Psychiatrists in Colorado
![Photo of Joseph Yeretsian, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52538c58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work closely with individuals struggling with anxiety in their daily lives. If anxiety is making your relationships problematic, or your work difficult to perform, it may be time to get help. In my approach, psychotherapy will generally be the first step taken in exploring your specific needs, and a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of medication use can be pursued if you are interested in the option. For more detailed information about the services I offer, please visit my practice website. Appointments requests can be made online quickly and securely at: optimindhealth.com
I work closely with individuals struggling with anxiety in their daily lives. If anxiety is making your relationships problematic, or your work difficult to perform, it may be time to get help. In my approach, psychotherapy will generally be the first step taken in exploring your specific needs, and a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of medication use can be pursued if you are interested in the option. For more detailed information about the services I offer, please visit my practice website. Appointments requests can be made online quickly and securely at: optimindhealth.com
![Photo of Joshua James - Dr. Joshua James: Rivendell Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/327e8a84-581f-4e08-8651-cbf77ca507ed/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, Pennsylvania, 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, Pennsylvania, 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 Sheri Rockwood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c289c384-d4af-4390-b600-e2d3d318f50d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have always had a passion for helping people with mental health issues. I received my first bachelor's degree in social work at Brigham Young University. A few years later I received my second bachelor's degree in nursing at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. I working for a few years as a registered nurse with most of my time spent working as a psychiatric nurse. I then received my master's degree as a family nurse practitioner from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and then went on to get a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner post master's certification.
I have always had a passion for helping people with mental health issues. I received my first bachelor's degree in social work at Brigham Young University. A few years later I received my second bachelor's degree in nursing at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. I working for a few years as a registered nurse with most of my time spent working as a psychiatric nurse. I then received my master's degree as a family nurse practitioner from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and then went on to get a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner post master's certification.
![Photo of Chandra Crawford, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebea2b97-1641-4cc2-b025-1398d29bd5bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chandra Crawford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my passion lies in providing a safe space for adults navigating the complexities of mental health. With 14 years of experience, my goal is to understand you wholly — your struggles, aspirations, and all factors that influence your well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety or depression or seeking a path to joy, I’m here to listen, understand, and walk alongside you.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my passion lies in providing a safe space for adults navigating the complexities of mental health. With 14 years of experience, my goal is to understand you wholly — your struggles, aspirations, and all factors that influence your well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety or depression or seeking a path to joy, I’m here to listen, understand, and walk alongside you.
![Photo of Christopher Perez - Axis Integrated Mental Health, APRN, CRNA, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd7cef0e-1c24-4675-aae2-8b31ba3b2278/1/320x400.png)
Get seen ASAP! Accepting new patients and nearly every insurance! The ONLY clinic in Colorado who does TMS for Medicaid patients thanks to our personal endowment. Whether you need medications, therapy, or cutting-edge treatment for Major Depressive Disorder or anxiety, we are your single-stop shop for help. With board-certified psychiatric providers, licensed psychotherapists, and treatments like Spravato, TMS, and Ketamine all under one roof, we can minimize out-of-pocket costs while maximizing healing.
Get seen ASAP! Accepting new patients and nearly every insurance! The ONLY clinic in Colorado who does TMS for Medicaid patients thanks to our personal endowment. Whether you need medications, therapy, or cutting-edge treatment for Major Depressive Disorder or anxiety, we are your single-stop shop for help. With board-certified psychiatric providers, licensed psychotherapists, and treatments like Spravato, TMS, and Ketamine all under one roof, we can minimize out-of-pocket costs while maximizing healing.
![Photo of Allison Cherrier - Hillstone Psych and TMS, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d078c12-9ae1-49c2-bc60-532b32a0115a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hillstone Psych and TMS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80014
Hillstone Psych and TMS strives to offer a welcoming approach to those in need of psychiatric care. We are currently accepting new Medicaid, Aetna, Cigna, United, UMR, and Anthem BCBS clients. We offer both telehealth and in person appointments. We are able to diagnose and treat a variety of mental health issues, offer psychiatric medication management, addiction medication management and TMS treatment. We specialize in addiction management, ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and many others. Presently, we are able to see clients as young as 10 years of age.
Hillstone Psych and TMS strives to offer a welcoming approach to those in need of psychiatric care. We are currently accepting new Medicaid, Aetna, Cigna, United, UMR, and Anthem BCBS clients. We offer both telehealth and in person appointments. We are able to diagnose and treat a variety of mental health issues, offer psychiatric medication management, addiction medication management and TMS treatment. We specialize in addiction management, ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and many others. Presently, we are able to see clients as young as 10 years of age.
![Photo of Ja'neice Monsrud - Ja'Neice Monsrud - Larson Mental Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbfb94d9-1117-47ea-8545-0ac068608e23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ja'Neice Monsrud - Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I bring over 10 years experience in nursing and treat ages 13+ for a wide variety of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, clients struggling with Bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, grief, school issues, disordered eating, and substance use disorders. I believe that Mental Health is not a destination but a journey; one that is taken with the help and support of many people along the way. For each client, know that we will work together to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals.
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I bring over 10 years experience in nursing and treat ages 13+ for a wide variety of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, clients struggling with Bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, grief, school issues, disordered eating, and substance use disorders. I believe that Mental Health is not a destination but a journey; one that is taken with the help and support of many people along the way. For each client, know that we will work together to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals.
![Photo of Olasumbo Afilaka - Mind & Wellness Behavioral Health, LLC, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3865517d-14d8-4adb-96ae-0fe465e68c50/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mind & Wellness Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenwood Village, CO 80111 (Online Only)
I'm a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master's degree in nursing, specializing in psychiatric mental health throughout the lifespan. As an experienced healthcare provider, I adopt a comprehensive approach to care and treatment. My commitment to excellent patient care has been recognized through multiple awards. My practice focuses on various mental health conditions, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and PTSD, among others.
I'm a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master's degree in nursing, specializing in psychiatric mental health throughout the lifespan. As an experienced healthcare provider, I adopt a comprehensive approach to care and treatment. My commitment to excellent patient care has been recognized through multiple awards. My practice focuses on various mental health conditions, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and PTSD, among others.
![Photo of Rudy Spector, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b2d4ba2-48dd-4532-850f-12ffbcbab786/2/320x400.jpeg)
Optimal health begins with understanding the connection between your brain and body. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I look forward to helping you achieve your best mental wellness. Together we will look at your psychiatric symptoms, sleep patterns, and lifestyle. The initial interview will include a thorough psychiatric assessment, family history, and medical history. Medication management, supplements, laboratory draws, adrenal testing, and micronutrient testing are all avenues to consider during this initial interview.
Optimal health begins with understanding the connection between your brain and body. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I look forward to helping you achieve your best mental wellness. Together we will look at your psychiatric symptoms, sleep patterns, and lifestyle. The initial interview will include a thorough psychiatric assessment, family history, and medical history. Medication management, supplements, laboratory draws, adrenal testing, and micronutrient testing are all avenues to consider during this initial interview.
![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 Ujay Egbuji, APRN, DPN, FNP-c, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05973bf9-f4fe-4258-a7e3-0d8043b1dd41/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ujay Egbuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DPN, FNP-c, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302 (Online Only)
Dr. Ujay Egbuji’s broad experience, knowledge, and expertise in the healthcare field make her uniquely suited to providing professional care for various health needs. Using telemedicine to serve her patients, she can personalize care, maximize efficiency, and make accessing care easy and comfortable for patients. She has over ten years of combined experience in the healthcare field.
Dr. Ujay Egbuji’s broad experience, knowledge, and expertise in the healthcare field make her uniquely suited to providing professional care for various health needs. Using telemedicine to serve her patients, she can personalize care, maximize efficiency, and make accessing care easy and comfortable for patients. She has over ten years of combined experience in the healthcare field.
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At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
![Photo of Grace-Anne Stimpson - Women's and Children Psychiatry| Grace Stimpson NP, MSN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/982e9cbc-faf3-42eb-b794-d4399c78a582/1/320x400.jpeg)
Women's and Children Psychiatry| Grace Stimpson NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Thornton, CO 80229 (Online Only)
I am a passionate psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in perinatal mental health, child and adolescent psychiatry, developmental pediatrics, women's issues, and LGBTQ+ mental health . I work with people in all stages of life who are experiencing burnout, anxiety, depression, frustration, and fatigue. Whether you're struggling with infertility, gender dysphoria and transitioning, postpartum depression, or the transition into motherhood, I'm here for you! I also offer ADHD coaching for those seeking additional support in addition to medication management
I am a passionate psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in perinatal mental health, child and adolescent psychiatry, developmental pediatrics, women's issues, and LGBTQ+ mental health . I work with people in all stages of life who are experiencing burnout, anxiety, depression, frustration, and fatigue. Whether you're struggling with infertility, gender dysphoria and transitioning, postpartum depression, or the transition into motherhood, I'm here for you! I also offer ADHD coaching for those seeking additional support in addition to medication management
![Photo of Jennifer Huskinson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b05420c-facc-461a-95bd-e47c27238f56/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Huskinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Jennifer is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has an extensive nursing career that transitioned into psychiatry in 2018 when she realized her passion for helping individuals with mental health concerns and substance abuse. She has diagnosed, treated and managed all major psychiatric disorders and varieties of mental illness and addiction. She prefers an integrative approach that not only includes medication management but non-pharmacological methods, such as nutrition, complimentary alternative modalities and therapy.
Jennifer is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has an extensive nursing career that transitioned into psychiatry in 2018 when she realized her passion for helping individuals with mental health concerns and substance abuse. She has diagnosed, treated and managed all major psychiatric disorders and varieties of mental illness and addiction. She prefers an integrative approach that not only includes medication management but non-pharmacological methods, such as nutrition, complimentary alternative modalities and therapy.
![Photo of Deimys D Vigil - Mindful Minds Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73a559e3-8a99-4782-83e7-d2654118b949/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Minds Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westminster, CO 80031
Mindful Minds Psychiatry is a group outpatient psychiatric practice in Colorado, offering in person and telehealth to children starting at 3years old, adolescents, and adults in our multiple locations.
Mindful Minds Psychiatry is a group outpatient psychiatric practice in Colorado, offering in person and telehealth to children starting at 3years old, adolescents, and adults in our multiple locations.
![Photo of Lauren Hood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d255bfb9-8b75-4608-a44a-04d6e1a86ea0/2/320x400.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 Jessica Botts, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa6ae74e-9772-4e70-bc4e-bf7fe40b64fd/1/320x400.png)
I take pride in my patient care. I am an empathetic and thorough medical provider.
I take pride in my patient care. I am an empathetic and thorough medical provider.
![Photo of Courtney Hill, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b783f003-249e-4bda-a550-945f0e9a046f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I'm a board-certified, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I focuses on treating patients across the life span, including children and adolescents while working alongside families, parents, and other health professionals. This is essential in forming a treatment plan that follows a holistic approach, with the overall goal of creating a more desirable quality of life. I am easy to talk to and I focus on making sure you are heard. We will brainstorm ideas together, develop a plan, and set goals. I want to make sure each patient receives individualized care and enables trust in the partnership.
Hi! I'm a board-certified, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I focuses on treating patients across the life span, including children and adolescents while working alongside families, parents, and other health professionals. This is essential in forming a treatment plan that follows a holistic approach, with the overall goal of creating a more desirable quality of life. I am easy to talk to and I focus on making sure you are heard. We will brainstorm ideas together, develop a plan, and set goals. I want to make sure each patient receives individualized care and enables trust in the partnership.
Sannyasa. Gray Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211 (Online Only)
Katelyn Gray is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree from Regis University. Since beginning her practice in 2022, Katelyn has focused on providing compassionate and personalized mental health care to her patients. She is the founder of Sannyasa by Gray Mental Health, a practice inspired by the concept of "Sannyasa," the fourth Ashram in Buddhism, which represents the epitome of love and self-understanding.
Katelyn Gray is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree from Regis University. Since beginning her practice in 2022, Katelyn has focused on providing compassionate and personalized mental health care to her patients. She is the founder of Sannyasa by Gray Mental Health, a practice inspired by the concept of "Sannyasa," the fourth Ashram in Buddhism, which represents the epitome of love and self-understanding.
![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 Eva Diaz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/446b991f-e33b-4076-a80b-19a21ca86305/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have difficulties with relationships, mood, anxiety, self-esteem, and attention. I also have expertise in helping individuals with perinatal mental health concerns. I strive to help folks understand and accept themselves, while thoughtfully prescribing indicated psychotropic medications. In treating youth, I see myself as a partner with parents to drive development forward.
I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have difficulties with relationships, mood, anxiety, self-esteem, and attention. I also have expertise in helping individuals with perinatal mental health concerns. I strive to help folks understand and accept themselves, while thoughtfully prescribing indicated psychotropic medications. In treating youth, I see myself as a partner with parents to drive development forward.
See more therapy options for Colorado
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$216
Psychiatrists in Colorado who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
82% | Medication Management |
81% | ADHD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Colorado see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
27% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Colorado?
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.