Psychiatrists in 80234

Photo of Kari Green, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Kari Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Northglenn, CO 80234
Kari Green is dual-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Kari has prescriptive authority and treats children, adolescents, and adults. Kari is versed in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and lifestyle treatment options and utilizes a holistic and individualized approach. Kari is passionate about uncovering and treating root causes of mental health and addiction issues (e.g. intestinal bacteria/yeast overgrowth, vitamin/mineral/micronutrient imbalances, mold/toxin exposure, etc.).
Kari Green is dual-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Kari has prescriptive authority and treats children, adolescents, and adults. Kari is versed in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and lifestyle treatment options and utilizes a holistic and individualized approach. Kari is passionate about uncovering and treating root causes of mental health and addiction issues (e.g. intestinal bacteria/yeast overgrowth, vitamin/mineral/micronutrient imbalances, mold/toxin exposure, etc.).
(720) 408-7393 View (720) 408-7393
Photo of Marlo McNulty, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Marlo McNulty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Westminster, CO 80234
Hello! As a board-certified psychiatric mental health provider, I take a holistic approach to psychiatry with the goal of helping each of my patients become their best selves. I strive to empower my patients and work collaboratively to make personalized, patient-centered treatment decisions, while providing a lot of education and support. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, playing with my dogs, doing yoga, and hiking.
Hello! As a board-certified psychiatric mental health provider, I take a holistic approach to psychiatry with the goal of helping each of my patients become their best selves. I strive to empower my patients and work collaboratively to make personalized, patient-centered treatment decisions, while providing a lot of education and support. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, playing with my dogs, doing yoga, and hiking.
(720) 783-1970 View (720) 783-1970
Photo of Sean McNamara - Sean McNamara- Amavi Integrative Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sean McNamara- Amavi Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Westminster, CO 80234
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.
(720) 790-3438 View (720) 790-3438
Photo of Debbie Pawlowski-Krejcik, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Debbie Pawlowski-Krejcik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Northglenn, CO 80234
Although I treat a multitude of mental health conditions, my focus has primarily been working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorder, eating disorders, as well as alcohol and drug addiction.
Although I treat a multitude of mental health conditions, my focus has primarily been working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorder, eating disorders, as well as alcohol and drug addiction.
(720) 331-6899 View (720) 331-6899
Photo of Cynthia St.Clair, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Cynthia St.Clair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Northglenn, CO 80234
Cynthia is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. Additionally, Cynthia is certified and trained in Integrative psychiatry which incorporates a holistic approach to mental health care that utilizes nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals to provide symptom mitigation while attempting to address the root cause. The integrative psychiatry approach is aligned with Cynthia’s years of practice and approach to health and healing.
Cynthia is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. Additionally, Cynthia is certified and trained in Integrative psychiatry which incorporates a holistic approach to mental health care that utilizes nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals to provide symptom mitigation while attempting to address the root cause. The integrative psychiatry approach is aligned with Cynthia’s years of practice and approach to health and healing.
(970) 499-8706 View (970) 499-8706
Photo of Dr. Sherissa Sebastian - Sherissa Sebastian-Amavi Integrative Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, RXN
Sherissa Sebastian-Amavi Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, RXN
Westminster, CO 80234
Hello! My name is Dr. Sherissa Sebastian and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with a doctorate in nursing practice (DNP). I have experience working with patients facing a variety of mental health issues. My goal is to create a safe, open, and compassionate environment for you to express your concerns so we can create a successful plan together!
Hello! My name is Dr. Sherissa Sebastian and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with a doctorate in nursing practice (DNP). I have experience working with patients facing a variety of mental health issues. My goal is to create a safe, open, and compassionate environment for you to express your concerns so we can create a successful plan together!
(719) 631-1940 View (719) 631-1940
Photo of Michael Garza - Michael Garza- Amavi Integrative Mental Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, APRN
Michael Garza- Amavi Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, APRN
1 Endorsed
Westminster, CO 80234
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.
(720) 893-3487 View (720) 893-3487
Photo of Heather Ann Kirby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, RN
Heather Ann Kirby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, RN
1 Endorsed
Northglenn, CO 80234
Heather is a board-certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents and adults. Heather possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She works with clients to form a treatment plan that is holistic and meets the needs of the individual client and family.
Heather is a board-certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents and adults. Heather possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She works with clients to form a treatment plan that is holistic and meets the needs of the individual client and family.
(303) 975-6142 View (303) 975-6142
Photo of Evelle Brock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Evelle Brock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Evelle has many years of experience working in community public health, both general medical as well as psychiatric care, where she has provided care to the most fragile and underserved community members. She has learned the importance of a holistic approach to treatment and treatment modalities. Evelle understands that each client comes with unique physical, mental, and spiritual needs that factor into their individual treatment plan. She will explore pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options, such as exercise, nutrition, and sleep, in conjunction with psychotherapy to attain the best results.
Evelle has many years of experience working in community public health, both general medical as well as psychiatric care, where she has provided care to the most fragile and underserved community members. She has learned the importance of a holistic approach to treatment and treatment modalities. Evelle understands that each client comes with unique physical, mental, and spiritual needs that factor into their individual treatment plan. She will explore pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options, such as exercise, nutrition, and sleep, in conjunction with psychotherapy to attain the best results.
(720) 893-8797 View (720) 893-8797
Photo of Mitchell LeMieur, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mitchell LeMieur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Westminster, CO 80234
Hello! As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I truly value and enjoy working with my patients. I strive to provide collaborative, person-centered care to each individual. We will work together to achieve your goals while utilizing the best and latest in evidence-based research. I also have a particular interest in integrative and interventional psychiatry.
Hello! As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I truly value and enjoy working with my patients. I strive to provide collaborative, person-centered care to each individual. We will work together to achieve your goals while utilizing the best and latest in evidence-based research. I also have a particular interest in integrative and interventional psychiatry.
(720) 817-0648 View (720) 817-0648
Photo of Syreeta Spears, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CPN
Syreeta Spears
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CPN
2 Endorsed
Northglenn, CO 80234
Hello, I'm Syreeta Spears and I'm a Board-Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. I focus on using a collaborative, comprehensive methodology when treating patients and families. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults, and currently only see patients age 35 and under. I provide support and treatment plans for issues surrounding: suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, emotional disturbances, trauma, Bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, sleep problems, troubled thought patterns, difficult life transitions, and attention issues.
Hello, I'm Syreeta Spears and I'm a Board-Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. I focus on using a collaborative, comprehensive methodology when treating patients and families. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults, and currently only see patients age 35 and under. I provide support and treatment plans for issues surrounding: suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, emotional disturbances, trauma, Bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, sleep problems, troubled thought patterns, difficult life transitions, and attention issues.
(833) 248-5327 View (833) 248-5327
Photo of Teresa Jill Norris Peterson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Teresa Jill Norris Peterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I assess and diagnosis mental health conditions, as well as treat with medication management. I truly enjoy caring for individuals from all walks of life, from adolescents to the elder adult, that are dealing with mental health conditions and are seeking solutions. It is important for me to make sure that you feel heard and respected as we work together to develop the right medication treatment plan for you. This is a journey that we embark on together in a safe, open, non-judgmental environment. I have 27 years in careers that have consistently been in the "helping fields".
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I assess and diagnosis mental health conditions, as well as treat with medication management. I truly enjoy caring for individuals from all walks of life, from adolescents to the elder adult, that are dealing with mental health conditions and are seeking solutions. It is important for me to make sure that you feel heard and respected as we work together to develop the right medication treatment plan for you. This is a journey that we embark on together in a safe, open, non-judgmental environment. I have 27 years in careers that have consistently been in the "helping fields".
(720) 821-6433 View (720) 821-6433
Photo of Timothy Wood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Timothy Wood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I want to help those suffering with ADHD, depression/anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, and other mental health issues. I want to truly listen to the needs of my patients and formulate an individualized plan to get you feeling better.
I want to help those suffering with ADHD, depression/anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, and other mental health issues. I want to truly listen to the needs of my patients and formulate an individualized plan to get you feeling better.
(720) 697-2168 View (720) 697-2168
Photo of Julie Angileri - Capstone Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Capstone Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
10 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Julie Angileri, PMHNP. I specialize in helping adults and teens navigate ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression with compassionate, personalized care. Whether you’re managing the challenges of neurodivergence, coping with life transitions, or seeking clarity in your mental health journey, I’m here to help. My goal is to create a judgment-free space where you feel seen, understood, and empowered to thrive. Let’s work together to help you achieve balance, resilience, and a sense of well-being.
Hi, I’m Julie Angileri, PMHNP. I specialize in helping adults and teens navigate ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression with compassionate, personalized care. Whether you’re managing the challenges of neurodivergence, coping with life transitions, or seeking clarity in your mental health journey, I’m here to help. My goal is to create a judgment-free space where you feel seen, understood, and empowered to thrive. Let’s work together to help you achieve balance, resilience, and a sense of well-being.
(720) 307-3272 View (720) 307-3272
Photo of Ashley Howell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, MSN
Ashley Howell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, MSN
Online Only
Hello, I am Ashley. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been practicing since 2020. I have a laid back, but strategic approach to mental health care. I am a war veteran, serving in OIF-07. After my time in the Army as a combat medic, I continued my studies and became a nurse in 2012, working in several specialities. I am passionate about providing a safe space for clients to develop a treatment plan together. I use an integrated approach including medication management, psychotherapy approaches, supplements, and lifestyle recommendations.
Hello, I am Ashley. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been practicing since 2020. I have a laid back, but strategic approach to mental health care. I am a war veteran, serving in OIF-07. After my time in the Army as a combat medic, I continued my studies and became a nurse in 2012, working in several specialities. I am passionate about providing a safe space for clients to develop a treatment plan together. I use an integrated approach including medication management, psychotherapy approaches, supplements, and lifestyle recommendations.
(720) 575-9341 View (720) 575-9341
Photo of Holly Vause, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP
Holly Vause
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in psychiatric medication evaluation and management for children, adolescents and adults.I believe we must have a collaborative relationship working together to meet your treatment goals. This collaboration is achieved through honest communication about your symptoms of concern and medication effects. I do not believe medications are appropriate for everyone dealing with emotional, behavioral, and/or relational issues. I do believe that some form of therapy is critical for maintaining long-term benefits. In many situations therapy as well as medications provide the best outcomes. Working together, we will determine the best course of treatment for you.
I specialize in psychiatric medication evaluation and management for children, adolescents and adults.I believe we must have a collaborative relationship working together to meet your treatment goals. This collaboration is achieved through honest communication about your symptoms of concern and medication effects. I do not believe medications are appropriate for everyone dealing with emotional, behavioral, and/or relational issues. I do believe that some form of therapy is critical for maintaining long-term benefits. In many situations therapy as well as medications provide the best outcomes. Working together, we will determine the best course of treatment for you.
(720) 330-4904 View (720) 330-4904
Photo of Erica Earhart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erica Earhart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
My practice style is founded on the belief that mental wellness is a basic right. I enjoy working with my clients as their partner so that we can find the answers best suited to each individual’s needs.
My practice style is founded on the belief that mental wellness is a basic right. I enjoy working with my clients as their partner so that we can find the answers best suited to each individual’s needs.
(720) 745-5211 View (720) 745-5211

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Aquila Roberts, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aquila Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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.
(720) 523-8722 View (720) 523-8722
Photo of Caitlyn Champion, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Caitlyn Champion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
I work with clients across the lifespan who want to feel empowered in their healing and growth. Many are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or life transitions. Others seek greater clarity, balance, and connection in their daily lives. My clients value a whole-person approach that supports both mind and body. Together, we work toward goals like feeling better, thinking more clearly, improving relationships, and creating lasting, meaningful change.
I work with clients across the lifespan who want to feel empowered in their healing and growth. Many are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or life transitions. Others seek greater clarity, balance, and connection in their daily lives. My clients value a whole-person approach that supports both mind and body. Together, we work toward goals like feeling better, thinking more clearly, improving relationships, and creating lasting, meaningful change.
(888) 450-7286 View (888) 450-7286
Photo of Ugochi Nwaobi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ugochi Nwaobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Driven by a profound passion for aiding individuals on their quest for optimal mental well-being, I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering personalized and high-quality mental health care to clients aged 18-99 years. My approach encompasses conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations and collaboratively crafting tailored evidence based treatment plans that account for all relevant factors impacting mental health. With over 12 years of extensive experience across diverse healthcare settings, including community mental health clinics and private practice.
Driven by a profound passion for aiding individuals on their quest for optimal mental well-being, I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering personalized and high-quality mental health care to clients aged 18-99 years. My approach encompasses conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations and collaboratively crafting tailored evidence based treatment plans that account for all relevant factors impacting mental health. With over 12 years of extensive experience across diverse healthcare settings, including community mental health clinics and private practice.
(720) 386-8353 View (720) 386-8353

See more therapy options for 80234

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 80234

10+

Average cost per session

$180

Psychiatrists in 80234 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
94% Anxiety
94% ADHD
88% Bipolar Disorder
88% Medication Management
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
59% Psychosis

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Anthem
93% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 80234 see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 80234?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.