Psychiatrists in 80923

Photo of Steeve Joseph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PHMNP, -BC
Steeve Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PHMNP, -BC
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Life’s challenges—whether they involve stress, anxiety, depression, or the emotional toll of serious illness—can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your next steps. If you find yourself struggling with low moods or the unpredictability of life, it’s important to seek support. As a trained Psychiatric NP with a Master's Degree in mental psychiatry, I am here to provide you with exceptional, holistic, and person-centered care. I am committed to not only addressing the most apparent symptoms you may be experiencing but also delving into the underlying factors and root causes that contribute to your situation.
Life’s challenges—whether they involve stress, anxiety, depression, or the emotional toll of serious illness—can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your next steps. If you find yourself struggling with low moods or the unpredictability of life, it’s important to seek support. As a trained Psychiatric NP with a Master's Degree in mental psychiatry, I am here to provide you with exceptional, holistic, and person-centered care. I am committed to not only addressing the most apparent symptoms you may be experiencing but also delving into the underlying factors and root causes that contribute to your situation.
(719) 839-7892 View (719) 839-7892
Photo of Haley Lawrence, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Haley Lawrence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone facing depression, anxiety, or mood disorders, looking for tailored support after struggling with traditional treatments. They seek a compassionate, collaborative approach for both medication management and coping strategies. Their goals include achieving stability, enhancing quality of life, and reconnecting with purpose. They're motivated to actively participate in their healing, aiming to feel like themselves again. What drives them is a desire for genuine relief, resilience, and a trusted guide to empower their mental health journey forward.
My ideal client is someone facing depression, anxiety, or mood disorders, looking for tailored support after struggling with traditional treatments. They seek a compassionate, collaborative approach for both medication management and coping strategies. Their goals include achieving stability, enhancing quality of life, and reconnecting with purpose. They're motivated to actively participate in their healing, aiming to feel like themselves again. What drives them is a desire for genuine relief, resilience, and a trusted guide to empower their mental health journey forward.
(719) 782-8926 View (719) 782-8926
Photo of Stephanie Dallocchio, Physician Assistant, PA
Stephanie Dallocchio
Physician Assistant, PA
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
My ideal client is someone navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, or mood disorders. They may be experiencing major life transitions—such as military service, career changes, or shifts in family dynamics—and are seeking stability, clarity, and improved mental well-being. They want effective, evidence-based medication management that addresses their symptoms while enhancing their quality of life. My clients value a collaborative approach where their goals are heard, their concerns are respected, and their progress is a shared commitment.
My ideal client is someone navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, or mood disorders. They may be experiencing major life transitions—such as military service, career changes, or shifts in family dynamics—and are seeking stability, clarity, and improved mental well-being. They want effective, evidence-based medication management that addresses their symptoms while enhancing their quality of life. My clients value a collaborative approach where their goals are heard, their concerns are respected, and their progress is a shared commitment.
(719) 800-4384 View (719) 800-4384
Photo of Courtney Baker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Courtney Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Is your life chaotic and unbalanced? Has anxiety or depression robbed you of living your best life? Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed with life's demand. You have come to the right place. Hello, I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner here to help you live your most balanced life. Whether you are looking for medication, therapy, or a combination of both, I am dedicated to provide you the support you need.
Is your life chaotic and unbalanced? Has anxiety or depression robbed you of living your best life? Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed with life's demand. You have come to the right place. Hello, I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner here to help you live your most balanced life. Whether you are looking for medication, therapy, or a combination of both, I am dedicated to provide you the support you need.
(719) 787-7832 View (719) 787-7832
Photo of Charles Haverty, Psychiatrist, DO
Charles Haverty
Psychiatrist, DO
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and young adult mental health. I have particular expertise in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD, but I work with a wide range of conditions. I take a patient-centered, collaborative approach, empowering individuals and families through education and personalized care. Whether you are taking the first step in your mental health journey or seeking a second opinion, we will work together to develop a treatment plan that may include medication, TMS, therapy, and lifestyle changes to help you thrive.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and young adult mental health. I have particular expertise in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD, but I work with a wide range of conditions. I take a patient-centered, collaborative approach, empowering individuals and families through education and personalized care. Whether you are taking the first step in your mental health journey or seeking a second opinion, we will work together to develop a treatment plan that may include medication, TMS, therapy, and lifestyle changes to help you thrive.
(719) 422-7692 View (719) 422-7692
Photo of Roy Kiser, Psychiatrist, MD
Roy Kiser
Psychiatrist, MD
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
I have always believed in the importance of understanding each patient as a whole person, evaluating both physical and emotional health needs. I know the importance of talking with my patients, becoming aware of them as individuals in the context of their family and their community.
I have always believed in the importance of understanding each patient as a whole person, evaluating both physical and emotional health needs. I know the importance of talking with my patients, becoming aware of them as individuals in the context of their family and their community.
(719) 751-7996 View (719) 751-7996
Photo of Ashley Benally-Ross, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Ashley Benally-Ross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Ashley invites you into a healing space that is calming and comfortable. When you meet with her, you’ll meet with a provider who’s passionate about helping you to achieve your goals through a therapeutic relationship that emphasizes listening, collaboration, empathy, and trust. She utilizes a holistic and collaborative approach when treating patients, and believes that the whole person must be considered for healing to occur. She has experience diagnosing and managing many psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, psychosis, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance abuse.
Ashley invites you into a healing space that is calming and comfortable. When you meet with her, you’ll meet with a provider who’s passionate about helping you to achieve your goals through a therapeutic relationship that emphasizes listening, collaboration, empathy, and trust. She utilizes a holistic and collaborative approach when treating patients, and believes that the whole person must be considered for healing to occur. She has experience diagnosing and managing many psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, psychosis, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance abuse.
(719) 674-7907 View (719) 674-7907
Photo of Dezerae Elsen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Dezerae Elsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
It's YOUR mental health journey; let's create a treatment plan that works for you, your family, and your pets. “Healing takes time and asking for help is a courageous step," (M.H). I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner here to evaluate your mental health needs, prescribe medications if needed & provide empowering therapy to clients of all ages. A healthy mind and body are essential to your mental well-being. As you and I design your treatment plan, we can incorporate diet/nutrition, exercise, natural remedies/supplements, lifestyle changes, and spirituality if you desire.
It's YOUR mental health journey; let's create a treatment plan that works for you, your family, and your pets. “Healing takes time and asking for help is a courageous step," (M.H). I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner here to evaluate your mental health needs, prescribe medications if needed & provide empowering therapy to clients of all ages. A healthy mind and body are essential to your mental well-being. As you and I design your treatment plan, we can incorporate diet/nutrition, exercise, natural remedies/supplements, lifestyle changes, and spirituality if you desire.
(720) 782-6468 View (720) 782-6468
Photo of Jennifer Huskinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Jennifer Huskinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Jennifer is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has an extensive nursing career that transitioned into psychiatry in 2018 when she realized her passion for helping individuals with mental health concerns and substance abuse. She has diagnosed, treated and managed all major psychiatric disorders and varieties of mental illness and addiction. She prefers an integrative approach that not only includes medication management but non-pharmacological methods, such as nutrition, complimentary alternative modalities and therapy.
Jennifer is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has an extensive nursing career that transitioned into psychiatry in 2018 when she realized her passion for helping individuals with mental health concerns and substance abuse. She has diagnosed, treated and managed all major psychiatric disorders and varieties of mental illness and addiction. She prefers an integrative approach that not only includes medication management but non-pharmacological methods, such as nutrition, complimentary alternative modalities and therapy.
(719) 497-1457 View (719) 497-1457
Photo of Tamara Dugard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Tamara Dugard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Tamara Dugard, RN, APRN, APRN-PMH, is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner serving adolescents, adults, and seniors throughout Colorado. At LifeStance Health, she offers individualized mental health care that blends expert medication management with compassionate therapeutic support. Tamara works closely with clients aged 15 and older to create evidence-based treatment plans that help manage symptoms, restore balance, and support long-term emotional wellness. Tamara specializes in treating complex mental health conditions including anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
Tamara Dugard, RN, APRN, APRN-PMH, is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner serving adolescents, adults, and seniors throughout Colorado. At LifeStance Health, she offers individualized mental health care that blends expert medication management with compassionate therapeutic support. Tamara works closely with clients aged 15 and older to create evidence-based treatment plans that help manage symptoms, restore balance, and support long-term emotional wellness. Tamara specializes in treating complex mental health conditions including anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
(719) 419-9425 View (719) 419-9425
Photo of Dr. Roy Kiser - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(719) 409-5579 View (719) 409-5579
Photo of Alison Shapiro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alison Shapiro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Alison Shapiro is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2014. She has an MSN from Colorado State University with a focus in psychiatry. Alison's prescribes psychiatric medications and provides therapy in a holistic, accepting atmosphere. Her practice centers on working collaboratively with each individual in assisting, guiding and joining patients on a pathway to greater overall health and wellness In her free time, Alison enjoys traveling, kayaking, reading, and cooking.
Alison Shapiro is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2014. She has an MSN from Colorado State University with a focus in psychiatry. Alison's prescribes psychiatric medications and provides therapy in a holistic, accepting atmosphere. Her practice centers on working collaboratively with each individual in assisting, guiding and joining patients on a pathway to greater overall health and wellness In her free time, Alison enjoys traveling, kayaking, reading, and cooking.
(719) 350-5965 View (719) 350-5965
Photo of Jessica Courtney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Jessica Courtney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Jessica Courtney is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Colorado State University, Pueblo with Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatry. When you meet with Jessica, you'll meet with a caring provider who has an innate ability to help you feel at ease while overcoming fears regarding life changes and mental health concerns. She'll welcome you into a collaborative atmosphere, where she'll help you understand what is going on inside your body and how exactly the medication she may prescribe will affect it.
Jessica Courtney is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Colorado State University, Pueblo with Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatry. When you meet with Jessica, you'll meet with a caring provider who has an innate ability to help you feel at ease while overcoming fears regarding life changes and mental health concerns. She'll welcome you into a collaborative atmosphere, where she'll help you understand what is going on inside your body and how exactly the medication she may prescribe will affect it.
(719) 624-4169 View (719) 624-4169
Photo of Dr. Brandon Baker - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, DO
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(719) 824-2403 View (719) 824-2403
Photo of Tracy Tyler - Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
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!
(303) 529-7187 View (303) 529-7187
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(719) 625-0473 View (719) 625-0473
Photo of Shameka Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Shameka Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Shameka Wilson, PMHNP-BC, provides patient-centered mental health care through LifeStance Health to individuals throughout Colorado. With a genuine dedication to each of her clients, she helps patients navigate various mental health challenges. Shameka serves a wide range of ages, including children, adolescents, teens, adults, and seniors. She focuses on comprehensive treatment plans that address the unique needs of her clients, offering services such as medication management, case management, and partial hospitalization programs (PHP).
Shameka Wilson, PMHNP-BC, provides patient-centered mental health care through LifeStance Health to individuals throughout Colorado. With a genuine dedication to each of her clients, she helps patients navigate various mental health challenges. Shameka serves a wide range of ages, including children, adolescents, teens, adults, and seniors. She focuses on comprehensive treatment plans that address the unique needs of her clients, offering services such as medication management, case management, and partial hospitalization programs (PHP).
(719) 752-7967 View (719) 752-7967
Photo of Dailyn Somoza Menendez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Dailyn Somoza Menendez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Dailyn Somoza Menendez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado. She has a Master's Degree in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatric care across the life span, from Colorado State University. Dailyn believes in cultural-sensitive centered care. Her holistic approach utilizes conventional medicine in combination with supplements and alternative and complementary methods. She aids in lifestyle modifications to help patients achieve their ultimate goals. In her spare time, Dailyn enjoys gardening, traveling, going to the beach, and spending quality time with family.
Dailyn Somoza Menendez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado. She has a Master's Degree in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatric care across the life span, from Colorado State University. Dailyn believes in cultural-sensitive centered care. Her holistic approach utilizes conventional medicine in combination with supplements and alternative and complementary methods. She aids in lifestyle modifications to help patients achieve their ultimate goals. In her spare time, Dailyn enjoys gardening, traveling, going to the beach, and spending quality time with family.
(719) 581-6446 View (719) 581-6446
Photo of Dr. Charles Haverty - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, DO
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(719) 350-6006 View (719) 350-6006
Photo of Sheri Rockwood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Sheri Rockwood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
I have always had a passion for helping people with mental health issues. I received my first bachelor's degree in social work at Brigham Young University. A few years later I received my second bachelor's degree in nursing at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. I working for a few years as a registered nurse with most of my time spent working as a psychiatric nurse. I then received my master's degree as a family nurse practitioner from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and then went on to get a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner post master's certification.
I have always had a passion for helping people with mental health issues. I received my first bachelor's degree in social work at Brigham Young University. A few years later I received my second bachelor's degree in nursing at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. I working for a few years as a registered nurse with most of my time spent working as a psychiatric nurse. I then received my master's degree as a family nurse practitioner from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and then went on to get a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner post master's certification.
(719) 749-7252 View (719) 749-7252

See more therapy options for 80923

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 80923

20+

Average cost per session

$125

Psychiatrists in 80923 who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
88% Trauma and PTSD
84% Depression
84% ADHD
84% Bipolar Disorder
80% Medication Management
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
96% Cigna and Evernorth
91% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 80923 see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 80923?

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.