Psychiatrists in Falcon, CO
![Photo of Syretta McGraw, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b5ab123-7cf8-4977-a809-e40b0c9002ba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Syretta McGraw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Falcon, CO 80831
Ms. McGraw has worked in the field of nursing for 24 years in a variety of settings which gives her the competence for a well-rounded approach to treatment. She holds a Master’s degree in Nursing and is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is proficient in outpatient behavioral health for adults and seniors, civilians, military dependents, retirees, and the LGBTQI+ population. She believes in treating the whole person in order to achieve a holistic approach to care.
Ms. McGraw has worked in the field of nursing for 24 years in a variety of settings which gives her the competence for a well-rounded approach to treatment. She holds a Master’s degree in Nursing and is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is proficient in outpatient behavioral health for adults and seniors, civilians, military dependents, retirees, and the LGBTQI+ population. She believes in treating the whole person in order to achieve a holistic approach to care.
![Photo of Dr. Alexandria Kurtz, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98104b4c-e10d-4350-ac49-ee14a4e7e5fd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kurtz is a compassionate & empathetic Integrative Psychiatrist specializing in treating adults experiencing a variety of psychiatric symptoms. Stemming from her osteopathic medical training, she focuses treatment on the whole person - mind, body & spirit. After her psychiatry residency she completed a fellowship in integrative psychiatry & additional training in nutritional psychiatry. She has a passion for working alongside patients to address root causes of mental health symptoms through the skillful combination of traditional and advancing biomedical treatments with alternative modalities.
Dr. Kurtz is a compassionate & empathetic Integrative Psychiatrist specializing in treating adults experiencing a variety of psychiatric symptoms. Stemming from her osteopathic medical training, she focuses treatment on the whole person - mind, body & spirit. After her psychiatry residency she completed a fellowship in integrative psychiatry & additional training in nutritional psychiatry. She has a passion for working alongside patients to address root causes of mental health symptoms through the skillful combination of traditional and advancing biomedical treatments with alternative modalities.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Wunmi Sokan - Pure-Ivy Health Care, Inc , DNP PMH, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/900d39a6-feeb-4336-985f-cec1e38fd4be/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pure-Ivy Health Care, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP PMH, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80922 (Online Only)
Dr. Wunmi Sokan is a doctoral-trained, double-board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC) with over 15 combined years of clinical experience. She treats Adolescents and Adults and has experience in various settings, including inpatient and outpatient. She approaches her patients with a focus on understanding their psychiatric and mental health needs. Her goal is to ensure her patients live healthier and meaningful lives.
Dr. Wunmi Sokan is a doctoral-trained, double-board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC) with over 15 combined years of clinical experience. She treats Adolescents and Adults and has experience in various settings, including inpatient and outpatient. She approaches her patients with a focus on understanding their psychiatric and mental health needs. Her goal is to ensure her patients live healthier and meaningful lives.
![Photo of M Sandoval, PhD, MSN, AGACNP, PMHNP-C, NP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8290e229-dfee-4d6f-b707-1d8c59786f3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
M Sandoval
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, AGACNP, PMHNP-C, NP-BC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Depressed, anxious, just not feeling “normal?” You are not alone despite how you may feel right now. Whether you need talk-support therapy, multimodal therapy or prescriptive management, I can help. My focused population is women, elderly, adolescents.
Depressed, anxious, just not feeling “normal?” You are not alone despite how you may feel right now. Whether you need talk-support therapy, multimodal therapy or prescriptive management, I can help. My focused population is women, elderly, adolescents.
![Photo of Naira Numanovic - Avena Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76e868b7-86c0-44d9-9b80-bcde31aca03a/4/320x400.jpeg)
Naira Numanovic - Avena Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80908
Accepting new clients! Appointments are typically available within 3 business days. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my dedication is centered on supporting you through life's challenges and assisting you in realizing your utmost potential. I provide a secure environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns.
Accepting new clients! Appointments are typically available within 3 business days. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my dedication is centered on supporting you through life's challenges and assisting you in realizing your utmost potential. I provide a secure environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns.
![Photo of Sheila Fomenky, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8aca1d83-ee1d-4c71-8428-4b5d38aea0d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila Fomenky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80908 (Online Only)
Taking the time to seek care for mental wellness is a bold step that I applaud in my clients. Building rapport and confidence in each session is an important part of client sessions. I provide a clear explanation on diagnosis and the treatment plan chosen while utilizing evidence based practices. Call now for same week available appointments! You are Valued and that is my commitment to you!
Taking the time to seek care for mental wellness is a bold step that I applaud in my clients. Building rapport and confidence in each session is an important part of client sessions. I provide a clear explanation on diagnosis and the treatment plan chosen while utilizing evidence based practices. Call now for same week available appointments! You are Valued and that is my commitment to you!
![Photo of Tracy Tyler - Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d63eb9f-947f-4571-933f-92588a120618/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
![Photo of Jennie Stormes - MasterMind Clinic, PLLC, MSN, APRN, RXN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aaa8909b-8680-43da-b35b-96334b666d51/2/320x400.jpeg)
MasterMind Clinic, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, RXN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80951 (Online Only)
Jennie’s philosophy is patient centered and her approach: 1- Promotes positive and effective psychiatric mental health care 2- Access to services, support, and mental health care 3- Encourages the removal of stigma related to mental health care for everyone she encounters Jennie works as a partner with all patients or caregivers to manage the mental health concerns. She will work with each individual to create a treatment plan which will address the symptoms while minimizing possible adverse events with options. All options in your treatment plan will be discussed to make informed decisions about your own care.
Jennie’s philosophy is patient centered and her approach: 1- Promotes positive and effective psychiatric mental health care 2- Access to services, support, and mental health care 3- Encourages the removal of stigma related to mental health care for everyone she encounters Jennie works as a partner with all patients or caregivers to manage the mental health concerns. She will work with each individual to create a treatment plan which will address the symptoms while minimizing possible adverse events with options. All options in your treatment plan will be discussed to make informed decisions about your own care.
![Photo of Jeffrey Wentz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22673b89-ba93-4c6a-a486-25a3477e920d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Wentz is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and United States Air Force veteran with extensive experience in the evaluation and treatment of mental illness across the lifespan. He earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Nebraska, and completed his postgraduate training in Psychiatry at the UT Health Science Center in San Antonio.
Dr. Wentz is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and United States Air Force veteran with extensive experience in the evaluation and treatment of mental illness across the lifespan. He earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Nebraska, and completed his postgraduate training in Psychiatry at the UT Health Science Center in San Antonio.
![Photo of Chris Archer, PMHNP, GNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4977d03a-3cb6-4635-b3af-8615d9c0c801/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Archer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, GNP-BC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80922
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
![Photo of Cher Li Ang, MS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dd71bb1-aa08-408a-b307-c2172d044bf1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cher Li Ang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80922
Western meets Eastern medicine. Affordable telepsychiatry. Medications and therapy. Practicing since 2018 in-patient psychiatric hospital, co-occurring rehabilitation program, and private practice. Private pay: $100 for 30-minute med management and $200 for 1-hour intake or therapy/counseling & psychiatric medication. $50 off for any referrals. Virtual/online appointments. Two physical locations in Littleton and Pueblo, Colorado. Monday through Thursday 9 AM- 3 PM and Saturday 9 AM- 1 PM.
Western meets Eastern medicine. Affordable telepsychiatry. Medications and therapy. Practicing since 2018 in-patient psychiatric hospital, co-occurring rehabilitation program, and private practice. Private pay: $100 for 30-minute med management and $200 for 1-hour intake or therapy/counseling & psychiatric medication. $50 off for any referrals. Virtual/online appointments. Two physical locations in Littleton and Pueblo, Colorado. Monday through Thursday 9 AM- 3 PM and Saturday 9 AM- 1 PM.
![Photo of Rick Loonam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9695e41-8cd1-411e-980e-c22966dc74de/1/320x400.png)
Now Scheduling New Patients! I'm Rick, a compassionate and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. With a solid foundation as a former flight and emergency department nurse, I bring over 15 years of invaluable experience to my practice. Graduating from Regis University in Denver, I'm dedicated to providing the highest quality care to my clients.
Now Scheduling New Patients! I'm Rick, a compassionate and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. With a solid foundation as a former flight and emergency department nurse, I bring over 15 years of invaluable experience to my practice. Graduating from Regis University in Denver, I'm dedicated to providing the highest quality care to my clients.
![Photo of Heather Jones, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff3502d5-bef7-4713-9d9f-33a30ac59e08/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Heather Jones, trained at UCLA, Johns Hopkins, and the Mayo Clinic, is a compassionate mental health leader with over a decade of experience. Dr. Jones goes beyond expertise, taking the time to understand each patient's unique background and strengths. She fosters a strong connection and empowers patients to make informed healthcare decisions. Her approach is down-to-earth, marked by humor and empathy, creating a judgment-free zone. She tailors treatment to your specific needs, empowering you on your journey to well-being.
Dr. Heather Jones, trained at UCLA, Johns Hopkins, and the Mayo Clinic, is a compassionate mental health leader with over a decade of experience. Dr. Jones goes beyond expertise, taking the time to understand each patient's unique background and strengths. She fosters a strong connection and empowers patients to make informed healthcare decisions. Her approach is down-to-earth, marked by humor and empathy, creating a judgment-free zone. She tailors treatment to your specific needs, empowering you on your journey to well-being.
![Photo of Erika Faria, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f48a5474-0c8b-428c-92e6-afd9414e83fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a board-certified Physician Assistant and having been working in Psychiatry since the beginning of 2022.
Hello! I am a board-certified Physician Assistant and having been working in Psychiatry since the beginning of 2022.
![Photo of Ayesha Macon - Insight Integrative Mental Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f17bdf6-bf31-43bb-83f8-c029fd9e9a72/2/320x400.png)
Insight Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80908
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for a holistic approach to your mental health? Are you seeking medications and/or natural approaches for you or your child? Are you struggling with mood, anxiety, focus, or general wellbeing? Ayesha is certified in integrative psychiatry though the Integrative Psychiatry Institute and approaches achieving optimal mental health from a model of whole self wellness. She believe that addressing lifestyle, diet, and physical and psychiatric symptoms together allows for deeper healing. She is certified in Ketamine assisted psychotherapy and utilizes this for breaking through habitual thought patterns that keep you stuck.
Are you looking for a holistic approach to your mental health? Are you seeking medications and/or natural approaches for you or your child? Are you struggling with mood, anxiety, focus, or general wellbeing? Ayesha is certified in integrative psychiatry though the Integrative Psychiatry Institute and approaches achieving optimal mental health from a model of whole self wellness. She believe that addressing lifestyle, diet, and physical and psychiatric symptoms together allows for deeper healing. She is certified in Ketamine assisted psychotherapy and utilizes this for breaking through habitual thought patterns that keep you stuck.
![Photo of Lauren Hood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36ebeaa1-152c-4397-a61a-0196c7c3b82b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! Lauren Hood is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services and specializes in medication management. Lauren earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Wyoming. She became certified as a psychiatric registered nurse, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, as her career progressed. Lauren completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University.
Accepting New Patients! Lauren Hood is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services and specializes in medication management. Lauren earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Wyoming. She became certified as a psychiatric registered nurse, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, as her career progressed. Lauren completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University.
![Photo of Lindsey Dempster, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f058d8d-7175-4c3e-b172-62c03fae2cc9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Dempster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80922
Accepting new clients with immediate availability! Medicaid and private insurance are accepted. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2022. My diverse experience spans 12 years and includes emergency medicine, ICU, oncology, psychiatry, and nursing/physician management. I promote growth and change by empowering clients to overcome personal obstacles that interfere with their desired goals, using medications as an adjunct to other meaningful lifestyle changes. Please feel free to book with me directly at www.TrendMentalHealth.com!
Accepting new clients with immediate availability! Medicaid and private insurance are accepted. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2022. My diverse experience spans 12 years and includes emergency medicine, ICU, oncology, psychiatry, and nursing/physician management. I promote growth and change by empowering clients to overcome personal obstacles that interfere with their desired goals, using medications as an adjunct to other meaningful lifestyle changes. Please feel free to book with me directly at www.TrendMentalHealth.com!
![Photo of Erin Fry, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44cebdd7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Fry is a board certified psychiatrist, by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry and a graduate of Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine where she also completed her residency in psychiatry. Patient referrals are now being accepted. Dr. Fry's practice is cashed based only, but will provide super bills to patients for insurance reimbursement.
Dr. Fry is a board certified psychiatrist, by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry and a graduate of Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine where she also completed her residency in psychiatry. Patient referrals are now being accepted. Dr. Fry's practice is cashed based only, but will provide super bills to patients for insurance reimbursement.
![Photo of Dezerae Elsen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d037671-20b4-4ebf-909b-f241167fc4a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dezerae Elsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80923 (Online Only)
It's YOUR mental health journey; let's create a treatment plan that works for you, your family, and your pets. “Healing takes time and asking for help is a courageous step," (M.H). I am a board certified mental health nurse practitioner here to evaluate your mental health needs, prescribe medications if needed & provide therapy to clients of all ages. A healthy mind and body are essential your mental well-being. As you and I design your treatment plan, we can incorporate diet/nutrition, exercise, natural remedies/supplements, lifestyle changes, and spirituality if you desire.
It's YOUR mental health journey; let's create a treatment plan that works for you, your family, and your pets. “Healing takes time and asking for help is a courageous step," (M.H). I am a board certified mental health nurse practitioner here to evaluate your mental health needs, prescribe medications if needed & provide therapy to clients of all ages. A healthy mind and body are essential your mental well-being. As you and I design your treatment plan, we can incorporate diet/nutrition, exercise, natural remedies/supplements, lifestyle changes, and spirituality if you desire.
![Photo of Kim Inman, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85baad15-488d-4836-9ea8-9070013ad6f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Inman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80923 (Online Only)
My passion for psychiatric nursing began during my undergraduate studies, where I developed a deep empathy for individuals struggling with mental health challenges. Working in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I honed my skills in assessment, therapeutic communication, and treatment planning. As a Psychiatric NP, I aspire to play a pivotal role in promoting mental wellness and providing compassionate care to those in need.
My passion for psychiatric nursing began during my undergraduate studies, where I developed a deep empathy for individuals struggling with mental health challenges. Working in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I honed my skills in assessment, therapeutic communication, and treatment planning. As a Psychiatric NP, I aspire to play a pivotal role in promoting mental wellness and providing compassionate care to those in need.
See more therapy options for Falcon
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Falcon, CO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Falcon, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Emotional Disturbance |
100% | Coping Skills |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Falcon, CO see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Falcon?
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.