Psychiatrists in Denver, CO
![Photo of Jennifer Lee, PMHNP, FNP-C, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce62145d-6c4d-479e-b1f3-2636733fedc9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80204 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am accepting new clients for telehealth appointments. Offering flexibility with after-hours and Saturday appointments, I understand the profound impact of depression and anxiety on individuals' daily lives and am dedicated to providing comprehensive support in my practice. With years of clinical experience, I acknowledge the connection between physical and mental well-being. My approach centers on promoting a balanced and sustainable lifestyle, ensuring equal attention to both aspects of health.
I am accepting new clients for telehealth appointments. Offering flexibility with after-hours and Saturday appointments, I understand the profound impact of depression and anxiety on individuals' daily lives and am dedicated to providing comprehensive support in my practice. With years of clinical experience, I acknowledge the connection between physical and mental well-being. My approach centers on promoting a balanced and sustainable lifestyle, ensuring equal attention to both aspects of health.
![Photo of Bohan Farrell, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c73eb80c-05fa-4276-8487-1aa6201077a6/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Doctoral Nurse Practitioner who specializes in psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adult psychiatric clients. My approach to healthcare is a mind/ body balance. I believe we feel our best when we are both mentally and physically at our best. As a provider, I understand we are all different and require different approaches to treatment. Together we will discuss not only your mental health, but also focus on your nutrition, physical health, and self-care regimen including opportunities for therapy. My goal is for us to work together as a team to help you achieve your full health potential.
I am a board-certified Doctoral Nurse Practitioner who specializes in psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adult psychiatric clients. My approach to healthcare is a mind/ body balance. I believe we feel our best when we are both mentally and physically at our best. As a provider, I understand we are all different and require different approaches to treatment. Together we will discuss not only your mental health, but also focus on your nutrition, physical health, and self-care regimen including opportunities for therapy. My goal is for us to work together as a team to help you achieve your full health potential.
![Photo of Dr. Rebecca I Katz, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b98f486-ce22-4346-874a-273635a7ef63/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wellcova Health is excited to announce that Dr. Katz has joined our team. She brings a vast amount of knowledge and expertise in psychiatric medication management in both pediatric and adult patients. Dr. Rebecca Katz is a Board Certified Psychiatrist. Prior to becoming a physician, Dr. Katz received a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Pittsburgh and was a High School Science and Math Teacher as well as an Athletic coach in Pennsylvania for 6 years. She went on to receive a Master’s in Biomedical Sciences with a focus in stroke research from Rutgers’s University before changing careers to study medicine.
Wellcova Health is excited to announce that Dr. Katz has joined our team. She brings a vast amount of knowledge and expertise in psychiatric medication management in both pediatric and adult patients. Dr. Rebecca Katz is a Board Certified Psychiatrist. Prior to becoming a physician, Dr. Katz received a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Pittsburgh and was a High School Science and Math Teacher as well as an Athletic coach in Pennsylvania for 6 years. She went on to receive a Master’s in Biomedical Sciences with a focus in stroke research from Rutgers’s University before changing careers to study medicine.
![Photo of Julie Angileri - Capstone Mental Health, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/239c99e2-3d68-43f7-af52-747700dc1f80/2/320x400.jpeg)
Capstone Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80261 (Online Only)
Now an Autism and ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to help. I know reaching out can be the hardest part. Don't suffer in silence. I know you want to take back control over your life and truly feel alive again! I promise you, I will offer a safe and confidential environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and work through any challenges you may be facing. We aren't pushy, we are a member of your healthcare team, and make decisions...as a team! You are in full control over your healthcare.
Now an Autism and ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to help. I know reaching out can be the hardest part. Don't suffer in silence. I know you want to take back control over your life and truly feel alive again! I promise you, I will offer a safe and confidential environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and work through any challenges you may be facing. We aren't pushy, we are a member of your healthcare team, and make decisions...as a team! You are in full control over your healthcare.
![Photo of Sandra Osborne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a19e3d9-aa8b-489a-b0fd-42337fc5fea2/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Donna Strickland, MS RXN , PMHCNS-, BC LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bbda369-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donna Strickland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS RXN , PMHCNS-, BC LLC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Life throws us many curve balls If you are struggling with your life, exhausted from anxiety, experienced a difficult life transition, or more, you've come to the right place. Or perhaps you are a mom, juggling many priorities, with little left for yourself....or you've had a significant loss, and need help with bereavement. Or maybe you just want to feel the best you can & have energy to spare & get back to a place where you recognize yourself: Perhaps you are in need of medications to help you "get back on balance". Donna can also help you with these types of concerns.
Life throws us many curve balls If you are struggling with your life, exhausted from anxiety, experienced a difficult life transition, or more, you've come to the right place. Or perhaps you are a mom, juggling many priorities, with little left for yourself....or you've had a significant loss, and need help with bereavement. Or maybe you just want to feel the best you can & have energy to spare & get back to a place where you recognize yourself: Perhaps you are in need of medications to help you "get back on balance". Donna can also help you with these types of concerns.
![Photo of Jennifer French, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27266c4b-b4d3-410b-a143-f98d2a9e9706/3/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to patient care involves treating all of my patients with honor, humility, and kindness. I treat my patients as if they were family members, doing everything I possibly can to obtain the best outcome. I will always take the extra time to make sure my patients feel heard and understood. I believe it is critically important to treat patients of all backgrounds, races, religions, and sexual orientations with the utmost respect and to create a safe environment free of judgment. My philosophy is that the foundation of patient care is the human connection.
My approach to patient care involves treating all of my patients with honor, humility, and kindness. I treat my patients as if they were family members, doing everything I possibly can to obtain the best outcome. I will always take the extra time to make sure my patients feel heard and understood. I believe it is critically important to treat patients of all backgrounds, races, religions, and sexual orientations with the utmost respect and to create a safe environment free of judgment. My philosophy is that the foundation of patient care is the human connection.
![Photo of Justin R Ragon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae023b97-7e2b-4c09-88f0-442be2bf42c3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Justin R Ragon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202 (Online Only)
Justin is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority in Colorado, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Justin is originally from Mississippi, and after serving four years in the United States Air Force as an aircraft avionic technician, he attended University of Southern Mississippi where he majored in nursing. Justin worked for five years as a Registered Nurse before earning his Master’s in Nursing from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs and began working as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Justin treats children age 5 and over, adults, and geriatric patients.
Justin is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority in Colorado, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Justin is originally from Mississippi, and after serving four years in the United States Air Force as an aircraft avionic technician, he attended University of Southern Mississippi where he majored in nursing. Justin worked for five years as a Registered Nurse before earning his Master’s in Nursing from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs and began working as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Justin treats children age 5 and over, adults, and geriatric patients.
![Photo of Naira Numanovic - Avena Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76e868b7-86c0-44d9-9b80-bcde31aca03a/4/320x400.jpeg)
Naira Numanovic - Avena Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246
Accepting new clients! Appointments are typically available within 3 business days. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my dedication is centered on supporting you through life's challenges and assisting you in realizing your utmost potential. I provide a secure environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns.
Accepting new clients! Appointments are typically available within 3 business days. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my dedication is centered on supporting you through life's challenges and assisting you in realizing your utmost potential. I provide a secure environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns.
![Photo of Todd Kline, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d81903a7-17bf-45cf-b488-2ad296afc55b/6/320x400.png)
Cigna or Blue Cross? Hey, it's Dr. Todd Kline. I offer medications, psychotherapy, and innovative biofeedback treatments for those suffering with anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. By training, I'm a psychiatrist (medical doctor) and psychoanalyst (advanced psychotherapist) and have a thriving private practice in Cherry Creek where I'm now adding an additional 8 hours to my schedule. Thus, I'm excited to be accepting a limited number of new patients into the practice at this time! I specialize in treating Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD, PTSD, Panic Disorder) Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Mood illnesses.
Cigna or Blue Cross? Hey, it's Dr. Todd Kline. I offer medications, psychotherapy, and innovative biofeedback treatments for those suffering with anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. By training, I'm a psychiatrist (medical doctor) and psychoanalyst (advanced psychotherapist) and have a thriving private practice in Cherry Creek where I'm now adding an additional 8 hours to my schedule. Thus, I'm excited to be accepting a limited number of new patients into the practice at this time! I specialize in treating Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD, PTSD, Panic Disorder) Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Mood illnesses.
![Photo of Tim Wood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e9c30d1-55e5-4e3f-8490-708dfd6ae5d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am excited to address medication management and diagnostic clarification for patients with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, OCD, ADHD, PTSD and others.
I am excited to address medication management and diagnostic clarification for patients with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, OCD, ADHD, PTSD and others.
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![Photo of Thanh Nguyen - MindHealthNet, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e947ac1-6310-404b-89d3-a5657d5ebd12/2/320x400.jpeg)
MindHealthNet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202 (Online Only)
Are you having trouble managing your emotions? Are you having difficulty with sleep? Do you have difficulty with attention, focus, and motivation to complete tasks? There is hope. I help people manage their anxiety, depression, and focus before it has a chance to control your life and well being. My practice is able to treat and prescribe medication for a range of mental health issues including but not limited to: Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Depressive Disorders, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, or Personality Disorders.
Are you having trouble managing your emotions? Are you having difficulty with sleep? Do you have difficulty with attention, focus, and motivation to complete tasks? There is hope. I help people manage their anxiety, depression, and focus before it has a chance to control your life and well being. My practice is able to treat and prescribe medication for a range of mental health issues including but not limited to: Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Depressive Disorders, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, or Personality Disorders.
![Photo of Danielle Bennett, MS, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3118280d-b99a-47ca-bdf3-f1db211caa45/3/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Bennett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80216 (Online Only)
Currently Accepting New Patients! I provide psychiatric medication management services that are tailored specifically to you and your needs. My practice revolves around working towards creating solutions that work for your life. Whether you are trying medication for the first time, looking to change medications, or wanting to taper off completely, we will go at your pace and process issues together as they arise. I take a full-person approach and will recommend treatments beyond medication. Medication alone is rarely a full solution so those that are ready to put in the effort to get to the core of the issues will work best with me
Currently Accepting New Patients! I provide psychiatric medication management services that are tailored specifically to you and your needs. My practice revolves around working towards creating solutions that work for your life. Whether you are trying medication for the first time, looking to change medications, or wanting to taper off completely, we will go at your pace and process issues together as they arise. I take a full-person approach and will recommend treatments beyond medication. Medication alone is rarely a full solution so those that are ready to put in the effort to get to the core of the issues will work best with me
![Photo of Caroline Fernandez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa8996e6-c677-495c-863d-6e12e6adbdf0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Fernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80216
Caroline “Callie” Fernandez is a Columbia University trained, and Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with extensive experience in medication management and psychotherapy. While Callie cares for clients across the lifespan, she has additional training in the treatment of children/adolescents, and integrates developmental strategies into all of her client work. Since focusing solely on medication might not address all of a client’s goals, Callie strives to understand the whole individual to tailor unique treatment recommendations.
Caroline “Callie” Fernandez is a Columbia University trained, and Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with extensive experience in medication management and psychotherapy. While Callie cares for clients across the lifespan, she has additional training in the treatment of children/adolescents, and integrates developmental strategies into all of her client work. Since focusing solely on medication might not address all of a client’s goals, Callie strives to understand the whole individual to tailor unique treatment recommendations.
![Photo of Sandra Osborne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/740339e5-91cf-4b1b-9db4-3ddd32db5389/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Ivy Hoo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d9efd41-2df3-4b61-83d0-abd990afb326/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. My goal is to take a comprehensive and holistic approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that the care provided is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs. To check my availability go to our website and my first available will be listed there.
Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. My goal is to take a comprehensive and holistic approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that the care provided is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs. To check my availability go to our website and my first available will be listed there.
![Photo of Michael Kim, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4891efe-a968-4cd9-87b5-211aaf671cd6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michael Kim, DO, is an accomplished attending psychiatrist dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. He earned his medical degree from Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency at HCA's The Medical Center of Aurora North. With a diverse clinical background, Dr. Kim has honed his expertise across various settings including inpatient, outpatient, PHP/IOP, and specialized areas such as geriatrics, eating disorders, addiction, and child and adolescent psychiatry.
Dr. Michael Kim, DO, is an accomplished attending psychiatrist dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. He earned his medical degree from Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency at HCA's The Medical Center of Aurora North. With a diverse clinical background, Dr. Kim has honed his expertise across various settings including inpatient, outpatient, PHP/IOP, and specialized areas such as geriatrics, eating disorders, addiction, and child and adolescent psychiatry.
![Photo of Rick Loonam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abb6eabc-71c3-4abd-b2d6-7e3a892ff0aa/1/320x400.png)
Now Scheduling New Patients! I'm Rick, a compassionate and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. With a solid foundation as a former flight and emergency department nurse, I bring over 15 years of invaluable experience to my practice. Graduating from Regis University in Denver, I'm dedicated to providing the highest quality care to my clients.
Now Scheduling New Patients! I'm Rick, a compassionate and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. With a solid foundation as a former flight and emergency department nurse, I bring over 15 years of invaluable experience to my practice. Graduating from Regis University in Denver, I'm dedicated to providing the highest quality care to my clients.
![Photo of Tim Wood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2b73472-0bc9-4307-85c1-a13f03cd1868/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I’m Tim, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have always been interested in the mind-body connection and am very excited to work with new patients to help them define what they would like to work on and find a safe and effective path forward.
Hello, I’m Tim, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have always been interested in the mind-body connection and am very excited to work with new patients to help them define what they would like to work on and find a safe and effective path forward.
![Photo of Sarah Stockham Johnson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e99ff2e5-f7ce-4f47-8d7c-06d8e5bfc62b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Stockham Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211 (Online Only)
I’m a compassionate and highly skilled board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with additional training and certification in nutritional and metabolic psychiatry. I take great pride in my work and skills as a clinician in helping you get the right diagnosis and care. I take the time to get to know you and truly listen, forming a partnership in the development of your treatment plan to meet your goals. I work with people who are ready to take a new approach to their mental health. I see clients via telehealth in CO and MT.
I’m a compassionate and highly skilled board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with additional training and certification in nutritional and metabolic psychiatry. I take great pride in my work and skills as a clinician in helping you get the right diagnosis and care. I take the time to get to know you and truly listen, forming a partnership in the development of your treatment plan to meet your goals. I work with people who are ready to take a new approach to their mental health. I see clients via telehealth in CO and MT.
See more therapy options for Denver
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Denver, CO
500+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Denver, CO who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
84% | ADHD |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
84% | Medication Management |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | Aetna |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Denver, CO see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
31% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Denver?
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.