Psychiatrists in Franktown, CO
Hello, I am Krystal, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I started my medical career eleven years ago as a flight medic in the Army, the experiences that I had in that time lead me to pursue a career in mental health. I believe that the mind and body are intrinsically connected, and the best outcomes are achieved when medications are combined with a holistic approach and lifestyle adjustments. My goal is to work with my clients in a partnership to determine the treatment modalities best suited to meet their individual treatment goals and optimal mental health and well-being.
Hello, I am Krystal, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I started my medical career eleven years ago as a flight medic in the Army, the experiences that I had in that time lead me to pursue a career in mental health. I believe that the mind and body are intrinsically connected, and the best outcomes are achieved when medications are combined with a holistic approach and lifestyle adjustments. My goal is to work with my clients in a partnership to determine the treatment modalities best suited to meet their individual treatment goals and optimal mental health and well-being.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Capstone Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80108 (Online Only)
Now an Autism and ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to help. I know reaching out can be the hardest part. Don't suffer in silence. I know you want to take back control over your life and truly feel alive again! I promise you, I will offer a safe and confidential environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and work through any challenges you may be facing. We aren't pushy, we are a member of your healthcare team, and make decisions...as a team! You are in full control over your healthcare.
Now an Autism and ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to help. I know reaching out can be the hardest part. Don't suffer in silence. I know you want to take back control over your life and truly feel alive again! I promise you, I will offer a safe and confidential environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and work through any challenges you may be facing. We aren't pushy, we are a member of your healthcare team, and make decisions...as a team! You are in full control over your healthcare.
Immediate Openings! I have 9 years of psychiatric experience and over 4 years of medication management experience. I specialize in ADHD, depression, and anxiety. I have extensive experience working with bipolar disorder, PTSD, personality disorders, and other mental health disorders. I see ages 13 and up. Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decisions, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer medication management and counseling for most mental health disorders. No long wait times and virtual visits available! Take the first step and call me today.
Immediate Openings! I have 9 years of psychiatric experience and over 4 years of medication management experience. I specialize in ADHD, depression, and anxiety. I have extensive experience working with bipolar disorder, PTSD, personality disorders, and other mental health disorders. I see ages 13 and up. Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decisions, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer medication management and counseling for most mental health disorders. No long wait times and virtual visits available! Take the first step and call me today.
Welcome! I’m Joanna Kluender, a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatry and Adult/Gerontology primary care. Based in the majestic Rocky Mountains, I offer a wealth of expertise in mental and physical health care for adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients. Regardless of the challenges you’ve faced, a fulfilling life lies ahead—one brimming with joy, peace, purpose, meaning, and love. Let’s collaborate to discover it together. My approach is holistic; I focus on treating the whole person, nurturing hope, and affirming that emotional, physical, and social wellness are essential for everyone.
Welcome! I’m Joanna Kluender, a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatry and Adult/Gerontology primary care. Based in the majestic Rocky Mountains, I offer a wealth of expertise in mental and physical health care for adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients. Regardless of the challenges you’ve faced, a fulfilling life lies ahead—one brimming with joy, peace, purpose, meaning, and love. Let’s collaborate to discover it together. My approach is holistic; I focus on treating the whole person, nurturing hope, and affirming that emotional, physical, and social wellness are essential for everyone.
*Accepting New Patients!* I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating ADHD, 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.
*Accepting New Patients!* I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating ADHD, 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.
Psychiatry Elevated | Emily O'Keefe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Castle Pines, CO 80108
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting new clients beginning January 2025. I am a Vanderbilt-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in using an integrative approach to help those who suffer from depression, anxiety/panic, attention/focus issues, or chronic fatigue. I also help women struggling with mood challenges associated with infertility, menstrual irregularities, pregnancy and postpartum, and perimenopause/menopause. I am deeply committed to serving those whose past treatment yielded insufficient results, and encourage you to reach-out. Your complimentary consultation can be booked on my website.
Accepting new clients beginning January 2025. I am a Vanderbilt-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in using an integrative approach to help those who suffer from depression, anxiety/panic, attention/focus issues, or chronic fatigue. I also help women struggling with mood challenges associated with infertility, menstrual irregularities, pregnancy and postpartum, and perimenopause/menopause. I am deeply committed to serving those whose past treatment yielded insufficient results, and encourage you to reach-out. Your complimentary consultation can be booked on my website.
Grace Ann Pittari
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80104 (Online Only)
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of overall nursing experience with an emphasis on mental health. I see adult clients between the ages of 18-64 for a variety of psychiatric illnesses including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. In my free time, I prioritize my own mental health through exercise, spending quality time with loved ones, and getting out into nature.
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of overall nursing experience with an emphasis on mental health. I see adult clients between the ages of 18-64 for a variety of psychiatric illnesses including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. In my free time, I prioritize my own mental health through exercise, spending quality time with loved ones, and getting out into nature.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Book a Free 10 minutes Consultation Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Book a Free 10 minutes Consultation Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available.
Olga Baturenko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80134 (Online Only)
Olga Baturenko is licensed to practice as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. Olga started her nursing career in 2006 working at psychiatric facilities in Northern Virginia after completing a Bachelor of Science degree at Johns Hopkins University. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing with specialization in mental health at the University of Pennsylvania in 2010. Having worked with a broad range of psychiatric conditions in outpatient, inpatient, civilian, and military settings, Olga brings a wealth of knowledge to every therapeutic encounter.
Olga Baturenko is licensed to practice as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. Olga started her nursing career in 2006 working at psychiatric facilities in Northern Virginia after completing a Bachelor of Science degree at Johns Hopkins University. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing with specialization in mental health at the University of Pennsylvania in 2010. Having worked with a broad range of psychiatric conditions in outpatient, inpatient, civilian, and military settings, Olga brings a wealth of knowledge to every therapeutic encounter.
I am Shawn Howard, and I am a ANCC-board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of psychiatric experience, ranging from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient psychiatric care. My specialties include depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep, OCD, ADHD and more. My approach to providing care to my patients is to actively listen to the patient and help them with the best choices to improve their self well -being.
I am Shawn Howard, and I am a ANCC-board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of psychiatric experience, ranging from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient psychiatric care. My specialties include depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep, OCD, ADHD and more. My approach to providing care to my patients is to actively listen to the patient and help them with the best choices to improve their self well -being.
Ketamine and Spravato at Mindful Minds Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parker, CO 80134
Ketamine is a relatively new and innovative psychiatric/psychological treatment approach, involving ketamine administration in a safe and supportive setting. The exact nature of the treatment process varies depending on the particular problems being treated and the specific individual’s needs and goals. Initial sessions will involve an evaluation of a patient’s: current problems, concerns, and needs; prior history and review of current or ongoing treatment; overall health/medical condition; and an assessment of the potential suitability and viability of this type of treatment for that patient.
Ketamine is a relatively new and innovative psychiatric/psychological treatment approach, involving ketamine administration in a safe and supportive setting. The exact nature of the treatment process varies depending on the particular problems being treated and the specific individual’s needs and goals. Initial sessions will involve an evaluation of a patient’s: current problems, concerns, and needs; prior history and review of current or ongoing treatment; overall health/medical condition; and an assessment of the potential suitability and viability of this type of treatment for that patient.
Get seen ASAP! Accepting new patients and nearly every insurance! The ONLY clinic in Colorado who does TMS for Medicaid patients thanks to our personal endowment. Whether you need medications, therapy, or cutting-edge treatment for Major Depressive Disorder or anxiety, we are your single-stop shop for help. With board-certified psychiatric providers, licensed psychotherapists, and treatments like Spravato, TMS, and Ketamine all under one roof, we can minimize out-of-pocket costs while maximizing healing.
Get seen ASAP! Accepting new patients and nearly every insurance! The ONLY clinic in Colorado who does TMS for Medicaid patients thanks to our personal endowment. Whether you need medications, therapy, or cutting-edge treatment for Major Depressive Disorder or anxiety, we are your single-stop shop for help. With board-certified psychiatric providers, licensed psychotherapists, and treatments like Spravato, TMS, and Ketamine all under one roof, we can minimize out-of-pocket costs while maximizing healing.
Prescott Coe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80108 (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Prescott Coe and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been working in the mental health field for over five years. Shoring up my studies, I became passionate about mental health early in life, as I lived and grew up with multiple family members with varying mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, traumatic brain injury, addiction, and autism.
Hi there! My name is Prescott Coe and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been working in the mental health field for over five years. Shoring up my studies, I became passionate about mental health early in life, as I lived and grew up with multiple family members with varying mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, traumatic brain injury, addiction, and autism.
Hello, I’m Tim, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have always been interested in the mind-body connection and am very excited to work with new patients to help them define what they would like to work on and find a safe and effective path forward.
Hello, I’m Tim, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have always been interested in the mind-body connection and am very excited to work with new patients to help them define what they would like to work on and find a safe and effective path forward.
Colorado Psychiatric
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsychNP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80104 (Online Only)
Although carefully chosen medications can quickly achieve much needed relief of anxiety, depression, insomnia and trauma symptoms, a thorough evaluation can also identify many opportunities for improvement without medications. The most effective treatment plan may include work-life balance, nutrition and sleep strategies, address, avoid or adapting to triggers, in addition to multiple psychotherapies. When needed, medications with the lowest side effects, easiest to use, most predictably effective & not addictive are recommended. Ultimately, it is up to each person to decide which strategies they will use to achieve wellness.
Although carefully chosen medications can quickly achieve much needed relief of anxiety, depression, insomnia and trauma symptoms, a thorough evaluation can also identify many opportunities for improvement without medications. The most effective treatment plan may include work-life balance, nutrition and sleep strategies, address, avoid or adapting to triggers, in addition to multiple psychotherapies. When needed, medications with the lowest side effects, easiest to use, most predictably effective & not addictive are recommended. Ultimately, it is up to each person to decide which strategies they will use to achieve wellness.
Marianne Strauman (Med Management - Accepting New Clients!)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parker, CO 80134
NOW Accepting New Clients! Link in bio to schedule online instantly! > Marianne is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 12 years of experience in the medical profession. She began her career as a bedside nurse in the Intensive Care Unit, and then went on to obtain her Masters's Degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in primary care as well as palliative care, helping care for patients and families with multiple medical conditions and emotional needs.
NOW Accepting New Clients! Link in bio to schedule online instantly! > Marianne is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 12 years of experience in the medical profession. She began her career as a bedside nurse in the Intensive Care Unit, and then went on to obtain her Masters's Degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in primary care as well as palliative care, helping care for patients and families with multiple medical conditions and emotional needs.
Falcon HealthCare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, AMHNP
Verified Verified
Castle Pines, CO 80108
If you are struggling with the daily tasks and finding you're having trouble day to day, and it is reaching a point, now is the time to reach out and consult. Let's target those areas and bring notable improvement in your level of functioning and making your goals clear and achievable. I am accepting new clientele for concierge and online treatment of ADHD and any other mental health concerns. Appointments are cash only and I'm not accepting insurance at this time, but generally have a better rate than most psychiatrists. If you have medicaid, per law you have to see a medicaid accepting provider,
If you are struggling with the daily tasks and finding you're having trouble day to day, and it is reaching a point, now is the time to reach out and consult. Let's target those areas and bring notable improvement in your level of functioning and making your goals clear and achievable. I am accepting new clientele for concierge and online treatment of ADHD and any other mental health concerns. Appointments are cash only and I'm not accepting insurance at this time, but generally have a better rate than most psychiatrists. If you have medicaid, per law you have to see a medicaid accepting provider,
Clarity Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80108
At Clarity Mental Health we offer medication management and therapy services for a wide variety of mental disorders. Our Nurse Practitioner and LCSW help clients improve their lives by offering traditional treatment plans and recommendations based on the most current evidence and research in our field. While we will offer recommendations, we understand that the final choice is always yours and encourage patients to be active participants in their care.
At Clarity Mental Health we offer medication management and therapy services for a wide variety of mental disorders. Our Nurse Practitioner and LCSW help clients improve their lives by offering traditional treatment plans and recommendations based on the most current evidence and research in our field. While we will offer recommendations, we understand that the final choice is always yours and encourage patients to be active participants in their care.
My ideal patient is a person or family motivated for change now. I offer cutting-edge treatments with intakes and followups within seven days to all of my patients. All patients have direct email, phone, and text access to my medical team. From young children to elite adult athletes with ADHD to people challenged by other behavioral health issues, I am enthusiastic and eager to help!
My ideal patient is a person or family motivated for change now. I offer cutting-edge treatments with intakes and followups within seven days to all of my patients. All patients have direct email, phone, and text access to my medical team. From young children to elite adult athletes with ADHD to people challenged by other behavioral health issues, I am enthusiastic and eager to help!
Jayson Reyes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80104 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of Psychiatric Mental Health experience, focusing mostly in crisis treatment, alcohol and opioid dependence along with the treatment of schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. I consult all clients without judgment, exclude no psychiatric issue or age group and truly believe every patient deserves only the best treatment and care. I have worked in several different units in the psychiatric Hospitals around the Miami area. I have two beautiful young children and an amazing wife that supports me in everything I do; they are the backbone of my life.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of Psychiatric Mental Health experience, focusing mostly in crisis treatment, alcohol and opioid dependence along with the treatment of schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. I consult all clients without judgment, exclude no psychiatric issue or age group and truly believe every patient deserves only the best treatment and care. I have worked in several different units in the psychiatric Hospitals around the Miami area. I have two beautiful young children and an amazing wife that supports me in everything I do; they are the backbone of my life.
See more therapy options for Franktown
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Franktown, CO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Franktown, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Anger Management |
100% | Autism |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Franktown, CO see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Franktown?
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.