Psychiatrists in Colorado
Jeffrey Byrne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120 (Online Only)
I have been working in healthcare since 2015, starting as a behavioral health technician with the Cleveland Clinic. I began work as a nurse in 2017, and have worked in various mental health settings including inpatient adult/adolescent psychiatry, as well as the psychiatric emergency department before graduating with a master’s degree from the University of Colorado.
I have been working in healthcare since 2015, starting as a behavioral health technician with the Cleveland Clinic. I began work as a nurse in 2017, and have worked in various mental health settings including inpatient adult/adolescent psychiatry, as well as the psychiatric emergency department before graduating with a master’s degree from the University of Colorado.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have a passion for helping people with their mental health needs. I am deeply committed to addressing issues surrounding diversity, mental health disparities, and the reduction of stigma. I believe in the uniqueness of each individual and their inherent ability to engage in the decision-making process and recovery journey. My objective is to foster an environment where each person feels safe and valued, and together, develop a treatment plan that aligns with their specific needs and aspirations.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have a passion for helping people with their mental health needs. I am deeply committed to addressing issues surrounding diversity, mental health disparities, and the reduction of stigma. I believe in the uniqueness of each individual and their inherent ability to engage in the decision-making process and recovery journey. My objective is to foster an environment where each person feels safe and valued, and together, develop a treatment plan that aligns with their specific needs and aspirations.
Bailie Cronin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MS, APRN-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80216
Your mental health doesn’t make up the entirety of who you are. Whether you’ve been navigating a life transition, recently experienced a traumatic event, or are simply exhausted from trying so hard. You want to feel like yourself again. You’re as motivated to help yourself as we are committed to caring for you. We support you with short-term treatment plans because we know you don’t want to be on medication forever. We don’t just prescribe prescriptions — we’re here to combine test results and cutting-edge treatment modalities with creating balance using the basics of self-care and removing barriers to getting support.
Your mental health doesn’t make up the entirety of who you are. Whether you’ve been navigating a life transition, recently experienced a traumatic event, or are simply exhausted from trying so hard. You want to feel like yourself again. You’re as motivated to help yourself as we are committed to caring for you. We support you with short-term treatment plans because we know you don’t want to be on medication forever. We don’t just prescribe prescriptions — we’re here to combine test results and cutting-edge treatment modalities with creating balance using the basics of self-care and removing barriers to getting support.
I believe that all persons choose and walk their own unique path to wellness and a meaningful, fulfilling life. I listen carefully and collaborate with my clients in helping them explore their personal values and goals for optimal mental health. Psychiatric medications may be a part of a comprehensive and effective mental health plan of care. I have 24 years of experience treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, ADHD. I consider myself an ally and have experience working with and treating members of the LGBTQ+ community.
I believe that all persons choose and walk their own unique path to wellness and a meaningful, fulfilling life. I listen carefully and collaborate with my clients in helping them explore their personal values and goals for optimal mental health. Psychiatric medications may be a part of a comprehensive and effective mental health plan of care. I have 24 years of experience treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, ADHD. I consider myself an ally and have experience working with and treating members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Katie Spann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Have you found that it has become increasingly more difficult to find the joy you seek in everyday life? Well, if you can relate, allow me to assist you with becoming the best version of yourself that you can be. That best version starts with improving your mental health. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 4 + years of experience as an NP and 14 + years as a psychiatric nurse. I am licensed in Colorado.
Accepting New Clients. Have you found that it has become increasingly more difficult to find the joy you seek in everyday life? Well, if you can relate, allow me to assist you with becoming the best version of yourself that you can be. That best version starts with improving your mental health. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 4 + years of experience as an NP and 14 + years as a psychiatric nurse. I am licensed in Colorado.
Kevin Jones is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist in Arizona who has been practicing since 2006. Kevin treats ADHD, Schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, Bipolar and related disorders, Depressive disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive and related disorders, Trauma and stressor-related disorders, Insomnia Disorder, Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders, and offers Supportive & Motivational psychotherapy. In his spare time, Kevin enjoys theatre, golf, tennis, piano, reading, and ballroom dancing.
Kevin Jones is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist in Arizona who has been practicing since 2006. Kevin treats ADHD, Schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, Bipolar and related disorders, Depressive disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive and related disorders, Trauma and stressor-related disorders, Insomnia Disorder, Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders, and offers Supportive & Motivational psychotherapy. In his spare time, Kevin enjoys theatre, golf, tennis, piano, reading, and ballroom dancing.
Maria Mojica-Rangel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northglenn, CO 80233
Maria Mojica-Rangel is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 2013. Maria provides psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and medication management for the treatment of OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, and Behavioral disorders. She has over ten years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner working with children, adolescents, and adults.
Maria Mojica-Rangel is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 2013. Maria provides psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and medication management for the treatment of OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, and Behavioral disorders. She has over ten years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner working with children, adolescents, and adults.
Women's and Children Psychiatry| Grace Stimpson NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Thornton, CO 80229 (Online Only)
I am a 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 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
Marsha Fuller-Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I treat ages 8+ for issues including but not limited to: ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, Bipolar Disorder, disordered eating, and grief. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care and emphasize the importance of informed collaboration and open communication. I seek to build strong therapeutic relationships with my clients and am committed to ensuring that individuals feel heard and validated throughout their treatment journey. I recognize the difficulty individuals experience in asking for mental health support and am a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and reducing stigma within the community.
I treat ages 8+ for issues including but not limited to: ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, Bipolar Disorder, disordered eating, and grief. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care and emphasize the importance of informed collaboration and open communication. I seek to build strong therapeutic relationships with my clients and am committed to ensuring that individuals feel heard and validated throughout their treatment journey. I recognize the difficulty individuals experience in asking for mental health support and am a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and reducing stigma within the community.
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.
All journeys begin with a single step, and we can take that step together. Above all else, my goal as a mental health provider is to make sure that you feel understood while offering treatment plans that are personalized, evidence-based, and aligned with your comfort level. I will be your advocate and together we can get you feeling like your best self.
All journeys begin with a single step, and we can take that step together. Above all else, my goal as a mental health provider is to make sure that you feel understood while offering treatment plans that are personalized, evidence-based, and aligned with your comfort level. I will be your advocate and together we can get you feeling like your best self.
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Each of us has a different background and unfolding story that makes us unique. As your provider, my goal is to listen and understand before we both move forward with any decisions about your own well-being. I have a deep appreciation for the mental health benefits provided by a comprehensive plan. This may include but is not limited to a well-rounded diet, daily movement, intentional therapy, and medication if needed.
Each of us has a different background and unfolding story that makes us unique. As your provider, my goal is to listen and understand before we both move forward with any decisions about your own well-being. I have a deep appreciation for the mental health benefits provided by a comprehensive plan. This may include but is not limited to a well-rounded diet, daily movement, intentional therapy, and medication if needed.
Shamim Namakula--Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat patients ages 8 and up experiencing mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, disordered eating, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, trauma, life transitions, grief, stressor-related disorders and so many more. I will listen to you and we will work together to find an individualized treatment plan to meet your specific needs. I apply an integrative approach that could include medication management, psychoeducation, nutrition, and complementary therapies.
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat patients ages 8 and up experiencing mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, disordered eating, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, trauma, life transitions, grief, stressor-related disorders and so many more. I will listen to you and we will work together to find an individualized treatment plan to meet your specific needs. I apply an integrative approach that could include medication management, psychoeducation, nutrition, and complementary therapies.
Tiffany S. Peterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Englewood, CO 80112
Hi, I'm Tiffany Peterson, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I prescribe medication, test for nutrient deficiencies and recommend complementary supplements. I help adults who do not respond to medications, those who prefer to limit prescribed medications and adults who seek alternatives to prescribed medications. Psychiatry is uniquely complex - think shades of grey rather than black and white. I respect your beliefs and individuality. We will discuss risks and benefits when customizing a treatment plan. From my experience, a good outcome is based on a good relationship - between you and me.
Hi, I'm Tiffany Peterson, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I prescribe medication, test for nutrient deficiencies and recommend complementary supplements. I help adults who do not respond to medications, those who prefer to limit prescribed medications and adults who seek alternatives to prescribed medications. Psychiatry is uniquely complex - think shades of grey rather than black and white. I respect your beliefs and individuality. We will discuss risks and benefits when customizing a treatment plan. From my experience, a good outcome is based on a good relationship - between you and me.
Cristy Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP
Verified Verified
Broomfield, CO 80021 (Online Only)
I am a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. I earned my degrees from the University of Colorado, Anschutz. I have been an FNP for over 15 years working in an outpatient clinic treating common physical health issues with a focus on health promotion and wellness. One thing that has changed immensely since starting my work in family practice is the amount of mental health issues that comes through primary care and how closely our physical and mental health are truly aligned. This is what started my desire to learn more about mental illness, its relationship to physical health, and the medications and therapies.
I am a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. I earned my degrees from the University of Colorado, Anschutz. I have been an FNP for over 15 years working in an outpatient clinic treating common physical health issues with a focus on health promotion and wellness. One thing that has changed immensely since starting my work in family practice is the amount of mental health issues that comes through primary care and how closely our physical and mental health are truly aligned. This is what started my desire to learn more about mental illness, its relationship to physical health, and the medications and therapies.
I believe in the resiliency of the human spirit, and I am more interested in the therapeutic connection with an individual rather than the generalization of treatment. My greatest passion is helping others find their way and bringing happiness and stability back into people’s lives.
I believe in the resiliency of the human spirit, and I am more interested in the therapeutic connection with an individual rather than the generalization of treatment. My greatest passion is helping others find their way and bringing happiness and stability back into people’s lives.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
Michael Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013 (Online Only)
Michael Moore, PMHNP-BC I deeply value the opportunity to build strong, therapeutic relationships with my participants. I strive to optimize a holistic approach, combining both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. I specialize in both adult and geriatric psychiatry. I understand we are all unique, with vastly different lived experiences. I tailor my approach to the individual, while incorporating aspects of brief solutions focused therapy, CBT and family systems. Medications are just one piece of the puzzle, as I work to provide my patients with as many tools as possible for future successes.
Michael Moore, PMHNP-BC I deeply value the opportunity to build strong, therapeutic relationships with my participants. I strive to optimize a holistic approach, combining both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. I specialize in both adult and geriatric psychiatry. I understand we are all unique, with vastly different lived experiences. I tailor my approach to the individual, while incorporating aspects of brief solutions focused therapy, CBT and family systems. Medications are just one piece of the puzzle, as I work to provide my patients with as many tools as possible for future successes.
Christy Kazmeroff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, ACNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parker, CO 80134 (Online Only)
Medication management, evaluation and treatment specialty. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, as well as a Family and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. Currently offering appointments via telehealth. Caring for all aspects of mental health, including depressive symptoms, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and substance abuse/dual diagnosis related diagnosis.
Medication management, evaluation and treatment specialty. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, as well as a Family and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. Currently offering appointments via telehealth. Caring for all aspects of mental health, including depressive symptoms, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and substance abuse/dual diagnosis related diagnosis.
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
See more therapy options for Colorado
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Colorado who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
81% | ADHD |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | Medication Management |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Colorado see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
26% | 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.