Psychiatrists in Widefield, CO
![Photo of Tracy Tyler - Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/280762a9-f664-4ea4-9c85-c142d33c4c08/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Widefield, CO 80911
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
![Photo of Jessie Kuhn, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3794ccc6-64cc-4078-b40b-f8b61e584e79/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessie Kuhn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Widefield, CO 80911
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Cathleen Barrett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c756d68-3052-4bb0-a551-c602f21a5dfd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cathleen Barrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80905 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients for medication management, with immediate availability for both medicaid and private insurance! I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Addiction Registered Nurse Advanced Practice. I have more than 22 years of experience in mental health and I completed my PMHNP graduate education at Husson University in Maine in 2007. I have practiced in many different settings over the years including both inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities. I work with a wide range of ailments including PTSD, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, and many more.
Accepting new clients for medication management, with immediate availability for both medicaid and private insurance! I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Addiction Registered Nurse Advanced Practice. I have more than 22 years of experience in mental health and I completed my PMHNP graduate education at Husson University in Maine in 2007. I have practiced in many different settings over the years including both inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities. I work with a wide range of ailments including PTSD, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, and many more.
![Photo of Kristina Kurtz, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1818fc9a-08dc-47dd-a92a-eea931fb7b69/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you're seeking adult psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, palliative medicine, or end-of-life care, Kristina can help you find relief and comfort. Kristina graduated from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Pennsylvania. She completed a Transitional Internship at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Oakland in Pontiac, Michigan, and Psychiatry Residency training at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, Michigan. During her residency training, she held multiple professional leadership positions, including ethics committee consultant, associate chief resident, and chief resident.
If you're seeking adult psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, palliative medicine, or end-of-life care, Kristina can help you find relief and comfort. Kristina graduated from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Pennsylvania. She completed a Transitional Internship at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Oakland in Pontiac, Michigan, and Psychiatry Residency training at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, Michigan. During her residency training, she held multiple professional leadership positions, including ethics committee consultant, associate chief resident, and chief resident.
![Photo of Ryann Charisse Lee, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2cc3b088-54ed-43fa-b599-793b69c62afa/1/320x400.png)
Ryann Charisse Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80909 (Online Only)
As we navigate through life's challenges we can find ourselves in unfamiliar and uncomfortable places. Whether we are adjusting to a new routine, family dynamics, or experiencing symptoms that we can't verbalize... During this vulnerable time we all need understanding, clarity, and most importantly support. I say "we" because we all have been there. It is my hope that I can provide a safe space to assist in conceptualizing your experience and help you to realize your wellness goals.
As we navigate through life's challenges we can find ourselves in unfamiliar and uncomfortable places. Whether we are adjusting to a new routine, family dynamics, or experiencing symptoms that we can't verbalize... During this vulnerable time we all need understanding, clarity, and most importantly support. I say "we" because we all have been there. It is my hope that I can provide a safe space to assist in conceptualizing your experience and help you to realize your wellness goals.
![Photo of Michael Allen Mcgehee - Cypress health consultants llc, PMHNPBC, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a4a5d5a-15d6-4611-8019-2f561292e0cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cypress health consultants llc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Whether you are going through a sudden tragedy or dealing with a chronic condition, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety. A loss of a loved one, divorce, death or anything in between. Drug addiction, alcohol, or just feeling alone, like no one understands you or what you are going through.
Whether you are going through a sudden tragedy or dealing with a chronic condition, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety. A loss of a loved one, divorce, death or anything in between. Drug addiction, alcohol, or just feeling alone, like no one understands you or what you are going through.
![Photo of Latonia Mitchell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce494a15-150f-4239-84d6-fc785e77ab79/3/320x400.jpeg)
Latonia Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new patients! Although I am not currently offering controlled substances, I assist individuals in dealing with anxiety and depression by addressing specific mental health needs through coaching, counseling, psychoeducation, medication management, and other psychotherapeutic interventions. Maintaining a person-centered focus and approach to help others reach their mental health goals allows me to provide treatment in a safe, effective manner using evidence-based practice tools.
I am currently accepting new patients! Although I am not currently offering controlled substances, I assist individuals in dealing with anxiety and depression by addressing specific mental health needs through coaching, counseling, psychoeducation, medication management, and other psychotherapeutic interventions. Maintaining a person-centered focus and approach to help others reach their mental health goals allows me to provide treatment in a safe, effective manner using evidence-based practice tools.
![Photo of Alison Baker, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71002c7d-bceb-4ffe-b398-0fd3d68ce65f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80905
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 Elizabeth Kirt, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae30ca3d-3498-4e5d-9952-7c4e4e64ddb2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Kirt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (Online Only)
I specialize in integrating functional, holistic, and conventional methods to support clients on their mental health journey. During our first appointment, we'll discuss your goals and create a personalized plan together.
I specialize in integrating functional, holistic, and conventional methods to support clients on their mental health journey. During our first appointment, we'll discuss your goals and create a personalized plan together.
![Photo of Henry Fagnant, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1ee74bd-716c-4982-820e-129877490dee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Henry Fagnant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
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.
![Photo of Modupe Mary Okonofua - NuMedical & Psychiatry Clinic / Dr. Mary Okonofua, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/840939b0-9d0b-4c70-9043-25feca7a8c3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
NuMedical & Psychiatry Clinic / Dr. Mary Okonofua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80917
"ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS IN COLORADO, TEXAS & ARIZONA". Many patients believe providers offer one-sided visit, where they are not listened to or cared about. I can promise you that I am as real as it gets, caring and compassionate about my patients' recovery. I want to walk with you on your journey of recovery and see you smile again! I want to help you achieve solutions within my professional expertise while being there for you as you experience yourself in positive new ways.Simply put, I don't believe talking to a mental health provider should have any negative perception or stigma.Call for appointment or if we take your insurance
"ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS IN COLORADO, TEXAS & ARIZONA". Many patients believe providers offer one-sided visit, where they are not listened to or cared about. I can promise you that I am as real as it gets, caring and compassionate about my patients' recovery. I want to walk with you on your journey of recovery and see you smile again! I want to help you achieve solutions within my professional expertise while being there for you as you experience yourself in positive new ways.Simply put, I don't believe talking to a mental health provider should have any negative perception or stigma.Call for appointment or if we take your insurance
![Photo of Alison Shapiro, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ad88ea0-fce7-4138-b9af-007c551b2d88/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Shapiro is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2014. She has an MSN from Colorado State University with a focus in psychiatry. Alison's prescribes psychiatric medications and provides therapy in a holistic, accepting atmosphere. Her practice centers on working collaboratively with each individual in assisting, guiding and joining patients on a pathway to greater overall health and wellness In her free time, Alison enjoys traveling, kayaking, reading, and cooking.
Alison Shapiro is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2014. She has an MSN from Colorado State University with a focus in psychiatry. Alison's prescribes psychiatric medications and provides therapy in a holistic, accepting atmosphere. Her practice centers on working collaboratively with each individual in assisting, guiding and joining patients on a pathway to greater overall health and wellness In her free time, Alison enjoys traveling, kayaking, reading, and cooking.
![Photo of Lauren Hood, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/769c82b3-d3e3-4bb5-81db-9d2d9a8429e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Charles Haverty, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a62b2c7-33f5-4758-ae7d-598e90f351e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Charles Haverty is a boardcertified psychiatrist and boardeligible child and adolescent psychiatrist. Dr. Haverty specializes in treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ObsessiveCompulsive Disorder, and AttentionDeficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in child, adolescent, and young adult populations. Dr. Haverty values getting to know the whole person and their support people. He incorporates education into his patientcentered approach, empowering families to best help their loved ones. Dr.
Dr. Charles Haverty is a boardcertified psychiatrist and boardeligible child and adolescent psychiatrist. Dr. Haverty specializes in treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ObsessiveCompulsive Disorder, and AttentionDeficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in child, adolescent, and young adult populations. Dr. Haverty values getting to know the whole person and their support people. He incorporates education into his patientcentered approach, empowering families to best help their loved ones. Dr.
![Photo of Nadine Smith - Magnolia Psychiatric Services, PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1617d4a-5546-4dda-ac11-e74f06d2da98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Magnolia Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80902 (Online Only)
If you're seeking a path to emotional and mental well-being, you're in the right place. With over 25 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your best self with empathy and expertise. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, treating you as a whole person and integrating the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of your health. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations and offer a range of treatment options, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
If you're seeking a path to emotional and mental well-being, you're in the right place. With over 25 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your best self with empathy and expertise. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, treating you as a whole person and integrating the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of your health. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations and offer a range of treatment options, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
![Photo of Kristin Ratz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8aceac72-d6f0-4d3f-ab64-107e30beb972/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kristin Ratz is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who is an expert in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. She specializes in medication management combined with supportive therapy during 30-minute follow-up sessions. A California local, Dr. Ratz obtained her undergraduate education at University of California, Davis, graduating magna cum laude.t. She then attended medical school at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, obtaining her Medical Doctorate. Following this, she completed her adult psychiatry residency training at the University of California, Irvine.
Dr. Kristin Ratz is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who is an expert in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. She specializes in medication management combined with supportive therapy during 30-minute follow-up sessions. A California local, Dr. Ratz obtained her undergraduate education at University of California, Davis, graduating magna cum laude.t. She then attended medical school at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, obtaining her Medical Doctorate. Following this, she completed her adult psychiatry residency training at the University of California, Irvine.
![Photo of Amber Crouch, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ac6a9d8-3fd5-4a84-b912-3a7ea875e7b7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Crouch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
I have a deep passion for all people who have suffered trauma, struggle with depression and anxiety, and those who have a desire to feel heard and seen by their psychiatric provider. I work hard to provide a safe and empathetic space for everyone.
I have a deep passion for all people who have suffered trauma, struggle with depression and anxiety, and those who have a desire to feel heard and seen by their psychiatric provider. I work hard to provide a safe and empathetic space for everyone.
![Photo of Dr. Joshua James, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6457ced5-9d22-4537-ae23-85373b0c8ed6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients. Initial consultation is free. Dr. James completed medical school at Texas A&M School of Medicine and psychiatric residency at UT Health in San Antonio. He is committed to serving the people of Colorado, Texas, and Utah. He specializes in helping people who struggle with depression, anxiety, and PTSD, but can treat other mental health afflictions as well (see list for the most commonly treated conditions). Dr. James works exclusively via telehealth to conveniently fit appointments into your busy schedule. Insurance is not accepted at this time but ask about options for insurance reimbursement.
Accepting new patients. Initial consultation is free. Dr. James completed medical school at Texas A&M School of Medicine and psychiatric residency at UT Health in San Antonio. He is committed to serving the people of Colorado, Texas, and Utah. He specializes in helping people who struggle with depression, anxiety, and PTSD, but can treat other mental health afflictions as well (see list for the most commonly treated conditions). Dr. James works exclusively via telehealth to conveniently fit appointments into your busy schedule. Insurance is not accepted at this time but ask about options for insurance reimbursement.
![Photo of Julie Bremer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4169881-a2ee-4edc-beb8-42116cc2d6c2/1/320x400.png)
Welcome! Meet Julie Bremer, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in acute care, labor and delivery, newborn care, and case management. Passionate about perinatal mental health, Julie is certified through PSI and has volunteered as a peer support. She believes in treating the whole person with a welcoming, caring, and non-judgmental approach.
Welcome! Meet Julie Bremer, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in acute care, labor and delivery, newborn care, and case management. Passionate about perinatal mental health, Julie is certified through PSI and has volunteered as a peer support. She believes in treating the whole person with a welcoming, caring, and non-judgmental approach.
![Photo of Aline Paredes - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98530a68-2feb-4a7d-8940-47912afdb4db/1/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for all Colorado residents conducting psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Also Accepting Insurances
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for all Colorado residents conducting psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Also Accepting Insurances
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Nearby Searches for Widefield
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Widefield, CO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Widefield, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
1 Year
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Widefield, 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 Widefield?
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.