Psychiatrists in Aurora, CO
Melissa Shulman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80015 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
Accepting New Clients! I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
Hello and nice to meet you! I have a master's degree in nursing education and a post-master's degree in psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and my DNP is near completion. My expertise spans anxiety, Bipolar d/o and other mood disorders, depression, and more. Specialties include seeing children, teenagers, adults, and geriatrics. My approach centers on personalized care and a thorough mental health assessment.
Hello and nice to meet you! I have a master's degree in nursing education and a post-master's degree in psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and my DNP is near completion. My expertise spans anxiety, Bipolar d/o and other mood disorders, depression, and more. Specialties include seeing children, teenagers, adults, and geriatrics. My approach centers on personalized care and a thorough mental health assessment.
Are you depressed or anxious? I can help with your medication management. My name is Mary "Beth" Hutchinson. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, treating patients ages 4 and up. I am also certified as a family nurse practitioner, which provides a broad base to individualize age appropriate treatment. We can meet and have our sessions through video on our telemedicine platform, so you can be at the comfort of your home while we meet. We will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a practical plan, and I'll support you through the process of improving your life.
Are you depressed or anxious? I can help with your medication management. My name is Mary "Beth" Hutchinson. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, treating patients ages 4 and up. I am also certified as a family nurse practitioner, which provides a broad base to individualize age appropriate treatment. We can meet and have our sessions through video on our telemedicine platform, so you can be at the comfort of your home while we meet. We will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a practical plan, and I'll support you through the process of improving your life.
My name is Hanna, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I am licensed to provide comprehensive psychiatric care across the lifespan. My approach to mental healthcare emphasizes collaborative and holistic treatment, integrating medication management with therapy to promote overall wellness. My approach to care is patient-centered and evidence-based. I draw from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and motivational interviewing to address a wide range of mental health issues. I prioritize building a therapeutic alliance based on trust and respect.
My name is Hanna, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I am licensed to provide comprehensive psychiatric care across the lifespan. My approach to mental healthcare emphasizes collaborative and holistic treatment, integrating medication management with therapy to promote overall wellness. My approach to care is patient-centered and evidence-based. I draw from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and motivational interviewing to address a wide range of mental health issues. I prioritize building a therapeutic alliance based on trust and respect.
I approach our work in a spirit of collaboration. My therapeutic approach is warm, compassionate and kind with the goal of cultivating an environment where progress can take place. Some the conditions that I commonly evaluate and treat include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma related conditions, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (adhd), psychosis, neurodevelopmental conditions, autism spectrum disorder, issues that often affect LGBTQ+ individuals, professionals in crisis, cultural stressors and family conflict. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapy.
I approach our work in a spirit of collaboration. My therapeutic approach is warm, compassionate and kind with the goal of cultivating an environment where progress can take place. Some the conditions that I commonly evaluate and treat include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma related conditions, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (adhd), psychosis, neurodevelopmental conditions, autism spectrum disorder, issues that often affect LGBTQ+ individuals, professionals in crisis, cultural stressors and family conflict. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapy.
Accepting New Patients! - Joseph “Joe” P. Crowley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. He brings over seven years of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience to his patients while offering an attentive, accommodating patient care philosophy. Joe earned his BSN and MSN degrees at Regis University. He completed his inpatient and outpatient clinical training at various facilities in the Denver Metro area. He also received professional recognition for academic achievements and ICARE awards while working at the V.A. Eastern Colorado Health Care System.
Accepting New Patients! - Joseph “Joe” P. Crowley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. He brings over seven years of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience to his patients while offering an attentive, accommodating patient care philosophy. Joe earned his BSN and MSN degrees at Regis University. He completed his inpatient and outpatient clinical training at various facilities in the Denver Metro area. He also received professional recognition for academic achievements and ICARE awards while working at the V.A. Eastern Colorado Health Care System.
I'm Ashley Clark, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing telehealth services in Colorado. With expertise in treating both children and adults, I focus on educating patients about their conditions and offering personalized treatment options. My goal is to empower individuals to manage their symptoms effectively and improve their mental well-being. I believe deeply in involving patients like you in your care journey. I advocate for you to be fully informed about all the treatment options available to you.
I'm Ashley Clark, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing telehealth services in Colorado. With expertise in treating both children and adults, I focus on educating patients about their conditions and offering personalized treatment options. My goal is to empower individuals to manage their symptoms effectively and improve their mental well-being. I believe deeply in involving patients like you in your care journey. I advocate for you to be fully informed about all the treatment options available to you.
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.
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
*Accepting New Patients!* I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call.
*Accepting New Patients!* I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call.
Kara Guglielmo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80012
New patients accepted! Immediate availability and the ONLY clinic in Colorado to provide Medicaid patients with TMS treatments! Every interaction is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone's life, and I am committed to providing compassionate, individualized care to each of my patients. My journey into this field has been driven by a genuine desire to understand and support individuals facing mental health challenges. I believe in the power of holistic care, where I not only address the symptoms but also strive to understand the underlying factors contributing to my patients' well-being.
New patients accepted! Immediate availability and the ONLY clinic in Colorado to provide Medicaid patients with TMS treatments! Every interaction is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone's life, and I am committed to providing compassionate, individualized care to each of my patients. My journey into this field has been driven by a genuine desire to understand and support individuals facing mental health challenges. I believe in the power of holistic care, where I not only address the symptoms but also strive to understand the underlying factors contributing to my patients' well-being.
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Ms. Haque is committed to making each patient's experience at the practice as comfortable and practical as possible. She believes that an amalgamation of sound medical judgment, technology, and an optimistic attitude are needed to guarantee quick recovery and thorough care.
Ms. Haque is committed to making each patient's experience at the practice as comfortable and practical as possible. She believes that an amalgamation of sound medical judgment, technology, and an optimistic attitude are needed to guarantee quick recovery and thorough care.
Hello! Chandra Price here. I am a double-boarded family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner deeply committed to providing compassionate care. With a focus on integrated behavioral health, I draw from my extensive experience in community-based clinics to address both mental health and general medical concerns. I believe in building strong relationships with my patients and collaborating with them to develop evidence-based treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. I'm dedicated to supporting you on your journey to better health and well-being.
Hello! Chandra Price here. I am a double-boarded family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner deeply committed to providing compassionate care. With a focus on integrated behavioral health, I draw from my extensive experience in community-based clinics to address both mental health and general medical concerns. I believe in building strong relationships with my patients and collaborating with them to develop evidence-based treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. I'm dedicated to supporting you on your journey to better health and well-being.
My focus is psychiatry and mental health in adults and adolescents. My approach to providing mental healthcare is collaborative and patient centered. I typically work with adolescents, adults and geriatric populations. I treat mood disorders. My communication style is open and welcoming. I have been a mental health registered nurse (RN) for over a decade and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) for nearly 5 of those years. I’ve always known I wanted to do more in the mental health specialty and help eliminate the stigma and encourage transparency to reach healing.
My focus is psychiatry and mental health in adults and adolescents. My approach to providing mental healthcare is collaborative and patient centered. I typically work with adolescents, adults and geriatric populations. I treat mood disorders. My communication style is open and welcoming. I have been a mental health registered nurse (RN) for over a decade and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) for nearly 5 of those years. I’ve always known I wanted to do more in the mental health specialty and help eliminate the stigma and encourage transparency to reach healing.
Accepting New Patients! Looking forward to meet you. I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating depression, anxiety, addiction, PTSD and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call.
Accepting New Patients! Looking forward to meet you. I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating depression, anxiety, addiction, PTSD and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call.
Hello, my name is Jo Ann Brown I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I utilize evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy; both are gold standards for mental health wellbeing. My areas of experience include but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, and Alcohol Use Disorders. My approached to practice is characterized by a holistic approach. I understand optimum mental health wellbeing is a about implementing a long-term plan for life. I use evidenced based CBT and Motivational Interviewing to help people modify their thoughts and behaviors to improve mental health.
Hello, my name is Jo Ann Brown I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I utilize evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy; both are gold standards for mental health wellbeing. My areas of experience include but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, and Alcohol Use Disorders. My approached to practice is characterized by a holistic approach. I understand optimum mental health wellbeing is a about implementing a long-term plan for life. I use evidenced based CBT and Motivational Interviewing to help people modify their thoughts and behaviors to improve mental health.
Olaf Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80016 (Online Only)
Hello! I graduated with a degree in nursing from Santa Monica College in 2009. Since that time, I’ve worked in several hospital settings including intensive care. I finished my first masters degree as and Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist in 2017 from California State University at Dominguez Hills and started managing extremely sick people in a long-term acute care hospital One universal I’ve seen throughout my many different careers in and out of healthcare is that the presence (or absence) of good mental health care spells the difference between success and failure in any environment.
Hello! I graduated with a degree in nursing from Santa Monica College in 2009. Since that time, I’ve worked in several hospital settings including intensive care. I finished my first masters degree as and Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist in 2017 from California State University at Dominguez Hills and started managing extremely sick people in a long-term acute care hospital One universal I’ve seen throughout my many different careers in and out of healthcare is that the presence (or absence) of good mental health care spells the difference between success and failure in any environment.
Esther Okanlawon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80013
Accepting New Patients! I am dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in healthcare for the past 14 years. Started out my career as a nurse in homecare in NY and also worked on the Navajo reservation. As an FNP, I have worked in primary care, wellness health and treated patients with substance use disorder. As a PMHNP, I am going to help you achieve your goal of functioning to your highest capabilities. I also offer suboxone services. Call or email today to learn more.
Accepting New Patients! I am dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in healthcare for the past 14 years. Started out my career as a nurse in homecare in NY and also worked on the Navajo reservation. As an FNP, I have worked in primary care, wellness health and treated patients with substance use disorder. As a PMHNP, I am going to help you achieve your goal of functioning to your highest capabilities. I also offer suboxone services. Call or email today to learn more.
Accepting new patients! Get seen ASAP! I love providing psychiatric care from children to adults of all ages. My specialized knowledge in hormonal issues and how these influence women’s mental health stem from my background as a women's health nurse practitioner, as well as being a PMHNP. My ideal patients are not afraid to integrate other holistic, evidence-based treatments beyond just medication management, especially for issues like treatment-resistant depression, and teenage depression. I don't want to mask symptoms but help people truly upgrade their lives in a sustainable and holistic way.
Accepting new patients! Get seen ASAP! I love providing psychiatric care from children to adults of all ages. My specialized knowledge in hormonal issues and how these influence women’s mental health stem from my background as a women's health nurse practitioner, as well as being a PMHNP. My ideal patients are not afraid to integrate other holistic, evidence-based treatments beyond just medication management, especially for issues like treatment-resistant depression, and teenage depression. I don't want to mask symptoms but help people truly upgrade their lives in a sustainable and holistic way.
Aquila Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013 (Online Only)
Greetings folks, my name is Aquila Roberts, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have a client-centered approach with the knowledge that we all have the tools within us, we may need some support to access them. My areas of practice include depression, anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, insomnia, and mood disorders. My approach is to empower clients to find inner healing and inner strength in addition to prescribing medication for extra support. I use self-reflection, mindfulness techniques, and education relating to medications and natural supplements to manage mental health symptoms.
Greetings folks, my name is Aquila Roberts, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have a client-centered approach with the knowledge that we all have the tools within us, we may need some support to access them. My areas of practice include depression, anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, insomnia, and mood disorders. My approach is to empower clients to find inner healing and inner strength in addition to prescribing medication for extra support. I use self-reflection, mindfulness techniques, and education relating to medications and natural supplements to manage mental health symptoms.
See more therapy options for Aurora
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Aurora, CO
100+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Aurora, CO who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
98% | Anxiety |
87% | ADHD |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Medication Management |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
93% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Aurora, CO see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Aurora?
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.