Psychiatrists in 80229

My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, or neurodevelopmental concerns, seeking a compassionate and understanding space to address their challenges. They need personalized, evidence-based treatment and a supportive environment where they feel safe to explore their feelings and goals. Their primary goal is to achieve emotional stability, improve coping skills, and foster personal growth. They want a tailored approach that respects their unique experiences and cultural background, aiming for a more balanced, fulfilling life.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, or neurodevelopmental concerns, seeking a compassionate and understanding space to address their challenges. They need personalized, evidence-based treatment and a supportive environment where they feel safe to explore their feelings and goals. Their primary goal is to achieve emotional stability, improve coping skills, and foster personal growth. They want a tailored approach that respects their unique experiences and cultural background, aiming for a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Open Availability This Week—Reserve Your Appointment Today! My nursing career began in emergency departments and later transitioned to inpatient psychiatric care, where my passion for mental health truly flourished. Supporting patients has inspired my deep compassion for the human experience, and I’ve been honored to help individuals improve their mental well-being even in the face of extraordinary challenges.
Open Availability This Week—Reserve Your Appointment Today! My nursing career began in emergency departments and later transitioned to inpatient psychiatric care, where my passion for mental health truly flourished. Supporting patients has inspired my deep compassion for the human experience, and I’ve been honored to help individuals improve their mental well-being even in the face of extraordinary challenges.

I’m a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a rich background in military and forensic nursing. My journey in mental health began 15 years ago after serving five honorable years as a hospital corpsman in the United States Navy, where I specialized in caring for service members’ mental health needs. My passion for advancing my knowledge led me to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, with a focus on forensic nursing.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a rich background in military and forensic nursing. My journey in mental health began 15 years ago after serving five honorable years as a hospital corpsman in the United States Navy, where I specialized in caring for service members’ mental health needs. My passion for advancing my knowledge led me to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, with a focus on forensic nursing.

Women's and Children Psychiatry| Grace Stimpson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in perinatal mental health, child and adolescent psychiatry, developmental pediatrics, women's issues, and LGBTQ+ mental health . I work with people in all stages of life who are experiencing burnout, anxiety, depression, frustration, and fatigue. Whether you're struggling with infertility, gender dysphoria and transitioning, postpartum depression, or the transition into motherhood, I'm here for you! I also offer ADHD coaching for those seeking additional support in addition to medication management
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in perinatal mental health, child and adolescent psychiatry, developmental pediatrics, women's issues, and LGBTQ+ mental health . I work with people in all stages of life who are experiencing burnout, anxiety, depression, frustration, and fatigue. Whether you're struggling with infertility, gender dysphoria and transitioning, postpartum depression, or the transition into motherhood, I'm here for you! I also offer ADHD coaching for those seeking additional support in addition to medication management

Accepting New Clients—In-Person or Online Sessions Available! Hi, I’m Shelby, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals through life’s challenges. My journey into mental health care started with my background as a labor and delivery nurse, which gave me a unique perspective on the emotional and psychological aspects of major life transitions. I strive to create a warm, trusting environment where you feel supported in your journey toward healing and resilience.
Accepting New Clients—In-Person or Online Sessions Available! Hi, I’m Shelby, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals through life’s challenges. My journey into mental health care started with my background as a labor and delivery nurse, which gave me a unique perspective on the emotional and psychological aspects of major life transitions. I strive to create a warm, trusting environment where you feel supported in your journey toward healing and resilience.

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.

Open Availability This Week—Call Now to Reserve! I’m Jacob, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a degree from Regis University in Denver, CO. I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing a variety of mental health disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care and offer medication management and wellness strategies tailored to your unique needs.
Open Availability This Week—Call Now to Reserve! I’m Jacob, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a degree from Regis University in Denver, CO. I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing a variety of mental health disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care and offer medication management and wellness strategies tailored to your unique needs.

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.

Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.

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.

I'm a Johns Hopkins-trained, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a deeply empathetic, evidence-based, and down-to-earth approach to mental health. I work with adults (18 and older) experiencing anxiety, depression, difficulty sleeping, life transitions, attention and focus issues/ADHD, and the mental health aspects of chronic pain. I take the time to get to know my patients and make sure they are well-informed to make the best decisions for themselves.
I'm a Johns Hopkins-trained, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a deeply empathetic, evidence-based, and down-to-earth approach to mental health. I work with adults (18 and older) experiencing anxiety, depression, difficulty sleeping, life transitions, attention and focus issues/ADHD, and the mental health aspects of chronic pain. I take the time to get to know my patients and make sure they are well-informed to make the best decisions for themselves.

My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.

Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. Asking for help takes courage, and my goal is to meet you where you are. I intend to understand your values, needs, and emotions. Effective treatment starts with trust and feeling heard without judgment. Your initial appointment can be in person or in the comfort of your home utilizing telehealth. By learning about you, your family history, and your symptoms, we can develop a treatment plan we are both comfortable with.
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. Asking for help takes courage, and my goal is to meet you where you are. I intend to understand your values, needs, and emotions. Effective treatment starts with trust and feeling heard without judgment. Your initial appointment can be in person or in the comfort of your home utilizing telehealth. By learning about you, your family history, and your symptoms, we can develop a treatment plan we are both comfortable with.

Breanna Millsap MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN , PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability! She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your free consultation today!
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability! She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your free consultation today!

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.

Feeling stuck? Hesitant about medication but tired of struggling? You just want to feel like yourself again—focused, calm, and in control. You need a lasting solution, and not a provider who is going to throw meds at you and send you on your way. Whether it's anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or ADHD, you're ready for a treatment approach that actually works—one that gets to the root cause, not just the symptoms.
Feeling stuck? Hesitant about medication but tired of struggling? You just want to feel like yourself again—focused, calm, and in control. You need a lasting solution, and not a provider who is going to throw meds at you and send you on your way. Whether it's anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or ADHD, you're ready for a treatment approach that actually works—one that gets to the root cause, not just the symptoms.

Inner Joy Psychiatry | Zachary Wight PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80229
Accepting New Patients! I specialize in integrative psychiatry for individuals ages 16+ combining evidence-based medication management with holistic and non-traditional "whole-body" approaches for full-spectrum treatment of mental illnesses and substance abuse. I am accepting of all people and I provide non-judgmental care. Viewing the mind, body, emotions, and soul as beautifully interconnected, I will strive to gain a deep understanding of your unique history, the current struggles that are hindering mental wellness, and adaptation skills that can be enhanced to inspire a lasting sense of inner joy.
Accepting New Patients! I specialize in integrative psychiatry for individuals ages 16+ combining evidence-based medication management with holistic and non-traditional "whole-body" approaches for full-spectrum treatment of mental illnesses and substance abuse. I am accepting of all people and I provide non-judgmental care. Viewing the mind, body, emotions, and soul as beautifully interconnected, I will strive to gain a deep understanding of your unique history, the current struggles that are hindering mental wellness, and adaptation skills that can be enhanced to inspire a lasting sense of inner joy.

Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.

Sean McNamara- Amavi Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and graduate of Regis University. Prior to joining Amavi, I worked with the acute adult psychiatric population at Denver Health. I take a holistic approach when working with patients so I can better understand and care for your physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Welcome! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and graduate of Regis University. Prior to joining Amavi, I worked with the acute adult psychiatric population at Denver Health. I take a holistic approach when working with patients so I can better understand and care for your physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual needs.

Michael Garza- Amavi Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, APRN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Michael Garza is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I hold extensive experience in acute adult inpatient psychiatry while working in Denver Health’s Adult Inpatient Medical/Psychiatric Unit since 2014. My education in nursing, in addition to my degrees in psychology and theology, provides a client-focused practice that welcomes a collaborative, non-judgmental space. I strongly believe that every client’s life story is unique and deserves a personalized and holistic incorporation of individual narratives, social support systems, and values.
Michael Garza is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I hold extensive experience in acute adult inpatient psychiatry while working in Denver Health’s Adult Inpatient Medical/Psychiatric Unit since 2014. My education in nursing, in addition to my degrees in psychology and theology, provides a client-focused practice that welcomes a collaborative, non-judgmental space. I strongly believe that every client’s life story is unique and deserves a personalized and holistic incorporation of individual narratives, social support systems, and values.
See more therapy options for 80229
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 80229
30+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 80229 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
94% | ADHD |
82% | Trauma and PTSD |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
16 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 80229 see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
62% | Female | |
38% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 80229?
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.