Psychiatrists in Denver, CO
![Photo of Luana Rutherford, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbee14eb-69d5-42fa-9b35-2eb204ca506b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Luana Rutherford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients (including Medicaid)! I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), licensed in Colorado. I have since practiced as a PMHNP-BC in residential treatment facilities, private practice, level one psychiatric hospitals, and numerous geriatric facilities. Prior to my PMHNP certification I worked as an RN at several level one psychiatric facilities since 2012 and became the Chief Nursing Officer of the largest level one psychiatric facility in Arizona in 2017. I spend my free time reading, camping, and playing with my 3 rottweilers and 2 french bulldogs.
Accepting New Patients (including Medicaid)! I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), licensed in Colorado. I have since practiced as a PMHNP-BC in residential treatment facilities, private practice, level one psychiatric hospitals, and numerous geriatric facilities. Prior to my PMHNP certification I worked as an RN at several level one psychiatric facilities since 2012 and became the Chief Nursing Officer of the largest level one psychiatric facility in Arizona in 2017. I spend my free time reading, camping, and playing with my 3 rottweilers and 2 french bulldogs.
![Photo of Kamleh Shaban, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b17536e-7c1a-4ecd-9e81-76ac8c7c4237/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, I integrate care for all ages and stages. I understand the relationship between early childhood events and life long struggles. Whether it be ADHD, a mood disorder, or a personality disorder, I am eager to find the best treatment for you. I integrate western medicine with more holistic care. If you're interested in learning skills to help you live a more healthy and happy life, I can guide you down a treatment course that builds on your strengths, goals, and values.
As a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, I integrate care for all ages and stages. I understand the relationship between early childhood events and life long struggles. Whether it be ADHD, a mood disorder, or a personality disorder, I am eager to find the best treatment for you. I integrate western medicine with more holistic care. If you're interested in learning skills to help you live a more healthy and happy life, I can guide you down a treatment course that builds on your strengths, goals, and values.
![Photo of Alison Baker, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1922cd4-54fe-403d-9bb0-ffbe9d7ed2dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. Asking for help takes courage, and my goal is to meet you where you are. I intend to understand your values, needs, and emotions. Effective treatment starts with trust and feeling heard without judgment. Your initial appointment can be in person or in the comfort of your home utilizing telehealth. By learning about you, your family history, and your symptoms, we can develop a treatment plan we are both comfortable with.
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. Asking for help takes courage, and my goal is to meet you where you are. I intend to understand your values, needs, and emotions. Effective treatment starts with trust and feeling heard without judgment. Your initial appointment can be in person or in the comfort of your home utilizing telehealth. By learning about you, your family history, and your symptoms, we can develop a treatment plan we are both comfortable with.
![Photo of Elisabeth Marie Fabrizio, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82a46230-5a83-4874-9611-089363b48ef8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elisabeth Marie Fabrizio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211 (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience as a family nurse practitioner and have recently earned a post-master's degree as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Depression and anxiety are an epidemic in our world today and many are suffering. Substance abuse is also rampant in our society. I can offer a listening ear, evaluate your situation, and collaboratively we can come up with a treatment plan that may include medication, supplements, and lifestyle changes with food and exercise. All visits are done via telemedicine.
I have over 20 years of experience as a family nurse practitioner and have recently earned a post-master's degree as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Depression and anxiety are an epidemic in our world today and many are suffering. Substance abuse is also rampant in our society. I can offer a listening ear, evaluate your situation, and collaboratively we can come up with a treatment plan that may include medication, supplements, and lifestyle changes with food and exercise. All visits are done via telemedicine.
![Photo of Mia Orr, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dd7409e-ebcf-4315-8a7a-c4adf9f62026/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mia Orr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205 (Online Only)
Providing personalized and results-oriented mental health care is my passion. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a diverse psychiatric background in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency environments. I graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor’s of science in nursing and completed a Master’s of science in nursing from Regis University. I am passionate about treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and PTSD and have many clinical interests to include Healthcare workers/EMS/Fire and those devoted to the service industry.
Providing personalized and results-oriented mental health care is my passion. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a diverse psychiatric background in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency environments. I graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor’s of science in nursing and completed a Master’s of science in nursing from Regis University. I am passionate about treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and PTSD and have many clinical interests to include Healthcare workers/EMS/Fire and those devoted to the service industry.
![Photo of Mary Stephenson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63b9f3ba-2bc8-4694-8140-73e33bdc57e2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mary Stephenson is a board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with more than 25 years of clinical experience working with this population. Dr. Stephenson's practice focus is on medication management. She believes support and involvement of the family is an integral part of treatment for the client. Additionally, more therapy support may be needed on occasion, and the recommendation to bring a psychotherapist on the care team may occur to provide an optimal outcome.
Dr. Mary Stephenson is a board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with more than 25 years of clinical experience working with this population. Dr. Stephenson's practice focus is on medication management. She believes support and involvement of the family is an integral part of treatment for the client. Additionally, more therapy support may be needed on occasion, and the recommendation to bring a psychotherapist on the care team may occur to provide an optimal outcome.
![Photo of Chelsey McFaddin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/771301aa-5256-400e-b38d-fb43241a8fa0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsey McFaddin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
Chelsey is board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Chelsey is skilled in assessing guiding treatment plans for a variety of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD and psychotic disorders.
Chelsey is board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Chelsey is skilled in assessing guiding treatment plans for a variety of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD and psychotic disorders.
![Photo of Elizabeth Erickson, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5ec9833-50f5-41d5-9d40-7ffee9eacf2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I received my medical degree from Des Moines University and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Chicago. My care is centered around children and adults, and I have a strong background in eating disorders and children. I enjoy partnering and collaborating with each patient, using my medical training, their knowledge of themselves and their life experience to strategize the right path to healing.
I received my medical degree from Des Moines University and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Chicago. My care is centered around children and adults, and I have a strong background in eating disorders and children. I enjoy partnering and collaborating with each patient, using my medical training, their knowledge of themselves and their life experience to strategize the right path to healing.
![Photo of Brandon D Burelle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/386c348d-b5b7-420e-b18f-b9b9aa5987df/1/320x400.jpeg)
I understand that choosing to see a specialist and starting or changing medications can be difficult and confusing. My goal as a provider is to work collaboratively with my patients to maximize the benefits of medications and leverage the potential of the therapeutic relationship to improve beyond "I'm doing okay." Medications and therapy should always support further engagement in our lives, improvement in our state of mind, insight, and acceptance of ourselves (warts & all). As a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric treatment, I work with clients of all ages, including children and adolescents.
I understand that choosing to see a specialist and starting or changing medications can be difficult and confusing. My goal as a provider is to work collaboratively with my patients to maximize the benefits of medications and leverage the potential of the therapeutic relationship to improve beyond "I'm doing okay." Medications and therapy should always support further engagement in our lives, improvement in our state of mind, insight, and acceptance of ourselves (warts & all). As a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric treatment, I work with clients of all ages, including children and adolescents.
![Photo of Jeanne Theobald - Jeanne Theobald - Denver Wellness Associates, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ecd477a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you or a loved one in need of someone to talk to? I offer psychiatric medication evaluations and treatment, as well as therapy. It is my goal to establish a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where you feel listened to and can heal.
Are you or a loved one in need of someone to talk to? I offer psychiatric medication evaluations and treatment, as well as therapy. It is my goal to establish a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where you feel listened to and can heal.
![Photo of Theresa Varoz, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28dda034-c1a3-4a5d-99d0-edef8c28ea64/3/320x400.jpeg)
Theresa Varoz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
Prior to becoming a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I worked as an ICU nurse in a Level One Trauma Center where I learned the significance of the mind/body connection and the value of holistic, patient centered care. I understand the importance of addressing mental health concerns in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.
Prior to becoming a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I worked as an ICU nurse in a Level One Trauma Center where I learned the significance of the mind/body connection and the value of holistic, patient centered care. I understand the importance of addressing mental health concerns in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.
15 Second Videos
Kamleh Shaban
Alison Baker
Capstone Mental Health
Chris Archer
Lauren Hood
Breanna Millsap
Omolara Oloye-Adelusi
Ivy Hoo
Karly Yingst
Hilary Holmes
Henry Fagnant
Naseem Smith
Chris Archer
Richard Wallis
Jill Moran
Kyle Brown
Kara Shrader
Jeanna Lee Dietz
Kevin Huynh - Denver Wellness Associates
Kristina Mordecai
Ivy Hoo
Ike Uzowulu
Kristina Mordecai
Holly Vause
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Ivy Hoo
Spark Mental Health Clinics - Colorado
Tim Wood
Alison Baker
Joanna Westerfield - Denver Wellness Associates
Sandra Osborne
Todd Kline
Sandra Osborne
Chris Archer
Nicole Dressler
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Kyle Brown
Chris Archer
Holistic Mental Healthcare PLLC
Margaret Anne Curran
Sandra Osborne
Lauren Wheeland - Denver Wellness Associates
Timothy Wood
Kailee Lenczycki
Naira Numanovic - Avena Psychiatry
Rick Loonam
Andrew Nagy
Tim Wood
Ivy Hoo
James H Niforatos
![Photo of Chelsea Keselman, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/903b0453-bae4-430d-8687-ad9d2b0862ec/1/320x400.png)
Chelsea Keselman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203 (Online Only)
Meet Chelsea, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a compassionate, patient-focused approach to mental healthcare and wellness. Born and raised in the Midwest, Chelsea relocated to Denver with her husband and two children to pursue her passion for helping those struggling with their mental health. With experience across settings - from hospitals to private practice - Chelsea leverages her background in nursing and expertise in a variety of mental health conditions to provide medication management and brief supportive therapy to adolescents and adults.
Meet Chelsea, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a compassionate, patient-focused approach to mental healthcare and wellness. Born and raised in the Midwest, Chelsea relocated to Denver with her husband and two children to pursue her passion for helping those struggling with their mental health. With experience across settings - from hospitals to private practice - Chelsea leverages her background in nursing and expertise in a variety of mental health conditions to provide medication management and brief supportive therapy to adolescents and adults.
![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 Chantelle Erickson, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9daef7a3-be55-446f-894b-571e2e1d329c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Through practicing in family medicine, I have realized how much our mental health effects our well-being and found that my true passion is in promoting mental health wellness. I have a special interest in gut health and how our gut microbiome impacts not only our mental health, but our overall wellness. I believe in an integrated approach to behavioral health care that includes nutrition, exercise, meditation, and sleep education. My goal is to collaborate with each patient to form an individualized approach to care.
Through practicing in family medicine, I have realized how much our mental health effects our well-being and found that my true passion is in promoting mental health wellness. I have a special interest in gut health and how our gut microbiome impacts not only our mental health, but our overall wellness. I believe in an integrated approach to behavioral health care that includes nutrition, exercise, meditation, and sleep education. My goal is to collaborate with each patient to form an individualized approach to care.
![Photo of Therese J Calabrese, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13d38686-b2f5-4a70-8e15-3b64025567c9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Therese J Calabrese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via tele-psychiatry, a virtual practice, I provide psychiatric/mental health management with a holistic approach. Specializing in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. Treatment is provided in a judgement free atmosphere from the initial evaluation, ongoing medication management and psychotherapy working in a partnership, establishing goals and providing the tools for you to achieve them. Through telehealth I am able to see patients in New York, Colorado and FLorida.
Accepting new patients via tele-psychiatry, a virtual practice, I provide psychiatric/mental health management with a holistic approach. Specializing in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. Treatment is provided in a judgement free atmosphere from the initial evaluation, ongoing medication management and psychotherapy working in a partnership, establishing goals and providing the tools for you to achieve them. Through telehealth I am able to see patients in New York, Colorado and FLorida.
![Photo of Chris Archer, PMHNP, GNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/298e645c-d5f7-46f3-911e-e8dde4db82b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
![Photo of Charles Shuman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f8d4c47-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide psychiatric care with psychotherapy and when appropriate pharmacotherapy. I have experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, addiction, and complex mental illness. I am an expert in using medication assisted therapy for the treatment of addictions. I can also provide ketamine treatment for severe depression.
I provide psychiatric care with psychotherapy and when appropriate pharmacotherapy. I have experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, addiction, and complex mental illness. I am an expert in using medication assisted therapy for the treatment of addictions. I can also provide ketamine treatment for severe depression.
![Photo of Dr. Richard Alldin Oddy - R A Oddy MD Psychiatry LLC, MD, MA, DABPN, FASAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/812d17c8-2fd1-434e-907d-8371c58fb7c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Richard Oddy has 20+ years of expertise as a psychiatrist and psychotherapist, operating a thriving private practice in Denver, previously established in Fort Collins in 2005. His medical education was accomplished at the University of Cambridge in England, followed by a residency in psychiatry at Cornell Medical Center-New York Hospital in 2000. Dr. Oddy holds board certifications in General Psychiatry, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, and is a distinguished lifetime fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Oddy is also experienced in the use of buprenorphine for opioid dependence.
Dr. Richard Oddy has 20+ years of expertise as a psychiatrist and psychotherapist, operating a thriving private practice in Denver, previously established in Fort Collins in 2005. His medical education was accomplished at the University of Cambridge in England, followed by a residency in psychiatry at Cornell Medical Center-New York Hospital in 2000. Dr. Oddy holds board certifications in General Psychiatry, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, and is a distinguished lifetime fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Oddy is also experienced in the use of buprenorphine for opioid dependence.
![Photo of Kristiana Avery, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e60f9a1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Specializing in genetic testing, I work collaboratively with clients to develop treatment goals and plans to improve overall quality of life. I take a holistic approach to treatment and aim to use pharmacological treatment in a realistic and practical way, only using medications when indicated. My most successful patients are those who enter into treatment motivated for change.
Specializing in genetic testing, I work collaboratively with clients to develop treatment goals and plans to improve overall quality of life. I take a holistic approach to treatment and aim to use pharmacological treatment in a realistic and practical way, only using medications when indicated. My most successful patients are those who enter into treatment motivated for change.
![Photo of Lauren Hood, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/769c82b3-d3e3-4bb5-81db-9d2d9a8429e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! Lauren Hood is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services and specializes in medication management. Lauren earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Wyoming. She became certified as a psychiatric registered nurse, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, as her career progressed. Lauren completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University.
Accepting New Patients! Lauren Hood is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services and specializes in medication management. Lauren earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Wyoming. She became certified as a psychiatric registered nurse, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, as her career progressed. Lauren completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University.
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 |
95% | 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 |
92% | Aetna |
88% | 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.