come to realize that emotional health is as important, (if not more important), than physical health. If we are not mentally healthy, then it is difficult to focus on trying to become physically healthy. Healthy nutrition, good sleep, and regular exercise are an essential foundation. We can thrive when our body, mind, heart, and soul are all working in harmony together.
I have been a Family Practice Physician Assistant for over 27 years, and have come to realize that emotional health is as important, (if not more important), than physical health. If we are not mentally healthy, then it is difficult to focus on trying to become physically healthy. Healthy nutrition, good sleep, and regular exercise are an essential foundation. We can thrive when our body, mind, heart, and soul are all working in harmony together.
![Photo of Olasumbo Afilaka - Mind & Wellness Behavioral Health, LLC, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3865517d-14d8-4adb-96ae-0fe465e68c50/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mind & Wellness Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenwood Village, CO 80111 (Online Only)
I'm a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master's degree in nursing, specializing in psychiatric mental health throughout the lifespan. As an experienced healthcare provider, I adopt a comprehensive approach to care and treatment. My commitment to excellent patient care has been recognized through multiple awards. My practice focuses on various mental health conditions, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and PTSD, among others.
I'm a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master's degree in nursing, specializing in psychiatric mental health throughout the lifespan. As an experienced healthcare provider, I adopt a comprehensive approach to care and treatment. My commitment to excellent patient care has been recognized through multiple awards. My practice focuses on various mental health conditions, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and PTSD, among others.
![Photo of Emma Brown, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c02c9e2-d43b-49d1-9079-6d67d334f815/1/320x400.jpeg)
My lifelong passion has been to understand and support the complex mental, emotional, and behavioral journeys of adults, children, and adolescents. Every individual I have had the privilege to work with has taught me something new. My dedication to the younger demographic led me first to Yale to learn advanced psychiatric care and then to SUNY for a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Here, I delved deep into the nuanced challenges faced by young minds and how to best address and support their unique needs. My time at SUNY gave me invaluable experiences and insights into the delicate balance of young psyches.
My lifelong passion has been to understand and support the complex mental, emotional, and behavioral journeys of adults, children, and adolescents. Every individual I have had the privilege to work with has taught me something new. My dedication to the younger demographic led me first to Yale to learn advanced psychiatric care and then to SUNY for a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Here, I delved deep into the nuanced challenges faced by young minds and how to best address and support their unique needs. My time at SUNY gave me invaluable experiences and insights into the delicate balance of young psyches.
![Photo of James Anderson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95d800e1-f660-42d0-82fb-4b89ac16e423/3/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! Looking forward to meet you. I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call us.
Accepting New Patients! Looking forward to meet you. I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call us.
![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 Perry Bishop, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8c4b791-2bb3-498c-b969-0c6b2a9607e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Perry Bishop
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80012
Through active listening and compassionate care, Perry Bishop, PMHNP, is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of psychiatric care to his patients. Perry prides himself on being an advocate for his patients. He strives to deliver the highest quality of care to create personalized treatment plans. His goal is to support his patients so they can achieve their goals in life.
Through active listening and compassionate care, Perry Bishop, PMHNP, is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of psychiatric care to his patients. Perry prides himself on being an advocate for his patients. He strives to deliver the highest quality of care to create personalized treatment plans. His goal is to support his patients so they can achieve their goals in life.
![Photo of Michelle Sanay, PMHNP, APRN, RXN, RN, MD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8a318fb-cbc2-41c6-8d0f-bc80344f5974/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Sanay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, RXN, RN, MD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Do you feel you're having hard time dealing with your daily life? Any decline in your level of functioning? I apply to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 6th Edition by American Psychiatric Association to evaluate if your signs and symptoms fit the criteria for any psychiatric disorders. Treatments are client-centered and follows the FDA guidelines and the most current and reliable scientific research. The treatment plan is co-designed by you and me; addressing your short and long term goals, prioritizing your most urgent concerns to improve your overall health and functioning.
Do you feel you're having hard time dealing with your daily life? Any decline in your level of functioning? I apply to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 6th Edition by American Psychiatric Association to evaluate if your signs and symptoms fit the criteria for any psychiatric disorders. Treatments are client-centered and follows the FDA guidelines and the most current and reliable scientific research. The treatment plan is co-designed by you and me; addressing your short and long term goals, prioritizing your most urgent concerns to improve your overall health and functioning.
![Photo of Lauri Lohse, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5386c108-09a8-421d-839e-7a1f57265362/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauri Lohse has been a nurse practitioner since 2005. She graduated from the University of Central Florida with a master's degree in nursing. Lauri believes in treating her patients as unique individuals and enjoys working with all age groups from childhood through adulthood. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and playing with her grandchildren.
Lauri Lohse has been a nurse practitioner since 2005. She graduated from the University of Central Florida with a master's degree in nursing. Lauri believes in treating her patients as unique individuals and enjoys working with all age groups from childhood through adulthood. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and playing with her grandchildren.
See more therapy options for Edwards
Nearby Searches for Edwards
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Edwards, CO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Edwards, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
67% | Depression |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
50% | Aetna |
50% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Edwards, CO see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Edwards?
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.