Psychiatrists in 80248
I am a board certified psychiatrist who works with adults struggling with a variety of issues. I am an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, teaching and training medical students and psychiatry residents. In addition to general psychiatry, I have extensive experience treating women who are or who are considering becoming pregnant. Though medications can be helpful, they often do not provide the deep and lasting change many patients desire. For this reason, I sought advanced psychotherapy training after completing my psychiatric residency.
I am a board certified psychiatrist who works with adults struggling with a variety of issues. I am an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, teaching and training medical students and psychiatry residents. In addition to general psychiatry, I have extensive experience treating women who are or who are considering becoming pregnant. Though medications can be helpful, they often do not provide the deep and lasting change many patients desire. For this reason, I sought advanced psychotherapy training after completing my psychiatric residency.
Listening to a person share their life story is the starting point for any therapeutic encounter. I am dedicated to hearing everything that a patient is trying to communicate whether that is through words or behaviors. The qualities of my patients that help them maximize their time with me are a sense of openness and curiosity, courage and humility, and trust that together we can discover a new way.
Listening to a person share their life story is the starting point for any therapeutic encounter. I am dedicated to hearing everything that a patient is trying to communicate whether that is through words or behaviors. The qualities of my patients that help them maximize their time with me are a sense of openness and curiosity, courage and humility, and trust that together we can discover a new way.
I'm a dedicated psychiatric physician assistant committed to providing inclusive and affirming care to individuals from all backgrounds, including the LGBTQIA+ community. With expertise in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD, I approach each patient with empathy and understanding. I tailor every treatment plan to each patient’s specific needs and goals. My passion lies in helping patients not just manage their symptoms but thrive and become their best selves.
I'm a dedicated psychiatric physician assistant committed to providing inclusive and affirming care to individuals from all backgrounds, including the LGBTQIA+ community. With expertise in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD, I approach each patient with empathy and understanding. I tailor every treatment plan to each patient’s specific needs and goals. My passion lies in helping patients not just manage their symptoms but thrive and become their best selves.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Keith Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123 (Online Only)
Psychiatry - Accepting New Patients - Board-certified, Psychiatric NP, with many years of experience in family practice and psychiatry. I am a compassionate medical provider and value evidence-based care of the whole person. I incorporates multiple treatment modalities in addition to medication management such as therapy, nutrition optimization and health coaching. My diverse clinical background allows me to take a more holistic approach and understand each individuals needs are different. Everyone is different and unique, I believe in a more holistic approach to mental healthcare that views you as a unique individual.
Psychiatry - Accepting New Patients - Board-certified, Psychiatric NP, with many years of experience in family practice and psychiatry. I am a compassionate medical provider and value evidence-based care of the whole person. I incorporates multiple treatment modalities in addition to medication management such as therapy, nutrition optimization and health coaching. My diverse clinical background allows me to take a more holistic approach and understand each individuals needs are different. Everyone is different and unique, I believe in a more holistic approach to mental healthcare that views you as a unique individual.
David J. Williams, M.D., is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in private practice in Denver, CO specializing in talk therapy. Dr. Williams treats patients with chronic work and relationship problems, ADHD, Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Panic Disorder. While trained in the use of medications, Dr. Williams also has extensive additional experience and training in providing talk therapy for chronic or recurrent mood and anxiety problems for patients seeking treatment beyond medication management.
David J. Williams, M.D., is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in private practice in Denver, CO specializing in talk therapy. Dr. Williams treats patients with chronic work and relationship problems, ADHD, Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Panic Disorder. While trained in the use of medications, Dr. Williams also has extensive additional experience and training in providing talk therapy for chronic or recurrent mood and anxiety problems for patients seeking treatment beyond medication management.
Mary Sturgis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211 (Online Only)
My approach to care is holistic, focusing on both the mind and body to promote overall wellness. I incorporate motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and evidence-based practices to help clients navigate their mental health journey. By meeting clients where they are and tailoring care to their unique needs, I strive to create a collaborative and supportive environment that fosters growth and healing.
My approach to care is holistic, focusing on both the mind and body to promote overall wellness. I incorporate motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and evidence-based practices to help clients navigate their mental health journey. By meeting clients where they are and tailoring care to their unique needs, I strive to create a collaborative and supportive environment that fosters growth and healing.
Ivy Gugat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Castle Rock, CO 80104 (Online Only)
When I am meeting a client for the first time, I understand that it can be nerve-wracking and I will try to put you at ease. I fully believe in “meeting people where they are.” The path to healing is always a team effort and I will ensure that the client always is in the driver’s seat of the plan. I am ready to join your team and get to work. My goal is to tailor every care plan to the patient and their life. I will begin by asking you about your goals and how you would like to measure our progress toward those goals. We will build a comprehensive plan around therapy, medications, exercise, and nutrition.
When I am meeting a client for the first time, I understand that it can be nerve-wracking and I will try to put you at ease. I fully believe in “meeting people where they are.” The path to healing is always a team effort and I will ensure that the client always is in the driver’s seat of the plan. I am ready to join your team and get to work. My goal is to tailor every care plan to the patient and their life. I will begin by asking you about your goals and how you would like to measure our progress toward those goals. We will build a comprehensive plan around therapy, medications, exercise, and nutrition.
Welcome! My name is John Tripp of Modern Mental Health. I specialize in ADHD and coexisting issues like depression and anxiety disorders that are common with ADHD. I believe in an individualized, strength-based approach that promotes a true partnership with my clients. ADHD impacts women, men, adolescents, and children in all very unique ways and needs to be treated as such. I provide therapy and medication management to improve behavioral outcomes by enhancing executive functioning skills and addressing negative thought patterns. I provide a free 15-30 minute consult to answer all of your questions. Proudly serving all ages.
Welcome! My name is John Tripp of Modern Mental Health. I specialize in ADHD and coexisting issues like depression and anxiety disorders that are common with ADHD. I believe in an individualized, strength-based approach that promotes a true partnership with my clients. ADHD impacts women, men, adolescents, and children in all very unique ways and needs to be treated as such. I provide therapy and medication management to improve behavioral outcomes by enhancing executive functioning skills and addressing negative thought patterns. I provide a free 15-30 minute consult to answer all of your questions. Proudly serving all ages.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist who is passionate about providing high-quality psychiatric care and helping individuals to feel heard, supported, and achieve their full potential. I take an integrative, collaborative approach to care, prioritizing individual needs and preferences in treatment plans. I incorporate traditional medication management in my practice as well as supplements for mental health, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mind-body/lifestyle approaches. I have expertise in a range of psychiatric issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep issues, bipolar disorder, and complex, treatment-resistant cases.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist who is passionate about providing high-quality psychiatric care and helping individuals to feel heard, supported, and achieve their full potential. I take an integrative, collaborative approach to care, prioritizing individual needs and preferences in treatment plans. I incorporate traditional medication management in my practice as well as supplements for mental health, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mind-body/lifestyle approaches. I have expertise in a range of psychiatric issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep issues, bipolar disorder, and complex, treatment-resistant cases.
Amanda is a nationally certified and Colorado licensed physician assistant and psychiatric medical provider. She graduated with a Master's in Medical Science from Wake Forest University in 2017 and started her career in emergency medicine before transitioning into outpatient psychiatry. Amanda completed the Integrative Psychiatry Institute Fellowship in 2024 where she learned to practice from a "root cause" mindset. She is passionate about treating patients holistically rather than focusing only on specific ailments, and she strives to tailor each session to the patient's individual needs and goals.
Amanda is a nationally certified and Colorado licensed physician assistant and psychiatric medical provider. She graduated with a Master's in Medical Science from Wake Forest University in 2017 and started her career in emergency medicine before transitioning into outpatient psychiatry. Amanda completed the Integrative Psychiatry Institute Fellowship in 2024 where she learned to practice from a "root cause" mindset. She is passionate about treating patients holistically rather than focusing only on specific ailments, and she strives to tailor each session to the patient's individual needs and goals.
Are you feeling stressed out, stuck, helpless, overwhelmed with fear or disappointment, unable to focus or get anything done? Do you want to keep functioning this way? I provide modern treatment strategies, with a 3 fold approach: remove what's hurting you, support what's helping you, and grow more helpful components. This a systems based approach, targeting brain regions, neurotransmitters, signalling pathways, and inflammation. I work with people who are well-trained in how to understand and interact with the world logically; but find stumbling blocks in their psychological and emotional well-being.
Are you feeling stressed out, stuck, helpless, overwhelmed with fear or disappointment, unable to focus or get anything done? Do you want to keep functioning this way? I provide modern treatment strategies, with a 3 fold approach: remove what's hurting you, support what's helping you, and grow more helpful components. This a systems based approach, targeting brain regions, neurotransmitters, signalling pathways, and inflammation. I work with people who are well-trained in how to understand and interact with the world logically; but find stumbling blocks in their psychological and emotional well-being.
Our clinic treats ages 5 & up. Sessions are conducted virtually (using a HIPAA compliant platform). We understand that medication management is not the only solution. The lifestyle that precipitated the stress response in the first plans needs to change. In addition to psychotherapy and medication management, we place high regards for modalities such as weight management, medical management, exercise, and sleep hygiene to combat the body’s inflammatory response, which exacerbates mental illness. We aim to uses the lowest effective dose and help people to eventually not depend on medication.
Our clinic treats ages 5 & up. Sessions are conducted virtually (using a HIPAA compliant platform). We understand that medication management is not the only solution. The lifestyle that precipitated the stress response in the first plans needs to change. In addition to psychotherapy and medication management, we place high regards for modalities such as weight management, medical management, exercise, and sleep hygiene to combat the body’s inflammatory response, which exacerbates mental illness. We aim to uses the lowest effective dose and help people to eventually not depend on medication.
I am a Harvard-trained board-certified geriatric psychiatrist. While I work with all adults, I specialize in the management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, late life depression and anxiety, and the strain that family members experience when caring for those aging with dementia and mental illness. Common problems I address include apathy, agitation, insomnia, confusion, depression, anxiety, hallucinations, delusions and memory loss. I do not participate in Medicare or commercial insurance.
I am a Harvard-trained board-certified geriatric psychiatrist. While I work with all adults, I specialize in the management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, late life depression and anxiety, and the strain that family members experience when caring for those aging with dementia and mental illness. Common problems I address include apathy, agitation, insomnia, confusion, depression, anxiety, hallucinations, delusions and memory loss. I do not participate in Medicare or commercial insurance.
Ryann Charisse Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80031 (Online Only)
As we navigate through life's challenges we can find ourselves in unfamiliar and uncomfortable places. Whether we are adjusting to a new routine, family dynamics, or experiencing symptoms that we can't verbalize... During this vulnerable time we all need understanding, clarity, and most importantly support. I say "we" because we all have been there. It is my hope that I can provide a safe space to assist in conceptualizing your experience and help you to realize your wellness goals.
As we navigate through life's challenges we can find ourselves in unfamiliar and uncomfortable places. Whether we are adjusting to a new routine, family dynamics, or experiencing symptoms that we can't verbalize... During this vulnerable time we all need understanding, clarity, and most importantly support. I say "we" because we all have been there. It is my hope that I can provide a safe space to assist in conceptualizing your experience and help you to realize your wellness goals.
Wholesome Clinic - Psychiatric & Family Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80030
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to Wholesome Clinic, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to Wholesome Clinic, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
Capstone Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80261 (Online Only)
Now an Autism and ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to help. I know reaching out can be the hardest part. Don't suffer in silence. I know you want to take back control over your life and truly feel alive again! I promise you, I will offer a safe and confidential environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and work through any challenges you may be facing. We aren't pushy, we are a member of your healthcare team, and make decisions...as a team! You are in full control over your healthcare.
Now an Autism and ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to help. I know reaching out can be the hardest part. Don't suffer in silence. I know you want to take back control over your life and truly feel alive again! I promise you, I will offer a safe and confidential environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and work through any challenges you may be facing. We aren't pushy, we are a member of your healthcare team, and make decisions...as a team! You are in full control over your healthcare.
Online Kairos Psychiatry in Colorado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301 (Online Only)
We often risk our mental health in this busy world and people often have to choose between psychiatric/ therapy appointments or keeping up with other life responsibilities. Now you won't have to. My goal is to reduce fragmented care by providing accessible psychiatric care online, wherever you are, all across Colorado. No more congested traffic or long drives, waiting room, missing work or school. Online psychiatry is privacy-friendly and customizable. I connect with teens, collegiates, and young professionals to navigate anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stressors of career and school transitions, and family life.
We often risk our mental health in this busy world and people often have to choose between psychiatric/ therapy appointments or keeping up with other life responsibilities. Now you won't have to. My goal is to reduce fragmented care by providing accessible psychiatric care online, wherever you are, all across Colorado. No more congested traffic or long drives, waiting room, missing work or school. Online psychiatry is privacy-friendly and customizable. I connect with teens, collegiates, and young professionals to navigate anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stressors of career and school transitions, and family life.
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Federal Heights, CO 80260
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
Margurite Isaac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004 (Online Only)
Born and raised in Kansas City, I decided to pursue a medical career during high school. I went to trade school and worked as a medical assistant and phlebotomist. After several years I decided to further my education in nursing, attaining my LPN, RN, BSN, MSN, and post-graduate certification. I graduated summa cum laude from all nursing coursework. Margurite decided to pursue my PMHNP certification out of my desire to more effectively help others suffering from anxiety and depression.
Born and raised in Kansas City, I decided to pursue a medical career during high school. I went to trade school and worked as a medical assistant and phlebotomist. After several years I decided to further my education in nursing, attaining my LPN, RN, BSN, MSN, and post-graduate certification. I graduated summa cum laude from all nursing coursework. Margurite decided to pursue my PMHNP certification out of my desire to more effectively help others suffering from anxiety and depression.
Emily O'Keefe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take great pride in helping individuals work through their mental health challenges to reach their goals. Using a straightforward and down-to-earth approach to care, I aim to maximize outcomes using a conservative approach to prescribing medications. I implement a holistic approach to mental healthcare - integrating therapy, diet, exercise, and herbal therapies when appropriate in conjunction with prescription medications.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take great pride in helping individuals work through their mental health challenges to reach their goals. Using a straightforward and down-to-earth approach to care, I aim to maximize outcomes using a conservative approach to prescribing medications. I implement a holistic approach to mental healthcare - integrating therapy, diet, exercise, and herbal therapies when appropriate in conjunction with prescription medications.
See more therapy options for 80248
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 80248
< 10
Psychiatrists in 80248 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Relationship Issues |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Humana |
100% | MultiPlan |
How Psychiatrists in 80248 see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 80248?
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.