Psychiatrists in Weld County, CO
![Photo of Rhiannon Lee Brey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96e4a68c-c0fa-4a47-95a8-081718fa3264/1/320x400.jpeg)
My nursing career brought me the good fortune of traveling for work; I have lived in all four corners of the US (and in the middle, too!) and have enjoyed meeting and working with individuals of diverse backgrounds. As a nurse practitioner, curiosity and respect drive my practice; I join each person’s journey toward mental wellness with a collaborative treatment approach, taking time to “zoom out” and view symptoms through a holistic lens.
My nursing career brought me the good fortune of traveling for work; I have lived in all four corners of the US (and in the middle, too!) and have enjoyed meeting and working with individuals of diverse backgrounds. As a nurse practitioner, curiosity and respect drive my practice; I join each person’s journey toward mental wellness with a collaborative treatment approach, taking time to “zoom out” and view symptoms through a holistic lens.
![Photo of Alison Baker, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcca05bc-e64b-4ef0-b574-93c65571a204/2/320x400.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 Wilber Mendez, APN, NP, RXN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/105ebdf5-2cc1-4088-aa4a-960b6df55686/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wilber Mendez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, NP, RXN
Verified Verified
Greeley, CO 80634 (Online Only)
Wil grew up in Eagle County Colorado where he started his medical career as a pharmacy technician. This knowledge and experience empowered Wil to help people on a deeper level. Wil pursued his bachelor's in nursing at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ. While in nursing school Wil found a passion for behavioral health and the importance of providing culturally competent care and patient centered care in both English and Spanish. The importance of behavioral health and its disparity in our community fueled Wil to gain his Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Regis College in Massachusetts.
Wil grew up in Eagle County Colorado where he started his medical career as a pharmacy technician. This knowledge and experience empowered Wil to help people on a deeper level. Wil pursued his bachelor's in nursing at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ. While in nursing school Wil found a passion for behavioral health and the importance of providing culturally competent care and patient centered care in both English and Spanish. The importance of behavioral health and its disparity in our community fueled Wil to gain his Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Regis College in Massachusetts.
![Photo of Andrew Nagy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5498f5d0-3826-411b-bb42-687eb335be43/3/320x400.jpeg)
*Open Availability this Week, Call Quick to Reserve!* I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call.
*Open Availability this Week, Call Quick to Reserve!* I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call.
![Photo of Caren Blantin, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfed859e-f73b-4ff5-ab12-ebd9d3d1db24/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! Have providers ever made you feel unheard or rushed? Why not try something new? Embracing Hope Wellness Clinic LLC is located at The Triple T Haven, a horse ranch in Ault, CO (only 13 miles East of Fort Collins). Embracing Hope is a safe place for you to heal. We offer a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels more like a retreat. During your appointment you have the option of being seen in my office or we can walk around the ranch and meet the horses. There is nothing more peaceful than brushing horses or just sitting outside enjoying the view while we talk.
Accepting New Patients! Have providers ever made you feel unheard or rushed? Why not try something new? Embracing Hope Wellness Clinic LLC is located at The Triple T Haven, a horse ranch in Ault, CO (only 13 miles East of Fort Collins). Embracing Hope is a safe place for you to heal. We offer a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels more like a retreat. During your appointment you have the option of being seen in my office or we can walk around the ranch and meet the horses. There is nothing more peaceful than brushing horses or just sitting outside enjoying the view while we talk.
![Photo of Robert Owens, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2264715-cd17-42a3-9f8f-f0aad36c1b86/2/320x400.jpeg)
Positive mental health and wellness is a life-long journey and Rob is here to help you on that journey. He takes a holistic, evidence-based approach in his practice, believing that medications are not always the answer, or at least the whole answer, and often chooses to recommend therapy, dietary changes, exercise, and lifestyle modification when indicated.
Positive mental health and wellness is a life-long journey and Rob is here to help you on that journey. He takes a holistic, evidence-based approach in his practice, believing that medications are not always the answer, or at least the whole answer, and often chooses to recommend therapy, dietary changes, exercise, and lifestyle modification when indicated.
![Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fa94c74-bb59-432b-a8e9-5abf526500c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greeley, CO 80634 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
![Photo of Joanna Humphrey Branum, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd266649-a70d-4115-8286-0e0662301932/2/320x400.jpeg)
I see patients ages 18 who are seeking medication and support to manage their anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I particularly enjoy young adults and perimenopausal women. I also prescribe masculinizing hormone therapy to transgender adults.
I see patients ages 18 who are seeking medication and support to manage their anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I particularly enjoy young adults and perimenopausal women. I also prescribe masculinizing hormone therapy to transgender adults.
![Photo of Dean Gainey, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/535bfc37-cbd7-4ac1-8eb6-2b42c2a139ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Michigan State University. My clinical acumen is enriched by an extensive career dedicated to healthcare, where I have cultivated a deep understanding of the diverse communities I serve. My background includes a pivotal role in the U.S. Army as a Psychiatric Nurse, which has provided me with invaluable experience in care coordination and healthcare team leadership.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Michigan State University. My clinical acumen is enriched by an extensive career dedicated to healthcare, where I have cultivated a deep understanding of the diverse communities I serve. My background includes a pivotal role in the U.S. Army as a Psychiatric Nurse, which has provided me with invaluable experience in care coordination and healthcare team leadership.
![Photo of Melissa Shulman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81f5679f-3dbf-485d-9b7b-b608431f4126/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Shulman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greeley, CO 80634 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
Accepting new clients! I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Halee Fullerton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5a62d56-49e3-4f59-b62d-04c8025d9f79/1/320x400.jpeg)
Halee Fullerton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greeley, CO 80634 (Online Only)
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
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![Photo of Jennifer Sims, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10fc2261-9a1c-44d3-a6e0-cd3e135bc48e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greeley, CO 80631 (Online Only)
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Sarah M Avrech - SWELL Mental Healthcare, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/676d26eb-5eef-4be2-8d7a-aa67b4c4c659/2/320x400.jpeg)
SWELL Mental Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Severance, CO 80550 (Online Only)
My ideal client is you! I can help with anxiety, depressions, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, addiction and much more! I prefer a collaborative approach, so that the patient and I are working together to decide the best route for them.
My ideal client is you! I can help with anxiety, depressions, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, addiction and much more! I prefer a collaborative approach, so that the patient and I are working together to decide the best route for them.
![Photo of Jose L. Vasquez, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4fa10c3-054a-4ffc-9697-6485741107b1/4/320x400.jpeg)
Proudly serving Colorado. My ideal client is someone courageously facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and mood fluctuations. They seek understanding, relief, and strategies for a better life. Our approach at NoCo begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to thoughtfully assess if medication can support your journey towards healing and personal growth.
Proudly serving Colorado. My ideal client is someone courageously facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and mood fluctuations. They seek understanding, relief, and strategies for a better life. Our approach at NoCo begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to thoughtfully assess if medication can support your journey towards healing and personal growth.
![Photo of Esther Okanlawon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b7e9f3a-f9ef-4085-97f4-66875c554b34/3/320x400.jpeg)
Esther Okanlawon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greeley, CO 80634
Accepting New Patients! I am dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in healthcare for the past 14 years. Started out my career as a nurse in homecare in NY and also worked on the Navajo reservation. As an FNP, I have worked in primary care, wellness health and treated patients with substance use disorder. As a PMHNP, I am going to help you achieve your goal of functioning to your highest capabilities. I also offer suboxone services. Call or email today to learn more.
Accepting New Patients! I am dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in healthcare for the past 14 years. Started out my career as a nurse in homecare in NY and also worked on the Navajo reservation. As an FNP, I have worked in primary care, wellness health and treated patients with substance use disorder. As a PMHNP, I am going to help you achieve your goal of functioning to your highest capabilities. I also offer suboxone services. Call or email today to learn more.
![Photo of Haulek Tawmging - Online Kairos Psychiatry in Colorado, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d770115-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Online Kairos Psychiatry in Colorado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greeley, CO 80634 (Online Only)
We often risk our mental health in this busy world and people often have to choose between psychiatric/ therapy appointments or keeping up with other life responsibilities. Now you won't have to. My goal is to reduce fragmented care by providing accessible psychiatric care online, wherever you are, all across Colorado. No more congested traffic or long drives, waiting room, missing work or school. Online psychiatry is privacy-friendly and customizable. I connect with teens, collegiates, and young professionals to navigate anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stressors of career and school transitions, and family life.
We often risk our mental health in this busy world and people often have to choose between psychiatric/ therapy appointments or keeping up with other life responsibilities. Now you won't have to. My goal is to reduce fragmented care by providing accessible psychiatric care online, wherever you are, all across Colorado. No more congested traffic or long drives, waiting room, missing work or school. Online psychiatry is privacy-friendly and customizable. I connect with teens, collegiates, and young professionals to navigate anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stressors of career and school transitions, and family life.
![Photo of Alison Baker, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71002c7d-bceb-4ffe-b398-0fd3d68ce65f/1/320x400.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 Joe Crowley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b266f7cf-eb18-471c-91fe-f4433df84751/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! - Joseph “Joe” P. Crowley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. He brings over seven years of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience to his patients while offering an attentive, accommodating patient care philosophy. Joe earned his BSN and MSN degrees at Regis University. He completed his inpatient and outpatient clinical training at various facilities in the Denver Metro area. He also received professional recognition for academic achievements and ICARE awards while working at the V.A. Eastern Colorado Health Care System.
Accepting New Patients! - Joseph “Joe” P. Crowley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. He brings over seven years of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience to his patients while offering an attentive, accommodating patient care philosophy. Joe earned his BSN and MSN degrees at Regis University. He completed his inpatient and outpatient clinical training at various facilities in the Denver Metro area. He also received professional recognition for academic achievements and ICARE awards while working at the V.A. Eastern Colorado Health Care System.
![Photo of Andrew Nagy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8b71df0-91a8-4bb5-b286-17fbbcb9453e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call.
Accepting New Patients! I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call.
![Photo of Kristina Mordecai, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d74caea4-5cc8-4d4c-bbdd-75f0ea9603c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! Kristina is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is currently accepting new clients. Her journey began in 1999 when she graduated with an Associate of Science in Nursing from Meridian Community College. She then progressed to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University in 2015 and graduated at the top of her class. After furthering her career in nursing management and stress management courses, she decided to pursue the Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatry, at Herzing University where she graduated with honors.
Accepting New Patients! Kristina is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is currently accepting new clients. Her journey began in 1999 when she graduated with an Associate of Science in Nursing from Meridian Community College. She then progressed to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University in 2015 and graduated at the top of her class. After furthering her career in nursing management and stress management courses, she decided to pursue the Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatry, at Herzing University where she graduated with honors.
See more therapy options for Weld County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Weld County, CO
70+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Weld County, CO who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
88% | ADHD |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Medication Management |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
93% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Weld County, CO see their clients
76% | In Person and Online | |
24% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Female | |
34% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Weld 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.