Psychiatrists in Montrose, CO
![Photo of Dr. Lisa Boffa - Montrose Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, PMHNP, FNP, ND, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39a1d4cc-5429-4659-bcfc-1becd27048ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
Montrose Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, ND
Verified Verified
Montrose, CO 81401
My name is Dr. Lisa Boffa. My ideal clients would be motivated to partner with me to help themselves and improve their lives.
My name is Dr. Lisa Boffa. My ideal clients would be motivated to partner with me to help themselves and improve their lives.
![Photo of Sandra Osborne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82396438-4bf9-4711-886a-3d686a04fbe2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! I'm Sandra (she/her), an empathetic mental health provider with a wealth of experience in crisis services, forensics, and veteran care. My mission is to meet you where you are and provide a judgment-free space where your voice is heard and valued. By integrating mind, body, and self, we'll navigate challenging emotions together. I can also prescribe and help with your medication management.
Accepting New Patients! I'm Sandra (she/her), an empathetic mental health provider with a wealth of experience in crisis services, forensics, and veteran care. My mission is to meet you where you are and provide a judgment-free space where your voice is heard and valued. By integrating mind, body, and self, we'll navigate challenging emotions together. I can also prescribe and help with your medication management.
![Photo of Alison Baker, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1922cd4-54fe-403d-9bb0-ffbe9d7ed2dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. Asking for help takes courage, and my goal is to meet you where you are. I intend to understand your values, needs, and emotions. Effective treatment starts with trust and feeling heard without judgment. Your initial appointment can be in person or in the comfort of your home utilizing telehealth. By learning about you, your family history, and your symptoms, we can develop a treatment plan we are both comfortable with.
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. Asking for help takes courage, and my goal is to meet you where you are. I intend to understand your values, needs, and emotions. Effective treatment starts with trust and feeling heard without judgment. Your initial appointment can be in person or in the comfort of your home utilizing telehealth. By learning about you, your family history, and your symptoms, we can develop a treatment plan we are both comfortable with.
![Photo of Heather Shannon Ford, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99572d55-6d16-4a8e-8d47-b50a7ded2f20/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Shannon Ford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montrose, CO 81401
With backgrounds in both conventional and alternative therapies, I love personalizing care to your individual mental health needs. Your symptoms are often rooted in a deeper cause (or causes) that require considering your mind, body, daily habits and relationships. I specialize in working with adults 18 and older who want to go beyond just 'a pill for every ill' worldview and incorporate lifestyle changes, hormone optimization and effective supplement regimes. Appointments Online and In Person in Grand Junction.
With backgrounds in both conventional and alternative therapies, I love personalizing care to your individual mental health needs. Your symptoms are often rooted in a deeper cause (or causes) that require considering your mind, body, daily habits and relationships. I specialize in working with adults 18 and older who want to go beyond just 'a pill for every ill' worldview and incorporate lifestyle changes, hormone optimization and effective supplement regimes. Appointments Online and In Person in Grand Junction.
![Photo of Kate N Hamzi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a02f0420-cda7-48d3-b6f0-2c0b94ab48a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate N Hamzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montrose, CO 81401 (Online Only)
We will work collaboratively to establish a comprehensive plan and discuss the role of medication and psychotherapy in your treatment. I appreciate that each client I have the privilege to work had had unique lived experiences and will work to create the most effective treatment plan based on each individuals’ goals. I know that seeking mental health care can elicit feelings of vulnerability. I strive to create an environment free of judgment, provide compassionate care.
We will work collaboratively to establish a comprehensive plan and discuss the role of medication and psychotherapy in your treatment. I appreciate that each client I have the privilege to work had had unique lived experiences and will work to create the most effective treatment plan based on each individuals’ goals. I know that seeking mental health care can elicit feelings of vulnerability. I strive to create an environment free of judgment, provide compassionate care.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Susan Short, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/300c898b-bcf6-46d5-8d4f-b89f2550035f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Short, PMHNP Susan Short is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2000. She has earned a BSN, MSN, FNP, and PMHNP-BC. Susan utilizes evidence-based practices based on APA and AACAP psychiatric standards of care, her clinical experience, and the patient's personal values and situations. These assist Susan with informed clinical decision making in the psychiatric care of the child, adolescents, and their families. Outside of work, Susan enjoys golf, hiking, dogs, fitness, reading, and traveling.
Susan Short, PMHNP Susan Short is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2000. She has earned a BSN, MSN, FNP, and PMHNP-BC. Susan utilizes evidence-based practices based on APA and AACAP psychiatric standards of care, her clinical experience, and the patient's personal values and situations. These assist Susan with informed clinical decision making in the psychiatric care of the child, adolescents, and their families. Outside of work, Susan enjoys golf, hiking, dogs, fitness, reading, and traveling.
![Photo of Lisa Isenberg, DNP, CPNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0907b9e5-e2a3-4ebf-b172-b9b1e24b3287/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of mental health concerns. I work hard to maintain a strong relationship with my clients, so I get to know them well, and they are comfortable talking to me about their concerns, what they feel is working, or any changes they think are needed. I value continuity in the provider-client relationship as it is essential for stable mental health. Appointments consist of a psychiatric evaluation and medication discussion in a nonjudgmental, therapeutic, and counseling environment.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of mental health concerns. I work hard to maintain a strong relationship with my clients, so I get to know them well, and they are comfortable talking to me about their concerns, what they feel is working, or any changes they think are needed. I value continuity in the provider-client relationship as it is essential for stable mental health. Appointments consist of a psychiatric evaluation and medication discussion in a nonjudgmental, therapeutic, and counseling environment.
![Photo of Sonya Riske - Desert Foothills Mental Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a80721a5-125f-4f44-9661-e54201013f00/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sonya Riske - Desert Foothills Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81301 (Online Only)
I help people who are worried and feeling anxious about many issues in their lives. Are you experiencing worry, feeling edgy, tired, and not sleeping well? I can help you with that. Do you find yourself constantly on edge, anticipating the possibility of an impending anxiety attack? I understand the sensations all too well: the rapid heartbeat, the breathlessness, the overwhelming sense of needing an immediate escape. These attacks can be frightening, and I want to help you break free from their grip. I am eager to guide you in acquiring the tools to regain control of your life.
I help people who are worried and feeling anxious about many issues in their lives. Are you experiencing worry, feeling edgy, tired, and not sleeping well? I can help you with that. Do you find yourself constantly on edge, anticipating the possibility of an impending anxiety attack? I understand the sensations all too well: the rapid heartbeat, the breathlessness, the overwhelming sense of needing an immediate escape. These attacks can be frightening, and I want to help you break free from their grip. I am eager to guide you in acquiring the tools to regain control of your life.
![Photo of Dr. Sarah Alsgaard, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c4d6e34-571f-4bc2-b63e-c0af2b0a358f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sarah Alsgaard is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia and other psychiatric diagnoses. She earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice in 2017 from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Following, she joined the Durango, Colorado community and has practice psychiatric care across the lifespan in multiple settings for patients ages 12 and older.
Dr. Sarah Alsgaard is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia and other psychiatric diagnoses. She earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice in 2017 from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Following, she joined the Durango, Colorado community and has practice psychiatric care across the lifespan in multiple settings for patients ages 12 and older.
![Photo of Kathleen Johnson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e914b9b-dc99-4c3d-a0e5-56dde1ee7992/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aspen, CO 81611 (Online Only)
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS & Saturday Appointments Available! I assist patients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns, including: anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism, stress related disorders, PTSD, sleep challenges, and more. As a psychiatric provider, I take the time to explain the science behind what is creating the the challenges you are experiencing, answer questions, and work with you on the goal of full remission of the mental health or addictive crisis so you can go on living your life to the fullest.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS & Saturday Appointments Available! I assist patients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns, including: anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism, stress related disorders, PTSD, sleep challenges, and more. As a psychiatric provider, I take the time to explain the science behind what is creating the the challenges you are experiencing, answer questions, and work with you on the goal of full remission of the mental health or addictive crisis so you can go on living your life to the fullest.
![Photo of Emily Epstein, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9529727c-ae38-4ddb-951c-90ceaa05edd0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Epstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301 (Online Only)
I help people who want to move beyond symptom relief and towards optimal well-being; who aren't certain whether medication is right for them but know they could be feeling better than they currently do. I strive to meet my clients where they are at and build a treatment plan that aligns with their needs, wishes and values.
I help people who want to move beyond symptom relief and towards optimal well-being; who aren't certain whether medication is right for them but know they could be feeling better than they currently do. I strive to meet my clients where they are at and build a treatment plan that aligns with their needs, wishes and values.
![Photo of Margaret Anne Parnell - Telepsychiatric Bridge Services, LLC., DNP, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4add1693-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Telepsychiatric Bridge Services, LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Fruita, CO 81521
BE SEEN THIS WEEK. VERY AFFORDABLE RATES. Exceptional reviews. Check me out on Google. Want to receive mental health treatment and medication management from the comfort and convenience of your own home or office? I see patients over a HIPAA compliant telepsychiatry service, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management throughout the states of Colorado, Florida and Montana (Arizona coming soon!). You need fast internet a PC or Mac with a webcam and Google Chrome. In a pinch a smartphone with WIFI will work. I e-prescribe to the pharmacy of your choice. Super convenient hours; before work, lunch or early evening.
BE SEEN THIS WEEK. VERY AFFORDABLE RATES. Exceptional reviews. Check me out on Google. Want to receive mental health treatment and medication management from the comfort and convenience of your own home or office? I see patients over a HIPAA compliant telepsychiatry service, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management throughout the states of Colorado, Florida and Montana (Arizona coming soon!). You need fast internet a PC or Mac with a webcam and Google Chrome. In a pinch a smartphone with WIFI will work. I e-prescribe to the pharmacy of your choice. Super convenient hours; before work, lunch or early evening.
![Photo of Ann M Cox - Ann Cox Orchid Isle Wellness Center, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74534414-7567-4118-a5ca-3499eb506025/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ann Cox Orchid Isle Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Junction, CO 81501 (Online Only)
Practicing in Colorado and Hawaii via Telehealth. Dr. Cox has over 40 years experience in healthcare and is dual board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has a vision to build a healthy community of individuals and families in Colorado and the Big Island of Hawaii. By providing compassionate patient-centered care to clients across the life span, her focus is a holistic approach to your treatment plan. Psychotherapy is also provided as part of our services with the primary focus on Medication Management.
Practicing in Colorado and Hawaii via Telehealth. Dr. Cox has over 40 years experience in healthcare and is dual board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has a vision to build a healthy community of individuals and families in Colorado and the Big Island of Hawaii. By providing compassionate patient-centered care to clients across the life span, her focus is a holistic approach to your treatment plan. Psychotherapy is also provided as part of our services with the primary focus on Medication Management.
![Photo of Stacey Salmonson, PMHNP, RXN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c59d75d-3095-4d31-9bf0-32d82da792ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey Salmonson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RXN
Verified Verified
Grand Junction, CO 81506
Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with clinical experience in outpatient, inpatient, substance abuse treatment centers, and jail settings. Education includes a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialization, from the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Alabama. Experience treating people across the life span, including veterans, for anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, PTSD, trauma, and depression.
Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with clinical experience in outpatient, inpatient, substance abuse treatment centers, and jail settings. Education includes a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialization, from the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Alabama. Experience treating people across the life span, including veterans, for anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, PTSD, trauma, and depression.
![Photo of Mila Mirdo, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56b9f972-f951-4907-9891-47f312dda602/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatric nurse NP specializing in psychopharmacology. As much as people do not want to take medication for their mental health, it is essential for some in order to get healthy. It takes a village to keep your mental health at its optimum prime. My goal is to be part of your team and get you on the right medication that will help you get where you want to be.
I am a psychiatric nurse NP specializing in psychopharmacology. As much as people do not want to take medication for their mental health, it is essential for some in order to get healthy. It takes a village to keep your mental health at its optimum prime. My goal is to be part of your team and get you on the right medication that will help you get where you want to be.
![Photo of Zachary Wight - Inner Joy Psychiatry | Zachary Wight PMHNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16bcfa7f-9e17-449f-8fb0-c10654a48cb7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inner Joy Psychiatry | Zachary Wight PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301
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 Amy Halstead -Lotus Wellness, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffcb5f92-6994-4612-8b01-def7dd73e115/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Halstead -Lotus Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Carbondale, CO 81623
I take an integrative approach to treatment which may include medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modification to address patients’ mental health needs. I fully believe in the role that sleep, exercise, and nutrition play in mental wellness. My approach is warm and collaborative in an effort to facilitate healing and growth through patient empowerment. I will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that prioritizes your goals and values in a safe environment that is free of judgement.
I take an integrative approach to treatment which may include medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modification to address patients’ mental health needs. I fully believe in the role that sleep, exercise, and nutrition play in mental wellness. My approach is warm and collaborative in an effort to facilitate healing and growth through patient empowerment. I will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that prioritizes your goals and values in a safe environment that is free of judgement.
![Photo of Carrie Shahbahrami - Lifespan Psychiatry of Colorado, PMHNP, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ddca5bf-08dd-4088-9560-afc79019a448/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lifespan Psychiatry of Colorado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNS
Verified Verified
Grand Junction, CO 81501
Our provider, Carrie Shahbahrami, MSN, APRN, ACCNS-AG, PMHNP-BC, is dually boarded in medical and psychiatric care allowing a comprehensive assessment of each client's needs. Carrie began her nursing career in 2000 focusing on the needs of patients within the acute hospital setting. Upon furthering her education at Johns Hopkins University and University of Cincinnati, Carrie chose to focus on client's needing specialized psychiatric care and treatment. Carrie's passion is serving the underrepresented while reducing the stigma associated with mental health.
Our provider, Carrie Shahbahrami, MSN, APRN, ACCNS-AG, PMHNP-BC, is dually boarded in medical and psychiatric care allowing a comprehensive assessment of each client's needs. Carrie began her nursing career in 2000 focusing on the needs of patients within the acute hospital setting. Upon furthering her education at Johns Hopkins University and University of Cincinnati, Carrie chose to focus on client's needing specialized psychiatric care and treatment. Carrie's passion is serving the underrepresented while reducing the stigma associated with mental health.
![Photo of Monique Carrera, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52985e4f-5e36-4fee-b236-d703c8775194/1/320x400.jpeg)
Monique Carrera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Verified Verified
Telluride, CO 81435 (Online Only)
My patients are actively seeking to improve their mental well-being and are open to a collaborative approach to treatment. They value the importance of mental health and understand the benefits of therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication when necessary. They are committed to engaging in the therapeutic process, willing to communicate openly with their providers, and are proactive in their care journey. Whether facing anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, my patients are ready to take the next step toward a better day.
My patients are actively seeking to improve their mental well-being and are open to a collaborative approach to treatment. They value the importance of mental health and understand the benefits of therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication when necessary. They are committed to engaging in the therapeutic process, willing to communicate openly with their providers, and are proactive in their care journey. Whether facing anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, my patients are ready to take the next step toward a better day.
![Photo of Henry Fagnant, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/442f29ce-243d-4c86-b564-336a0712c7c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Appointments available! Henry is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who obtained his undergraduate and advanced nursing degree from Regis University in Denver, CO. He has over ten years of healthcare experience serving pediatric, adult and geriatric populations. Henry’s background includes an engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines, ecclesiastical work in service to the poor and underserved, and nursing services that include pediatric homecare, hospital inpatient and hospice care.
Appointments available! Henry is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who obtained his undergraduate and advanced nursing degree from Regis University in Denver, CO. He has over ten years of healthcare experience serving pediatric, adult and geriatric populations. Henry’s background includes an engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines, ecclesiastical work in service to the poor and underserved, and nursing services that include pediatric homecare, hospital inpatient and hospice care.
See more therapy options for Montrose
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Montrose, CO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Montrose, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Suicidal Ideation |
100% | Stress |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Montrose, CO see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Montrose?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.