Psychiatrists in Denver, CO
![Photo of Ivy Hoo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61b01d71-d2af-4a8d-b7ba-0c818ecca889/2/320x400.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 Dr. Richard Alldin Oddy, MD, ABPN, ABAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c6beee4-8d38-4394-9875-7b23e2ab92fd/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 Erica Henston, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0216be8-c445-472c-aca3-ed2ceedcd18e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Henston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80207 (Online Only)
I originally graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in communication and art history from Denison University. After some searching, I learned my passion was in helping others. I have been an emergency room nurse for over 11 years, but I felt there was a disconnect in treating the diagnosis, but not the person. I have my master’s in nursing with a specialty in psychiatry from Saint Louis University and have a certificate degree in alternative and integrative medicine from the University of Colorado. I see the future of psychiatric medicine taking on new pathways with the addition of psychedelics as treatment options.
I originally graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in communication and art history from Denison University. After some searching, I learned my passion was in helping others. I have been an emergency room nurse for over 11 years, but I felt there was a disconnect in treating the diagnosis, but not the person. I have my master’s in nursing with a specialty in psychiatry from Saint Louis University and have a certificate degree in alternative and integrative medicine from the University of Colorado. I see the future of psychiatric medicine taking on new pathways with the addition of psychedelics as treatment options.
![Photo of Adam Gears, MEd, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db40ae8d-76b0-4445-8d5d-3acdcf1c0384/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Gears
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MEd, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210 (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Adam, a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing medication management in AZ, and CO. I'm committed to treating patients with honesty, a touch of humor, and straightforward communication. My main goal is to help patients feel better and regain the life they desire. If medication management isn't the right fit, we'll explore alternative approaches like healthy lifestyle changes, exercise, nutrition, and mindful practices. I'm here for you every step of the way.
Hi there, I'm Adam, a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing medication management in AZ, and CO. I'm committed to treating patients with honesty, a touch of humor, and straightforward communication. My main goal is to help patients feel better and regain the life they desire. If medication management isn't the right fit, we'll explore alternative approaches like healthy lifestyle changes, exercise, nutrition, and mindful practices. I'm here for you every step of the way.
![Photo of Adrienne Long, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cfee74e-b9a7-4d88-aa56-8f3061759083/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I view people holistically and individually. I approach client care from the bio-psycho-social framework and with compassion. In addition to prescribing psychiatric medications and ketamine-assisted therapy, I often incorporate genetic testing, brief psychotherapy, and neurofeedback into our sessions. Assessment of other influencing factors to well-being, such as sleep, potential nutritional deficiencies, lifestyle and stress, hormone fluctuations, and genetics is also crucial to a comprehensive and effective treatment plan. I also work closely with my client’s existing team.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I view people holistically and individually. I approach client care from the bio-psycho-social framework and with compassion. In addition to prescribing psychiatric medications and ketamine-assisted therapy, I often incorporate genetic testing, brief psychotherapy, and neurofeedback into our sessions. Assessment of other influencing factors to well-being, such as sleep, potential nutritional deficiencies, lifestyle and stress, hormone fluctuations, and genetics is also crucial to a comprehensive and effective treatment plan. I also work closely with my client’s existing team.
![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 Lauren Viramontes, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c40cc587-ed24-4bf5-b43f-170b900e2b26/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Viramontes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80216 (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m a masters prepared, double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I provide mental health treatment including medication management for adolescents and adults with various conditions including mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, trauma, attention and concentration difficulties, and troubled thought patterns. My special interests include working with the young to middle aged adult populations who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and those who may be going through life changes and transitions.
Welcome! I’m a masters prepared, double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I provide mental health treatment including medication management for adolescents and adults with various conditions including mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, trauma, attention and concentration difficulties, and troubled thought patterns. My special interests include working with the young to middle aged adult populations who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and those who may be going through life changes and transitions.
![Photo of David R Lubinsky, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/225efe80-b3ec-4f7e-9e16-ddeff1788682/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am an ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of mood, anxiety, trauma, and relational problems. Care is tailored to the individual and is based on evaluation and integration of biological, psychological, developmental and environmental factors that limit your ability to realize your potential. I provide psychotherapy to help work through difficult experiences and collaborate with you to develop adaptive responses to life circumstances. Medication is prescribed judiciously in the context of your needs.
I am an ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of mood, anxiety, trauma, and relational problems. Care is tailored to the individual and is based on evaluation and integration of biological, psychological, developmental and environmental factors that limit your ability to realize your potential. I provide psychotherapy to help work through difficult experiences and collaborate with you to develop adaptive responses to life circumstances. Medication is prescribed judiciously in the context of your needs.
![Photo of Cathleen Barrett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c756d68-3052-4bb0-a551-c602f21a5dfd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cathleen Barrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients for medication management, with immediate availability for both medicaid and private insurance! I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Addiction Registered Nurse Advanced Practice. I have more than 22 years of experience in mental health and I completed my PMHNP graduate education at Husson University in Maine in 2007. I have practiced in many different settings over the years including both inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities. I work with a wide range of ailments including PTSD, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, and many more.
Accepting new clients for medication management, with immediate availability for both medicaid and private insurance! I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Addiction Registered Nurse Advanced Practice. I have more than 22 years of experience in mental health and I completed my PMHNP graduate education at Husson University in Maine in 2007. I have practiced in many different settings over the years including both inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities. I work with a wide range of ailments including PTSD, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, and many more.
![Photo of Krystal Arney, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6a06096-8a69-415e-8c8a-1a06bff5f8d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Krystal, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I started my medical career eleven years ago as a flight medic in the Army, the experiences that I had in that time lead me to pursue a career in mental health. I believe that the mind and body are intrinsically connected, and the best outcomes are achieved when medications are combined with a holistic approach and lifestyle adjustments. My goal is to work with my clients in a partnership to determine the treatment modalities best suited to meet their individual treatment goals and optimal mental health and well-being.
Hello, I am Krystal, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I started my medical career eleven years ago as a flight medic in the Army, the experiences that I had in that time lead me to pursue a career in mental health. I believe that the mind and body are intrinsically connected, and the best outcomes are achieved when medications are combined with a holistic approach and lifestyle adjustments. My goal is to work with my clients in a partnership to determine the treatment modalities best suited to meet their individual treatment goals and optimal mental health and well-being.
![Photo of Dominique Coley (Transparent Mental Health), DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8cf3cb1-7293-4300-a035-5e884896e594/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dominique Coley (Transparent Mental Health)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202 (Online Only)
I am a doctorate prepared, board certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, Texas, New York, Washington, Colorado and Arizona children, adolescent, and adult residents. I’ve been working in mental health for over a decade. Over 10 years as a nurse and the last 5 years as a Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluations with or without medication management. "You can book with me by clicking on my website". You can also email or call.
I am a doctorate prepared, board certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, Texas, New York, Washington, Colorado and Arizona children, adolescent, and adult residents. I’ve been working in mental health for over a decade. Over 10 years as a nurse and the last 5 years as a Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluations with or without medication management. "You can book with me by clicking on my website". You can also email or call.
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![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 Akos Mersich, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41d2bba3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My practice includes child, adolescent, and adult patients. During your initial visit we will discuss your current concerns and assess the biological, psychological, developmental, and social factors that contribute to your concerns. We will then work collaboratively to establish a comprehensive plan to address each of these factors and discuss the role of medication and psychotherapy in your treatment. While I believe medications play a significant role in psychiatric treatment, I maintain a strong focus on psychotherapy, as this is a powerful tool for promoting lasting change and emotional well-being.
My practice includes child, adolescent, and adult patients. During your initial visit we will discuss your current concerns and assess the biological, psychological, developmental, and social factors that contribute to your concerns. We will then work collaboratively to establish a comprehensive plan to address each of these factors and discuss the role of medication and psychotherapy in your treatment. While I believe medications play a significant role in psychiatric treatment, I maintain a strong focus on psychotherapy, as this is a powerful tool for promoting lasting change and emotional well-being.
![Photo of Amy Franks, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d2d1a00-ed22-4410-a08f-dbbddb0685d6/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping my patients navigate a wide array of mental health challenges, ranging from depression and anxiety to trauma and addiction. My approach involves conducting thorough and comprehensive evaluations to gain a holistic understanding of my patients' lives and symptoms. This forms the basis for my treatment recommendations, which may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both. My goal is to deeply understand my patients in order to provide compassionate care and facilitate lasting change.
I am passionate about helping my patients navigate a wide array of mental health challenges, ranging from depression and anxiety to trauma and addiction. My approach involves conducting thorough and comprehensive evaluations to gain a holistic understanding of my patients' lives and symptoms. This forms the basis for my treatment recommendations, which may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both. My goal is to deeply understand my patients in order to provide compassionate care and facilitate lasting change.
![Photo of Susan Hudson, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5104cb70-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Hudson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practicing in the Boulder office of the Strock Medical Group. Prior to completing my Master of Science in Nursing, I worked in the corrections setting as a RN for seven years where I was able to offer compassionate, empathic care, and I learned that I am able to treat everyone with unconditional positive regard regardless of circumstances. I specialize in working with adults with a variety of mental health concerns, and I am truly passionate about treating trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, and substance use disorders using current evidence to guide treatment decisions.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practicing in the Boulder office of the Strock Medical Group. Prior to completing my Master of Science in Nursing, I worked in the corrections setting as a RN for seven years where I was able to offer compassionate, empathic care, and I learned that I am able to treat everyone with unconditional positive regard regardless of circumstances. I specialize in working with adults with a variety of mental health concerns, and I am truly passionate about treating trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, and substance use disorders using current evidence to guide treatment decisions.
![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 Madison Jones, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f58784d0-79cb-4e04-a754-86a35cd6e31b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I received my Bachelors of Science in Biology at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana, and also continued at Butler for my graduate degree. I completed my Master of Physician Assistant Studies in May 2023.While my PA certification and training involved the eleven general specialties of medicine, I found that I am most passionate about conditions that can't necessarily be seen or diagnosed just by physical exam.
I received my Bachelors of Science in Biology at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana, and also continued at Butler for my graduate degree. I completed my Master of Physician Assistant Studies in May 2023.While my PA certification and training involved the eleven general specialties of medicine, I found that I am most passionate about conditions that can't necessarily be seen or diagnosed just by physical exam.
![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 Nicole Humphrey, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab1ae16f-20a6-430a-b847-d5075295794d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Humphrey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205 (Online Only)
I am accepting new patients at Reiff Mental Health! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, now with Reiff Mental Health. My previous work as a community mental health provider in a large organization allowed me the opportunity to work in various settings ranging from outpatient clinics to inpatient crisis settings. I have over 10 years of work as an RN in a variety of settings in both the mental health and medical specialties. I realize the stigma that surrounds mental health and substance use, and I work hard to normalize the experience and decrease any unease that individuals may have.
I am accepting new patients at Reiff Mental Health! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, now with Reiff Mental Health. My previous work as a community mental health provider in a large organization allowed me the opportunity to work in various settings ranging from outpatient clinics to inpatient crisis settings. I have over 10 years of work as an RN in a variety of settings in both the mental health and medical specialties. I realize the stigma that surrounds mental health and substance use, and I work hard to normalize the experience and decrease any unease that individuals may have.
![Photo of Suzanne Monsivais, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd39e8c7-5955-4230-9f32-4479e3328dd1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents and adults of all ages. When working with children and adolescents, I aim to include caregivers, as much as possible, in the assessment and treatment process. Whether you are seeking treatment for yourself or for a child or adolescent in your life, my hope is that we can build a team together, working in support of you and/or your family.
I am board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents and adults of all ages. When working with children and adolescents, I aim to include caregivers, as much as possible, in the assessment and treatment process. Whether you are seeking treatment for yourself or for a child or adolescent in your life, my hope is that we can build a team together, working in support of you and/or your family.
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.