Psychiatrists in Arvada, CO
Brennan Lehotay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80005 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience working in mental health nursing since 2018. My area of specialization includes LGBTQIA+ issues, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD. Outside of work, I enjoy the company of my two Huskies and two Persian cats. When free, I can be found playing the bass guitar or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. A love for cooking is further fueled by my spouse, a baker, making us quite the culinary team.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience working in mental health nursing since 2018. My area of specialization includes LGBTQIA+ issues, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD. Outside of work, I enjoy the company of my two Huskies and two Persian cats. When free, I can be found playing the bass guitar or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. A love for cooking is further fueled by my spouse, a baker, making us quite the culinary team.
Dr. Isaiah Bercot M.D. - Denver Mind and Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD, BS
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80007
*Accepting new patients.* I am Dr. Isaiah Bercot, a licensed psychiatrist located in the greater Denver area, and serving all of Colorado via telehealth. My areas of specialty include ADD, ADHD, anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, sensory processing disorder and depression including altitude induced and seasonal depression. I work with both teenagers and adults. I take an individualized and patient-centered approach to medical care. I know that no two patients are alike and that there is no magical pill that will treat everyone.
*Accepting new patients.* I am Dr. Isaiah Bercot, a licensed psychiatrist located in the greater Denver area, and serving all of Colorado via telehealth. My areas of specialty include ADD, ADHD, anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, sensory processing disorder and depression including altitude induced and seasonal depression. I work with both teenagers and adults. I take an individualized and patient-centered approach to medical care. I know that no two patients are alike and that there is no magical pill that will treat everyone.
Are you overwhelmed at the challenges of living? Does life feel meaningless or hopeless? Are you burdened with guilt and shame? Do you lack a sense of belonging and struggle in your relationships? Do you feel unfulfilled despite your successes? As a former psychiatrist with 20 years' experience, I am deeply committed to human flourishing. Scripture indicates we are spirit, in addition to body and mind. I am a Biblical Counselor with a holistic view of our human predicament.
Are you overwhelmed at the challenges of living? Does life feel meaningless or hopeless? Are you burdened with guilt and shame? Do you lack a sense of belonging and struggle in your relationships? Do you feel unfulfilled despite your successes? As a former psychiatrist with 20 years' experience, I am deeply committed to human flourishing. Scripture indicates we are spirit, in addition to body and mind. I am a Biblical Counselor with a holistic view of our human predicament.
Margurite Isaac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004 (Online Only)
Born and raised in Kansas City, I decided to pursue a medical career during high school. I went to trade school and worked as a medical assistant and phlebotomist. After several years I decided to further my education in nursing, attaining my LPN, RN, BSN, MSN, and post-graduate certification. I graduated summa cum laude from all nursing coursework. Margurite decided to pursue my PMHNP certification out of my desire to more effectively help others suffering from anxiety and depression.
Born and raised in Kansas City, I decided to pursue a medical career during high school. I went to trade school and worked as a medical assistant and phlebotomist. After several years I decided to further my education in nursing, attaining my LPN, RN, BSN, MSN, and post-graduate certification. I graduated summa cum laude from all nursing coursework. Margurite decided to pursue my PMHNP certification out of my desire to more effectively help others suffering from anxiety and depression.
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
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!
Daniel Plastino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
Accepting new clients September 4th, 2024! Life is a journey and healing is often a nonlinear process. Sometimes it can seem like we take one step forward and two steps back. It can be hard to feel connected to ourselves. We may feel controlled by our past history or current stressful life events. Fear and doubt often inevitably creep in and can affect our daily lives and our relationships. I am passionate about practicing behavioral health using a trauma informed, integrative approach to wellness. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who blends conventional treatments with complementary practices.
Accepting new clients September 4th, 2024! Life is a journey and healing is often a nonlinear process. Sometimes it can seem like we take one step forward and two steps back. It can be hard to feel connected to ourselves. We may feel controlled by our past history or current stressful life events. Fear and doubt often inevitably creep in and can affect our daily lives and our relationships. I am passionate about practicing behavioral health using a trauma informed, integrative approach to wellness. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who blends conventional treatments with complementary practices.
Mountain Valley Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80002
I believe everyone deserves quality mental health care and that is why I chose to be a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Let's talk and see if we can get you on track to mental wellness. PLEASE SCHEDULE ONLINE: www.mountainvalleymentalhealth.com At Mountain Valley Mental Health we have a few providers, Mr. Dahlberg is only taking a few new patients monthly, however - we have Harmony Wright taking new patients and another practitioner Bryan Eckhard joining in Aug/Sept. Please CALL TODAY to set up appointment or schedule online @ www.mountainvalleymentalhealth.com
I believe everyone deserves quality mental health care and that is why I chose to be a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Let's talk and see if we can get you on track to mental wellness. PLEASE SCHEDULE ONLINE: www.mountainvalleymentalhealth.com At Mountain Valley Mental Health we have a few providers, Mr. Dahlberg is only taking a few new patients monthly, however - we have Harmony Wright taking new patients and another practitioner Bryan Eckhard joining in Aug/Sept. Please CALL TODAY to set up appointment or schedule online @ www.mountainvalleymentalhealth.com
Rebekah Turner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80004 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat patients struggling with a variety of mental health disorders, such as, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, addiction, OCD, as well as thyroid diseases, hormone imbalances, and weight loss. I enjoy working with all ages-children, adolescents, adults and elderly patients.
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat patients struggling with a variety of mental health disorders, such as, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, addiction, OCD, as well as thyroid diseases, hormone imbalances, and weight loss. I enjoy working with all ages-children, adolescents, adults and elderly patients.
FundaMental Health and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80006 (Online Only)
I practice a whole-person approach that includes motivational interviewing (MI), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness practices. I will spend time listening to you and learning what makes your challenges unique. I am an expert at safely prescribing medications to alleviate your unwanted psychiatric symptoms. I have successfully treated clients with depression, anxiety, OCD, substance use, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and many other conditions to achieve remission of unwanted symptoms.
I practice a whole-person approach that includes motivational interviewing (MI), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness practices. I will spend time listening to you and learning what makes your challenges unique. I am an expert at safely prescribing medications to alleviate your unwanted psychiatric symptoms. I have successfully treated clients with depression, anxiety, OCD, substance use, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and many other conditions to achieve remission of unwanted symptoms.
Mind and Soul Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
My name is Jennifer Medina, and I am a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Through my work with various populations, I have gained extensive experience helping individuals navigate challenging times. I am here to offer my expertise to those struggling with issues such as ADHD, trauma, crisis, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and relationship problems.
My name is Jennifer Medina, and I am a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Through my work with various populations, I have gained extensive experience helping individuals navigate challenging times. I am here to offer my expertise to those struggling with issues such as ADHD, trauma, crisis, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and relationship problems.
Breanna Millsap MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability! She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your free consultation today!
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability! She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your free consultation today!
15 Second Videos
Brennan Lehotay
Dr. Isaiah Bercot M.D. - Denver Mind and Wellness
Margurite Isaac
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Mind and Soul Psychiatry
Breanna Millsap MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Alli McClintock
Olaf Garcia
Erin Lutchkus
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Sandra Osborne
Christopher Archer
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Judy Kwedar - Denver Wellness Associates
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Tim Wood
Ivy Hoo
Chris Archer
Meghan Dow
Ivy Hoo
Andrew Nagy
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Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Alli McClintock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002 (Online Only)
Specialize in treating ADHD particularly in women who are often overlooked in this diagnosis. Will help to manage ADHD symptoms, establish coping skills and identify if any additional supplementation is needed.
Specialize in treating ADHD particularly in women who are often overlooked in this diagnosis. Will help to manage ADHD symptoms, establish coping skills and identify if any additional supplementation is needed.
Great Plains Mental Health Partners Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
Great Plains Mental Health Partners Inc is a Veteran owned and operated Psychiatric/Behavioral Health practice located in Colorado. The providers are all trained and licensed as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners – Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). Some have additional training in Family Practice (FNP-C) and Adult Gerontology Primary Care (AGPCNP-BC). They all share a compassion for and desire to help people live happy healthy lives.
Great Plains Mental Health Partners Inc is a Veteran owned and operated Psychiatric/Behavioral Health practice located in Colorado. The providers are all trained and licensed as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners – Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). Some have additional training in Family Practice (FNP-C) and Adult Gerontology Primary Care (AGPCNP-BC). They all share a compassion for and desire to help people live happy healthy lives.
Search google for my practice "NowPsych Sean Paul, MD" for reviews and more. Empathetic, holistic, and inclusive psychiatrist for all ages. I offer personalized care for children, teens, and adults facing various mental health challenges. Consultations are available virtually via computer, phone, or tablet for residents of Colorado and Florida. My expertise includes ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma. Common concerns addressed are depression, anxiety, academic struggles, behavioral issues at home, and interpersonal relationship difficulties.
Search google for my practice "NowPsych Sean Paul, MD" for reviews and more. Empathetic, holistic, and inclusive psychiatrist for all ages. I offer personalized care for children, teens, and adults facing various mental health challenges. Consultations are available virtually via computer, phone, or tablet for residents of Colorado and Florida. My expertise includes ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma. Common concerns addressed are depression, anxiety, academic struggles, behavioral issues at home, and interpersonal relationship difficulties.
Olaf Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80007 (Online Only)
Hello! I graduated with a degree in nursing from Santa Monica College in 2009. Since that time, I’ve worked in several hospital settings including intensive care. I finished my first masters degree as and Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist in 2017 from California State University at Dominguez Hills and started managing extremely sick people in a long-term acute care hospital One universal I’ve seen throughout my many different careers in and out of healthcare is that the presence (or absence) of good mental health care spells the difference between success and failure in any environment.
Hello! I graduated with a degree in nursing from Santa Monica College in 2009. Since that time, I’ve worked in several hospital settings including intensive care. I finished my first masters degree as and Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist in 2017 from California State University at Dominguez Hills and started managing extremely sick people in a long-term acute care hospital One universal I’ve seen throughout my many different careers in and out of healthcare is that the presence (or absence) of good mental health care spells the difference between success and failure in any environment.
Erin Lutchkus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPA, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80007 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in a variety of nursing specialties. I am an active member in Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. I aim to provide my patients with the support they need based on their individually unique situations. I hope that my patients feel safe, comfortable and respected in my care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in a variety of nursing specialties. I am an active member in Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. I aim to provide my patients with the support they need based on their individually unique situations. I hope that my patients feel safe, comfortable and respected in my care.
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.
Accepting New Patients! I'm Sandra (she/her), an empathetic mental health provider with a wealth of experience in crisis services, forensics, and veteran care. My mission is to meet you where you are and provide a judgment-free space where your voice is heard and valued. By integrating mind, body, and self, we'll navigate challenging emotions together. I can also prescribe and help with your medication management.
Accepting New Patients! I'm Sandra (she/her), an empathetic mental health provider with a wealth of experience in crisis services, forensics, and veteran care. My mission is to meet you where you are and provide a judgment-free space where your voice is heard and valued. By integrating mind, body, and self, we'll navigate challenging emotions together. I can also prescribe and help with your medication management.
I have over 15 years experience working with and prescribing medications for young adults, adults, and the geriatric population in hospitals and outpatient clinics. I have training in Psychiatry and general medicine. The first appointment will be a focused evaluation where I will get to know you as an individual and ask detailed questions so an appropriate diagnosis can be made. Perhaps you are not sure whether medication is right for you, or you have had many medication trials in the past. During the initial evaluation, we will discuss the potential benefits and risks of medication for you as an individual.
I have over 15 years experience working with and prescribing medications for young adults, adults, and the geriatric population in hospitals and outpatient clinics. I have training in Psychiatry and general medicine. The first appointment will be a focused evaluation where I will get to know you as an individual and ask detailed questions so an appropriate diagnosis can be made. Perhaps you are not sure whether medication is right for you, or you have had many medication trials in the past. During the initial evaluation, we will discuss the potential benefits and risks of medication for you as an individual.
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
See more therapy options for Arvada
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Arvada, CO
50+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Arvada, CO who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
89% | ADHD |
87% | Trauma and PTSD |
87% | Medication Management |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
98% | Aetna |
95% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Arvada, CO see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
64% | Female | |
36% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Arvada?
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.