Psychiatrists in 80202

I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.

Dr. Erin Knopf is a Board-Certified Pediatrician, Adult Psychiatrist, and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist, as well as an iaedp Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. She specializes in treating eating disorder behaviors and comorbid symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD and more. She is the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of VERY (Virtual Eating Recovery for You). VERY provides virtual eating disorder care services (psychiatry, therapy, dietary, medical) in 10 states (CO, WA, UT, KY, IN, OH, TN, TX, NJ, NY). We work with your outside providers to ensure cohesive care!
Dr. Erin Knopf is a Board-Certified Pediatrician, Adult Psychiatrist, and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist, as well as an iaedp Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. She specializes in treating eating disorder behaviors and comorbid symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD and more. She is the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of VERY (Virtual Eating Recovery for You). VERY provides virtual eating disorder care services (psychiatry, therapy, dietary, medical) in 10 states (CO, WA, UT, KY, IN, OH, TN, TX, NJ, NY). We work with your outside providers to ensure cohesive care!

VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We are board-certified in treating Children and Adults. Accepting new Colorado patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking for a holistic approach to proper diagnoses and treatment using the safest prescribing principles in addition to complementary and integrative offerings. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Accepting most major insurances plans. Affordable out-of-pocket rates.
We are board-certified in treating Children and Adults. Accepting new Colorado patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking for a holistic approach to proper diagnoses and treatment using the safest prescribing principles in addition to complementary and integrative offerings. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Accepting most major insurances plans. Affordable out-of-pocket rates.

Shannon Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202
Hello! I am currently accepting new patients as of 1/20/2022. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Colorado or Massachusetts. My love for what I do in psychiatry, comes from the joy I get in helping others improve their lives. Most of my patients do not know which direction to go when then come to me, and that is ok. Some people come to me looking for second or third opinions about diagnosis or medications, some people are referred by a therapist to start medication. We can openly discuss decisions and options. This is a judgement free zone. There is no way you can TMI me!
Hello! I am currently accepting new patients as of 1/20/2022. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Colorado or Massachusetts. My love for what I do in psychiatry, comes from the joy I get in helping others improve their lives. Most of my patients do not know which direction to go when then come to me, and that is ok. Some people come to me looking for second or third opinions about diagnosis or medications, some people are referred by a therapist to start medication. We can openly discuss decisions and options. This is a judgement free zone. There is no way you can TMI me!

Holistic Mental Healthcare PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia, concentration issues, fatigue, or other mental health problems? Have you tried therapy or managing these issues on your own, but just can't seem to get over the hump? Is your mental health holding you back from living your most joyful, most productive life? If so, hit the contact button to schedule, we can help!
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia, concentration issues, fatigue, or other mental health problems? Have you tried therapy or managing these issues on your own, but just can't seem to get over the hump? Is your mental health holding you back from living your most joyful, most productive life? If so, hit the contact button to schedule, we can help!

Sublimity Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrHA, MSN, AAPRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years.
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years.

Are you having trouble managing your emotions? Are you having difficulty with sleep? Do you have difficulty with attention, focus, and motivation to complete tasks? There is hope. I help people manage their anxiety, depression, and focus before it has a chance to control your life and well being. My practice is able to treat and prescribe medication for a range of mental health issues including but not limited to: Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Depressive Disorders, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, or Personality Disorders.
Are you having trouble managing your emotions? Are you having difficulty with sleep? Do you have difficulty with attention, focus, and motivation to complete tasks? There is hope. I help people manage their anxiety, depression, and focus before it has a chance to control your life and well being. My practice is able to treat and prescribe medication for a range of mental health issues including but not limited to: Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Depressive Disorders, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, or Personality Disorders.

Justin is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority in Colorado, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Justin is originally from Mississippi, and after serving four years in the United States Air Force as an aircraft avionic technician, he attended University of Southern Mississippi where he majored in nursing. Justin worked for five years as a Registered Nurse before earning his Master’s in Nursing from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs and began working as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Justin treats children age 5 and over, adults, and geriatric patients.
Justin is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority in Colorado, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Justin is originally from Mississippi, and after serving four years in the United States Air Force as an aircraft avionic technician, he attended University of Southern Mississippi where he majored in nursing. Justin worked for five years as a Registered Nurse before earning his Master’s in Nursing from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs and began working as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Justin treats children age 5 and over, adults, and geriatric patients.

Summyji Groom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.

Queendroline Nkeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202
Queendroline Nkeh (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 12 years of experience in healthcare. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and is sincere. Most importantly, she encourages Integrative Psychiatric Medicine for all patients with what they are comfortable in utilizing. Incorporating vitamins and nutrition coaching, alongside medications and herbal supplements are strongly encouraged.
Queendroline Nkeh (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 12 years of experience in healthcare. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and is sincere. Most importantly, she encourages Integrative Psychiatric Medicine for all patients with what they are comfortable in utilizing. Incorporating vitamins and nutrition coaching, alongside medications and herbal supplements are strongly encouraged.

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand that each client is unique, with their own set of challenges, needs, and goals. My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders, seeking not only relief from their symptoms but also a deeper understanding of themselves. They desire a holistic, compassionate approach that integrates evidence-based treatment with a personalized touch. What makes me unique is my dedication to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and valued. By combining my clinical expertise with genuine empathy,
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand that each client is unique, with their own set of challenges, needs, and goals. My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders, seeking not only relief from their symptoms but also a deeper understanding of themselves. They desire a holistic, compassionate approach that integrates evidence-based treatment with a personalized touch. What makes me unique is my dedication to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and valued. By combining my clinical expertise with genuine empathy,
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Alex Betz, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202
Alex is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He started his career working as a registered nurse in while pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Toledo where he specialized in psychiatric mental health.
Alex is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He started his career working as a registered nurse in while pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Toledo where he specialized in psychiatric mental health.

Imagine your ideal self—seeking a partner in your mental health journey who truly listens, understands, and collaborates with you. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, or the deep wounds of trauma, and you're looking for a compassionate, individualized approach. Your goal is to find healing and resilience, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and life experiences. I’m here to work closely with you, ensuring that your voice is central in crafting a path to the well-being you deserve. Together, we'll honor your journey and empower you to achieve your goals.
Imagine your ideal self—seeking a partner in your mental health journey who truly listens, understands, and collaborates with you. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, or the deep wounds of trauma, and you're looking for a compassionate, individualized approach. Your goal is to find healing and resilience, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and life experiences. I’m here to work closely with you, ensuring that your voice is central in crafting a path to the well-being you deserve. Together, we'll honor your journey and empower you to achieve your goals.

Born and raised in Colorado, I am passionate about supporting those who live in our rural and mountainous communities. Colorado is a progressive state in many ways including the rights of the LBGTQ community as well as support for mental health. I believe in access to mental health from personal experience and understand the importance of having a provider who listens without judgment, who cares, and who responds quickly to questions and any pharmacological concerns. I believe in and strive to provide psychiatric care to individuals with empathy and compassion.
Born and raised in Colorado, I am passionate about supporting those who live in our rural and mountainous communities. Colorado is a progressive state in many ways including the rights of the LBGTQ community as well as support for mental health. I believe in access to mental health from personal experience and understand the importance of having a provider who listens without judgment, who cares, and who responds quickly to questions and any pharmacological concerns. I believe in and strive to provide psychiatric care to individuals with empathy and compassion.

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.

Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Psychiatry On Demand, where we strive to create a warm and understanding environment that helps you begin your journey toward mental wellness. We are happy to welcome individuals like you who are navigating the complexities of mental health. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or any other challenges, we are here to offer personalized strategies for growth and resilience that are precisely tailored to your needs.
Welcome to Psychiatry On Demand, where we strive to create a warm and understanding environment that helps you begin your journey toward mental wellness. We are happy to welcome individuals like you who are navigating the complexities of mental health. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or any other challenges, we are here to offer personalized strategies for growth and resilience that are precisely tailored to your needs.

At Lorem Health, mental health treatment is a partnership. I help provide the tools for you to write your own story. We look for clients who are ready for a fresh take on mental health care and are ready to engage in treatment. We offer treatment for general psychiatric concerns like anxiety, depression, trauma related disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. We also specialize in TBI, dementias, psychiatric consequences of neurologic disease, as well as treatment for substance use. We have some limited availability for therapy.
At Lorem Health, mental health treatment is a partnership. I help provide the tools for you to write your own story. We look for clients who are ready for a fresh take on mental health care and are ready to engage in treatment. We offer treatment for general psychiatric concerns like anxiety, depression, trauma related disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. We also specialize in TBI, dementias, psychiatric consequences of neurologic disease, as well as treatment for substance use. We have some limited availability for therapy.

Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling sad? Are you broken? Do you feel like you are carrying a heavy burden? Come see us @ Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness, and we can help get you to your TURNING POINT...... Dr. Innocent Omale DNP, has a dual board certification as a Family NP and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders. Some of his practice specialties include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse and Men's health. Services includes medication management, and counseling based on Christian faith (transpersonal psychiatry).
Are you feeling sad? Are you broken? Do you feel like you are carrying a heavy burden? Come see us @ Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness, and we can help get you to your TURNING POINT...... Dr. Innocent Omale DNP, has a dual board certification as a Family NP and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders. Some of his practice specialties include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse and Men's health. Services includes medication management, and counseling based on Christian faith (transpersonal psychiatry).

It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.

Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. I understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. I want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact me. I love to help.
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. I understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. I want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact me. I love to help.
See more therapy options for 80202
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 80202
60+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 80202 who prioritize treating:
99% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
90% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | ADHD |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 80202 see their clients
64% | Online Only | |
36% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
30% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 80202?
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.