Psychiatrists in Larimer County, CO
I enjoy working with patients that are active in their goals for treatment. They enjoy learning about their diagnosis, understand that treatment many times is multi faceted and may take time to get under control. I have been in medicine since 1997(U.S. Navy Corpsman) and a practicing Physician Assistant since 2006. I enjoy working with Veterans, young and older people that want to improve their lives.
I enjoy working with patients that are active in their goals for treatment. They enjoy learning about their diagnosis, understand that treatment many times is multi faceted and may take time to get under control. I have been in medicine since 1997(U.S. Navy Corpsman) and a practicing Physician Assistant since 2006. I enjoy working with Veterans, young and older people that want to improve their lives.
My ideal patient is anyone that is concerned about their mental health. Achieving improved mental health requires teamwork with both provider and patient actively working towards progress.
My ideal patient is anyone that is concerned about their mental health. Achieving improved mental health requires teamwork with both provider and patient actively working towards progress.
Dr. Collison brings the arts of psychotherapy and medication together in one setting.
Dr. Collison brings the arts of psychotherapy and medication together in one setting.
Jenny Tarr--Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat ages 8 and up for issues including but not limited to mood, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive, trauma and stressor-related disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, life transitions, and eating disorders. My goal is to partner with patients to provide holistic, evidence-based care. I do not believe in the one-size-fits-all approach. I will listen to you and draw upon my more than 15 years experience in nursing to provide advice and education. Together we will create a treatment plan that meets your needs and goals.
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat ages 8 and up for issues including but not limited to mood, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive, trauma and stressor-related disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, life transitions, and eating disorders. My goal is to partner with patients to provide holistic, evidence-based care. I do not believe in the one-size-fits-all approach. I will listen to you and draw upon my more than 15 years experience in nursing to provide advice and education. Together we will create a treatment plan that meets your needs and goals.
Lisa Stiles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Lisa Dashnaw Stiles is a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from University of Colorado 2018 with a master's degree in Advanced Nursing/Psychiatric and Alliance International University in San Diego CA 2001 with a Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. She combines her education with her experience of being a psychiatric nurse since 1988 to provide wholistic treatment.
Lisa Dashnaw Stiles is a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from University of Colorado 2018 with a master's degree in Advanced Nursing/Psychiatric and Alliance International University in San Diego CA 2001 with a Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. She combines her education with her experience of being a psychiatric nurse since 1988 to provide wholistic treatment.
Krishawnda Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80526 (Online Only)
Krishawnda’s aim is to help adults and children develop tools and skills that create a mental foundation that is more able to withstand the twists and turns that life may bring. This can be achieved through therapy, exercise, changes in diet, and/or medication. Change does not happen overnight and Krishawnda desires to help you through your healing journey, no matter the length of the journey.
Krishawnda’s aim is to help adults and children develop tools and skills that create a mental foundation that is more able to withstand the twists and turns that life may bring. This can be achieved through therapy, exercise, changes in diet, and/or medication. Change does not happen overnight and Krishawnda desires to help you through your healing journey, no matter the length of the journey.
Jannet Harkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80521 (Online Only)
Psychiatry has always been my passion. Psychiatry is an art and science I am grateful to have the privilege of working in. I have been working as a certified nurse practitioner for the past 5 years in Emergency Psychiatry, Inpatient Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry, Outpatient Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Chemical Dependency. I have experience in working with several disorders including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I have traveled the country for the past few years learning different ways of practicing and approaching patients' obstacles. Let's work together to meet your health goals.
Psychiatry has always been my passion. Psychiatry is an art and science I am grateful to have the privilege of working in. I have been working as a certified nurse practitioner for the past 5 years in Emergency Psychiatry, Inpatient Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry, Outpatient Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Chemical Dependency. I have experience in working with several disorders including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I have traveled the country for the past few years learning different ways of practicing and approaching patients' obstacles. Let's work together to meet your health goals.
Dr. Kailee Lenczycki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525 (Online Only)
I'm so glad you're reaching out! Seeking help doesn't mean you're failing; it means you're taking an important step toward self-care and healing. You may be feeling burned out, on edge, and just going through the motions. It's affecting your life, relationships, and work. You’ve tried everything you can think of to feel better, but nothing's working. You're searching for a comprehensive approach to mental health care that considers the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Something that's more than just medications! You're ready for a change, to feel like yourself again. I want to help you get there!
I'm so glad you're reaching out! Seeking help doesn't mean you're failing; it means you're taking an important step toward self-care and healing. You may be feeling burned out, on edge, and just going through the motions. It's affecting your life, relationships, and work. You’ve tried everything you can think of to feel better, but nothing's working. You're searching for a comprehensive approach to mental health care that considers the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Something that's more than just medications! You're ready for a change, to feel like yourself again. I want to help you get there!
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have a passion for helping people with their mental health needs. I am deeply committed to addressing issues surrounding diversity, mental health disparities, and the reduction of stigma. I believe in the uniqueness of each individual and their inherent ability to engage in the decision-making process and recovery journey. My objective is to foster an environment where each person feels safe and valued, and together, develop a treatment plan that aligns with their specific needs and aspirations.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have a passion for helping people with their mental health needs. I am deeply committed to addressing issues surrounding diversity, mental health disparities, and the reduction of stigma. I believe in the uniqueness of each individual and their inherent ability to engage in the decision-making process and recovery journey. My objective is to foster an environment where each person feels safe and valued, and together, develop a treatment plan that aligns with their specific needs and aspirations.
Inner Joy Psychiatry | Zachary Wight PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Berthoud, CO 80513
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.
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loveland, CO 80538
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!
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Life can be challenging. We are here to help you manage and overcome mental health challenges standing in the way of living your most fulfilling life. We primarily provide medication management but our goal is to help you find your best path forward in a comprehensive treatment style. Successful treatment is achieved not only through medication management but also through talk therapy, healthy eating habits, exercise, and consistent sleep patterns. When medication is needed, our providers aim to use the least amount of medications at the lowest dose that provides the most optimal treatment outcomes for you.
Life can be challenging. We are here to help you manage and overcome mental health challenges standing in the way of living your most fulfilling life. We primarily provide medication management but our goal is to help you find your best path forward in a comprehensive treatment style. Successful treatment is achieved not only through medication management but also through talk therapy, healthy eating habits, exercise, and consistent sleep patterns. When medication is needed, our providers aim to use the least amount of medications at the lowest dose that provides the most optimal treatment outcomes for you.
Aimee McLaurin is a Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2023. Aimee's prior experience in the military and acute medical settings have provided her with unique skills to assist clients in managing challenging times in their lives. She has learned how to help the client navigate a path through these times, build resilience, and thrive by embracing our individual strengths and weaknesses. In her spare time, Aimee enjoys being outdoors, gardening or just enjoying the sunshine. She likes to cook for others, learn new recipes, and is a bad but enthusiastic dancer.
Aimee McLaurin is a Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2023. Aimee's prior experience in the military and acute medical settings have provided her with unique skills to assist clients in managing challenging times in their lives. She has learned how to help the client navigate a path through these times, build resilience, and thrive by embracing our individual strengths and weaknesses. In her spare time, Aimee enjoys being outdoors, gardening or just enjoying the sunshine. She likes to cook for others, learn new recipes, and is a bad but enthusiastic dancer.
Ja'Neice Monsrud - Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I bring over 10 years experience in nursing and treat ages 13+ for a wide variety of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, clients struggling with Bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, grief, school issues, disordered eating, and substance use disorders. I believe that Mental Health is not a destination but a journey; one that is taken with the help and support of many people along the way. For each client, know that we will work together to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals.
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I bring over 10 years experience in nursing and treat ages 13+ for a wide variety of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, clients struggling with Bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, grief, school issues, disordered eating, and substance use disorders. I believe that Mental Health is not a destination but a journey; one that is taken with the help and support of many people along the way. For each client, know that we will work together to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals.
TMS provider. As a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist (patients age 4-50) in practice for the past 9 yrs helping individuals lead happier more productive and satisfying lives. Collaboration is key in meeting the patient's objectives in treatment. My approach to medication use is conservative, it is an important part of treatment for many mental health issues but there are associated side effects which can come up especially as the dosage of medications are increased. Non-medication options we provide include Brainsway dTMS for treatment resistant depression and OCD.
TMS provider. As a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist (patients age 4-50) in practice for the past 9 yrs helping individuals lead happier more productive and satisfying lives. Collaboration is key in meeting the patient's objectives in treatment. My approach to medication use is conservative, it is an important part of treatment for many mental health issues but there are associated side effects which can come up especially as the dosage of medications are increased. Non-medication options we provide include Brainsway dTMS for treatment resistant depression and OCD.
Brandy Knudtson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525 (Online Only)
I am a passionate and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 16 years of health care experience. I provide specialized care for individuals facing mental health challenges.
I am a passionate and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 16 years of health care experience. I provide specialized care for individuals facing mental health challenges.
Catherine Nwora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525 (Online Only)
As a PMHNP, I specialize in providing comprehensive mental healthcare to a diverse range of individuals. My expertise lies in treating trauma, mood, anxiety, psychotic, and eating disorders. I am passionate about serving survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and cancer, as well as supporting the LGBTQIA2+ community, people of color, and those involved in the justice system. I am accepting new patients!
As a PMHNP, I specialize in providing comprehensive mental healthcare to a diverse range of individuals. My expertise lies in treating trauma, mood, anxiety, psychotic, and eating disorders. I am passionate about serving survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and cancer, as well as supporting the LGBTQIA2+ community, people of color, and those involved in the justice system. I am accepting new patients!
Accepting New Patients! Looking forward to meet you! I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating depression, anxiety, addiction, PTSD 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! Looking forward to meet you! I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating depression, anxiety, addiction, PTSD 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.
Kathleen Voelsing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I'm Dr. Kathleen Voelsing and I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in evidence-based treatment of bipolar, depressive, anxiety, and psychotic disorders for patients 16 years and up. I have substantial experience with individuals struggling with addiction, trauma issues, eating disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. I am welcoming to LGBTQIA+ and all races and religions. Extensively trained in psychiatric medication management, I target maximal benefit with the minimal amount of medication. I also provide medication management for substance abuse (including buprenorphine).
I'm Dr. Kathleen Voelsing and I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in evidence-based treatment of bipolar, depressive, anxiety, and psychotic disorders for patients 16 years and up. I have substantial experience with individuals struggling with addiction, trauma issues, eating disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. I am welcoming to LGBTQIA+ and all races and religions. Extensively trained in psychiatric medication management, I target maximal benefit with the minimal amount of medication. I also provide medication management for substance abuse (including buprenorphine).
Melanie’s approach to care is rooted in the understanding that each person is a holistic being, with interconnected mind, body, and spirit. Her practice revolves around providing compassionate care to individuals across the lifespan facing various psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction. Leveraging evidence-based practices, medication management, and lifestyle interventions, she tailors her care to meet each individual’s specific needs. With a background in emergency medicine and psychiatric care, Melanie possesses a deep understanding of the complex interplay between physical and mental health.
Melanie’s approach to care is rooted in the understanding that each person is a holistic being, with interconnected mind, body, and spirit. Her practice revolves around providing compassionate care to individuals across the lifespan facing various psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction. Leveraging evidence-based practices, medication management, and lifestyle interventions, she tailors her care to meet each individual’s specific needs. With a background in emergency medicine and psychiatric care, Melanie possesses a deep understanding of the complex interplay between physical and mental health.
See more therapy options for Larimer County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Larimer County, CO
100+
Average cost per session
$265
Psychiatrists in Larimer County, CO who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | ADHD |
82% | Medication Management |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Larimer County, CO see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
32% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Larimer County?
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.