Psychiatrists in Niwot, CO
![Photo of Jennifer Gerardy - Jen Gerardy- Amavi Integrative Mental Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc5e8c18-6c7e-49df-85e8-0b1e299b3514/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jen Gerardy- Amavi Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Niwot, CO 80503
Welcome! I enjoy working with adult patients of all ages and from diverse backgrounds, and I bring over 20 years of acute care experience in medical, surgical, and critical care to my psychiatric practice. I am also a proud veteran of the United States Air Force Nurse Corps. I believe this background has given me unique insights into the bi-directional nature of physical and mental health and how family structure and social determinants can impact mental well-being. I have been told I have a compassionate and gentle nature, and I approach each patient with unconditional positive regard. I look forward to working with you!
Welcome! I enjoy working with adult patients of all ages and from diverse backgrounds, and I bring over 20 years of acute care experience in medical, surgical, and critical care to my psychiatric practice. I am also a proud veteran of the United States Air Force Nurse Corps. I believe this background has given me unique insights into the bi-directional nature of physical and mental health and how family structure and social determinants can impact mental well-being. I have been told I have a compassionate and gentle nature, and I approach each patient with unconditional positive regard. I look forward to working with you!
![Photo of Kristin Wingfield - Kristin Wingfield- Amavi Integrative Mental Health, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/730a56ac-7526-4cec-a583-3b7e5a54d6ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Wingfield- Amavi Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Niwot, CO 80503 (Online Only)
Kristin Wingfield is a nurse practitioner board-certified in both psychiatric mental health and family practice. She is caring and empathetic and enjoys building relationships with patients to develop individualized care through a collaborative approach. She believes in the importance of recognizing the mind/body connection in the promotion of mental wellness. Kristin provides comprehensive psychiatric care through counseling, mental health education, and prescribing medications when helpful.
Kristin Wingfield is a nurse practitioner board-certified in both psychiatric mental health and family practice. She is caring and empathetic and enjoys building relationships with patients to develop individualized care through a collaborative approach. She believes in the importance of recognizing the mind/body connection in the promotion of mental wellness. Kristin provides comprehensive psychiatric care through counseling, mental health education, and prescribing medications when helpful.
![Photo of Michael A Zona, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca7a208-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
All patients are treated with dignity and respect. Most of my patients require medical management solutions where both their medical issues and their psychiatric issues are coordinated and resolved. I actively work with my patients' internists/family practice/neurologists to coordinate care and develop a treatment plan. Patients are expected to be informed and to be involved in their care. All medications are carefully explained. I believe patients do best when they are engaged participants in their own care. Similarly, I actively encourage coordination with any patient that has their own therapist and want medication management only.
All patients are treated with dignity and respect. Most of my patients require medical management solutions where both their medical issues and their psychiatric issues are coordinated and resolved. I actively work with my patients' internists/family practice/neurologists to coordinate care and develop a treatment plan. Patients are expected to be informed and to be involved in their care. All medications are carefully explained. I believe patients do best when they are engaged participants in their own care. Similarly, I actively encourage coordination with any patient that has their own therapist and want medication management only.
![Photo of Will Van Derveer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/535d42f6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
We regard people as inherently healthy and whole, in contrast to the conventional and widespread belief that people with psychiatric symptoms must be in long-term treatment. Psychological health can truly be achieved by learning new techniques of managing stress and overcoming fear-based habits. We prescribe medications as temporary tools for softening intense symptoms, allowing the deeper healing can occur. Alternative treatments such as vitamins and supplements are encouraged when appropriate. When depression or PTSD does not respond to conventional treatments, we may recommend a course of ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
We regard people as inherently healthy and whole, in contrast to the conventional and widespread belief that people with psychiatric symptoms must be in long-term treatment. Psychological health can truly be achieved by learning new techniques of managing stress and overcoming fear-based habits. We prescribe medications as temporary tools for softening intense symptoms, allowing the deeper healing can occur. Alternative treatments such as vitamins and supplements are encouraged when appropriate. When depression or PTSD does not respond to conventional treatments, we may recommend a course of ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
![Photo of Monique Rees - Monique Rees- Amavi Integrative Mental Health, PMHNP, LPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85c19821-ad58-4672-a173-6c4d54a5d463/2/320x400.jpeg)
Monique Rees- Amavi Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC
Verified Verified
Niwot, CO 80503
I take a comprehensive approach to treating mental health conditions and tailor treatment to meet the needs of my patients. My training is unique in that I have a masters degree as a psychotherapist in addition to being a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This, along with additional training in integrative psychiatry, allows me to treat my patients holistically, addressing symptoms as well as root causes for mental health conditions. I work with my patients to develop treatment plans that may include lifestyle changes, counseling, medication, and non pharmacological supplementation.
I take a comprehensive approach to treating mental health conditions and tailor treatment to meet the needs of my patients. My training is unique in that I have a masters degree as a psychotherapist in addition to being a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This, along with additional training in integrative psychiatry, allows me to treat my patients holistically, addressing symptoms as well as root causes for mental health conditions. I work with my patients to develop treatment plans that may include lifestyle changes, counseling, medication, and non pharmacological supplementation.
![Photo of Tamara Bockman - Tamara Bockman- Amavi Integrative Mental Health, MS, APN, ACCNS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff75e6fe-26f6-4158-a6d6-67d7ec15f28b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tamara Bockman- Amavi Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APN, ACCNS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Niwot, CO 80503
I am dual board certified as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Adult/Geriatric Clinical Nurse Specialist. I bring nearly thirty years of experience to my mental health practice. My expertise includes both acute and maintenance psychiatric treatment, the establishment of new treatment plans, medication management, and psychiatric diagnostics for adults and geriatric patients. I use both an empathetic and compassionate approach to treating my client's mental health needs.
I am dual board certified as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Adult/Geriatric Clinical Nurse Specialist. I bring nearly thirty years of experience to my mental health practice. My expertise includes both acute and maintenance psychiatric treatment, the establishment of new treatment plans, medication management, and psychiatric diagnostics for adults and geriatric patients. I use both an empathetic and compassionate approach to treating my client's mental health needs.
![Photo of Jen Miller Clarity Health, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3bbbeb8-c898-4b91-9c59-532abd9adfce/3/320x400.png)
Jen Miller Clarity Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Niwot, CO 80503
Wondering if genetics, gut health or hormones are impacting your mental health? We explore these areas and the impact on ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Social Anxiety, and Public Speaking struggles. We are certified in psychiatry and use evidence-based-medicine, genetics and a functional lens to understand of how inflammation, nutrition, genetics, gut health, hormones and stress impact physical and mental health. Please visit www.clarityhealthnow.com to discover if it is the right fit for us both! We offer evening & weekend availability for busy professionals and students.
Wondering if genetics, gut health or hormones are impacting your mental health? We explore these areas and the impact on ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Social Anxiety, and Public Speaking struggles. We are certified in psychiatry and use evidence-based-medicine, genetics and a functional lens to understand of how inflammation, nutrition, genetics, gut health, hormones and stress impact physical and mental health. Please visit www.clarityhealthnow.com to discover if it is the right fit for us both! We offer evening & weekend availability for busy professionals and students.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kate Nicholas Hamzi, PMHNP, APRN-X, IBCLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/548a22af-b997-4ac4-a812-cee4b619ec93/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Nicholas Hamzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-X, IBCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80503 (Online Only)
I know it can be a difficult decision to ask for help, but you are worth it! My goal is to empower you with various methods to manage your mental health. These tools may include medication, therapy and lifestyle changes. I use research and evidence-based practices to assist in choosing the best regimen. As your provider, I will actively listen to your concerns without any judgment and work on a holistic treatment plan with you.
I know it can be a difficult decision to ask for help, but you are worth it! My goal is to empower you with various methods to manage your mental health. These tools may include medication, therapy and lifestyle changes. I use research and evidence-based practices to assist in choosing the best regimen. As your provider, I will actively listen to your concerns without any judgment and work on a holistic treatment plan with you.
![Photo of Alex Betz - Alex Betz, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fffe4f58-fc4a-4667-942c-a344e12bacfc/1/320x400.png)
Alex Betz, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
Alex is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He started his career working as a registered nurse in while pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Toledo where he specialized in psychiatric mental health.
Alex is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He started his career working as a registered nurse in while pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Toledo where he specialized in psychiatric mental health.
![Photo of Quinn Yen, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec89f377-d771-4fc0-9fa9-4236b8a78867/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am Dr. Quinn Yen, a board-certified psychiatrist located in Boulder, CO. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, insomnia, and bipolar disorder. I work with teens (16+) and adults throughout Colorado. Both in-person and online appointments are available. Rate for the initial 1-hour appointment is $240, and follow-up appointments are $95 to $170 for 15 to 30 minutes, respectively. Insurance is not accepted, and by law I am unable to accept patients with Medicaid.
I am Dr. Quinn Yen, a board-certified psychiatrist located in Boulder, CO. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, insomnia, and bipolar disorder. I work with teens (16+) and adults throughout Colorado. Both in-person and online appointments are available. Rate for the initial 1-hour appointment is $240, and follow-up appointments are $95 to $170 for 15 to 30 minutes, respectively. Insurance is not accepted, and by law I am unable to accept patients with Medicaid.
![Photo of Sina Saidi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c86604c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best. I am a graduate of Harvard Medical School and the Johns Hopkins psychiatry residency program, and board-certified in psychiatry. I have over twenty years combined experience in psychiatry and primary care medicine, and work with adults and adolescents 16 and older. I treat depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and psychiatric issues related to neurological and medical conditions.
My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best. I am a graduate of Harvard Medical School and the Johns Hopkins psychiatry residency program, and board-certified in psychiatry. I have over twenty years combined experience in psychiatry and primary care medicine, and work with adults and adolescents 16 and older. I treat depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and psychiatric issues related to neurological and medical conditions.
![Photo of Henry Fagnant, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/442f29ce-243d-4c86-b564-336a0712c7c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Appointments available! Henry is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who obtained his undergraduate and advanced nursing degree from Regis University in Denver, CO. He has over ten years of healthcare experience serving pediatric, adult and geriatric populations. Henry’s background includes an engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines, ecclesiastical work in service to the poor and underserved, and nursing services that include pediatric homecare, hospital inpatient and hospice care.
Appointments available! Henry is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who obtained his undergraduate and advanced nursing degree from Regis University in Denver, CO. He has over ten years of healthcare experience serving pediatric, adult and geriatric populations. Henry’s background includes an engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines, ecclesiastical work in service to the poor and underserved, and nursing services that include pediatric homecare, hospital inpatient and hospice care.
![Photo of Dr. Ari Aal, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47859897-03d4-451b-8691-e22c110c289d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mental illness can make even the most routine of tasks near impossible, and it’s often hard to find help when you need it. Mental health treatment is not just about getting you "back to normal". It should help bring more meaning, purpose and wellbeing into your life. Hello, my name is Dr. Ari Aal and I want to welcome you in this journey as we work together toward your goals. In a first meeting with my patients, I get to know them on an emotional level. From there we work together and create plans for what they need in order feel better quickly while also providing the necessary tools that will help change their lives long-term.
Mental illness can make even the most routine of tasks near impossible, and it’s often hard to find help when you need it. Mental health treatment is not just about getting you "back to normal". It should help bring more meaning, purpose and wellbeing into your life. Hello, my name is Dr. Ari Aal and I want to welcome you in this journey as we work together toward your goals. In a first meeting with my patients, I get to know them on an emotional level. From there we work together and create plans for what they need in order feel better quickly while also providing the necessary tools that will help change their lives long-term.
![Photo of Darnelle Scott - Scott Psychiatric Consultants, PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af72d16f-0537-471e-ac21-a97f1f0976b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scott Psychiatric Consultants, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302 (Online Only)
My name is Darnelle, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am a provider who listens to and supports every patient. When life brings you troubles, I support you every step of the way. Disclaimer: I do not prescribe controlled substances
My name is Darnelle, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am a provider who listens to and supports every patient. When life brings you troubles, I support you every step of the way. Disclaimer: I do not prescribe controlled substances
![Photo of Marcie Beroske, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5821462a-c497-408c-8cd1-580a1bb5d59f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marcie Beroske
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80309 (Online Only)
Same week appointments now available for new patients. Marcie Beroske, PMHNP and owner of Wildwood Behavioral Health specializes in providing comprehensive mental health care for college-aged individuals and young adults entering the workforce. She understands the unique challenges and pressures faced by this population, including academic stress, transitioning to independence, and navigating early career paths.
Same week appointments now available for new patients. Marcie Beroske, PMHNP and owner of Wildwood Behavioral Health specializes in providing comprehensive mental health care for college-aged individuals and young adults entering the workforce. She understands the unique challenges and pressures faced by this population, including academic stress, transitioning to independence, and navigating early career paths.
![Photo of Sean Paul, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6ee1681-09be-4e8c-88a6-a8e727fe8249/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Abbey Stone, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9a4be5d-12f8-457b-a358-eb71ead486a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suniasol Integrative Mental Health & Ketamine Clinic (Suniasol.com) offers safe & supportive ketamine treatment as well as medication management for Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD. We empower you with tools essential for navigating mental/emotional & life challenges for more spaciousness, insight, ease, peace, joy, and connection. Ketamine Treatment is available for those meeting criteria. Our approach is integrative, holistic, compassionate, somatically-oriented, and trauma-informed. Mental Wellness is multifactoral so our approach is holistic and deeply heartfelt.
Suniasol Integrative Mental Health & Ketamine Clinic (Suniasol.com) offers safe & supportive ketamine treatment as well as medication management for Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD. We empower you with tools essential for navigating mental/emotional & life challenges for more spaciousness, insight, ease, peace, joy, and connection. Ketamine Treatment is available for those meeting criteria. Our approach is integrative, holistic, compassionate, somatically-oriented, and trauma-informed. Mental Wellness is multifactoral so our approach is holistic and deeply heartfelt.
![Photo of Sarah Paryga, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7190dfb-f3b5-4269-8662-1d1ce4b7092f/1/320x400.png)
Sarah Paryga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80305 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients with immediate availability! Medicaid and private insurance accepted. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have been working in mental health since 2008. I have worked as a milieu therapist, psychiatric technician, registered nurse, and APRN in various settings, from inpatient hospitals to residential facilities. For the last eight years, I have worked in correctional facilities including jails and prisons. Book an appointment with me now at Trendmentalhealth.com
Accepting new clients with immediate availability! Medicaid and private insurance accepted. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have been working in mental health since 2008. I have worked as a milieu therapist, psychiatric technician, registered nurse, and APRN in various settings, from inpatient hospitals to residential facilities. For the last eight years, I have worked in correctional facilities including jails and prisons. Book an appointment with me now at Trendmentalhealth.com
![Photo of Precious (Barnes) Abbott, APRN , PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48924f35-2f8b-4cb1-a507-1ec370cc5d6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Precious (Barnes) Abbott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
Are you currently feeling like life is getting the best of you? Like you are in a constant state of overwhelm or like you're just going through the motions most of the time? Are you finding it harder and harder to wind down or on the contrary find motivation to do daily tasks that were once a breeze for you? Is it hard for you to concentrate or find joy in things that you previously found fulfilling? Are you struggling to find balance between school/work or household responsibilities and self care? If so please allow me to help.
Are you currently feeling like life is getting the best of you? Like you are in a constant state of overwhelm or like you're just going through the motions most of the time? Are you finding it harder and harder to wind down or on the contrary find motivation to do daily tasks that were once a breeze for you? Is it hard for you to concentrate or find joy in things that you previously found fulfilling? Are you struggling to find balance between school/work or household responsibilities and self care? If so please allow me to help.
![Photo of Julie Bass - Julie Bass, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3fd82b2-581f-4960-b040-eb242b5401cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Bass, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
Julie received her Master of Science in Nursing from Ohio State University and is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in psychiatric nursing since 2016 in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Julie treats a variety of psychiatric conditions using an individualized approach and creates a treatment plan that is tailored to each patient's individual needs, desired outcome, and personal considerations.
Julie received her Master of Science in Nursing from Ohio State University and is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in psychiatric nursing since 2016 in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Julie treats a variety of psychiatric conditions using an individualized approach and creates a treatment plan that is tailored to each patient's individual needs, desired outcome, and personal considerations.
See more therapy options for Niwot
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Niwot, CO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Niwot, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
86% | Sleep or Insomnia |
86% | Medication Management |
71% | Geriatric and Seniors |
Average years in practice
26 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Niwot, CO see their clients
86% | In Person and Online | |
14% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Niwot?
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.