Psychiatrists in Morrison, CO
I am accepting new clients! As an Integrative Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I have cared for hundreds clients across the lifespan. Nothing matters more to me than your health and comfort, which is why I’ve put in so much time and effort into advancing my medical practice and therapeutic techniques. In recognition that everyone has their own unique challenges and journeys towards achieving their personal definition of happy and healthy lives; I have developed Red Rocks Psychiatry to be a nurturing and safe place that fosters emotional healing, development and education to support resilient mental health.
I am accepting new clients! As an Integrative Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I have cared for hundreds clients across the lifespan. Nothing matters more to me than your health and comfort, which is why I’ve put in so much time and effort into advancing my medical practice and therapeutic techniques. In recognition that everyone has their own unique challenges and journeys towards achieving their personal definition of happy and healthy lives; I have developed Red Rocks Psychiatry to be a nurturing and safe place that fosters emotional healing, development and education to support resilient mental health.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Now welcoming new clients! Offering virtual consultations throughout Colorado and in-person sessions. Are you ready for a tailored, holistic approach to overcome mental challenges and reclaim your desired path? Your growth and healing are my top priorities.
Now welcoming new clients! Offering virtual consultations throughout Colorado and in-person sessions. Are you ready for a tailored, holistic approach to overcome mental challenges and reclaim your desired path? Your growth and healing are my top priorities.
James Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228
Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified specialist, I focus on medication management and specialize in treating a wide range of ailments including depression, anxiety, addiction, PTSD, and more. I welcome patients with various insurances, ensuring accessibility for all. With the latest technology, I offer convenient e-prescriptions and conduct virtual sessions, providing the ease of care from the comfort of your home. Take the first step towards better mental health and schedule your in-office or video appointment today. Simply click the ‘My Website’ link or call 720-310-2773. Your well-being matters!
Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified specialist, I focus on medication management and specialize in treating a wide range of ailments including depression, anxiety, addiction, PTSD, and more. I welcome patients with various insurances, ensuring accessibility for all. With the latest technology, I offer convenient e-prescriptions and conduct virtual sessions, providing the ease of care from the comfort of your home. Take the first step towards better mental health and schedule your in-office or video appointment today. Simply click the ‘My Website’ link or call 720-310-2773. Your well-being matters!
Amanda Jayaraman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80123
I'm Amanda Jayaraman, a board-certified PMHNP with over 20 years helping people navigate the complexities of their healthcare. Throughout my career, I've gained extensive experience in diverse settings including inpatient, outpatient, crisis, residential, and correctional facilities. I tailor treatment plans to individual patient needs across the lifespan for a variety of diagnoses such as bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, ADHD, and PTSD. I believe in creating a safe and supportive space to feel comfortable discussing challenges and working collaboratively towards goals.
I'm Amanda Jayaraman, a board-certified PMHNP with over 20 years helping people navigate the complexities of their healthcare. Throughout my career, I've gained extensive experience in diverse settings including inpatient, outpatient, crisis, residential, and correctional facilities. I tailor treatment plans to individual patient needs across the lifespan for a variety of diagnoses such as bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, ADHD, and PTSD. I believe in creating a safe and supportive space to feel comfortable discussing challenges and working collaboratively towards goals.
Each of us has a different background and unfolding story that makes us unique. As your provider, my goal is to listen and understand before we both move forward with any decisions about your own well-being. I have a deep appreciation for the mental health benefits provided by a comprehensive plan. This may include but is not limited to a well-rounded diet, daily movement, intentional therapy, and medication if needed.
Each of us has a different background and unfolding story that makes us unique. As your provider, my goal is to listen and understand before we both move forward with any decisions about your own well-being. I have a deep appreciation for the mental health benefits provided by a comprehensive plan. This may include but is not limited to a well-rounded diet, daily movement, intentional therapy, and medication if needed.
As a woman, your mental and physical health needs are unique and often misunderstood or overlooked—let's change that together with a personalized, holistic approach. As we navigate life's stages—from adolescence and young adulthood to pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and beyond—there may be times when our mental health calls for extra support. With a nuanced understanding of how these life transitions distinctly impact women's (AFAB) mental health, I tailor medications and complementary treatment recommendations to each stage of your journey.
As a woman, your mental and physical health needs are unique and often misunderstood or overlooked—let's change that together with a personalized, holistic approach. As we navigate life's stages—from adolescence and young adulthood to pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and beyond—there may be times when our mental health calls for extra support. With a nuanced understanding of how these life transitions distinctly impact women's (AFAB) mental health, I tailor medications and complementary treatment recommendations to each stage of your journey.
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80227
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!
I am board certified in adult, child, & adolescent psychiatry. My goals are to alleviate suffering and focus on improving my patients' relationships, school or work-life balance, and ultimate acceptance of the self. My preference is to pursue wellness first through therapy, nutrition, exercise, and optimizing sleep. Medications may also be needed, and with my medical background I can prescribe them using safety and the newest evidenced based practices. I feel the therapeutic alliance, or the partnership between a psychiatrist and patient, is essential for an individual to receive the greatest possible benefits from the therapy.
I am board certified in adult, child, & adolescent psychiatry. My goals are to alleviate suffering and focus on improving my patients' relationships, school or work-life balance, and ultimate acceptance of the self. My preference is to pursue wellness first through therapy, nutrition, exercise, and optimizing sleep. Medications may also be needed, and with my medical background I can prescribe them using safety and the newest evidenced based practices. I feel the therapeutic alliance, or the partnership between a psychiatrist and patient, is essential for an individual to receive the greatest possible benefits from the therapy.
Joelle Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
24 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80226
Self-scheduling available now through our website!-I have devoted my career to providing evidence-based, comprehensive mental health treatment to individuals of all ages.I bring a unique perspective to the field, combining diverse clinical expertise, empathy, and a patient-centered approach. Each person is different and your individual treatment plan should reflect that. I treat a multitude of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. Some specialized populations that I treat include perinatal, child, and co-occurring medical complexity.
Self-scheduling available now through our website!-I have devoted my career to providing evidence-based, comprehensive mental health treatment to individuals of all ages.I bring a unique perspective to the field, combining diverse clinical expertise, empathy, and a patient-centered approach. Each person is different and your individual treatment plan should reflect that. I treat a multitude of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. Some specialized populations that I treat include perinatal, child, and co-occurring medical complexity.
Accepting New Patients! Lauren Hood is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services and specializes in medication management. Lauren earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Wyoming. She became certified as a psychiatric registered nurse, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, as her career progressed. Lauren completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University.
Accepting New Patients! Lauren Hood is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services and specializes in medication management. Lauren earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Wyoming. She became certified as a psychiatric registered nurse, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, as her career progressed. Lauren completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University.
I believe a strong provider-patient relationship is pivotal to successful outcomes, and is built on compassionate, open communication. My goal is for us to work together to collaborate in creating the best course of treatment for you. I want to help set you up for success to improve your overall quality of life.
I believe a strong provider-patient relationship is pivotal to successful outcomes, and is built on compassionate, open communication. My goal is for us to work together to collaborate in creating the best course of treatment for you. I want to help set you up for success to improve your overall quality of life.
Meghan Dow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Golden, CO 80401
If you are struggling with unmanageable moods or emotions, maybe you have tried treatment in the past but it has not worked for you. Please come see me and we can build off your history, making sure not to repeat things that have failed you in the past but rather build from this knowledge and improve your symptoms and quality of life through different treatment modalities. If this is further complicated from substance use or maybe originated with substance use we are here to support you, and your recovery.
If you are struggling with unmanageable moods or emotions, maybe you have tried treatment in the past but it has not worked for you. Please come see me and we can build off your history, making sure not to repeat things that have failed you in the past but rather build from this knowledge and improve your symptoms and quality of life through different treatment modalities. If this is further complicated from substance use or maybe originated with substance use we are here to support you, and your recovery.
Mary Beth Hutchinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123
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.
Hi there! I’m Megan, a psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have worked in various healthcare settings over the years, first as a CNA/MA, then RN, and now NP. I have shifted my focus in recent years from medical to mental health care. It is my passion to understand and address the psycho-social aspects of patients’ lives to assist them in achieving better physical and mental health. I have extensive experience working with adolescents in acute mental health crises in an inpatient setting.
Hi there! I’m Megan, a psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have worked in various healthcare settings over the years, first as a CNA/MA, then RN, and now NP. I have shifted my focus in recent years from medical to mental health care. It is my passion to understand and address the psycho-social aspects of patients’ lives to assist them in achieving better physical and mental health. I have extensive experience working with adolescents in acute mental health crises in an inpatient setting.
Meeting with a healthcare provider is one of the first steps toward improving one's mental health and wellbeing. I look forward to creating a relationship with my patients built on open-communication and trust. Together, we will design optimal strategies, through medication management and therapy, to help you achieve your full potential and best quality of life.
Meeting with a healthcare provider is one of the first steps toward improving one's mental health and wellbeing. I look forward to creating a relationship with my patients built on open-communication and trust. Together, we will design optimal strategies, through medication management and therapy, to help you achieve your full potential and best quality of life.
Accepting New Patients! Looking forward to meet you. I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating 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 us.
Accepting New Patients! Looking forward to meet you. I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating 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 us.
Lauren Cone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80123
Have you been struggling with issues such as feeling unlike yourself, not feeling as connected to your family members or friends as you had been? You may be wondering if you would benefit from talking to a therapist or seeking medication for recent changes in your mood or anxiety, or perhaps you've been struggling for a long time now. Good for you for starting the search! Finding a good fit in a therapist or psychiatric prescriber is a big task and it can feel intimidating. It is my hope that you will feel safe talking with me about difficult and painful things that are making life hard and that together, we will find solutions.
Have you been struggling with issues such as feeling unlike yourself, not feeling as connected to your family members or friends as you had been? You may be wondering if you would benefit from talking to a therapist or seeking medication for recent changes in your mood or anxiety, or perhaps you've been struggling for a long time now. Good for you for starting the search! Finding a good fit in a therapist or psychiatric prescriber is a big task and it can feel intimidating. It is my hope that you will feel safe talking with me about difficult and painful things that are making life hard and that together, we will find solutions.
Alexa Potts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80127
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS *Accepts Medicaid including CO Access, Health First, RMHP, CHP+ Anthem/BCBS, United, and limited Cigna/Evernorth* I'm a Board Certified Doctor of Nursing Practice who believes that heart, soul, hope, and intention are just a few curative factors that can facilitate healing. I make listening to my patients my top priority, and I stand by providing kind, safe, ethical, and honest care, which includes providing adequate medication education. I believe in a whole-person, humanistic approach. Please find our website at www.rockyheightswellness.com.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS *Accepts Medicaid including CO Access, Health First, RMHP, CHP+ Anthem/BCBS, United, and limited Cigna/Evernorth* I'm a Board Certified Doctor of Nursing Practice who believes that heart, soul, hope, and intention are just a few curative factors that can facilitate healing. I make listening to my patients my top priority, and I stand by providing kind, safe, ethical, and honest care, which includes providing adequate medication education. I believe in a whole-person, humanistic approach. Please find our website at www.rockyheightswellness.com.
Sami Tengberg - Denver Wellness Associates
Physician Assistant, PA-C , MMS
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80215
I am psychiatry physician assistant. I see medication management patients, just like a Psychiatrist would, and are currently open to new patients. I am a Certified Physician Assistant who graduated from Midwestern University. I am originally from Phoenix, Arizona who decided to get out of the heat and move to Denver in 2019. I work mainly with young adults, however I like working with people across all spans of life. I deal with patients of varying disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
I am psychiatry physician assistant. I see medication management patients, just like a Psychiatrist would, and are currently open to new patients. I am a Certified Physician Assistant who graduated from Midwestern University. I am originally from Phoenix, Arizona who decided to get out of the heat and move to Denver in 2019. I work mainly with young adults, however I like working with people across all spans of life. I deal with patients of varying disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
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.
See more therapy options for Morrison
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Morrison, CO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Morrison, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Domestic Abuse |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Medicaid |
How Psychiatrists in Morrison, CO see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Morrison?
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.