Psychiatrists in Frederick, CO
![Photo of Erica Earhart, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/968abb3e-553f-468d-99f5-83519d036945/1/320x400.jpeg)
My practice style is founded on the belief that mental wellness is a basic right. I enjoy working with my clients as their partner so that we can find the answers best suited to each individual’s needs. While so many mental health struggles have been destigmatized, huge stigmas still remain when it comes to managing addictions. I enjoy working with clients who are struggling with addiction and strive to provide non-judgmental care with unconditional positive regard.
My practice style is founded on the belief that mental wellness is a basic right. I enjoy working with my clients as their partner so that we can find the answers best suited to each individual’s needs. While so many mental health struggles have been destigmatized, huge stigmas still remain when it comes to managing addictions. I enjoy working with clients who are struggling with addiction and strive to provide non-judgmental care with unconditional positive regard.
![Photo of Kyle Brown, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f234d475-0fa8-442f-9837-294e05b5cd24/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! Kyle is a dual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority in Colorado. Mr. Brown received his advanced degree from Regis University in Denver Colorado and has 14 years of experience in the healthcare arena; including pediatrics, communicable disease control, and integrated family practice. Kyle has a passion for current research and treatment therapies in psychiatry, with a focus on both pharmacological and non-medication management of psychiatric disorders. He has a particular interest in treatment resistant mood disorders and OCD.
Accepting New Patients! Kyle is a dual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority in Colorado. Mr. Brown received his advanced degree from Regis University in Denver Colorado and has 14 years of experience in the healthcare arena; including pediatrics, communicable disease control, and integrated family practice. Kyle has a passion for current research and treatment therapies in psychiatry, with a focus on both pharmacological and non-medication management of psychiatric disorders. He has a particular interest in treatment resistant mood disorders and OCD.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Christine Cork -- Connections Psychiatry, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f1a33df-cab7-4129-9431-f4473b52cf5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Cork -- Connections Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80501
I'm Christine, a PA with many years of experience in psychiatry. I am the founder of Connections Psychiatry, LLC, a group of psychiatric providers. We treat anxiety, depression, mood, and trauma disorders. We are happy to serve clients who are new to psychiatric care (seeking a diagnosis and guidance) or those coming from other practitioners (such as a referral from a PCP or transferring care from a previous psychiatrist). We like to align with our clients in the belief that all aspects of health are interconnected (hence, Connections Psychiatry!) and that while medications are an aspect of treatment, they aren’t the sole answer.
I'm Christine, a PA with many years of experience in psychiatry. I am the founder of Connections Psychiatry, LLC, a group of psychiatric providers. We treat anxiety, depression, mood, and trauma disorders. We are happy to serve clients who are new to psychiatric care (seeking a diagnosis and guidance) or those coming from other practitioners (such as a referral from a PCP or transferring care from a previous psychiatrist). We like to align with our clients in the belief that all aspects of health are interconnected (hence, Connections Psychiatry!) and that while medications are an aspect of treatment, they aren’t the sole answer.
![Photo of Rhiannon Lee Brey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96e4a68c-c0fa-4a47-95a8-081718fa3264/1/320x400.jpeg)
My nursing career brought me the good fortune of traveling for work; I have lived in all four corners of the US (and in the middle, too!) and have enjoyed meeting and working with individuals of diverse backgrounds. As a nurse practitioner, curiosity and respect drive my practice; I join each person’s journey toward mental wellness with a collaborative treatment approach, taking time to “zoom out” and view symptoms through a holistic lens.
My nursing career brought me the good fortune of traveling for work; I have lived in all four corners of the US (and in the middle, too!) and have enjoyed meeting and working with individuals of diverse backgrounds. As a nurse practitioner, curiosity and respect drive my practice; I join each person’s journey toward mental wellness with a collaborative treatment approach, taking time to “zoom out” and view symptoms through a holistic lens.
![Photo of Andrew Nagy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8b71df0-91a8-4bb5-b286-17fbbcb9453e/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Angela Graham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c993d0c-34b9-473a-ae43-33dbe9fde9c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Graham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Firestone, CO 80504 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and the founder of authentic mental health, PLLC. I am a compassionate, down-to-earth provider, who is dedicated to helping individuals manage their mental and emotional well-being while creating healthy, fulfilling lives. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions within a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working towards their mental health goals. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance and involving clients in their own treatment plans.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and the founder of authentic mental health, PLLC. I am a compassionate, down-to-earth provider, who is dedicated to helping individuals manage their mental and emotional well-being while creating healthy, fulfilling lives. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions within a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working towards their mental health goals. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance and involving clients in their own treatment plans.
![Photo of Jessica Tsourmas, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c4b24fc-9149-4b06-a9dc-2f80dd2f684e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jessica Tsourmas is a Psychiatrist in Colorado who has been practicing since 2006. She studied at Vanderbilt University and George Washington Medical. Dr. Tsourmas would describe her medical and psychiatric approach as holistic and patient centered. The joy in and passion in what she does comes from each patient striving for and achieving their own personal goals. There is something so meaningful in this work when a patient gets better and creates the life they want to live. Outside of work, Dr. Tsourmas enjoys spending time with family and friends, yoga, cooking, reading, being a lifelong student, and DIYing.
Dr. Jessica Tsourmas is a Psychiatrist in Colorado who has been practicing since 2006. She studied at Vanderbilt University and George Washington Medical. Dr. Tsourmas would describe her medical and psychiatric approach as holistic and patient centered. The joy in and passion in what she does comes from each patient striving for and achieving their own personal goals. There is something so meaningful in this work when a patient gets better and creates the life they want to live. Outside of work, Dr. Tsourmas enjoys spending time with family and friends, yoga, cooking, reading, being a lifelong student, and DIYing.
![Photo of Josh Raufman - Josh Raufman, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9d03dc3-23aa-4804-b72a-5bb48fc44392/1/320x400.jpeg)
Josh Raufman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Longmont, CO 80504 (Online Only)
Combining my background in neuroscience and my dedication to holistic mental health care, I provide a distinctive approach to psychiatric treatment. With over ten years of experience as a former teacher and a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to guiding individuals through their mental health journey. My training at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in NYC has equipped me with a diverse skill set, enabling me to offer effective support across various settings, including outpatient, corrections, and addictions contexts.
Combining my background in neuroscience and my dedication to holistic mental health care, I provide a distinctive approach to psychiatric treatment. With over ten years of experience as a former teacher and a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to guiding individuals through their mental health journey. My training at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in NYC has equipped me with a diverse skill set, enabling me to offer effective support across various settings, including outpatient, corrections, and addictions contexts.
![Photo of Ryan Brown, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fb97a3b-4035-4c1a-af9b-b62c3680b582/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ryan Brown is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. Dr. Brown earned his Bachelor's degree in history from Southwestern University and his medical degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. He completed a residency in general psychiatry at the University of North Carolina Medical Center and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Texas Dell Medical School. Dr. Brown has experience and specialization in the treatment of acute mental illness, developmental disorders, and integrated whole person mental health care.
Dr. Ryan Brown is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. Dr. Brown earned his Bachelor's degree in history from Southwestern University and his medical degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. He completed a residency in general psychiatry at the University of North Carolina Medical Center and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Texas Dell Medical School. Dr. Brown has experience and specialization in the treatment of acute mental illness, developmental disorders, and integrated whole person mental health care.
![Photo of Zachary Wight - Inner Joy Psychiatry | Zachary Wight PMHNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee959707-07a4-42a5-872d-142761b7c9f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Inner Joy Psychiatry | Zachary Wight PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Firestone, CO 80504
Accepting New Patients! I specialize in integrative psychiatry for individuals ages 16+ combining evidence-based medication management with holistic and non-traditional "whole-body" approaches for full-spectrum treatment of mental illnesses and substance abuse. I am accepting of all people and I provide non-judgmental care. Viewing the mind, body, emotions, and soul as beautifully interconnected, I will strive to gain a deep understanding of your unique history, the current struggles that are hindering mental wellness, and adaptation skills that can be enhanced to inspire a lasting sense of inner joy.
Accepting New Patients! I specialize in integrative psychiatry for individuals ages 16+ combining evidence-based medication management with holistic and non-traditional "whole-body" approaches for full-spectrum treatment of mental illnesses and substance abuse. I am accepting of all people and I provide non-judgmental care. Viewing the mind, body, emotions, and soul as beautifully interconnected, I will strive to gain a deep understanding of your unique history, the current struggles that are hindering mental wellness, and adaptation skills that can be enhanced to inspire a lasting sense of inner joy.
![Photo of Tracy Tyler - Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a80ea8a3-3b71-44cf-9631-c3be5269f5f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Firestone, CO 80504
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 Mary Beth Hutchinson, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8692469c-57ae-46b2-89dc-61dfe93f88be/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Beth Hutchinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Firestone, CO 80504
Are you depressed or anxious? I can help with your medication management. My name is Mary "Beth" Hutchinson. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, treating patients ages 4 and up. I am also certified as a family nurse practitioner, which provides a broad base to individualize age appropriate treatment. We can meet and have our sessions through video on our telemedicine platform, so you can be at the comfort of your home while we meet. We will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a practical plan, and I'll support you through the process of improving your life.
Are you depressed or anxious? I can help with your medication management. My name is Mary "Beth" Hutchinson. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, treating patients ages 4 and up. I am also certified as a family nurse practitioner, which provides a broad base to individualize age appropriate treatment. We can meet and have our sessions through video on our telemedicine platform, so you can be at the comfort of your home while we meet. We will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a practical plan, and I'll support you through the process of improving your life.
![Photo of Christine Campbell, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3603a3ea-d6ac-4287-a659-4dc1317f2813/1/320x400.png)
Christine Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Fort Lupton, CO 80621 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who recognizes the importance of their mental health and is seeking a safe and non-judgmental space for support. They may be an LGBT+ adolescent, adult, or senior facing challenges related to trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, or polysubstance use. Their goal is to navigate and overcome these difficulties in a patient-centered environment. They value open communication and are looking for a compassionate and empathetic professional who genuinely cares about their well-being. They understand the significance of a collaborative approach to treatment and are open to exploring personalized solutions.
My ideal client is someone who recognizes the importance of their mental health and is seeking a safe and non-judgmental space for support. They may be an LGBT+ adolescent, adult, or senior facing challenges related to trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, or polysubstance use. Their goal is to navigate and overcome these difficulties in a patient-centered environment. They value open communication and are looking for a compassionate and empathetic professional who genuinely cares about their well-being. They understand the significance of a collaborative approach to treatment and are open to exploring personalized solutions.
![Photo of Joe Crowley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b266f7cf-eb18-471c-91fe-f4433df84751/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! - Joseph “Joe” P. Crowley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. He brings over seven years of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience to his patients while offering an attentive, accommodating patient care philosophy. Joe earned his BSN and MSN degrees at Regis University. He completed his inpatient and outpatient clinical training at various facilities in the Denver Metro area. He also received professional recognition for academic achievements and ICARE awards while working at the V.A. Eastern Colorado Health Care System.
Accepting New Patients! - Joseph “Joe” P. Crowley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. He brings over seven years of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience to his patients while offering an attentive, accommodating patient care philosophy. Joe earned his BSN and MSN degrees at Regis University. He completed his inpatient and outpatient clinical training at various facilities in the Denver Metro area. He also received professional recognition for academic achievements and ICARE awards while working at the V.A. Eastern Colorado Health Care System.
![Photo of Rhiannon Brey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29cfa82d-5a41-4df8-b547-7f49a3ea6fbc/1/320x400.jpeg)
My nursing career brought me the good fortune of traveling for work; I have lived in all four corners of the US (and in the middle, too!) and have enjoyed meeting and working with individuals of diverse backgrounds. As a nurse practitioner, curiosity and respect drive my practice; I join each person’s journey toward mental wellness with a collaborative treatment approach, taking time to “zoom out” and view symptoms through a holistic lens. I work closely with all my clients to make thoughtful, evidence-based, and safe decisions regarding treatment plans.
My nursing career brought me the good fortune of traveling for work; I have lived in all four corners of the US (and in the middle, too!) and have enjoyed meeting and working with individuals of diverse backgrounds. As a nurse practitioner, curiosity and respect drive my practice; I join each person’s journey toward mental wellness with a collaborative treatment approach, taking time to “zoom out” and view symptoms through a holistic lens. I work closely with all my clients to make thoughtful, evidence-based, and safe decisions regarding treatment plans.
![Photo of Melissa Shulman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54b5d230-e9b6-4a89-84b9-c6a7432154f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Shulman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80504 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
Accepting New Clients! I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Rhiannon Brey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7677eba3-7a3c-4fb2-8091-0ee9bbf2c209/1/320x400.jpeg)
My nursing career brought me the good fortune of traveling for work; I have lived in all four corners of the US (and in the middle, too!) and have enjoyed meeting and working with individuals of diverse backgrounds. As a nurse practitioner, curiosity and respect drive my practice; I join each person’s journey toward mental wellness with a collaborative treatment approach, taking time to “zoom out” and view symptoms through a holistic lens. I work closely with all my clients to make thoughtful, evidence-based, and safe decisions regarding treatment plans.
My nursing career brought me the good fortune of traveling for work; I have lived in all four corners of the US (and in the middle, too!) and have enjoyed meeting and working with individuals of diverse backgrounds. As a nurse practitioner, curiosity and respect drive my practice; I join each person’s journey toward mental wellness with a collaborative treatment approach, taking time to “zoom out” and view symptoms through a holistic lens. I work closely with all my clients to make thoughtful, evidence-based, and safe decisions regarding treatment plans.
![Photo of Dylan Jones - Dr. Dylan Jones, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/509f02cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a solo private practice. Please call if you wish to schedule an appointment. If you get my voicemail, please leave me a message. In addition to newer medications, I am proficient in the use of older medications such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a solo private practice. Please call if you wish to schedule an appointment. If you get my voicemail, please leave me a message. In addition to newer medications, I am proficient in the use of older medications such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
![Photo of Tracy Tyler - Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b64d16ea-c136-4070-9b3b-b5706603a3da/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Erie, CO 80516
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 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
Longmont, CO 80501
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.
See more therapy options for Frederick
Nearby Searches for Frederick
- Brighton
- Broomfield
- Erie
- Firestone
- Johnstown
- Lafayette
- Longmont
- Louisville
- Niwot
- Northglenn
- Thornton
- Westminster
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Frederick, CO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Frederick, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Frederick, CO see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Frederick?
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.