Psychiatrists in Fort Collins, CO
Be Well Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, NP-C
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I am accepting clients, and invite you to visit www.bewellmentalhealth.com for further detailed information. Providing in person(Fort Collins, CO) and online appointments throughout greater Colorado area. I look forward to speaking with you!
I am accepting clients, and invite you to visit www.bewellmentalhealth.com for further detailed information. Providing in person(Fort Collins, CO) and online appointments throughout greater Colorado area. I look forward to speaking with you!
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have a passion for helping people with their mental health needs. I am deeply committed to addressing issues surrounding diversity, mental health disparities, and the reduction of stigma. I believe in the uniqueness of each individual and their inherent ability to engage in the decision-making process and recovery journey. My objective is to foster an environment where each person feels safe and valued, and together, develop a treatment plan that aligns with their specific needs and aspirations.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have a passion for helping people with their mental health needs. I am deeply committed to addressing issues surrounding diversity, mental health disparities, and the reduction of stigma. I believe in the uniqueness of each individual and their inherent ability to engage in the decision-making process and recovery journey. My objective is to foster an environment where each person feels safe and valued, and together, develop a treatment plan that aligns with their specific needs and aspirations.
Offering weekend and evening appointments. Positive mental health and wellness is a life-long journey and Rob is here to help you on that journey. He takes a holistic, evidence-based approach in his practice, believing that medications are not always the answer, or at least the whole answer, and often chooses to recommend therapy, dietary changes, exercise, and lifestyle modification when indicated.
Offering weekend and evening appointments. Positive mental health and wellness is a life-long journey and Rob is here to help you on that journey. He takes a holistic, evidence-based approach in his practice, believing that medications are not always the answer, or at least the whole answer, and often chooses to recommend therapy, dietary changes, exercise, and lifestyle modification when indicated.
Melanie’s approach to care is rooted in the understanding that each person is a holistic being, with interconnected mind, body, and spirit. Her practice revolves around providing compassionate care to individuals across the lifespan facing various psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction. Leveraging evidence-based practices, medication management, and lifestyle interventions, she tailors her care to meet each individual’s specific needs. With a background in emergency medicine and psychiatric care, Melanie possesses a deep understanding of the complex interplay between physical and mental health.
Melanie’s approach to care is rooted in the understanding that each person is a holistic being, with interconnected mind, body, and spirit. Her practice revolves around providing compassionate care to individuals across the lifespan facing various psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction. Leveraging evidence-based practices, medication management, and lifestyle interventions, she tailors her care to meet each individual’s specific needs. With a background in emergency medicine and psychiatric care, Melanie possesses a deep understanding of the complex interplay between physical and mental health.
Amber Stire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients! I am passionate about helping people reach their goals with their mental health. ADHD, depression, anxiety, and so many other mental health challenges can significantly affect our everyday lives. I hope I can help my clients identify the roadblocks to their success and work with them to help find effective treatment options. I also specialize in women's mental health and I hope women can feel safe and supported in our sessions.
Accepting New Patients! I am passionate about helping people reach their goals with their mental health. ADHD, depression, anxiety, and so many other mental health challenges can significantly affect our everyday lives. I hope I can help my clients identify the roadblocks to their success and work with them to help find effective treatment options. I also specialize in women's mental health and I hope women can feel safe and supported in our sessions.
Mind Over Matter Psychotherapeutics,Pllc
Psychiatrist, MD, MB;BS, ABPN
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I am a Board-certified adult psychiatrist, practicing Psychiatry since graduating from medical school in 2005. I have also done fellowship in Psychoanalysis from Boston Psychoanalytic Institute and Society and also holds an unrestricted license to prescribe Suboxone for management of patients with opiate addiction. I am originally from Pakistan and come from a family of physicians and surgeons. Following the footsteps of my family members and keeping the tradition of practicing medicine alive, I am now the fourth-generation physician in my family and the third generation practicing medicine in the USA.
I am a Board-certified adult psychiatrist, practicing Psychiatry since graduating from medical school in 2005. I have also done fellowship in Psychoanalysis from Boston Psychoanalytic Institute and Society and also holds an unrestricted license to prescribe Suboxone for management of patients with opiate addiction. I am originally from Pakistan and come from a family of physicians and surgeons. Following the footsteps of my family members and keeping the tradition of practicing medicine alive, I am now the fourth-generation physician in my family and the third generation practicing medicine in the USA.
Kathleen Voelsing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I'm Dr. Kathleen Voelsing and I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in evidence-based treatment of bipolar, depressive, anxiety, and psychotic disorders for patients 16 years and up. I have substantial experience with individuals struggling with addiction, trauma issues, eating disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. I am welcoming to LGBTQIA+ and all races and religions. Extensively trained in psychiatric medication management, I target maximal benefit with the minimal amount of medication. I also provide medication management for substance abuse (including buprenorphine).
I'm Dr. Kathleen Voelsing and I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in evidence-based treatment of bipolar, depressive, anxiety, and psychotic disorders for patients 16 years and up. I have substantial experience with individuals struggling with addiction, trauma issues, eating disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. I am welcoming to LGBTQIA+ and all races and religions. Extensively trained in psychiatric medication management, I target maximal benefit with the minimal amount of medication. I also provide medication management for substance abuse (including buprenorphine).
I enjoy working with patients that are active in their goals for treatment. They enjoy learning about their diagnosis, understand that treatment many times is multi faceted and may take time to get under control. I have been in medicine since 1997(U.S. Navy Corpsman) and a practicing Physician Assistant since 2006. I enjoy working with Veterans, young and older people that want to improve their lives.
I enjoy working with patients that are active in their goals for treatment. They enjoy learning about their diagnosis, understand that treatment many times is multi faceted and may take time to get under control. I have been in medicine since 1997(U.S. Navy Corpsman) and a practicing Physician Assistant since 2006. I enjoy working with Veterans, young and older people that want to improve their lives.
Dr. Collison brings the arts of psychotherapy and medication together in one setting.
Dr. Collison brings the arts of psychotherapy and medication together in one setting.
Debbie Pawlowski-Krejcik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Although I treat a multitude of mental health conditions, I focus on clients suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorder, eating disorders, as well as alcohol and drug addiction. I seek to assist clients in their unique path to wellness.
Although I treat a multitude of mental health conditions, I focus on clients suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorder, eating disorders, as well as alcohol and drug addiction. I seek to assist clients in their unique path to wellness.
I really enjoy helping caring, compassionate individuals who have been traumatized through no fault of their own, such as by childhood trauma or as a first responder or in the military. Individuals who are doing the best they can to help themselves and their loved ones despite serious, ongoing post-trauma problems. I especially enjoy helping traumatized individuals who have either been not helped or have concerns about using standard PTSD therapies. These individuals may have a diagnosis or PTSD or maybe just know that something is wrong and have never been formally diagnosed.
I really enjoy helping caring, compassionate individuals who have been traumatized through no fault of their own, such as by childhood trauma or as a first responder or in the military. Individuals who are doing the best they can to help themselves and their loved ones despite serious, ongoing post-trauma problems. I especially enjoy helping traumatized individuals who have either been not helped or have concerns about using standard PTSD therapies. These individuals may have a diagnosis or PTSD or maybe just know that something is wrong and have never been formally diagnosed.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525 (Online Only)
I'm so glad you're reaching out! Seeking help doesn't mean you're failing; it means you're taking an important step toward self-care and healing. You may be feeling burned out, on edge, and just going through the motions. It's affecting your life, relationships, and work. You’ve tried everything you can think of to feel better, but nothing's working. You're searching for a comprehensive approach to mental health care that considers the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Something that's more than just medications! You're ready for a change, to feel like yourself again. I want to help you get there!
I'm so glad you're reaching out! Seeking help doesn't mean you're failing; it means you're taking an important step toward self-care and healing. You may be feeling burned out, on edge, and just going through the motions. It's affecting your life, relationships, and work. You’ve tried everything you can think of to feel better, but nothing's working. You're searching for a comprehensive approach to mental health care that considers the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Something that's more than just medications! You're ready for a change, to feel like yourself again. I want to help you get there!
Ja'Neice Monsrud - Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I bring over 10 years experience in nursing and treat ages 13+ for a wide variety of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, clients struggling with Bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, grief, school issues, disordered eating, and substance use disorders. I believe that Mental Health is not a destination but a journey; one that is taken with the help and support of many people along the way. For each client, know that we will work together to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals.
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I bring over 10 years experience in nursing and treat ages 13+ for a wide variety of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, clients struggling with Bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, grief, school issues, disordered eating, and substance use disorders. I believe that Mental Health is not a destination but a journey; one that is taken with the help and support of many people along the way. For each client, know that we will work together to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals.
I offer both in-person and virtual visits. I am a unique provider for you in several ways. I have 25 years experience! I offer medication and psychotherapy visits. Also, I am an author and give all new patients a signed copy of my Amazon bestseller, "Prescription For Positivity." It focuses on stress management strategies. I am honored to help people with some of their deepest needs. I reach out to people who have depression, anxiety, bipolar, and addiction issues. They are feeling stuck. They can't make progress in their life, or there is great personal distress. In any case, I am here to help!
I offer both in-person and virtual visits. I am a unique provider for you in several ways. I have 25 years experience! I offer medication and psychotherapy visits. Also, I am an author and give all new patients a signed copy of my Amazon bestseller, "Prescription For Positivity." It focuses on stress management strategies. I am honored to help people with some of their deepest needs. I reach out to people who have depression, anxiety, bipolar, and addiction issues. They are feeling stuck. They can't make progress in their life, or there is great personal distress. In any case, I am here to help!
My goal in becoming a provider was to care for people, helping them to have an improved quality of life. As a certified physician assistant, I have been trained in many areas of medicine and of all of these, I believe working in the field of psychology is one of the most direct routes to achieve this goal. I am interested in using a holistic approach to work with all adult patients.
My goal in becoming a provider was to care for people, helping them to have an improved quality of life. As a certified physician assistant, I have been trained in many areas of medicine and of all of these, I believe working in the field of psychology is one of the most direct routes to achieve this goal. I am interested in using a holistic approach to work with all adult patients.
Christy Thurston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80526
We all have good days as well as bad days. However, increasing stressors in your life, going through a difficult transition or experiencing a loss can leave you feeling like every single day is a struggle. You may not be getting enough sleep; you feel irritable or even hopeless more days than not. Everyone experiences anxiety at times, but it becomes overwhelming when it starts to negatively affect your relationships or interfere with school or your work. Mental health struggles can greatly reduce your quality of life. Managing your mental health is vital to feeling balanced and fulfilled.
We all have good days as well as bad days. However, increasing stressors in your life, going through a difficult transition or experiencing a loss can leave you feeling like every single day is a struggle. You may not be getting enough sleep; you feel irritable or even hopeless more days than not. Everyone experiences anxiety at times, but it becomes overwhelming when it starts to negatively affect your relationships or interfere with school or your work. Mental health struggles can greatly reduce your quality of life. Managing your mental health is vital to feeling balanced and fulfilled.
Krishawnda Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80526 (Online Only)
Krishawnda’s aim is to help adults and children develop tools and skills that create a mental foundation that is more able to withstand the twists and turns that life may bring. This can be achieved through therapy, exercise, changes in diet, and/or medication. Change does not happen overnight and Krishawnda desires to help you through your healing journey, no matter the length of the journey.
Krishawnda’s aim is to help adults and children develop tools and skills that create a mental foundation that is more able to withstand the twists and turns that life may bring. This can be achieved through therapy, exercise, changes in diet, and/or medication. Change does not happen overnight and Krishawnda desires to help you through your healing journey, no matter the length of the journey.
My patients are dedicated to enhancing their mental well-being and embrace a collaborative treatment approach. They recognize the significance of mental health and appreciate the value of therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and medication when appropriate. Committed to the therapeutic process, they are eager to engage in open communication with their providers and take an active role in their care journey. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, my patients are prepared to move forward toward a brighter future.
My patients are dedicated to enhancing their mental well-being and embrace a collaborative treatment approach. They recognize the significance of mental health and appreciate the value of therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and medication when appropriate. Committed to the therapeutic process, they are eager to engage in open communication with their providers and take an active role in their care journey. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, my patients are prepared to move forward toward a brighter future.
Jenny Tarr--Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat ages 8 and up for issues including but not limited to mood, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive, trauma and stressor-related disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, life transitions, and eating disorders. My goal is to partner with patients to provide holistic, evidence-based care. I do not believe in the one-size-fits-all approach. I will listen to you and draw upon my more than 15 years experience in nursing to provide advice and education. Together we will create a treatment plan that meets your needs and goals.
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat ages 8 and up for issues including but not limited to mood, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive, trauma and stressor-related disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, life transitions, and eating disorders. My goal is to partner with patients to provide holistic, evidence-based care. I do not believe in the one-size-fits-all approach. I will listen to you and draw upon my more than 15 years experience in nursing to provide advice and education. Together we will create a treatment plan that meets your needs and goals.
Elizabeth Walton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Psychiatric care in a safe, non judgmental setting. I take time to listen to your unique story and understand what you want to achieve from treatment. We then work together as a team to to create a plan. This may include prescription medications, education, non pharmaceutical treatment, and/or self-care strategies. My goal is for you to feel informed of your options and empowered to take charge of your mental health.
Psychiatric care in a safe, non judgmental setting. I take time to listen to your unique story and understand what you want to achieve from treatment. We then work together as a team to to create a plan. This may include prescription medications, education, non pharmaceutical treatment, and/or self-care strategies. My goal is for you to feel informed of your options and empowered to take charge of your mental health.
See more therapy options for Fort Collins
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Fort Collins, CO
100+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Fort Collins, CO who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | Medication Management |
79% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
90% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Fort Collins, CO see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fort Collins?
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.