Psychiatrists in Adams County, CO

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Photo of Chad Krumpholz, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant
Chad Krumpholz
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
Thornton, CO 80233  (Online Only)
Offering mental health medication management services for children, adolescents, and adults. I utilize lower-risk medications, avoid over-prescribing, view medication as supportive, and promote therapy as the strongest tool we have available.
Offering mental health medication management services for children, adolescents, and adults. I utilize lower-risk medications, avoid over-prescribing, view medication as supportive, and promote therapy as the strongest tool we have available.
(720) 821-8136 View (720) 821-8136
Photo of Prof. Justin Garcia-Grace, DNP(c), MSN-Ed, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Prof. Justin Garcia-Grace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP(c), MSN-Ed, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80221  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I started my healthcare journey as an EMT at 16, and it’s been an exciting evolution ever since. Now, I’m a board-certified PMHNP, with a focus on mental health across all ages. I hold a BSN and MSN-Ed from UCF and am currently pursuing a DNP at Regis University, where I’m researching the role of AI in education. With recognition such as the Regis RHCHP Junior Teaching Award and the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nurses, I provide patient-centered, evidence-based care for conditions like anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
I started my healthcare journey as an EMT at 16, and it’s been an exciting evolution ever since. Now, I’m a board-certified PMHNP, with a focus on mental health across all ages. I hold a BSN and MSN-Ed from UCF and am currently pursuing a DNP at Regis University, where I’m researching the role of AI in education. With recognition such as the Regis RHCHP Junior Teaching Award and the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nurses, I provide patient-centered, evidence-based care for conditions like anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey Lee, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jeffrey Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80011
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and proud Colorado native dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals seeking a holistic approach to mental wellness. Drawing from years of clinical experience, I understand the unique interplay between mind, body, and environment and offer services tailored to each client's individual needs. I obtained my undergraduate degree in classical piano from The Juilliard School, laying a foundation in discipline, listening, and attention to detail. My artistic background, coupled with a deep interest in helping others, paved the way to a career in medicine and psychiatry.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and proud Colorado native dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals seeking a holistic approach to mental wellness. Drawing from years of clinical experience, I understand the unique interplay between mind, body, and environment and offer services tailored to each client's individual needs. I obtained my undergraduate degree in classical piano from The Juilliard School, laying a foundation in discipline, listening, and attention to detail. My artistic background, coupled with a deep interest in helping others, paved the way to a career in medicine and psychiatry.
(720) 782-6291 View (720) 782-6291
Photo of Joe Crowley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joe Crowley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80221
Accepting New Patients! - Joseph “Joe” P. Crowley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. He brings over seven years of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience to his patients while offering an attentive, accommodating patient care philosophy. Joe earned his BSN and MSN degrees at Regis University. He completed his inpatient and outpatient clinical training at various facilities in the Denver Metro area. He also received professional recognition for academic achievements and ICARE awards while working at the V.A. Eastern Colorado Health Care System.
Accepting New Patients! - Joseph “Joe” P. Crowley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. He brings over seven years of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience to his patients while offering an attentive, accommodating patient care philosophy. Joe earned his BSN and MSN degrees at Regis University. He completed his inpatient and outpatient clinical training at various facilities in the Denver Metro area. He also received professional recognition for academic achievements and ICARE awards while working at the V.A. Eastern Colorado Health Care System.
(720) 802-4757 View (720) 802-4757
Photo of Alison Baker, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alison Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80221
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. Asking for help takes courage, and my goal is to meet you where you are. I intend to understand your values, needs, and emotions. Effective treatment starts with trust and feeling heard without judgment. Your initial appointment can be in person or in the comfort of your home utilizing telehealth. By learning about you, your family history, and your symptoms, we can develop a treatment plan we are both comfortable with.
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. Asking for help takes courage, and my goal is to meet you where you are. I intend to understand your values, needs, and emotions. Effective treatment starts with trust and feeling heard without judgment. Your initial appointment can be in person or in the comfort of your home utilizing telehealth. By learning about you, your family history, and your symptoms, we can develop a treatment plan we are both comfortable with.
(720) 571-8347 View (720) 571-8347
Photo of Kari Green, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kari Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
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 Michael Chism - Mile High Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mile High Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80011
Ideal clients for Mile High Psychiatry are individuals who are seeking comprehensive psychiatric care and mental health services. They may be experiencing a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, or PTSD. Their needs may vary, but they generally seek expert evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment to address their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Ideal clients for Mile High Psychiatry are individuals who are seeking comprehensive psychiatric care and mental health services. They may be experiencing a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, or PTSD. Their needs may vary, but they generally seek expert evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment to address their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
(833) 920-3302 View (833) 920-3302
Photo of Sean McNamara - Sean McNamara- Amavi Integrative Mental Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sean McNamara- Amavi Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Jennifer Murdock, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Murdock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Northglenn, CO 80233  (Online Only)
Seeking treatment for mental health issues can be intimidating and difficult. It can also come at a time of challenges and hardships. If you are dealing with mental health issues that don’t seem to be resolving with traditional talk therapy, it may be necessary to consider more intensive outpatient treatment options such as medication and/or alternative strategies to help with symptom relief. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I strive to create an open, inviting, and non-judgmental environment with compassion and acceptance. I am here to support, guide, and empower you in your journey to do the work of recovery.
Seeking treatment for mental health issues can be intimidating and difficult. It can also come at a time of challenges and hardships. If you are dealing with mental health issues that don’t seem to be resolving with traditional talk therapy, it may be necessary to consider more intensive outpatient treatment options such as medication and/or alternative strategies to help with symptom relief. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I strive to create an open, inviting, and non-judgmental environment with compassion and acceptance. I am here to support, guide, and empower you in your journey to do the work of recovery.
(720) 776-5956 View (720) 776-5956
Photo of Ariane Gaudin - Thriveworks Counseling, APRN, RXN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thriveworks Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, RXN
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80031  (Online Only)
We have a group of 22 great Counselors, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychologists that can see you tomorrow! Our counselors offer a wide range of specialties, and therapeutic styles. Thriveworks believes that the best time to seek counseling is right now. For this reason, we decided that our offices would not operate on a waiting list. Instead, we do the best we can to get you scheduled in the next 24 hours
We have a group of 22 great Counselors, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychologists that can see you tomorrow! Our counselors offer a wide range of specialties, and therapeutic styles. Thriveworks believes that the best time to seek counseling is right now. For this reason, we decided that our offices would not operate on a waiting list. Instead, we do the best we can to get you scheduled in the next 24 hours
(303) 945-3264 View (303) 945-3264
Photo of Lauren Hood, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Hood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Thornton, CO 80229
Accepting New Patients! Lauren Hood is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services and specializes in medication management. Lauren earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Wyoming. She became certified as a psychiatric registered nurse, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, as her career progressed. Lauren completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University.
Accepting New Patients! Lauren Hood is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services and specializes in medication management. Lauren earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Wyoming. She became certified as a psychiatric registered nurse, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, as her career progressed. Lauren completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University.
(720) 730-9103 View (720) 730-9103
Photo of Tracy Tyler - Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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) 586-6880 View (303) 586-6880
Photo of Maria Mojica-Rangel, MSN, APN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maria Mojica-Rangel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northglenn, CO 80233
Maria Mojica-Rangel is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 2013. Maria provides psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and medication management for the treatment of OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, and Behavioral disorders. She has over ten years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner working with children, adolescents, and adults.
Maria Mojica-Rangel is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 2013. Maria provides psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and medication management for the treatment of OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, and Behavioral disorders. She has over ten years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner working with children, adolescents, and adults.
(303) 622-0567 View (303) 622-0567
Photo of Katie Halbur, MSN, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katie Halbur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80031  (Online Only)
As a psychiatric provider I value and understand the importance of formulating lasting and trusting relationships with my patients. I practice evidence-based care to ensure that you will have the most updated treatment options using an integrative, trauma-informed, and holistic approach to support you as a whole individual. I am passionate about my work and my field and look forward to educating you on treatment options that best fit your individual needs. I strive to create a collaborative approach to care by aligning my goals with yours in a safe and empathetic environment.
As a psychiatric provider I value and understand the importance of formulating lasting and trusting relationships with my patients. I practice evidence-based care to ensure that you will have the most updated treatment options using an integrative, trauma-informed, and holistic approach to support you as a whole individual. I am passionate about my work and my field and look forward to educating you on treatment options that best fit your individual needs. I strive to create a collaborative approach to care by aligning my goals with yours in a safe and empathetic environment.
(720) 649-4625 View (720) 649-4625
Photo of Leah Siegel, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Leah Siegel
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Northglenn, CO 80233
I am a physician assistant specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. I am humbled by the opportunity to work with people who ask for help; it takes a lot of courage to do so. I strive to provide an open, non-judgmental and safe environment to help each person lead a more stable and fulfilling life. I believe in taking care of the whole person, building trusting relationships and in the power of listening. As a rock climbing enthusiast, I understand the healing powers of the outdoors. Remember, “worrying does not empty tomorrow of its troubles, it empties today of its strength.”
I am a physician assistant specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. I am humbled by the opportunity to work with people who ask for help; it takes a lot of courage to do so. I strive to provide an open, non-judgmental and safe environment to help each person lead a more stable and fulfilling life. I believe in taking care of the whole person, building trusting relationships and in the power of listening. As a rock climbing enthusiast, I understand the healing powers of the outdoors. Remember, “worrying does not empty tomorrow of its troubles, it empties today of its strength.”
(720) 764-6171 View (720) 764-6171
Photo of Sandra Osborne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandra Osborne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Northglenn, CO 80233
Accepting New Patients! I'm Sandra (she/her), an empathetic mental health provider with a wealth of experience in crisis services, forensics, and veteran care. My mission is to meet you where you are and provide a judgment-free space where your voice is heard and valued. By integrating mind, body, and self, we'll navigate challenging emotions together. I can also prescribe and help with your medication management.
Accepting New Patients! I'm Sandra (she/her), an empathetic mental health provider with a wealth of experience in crisis services, forensics, and veteran care. My mission is to meet you where you are and provide a judgment-free space where your voice is heard and valued. By integrating mind, body, and self, we'll navigate challenging emotions together. I can also prescribe and help with your medication management.
(720) 802-6949 View (720) 802-6949
Photo of Henry Fagnant, PMHNP, PNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Henry Fagnant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PNP
Verified Verified
Appointments available! Henry is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who obtained his undergraduate and advanced nursing degree from Regis University in Denver, CO. He has over ten years of healthcare experience serving pediatric, adult and geriatric populations. Henry’s background includes an engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines, ecclesiastical work in service to the poor and underserved, and nursing services that include pediatric homecare, hospital inpatient and hospice care.
Appointments available! Henry is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who obtained his undergraduate and advanced nursing degree from Regis University in Denver, CO. He has over ten years of healthcare experience serving pediatric, adult and geriatric populations. Henry’s background includes an engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines, ecclesiastical work in service to the poor and underserved, and nursing services that include pediatric homecare, hospital inpatient and hospice care.
(720) 403-2838 View (720) 403-2838
Photo of Katherine Willie, MD, Psychiatrist
Katherine Willie
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northglenn, CO 80233
I receved my medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and completed my psychiatry residency at the Cleveland Clinic. I enjoy working with patient's from different backgrounds and learning about their unique experiences. My favorite quote from Maya Angelou is "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style". My hope is that with my medical knowledge and therapeutic skills I am able to help my patient's get to a place where they feel they are thriving more in life.
I receved my medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and completed my psychiatry residency at the Cleveland Clinic. I enjoy working with patient's from different backgrounds and learning about their unique experiences. My favorite quote from Maya Angelou is "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style". My hope is that with my medical knowledge and therapeutic skills I am able to help my patient's get to a place where they feel they are thriving more in life.
(720) 807-2966 View (720) 807-2966
Photo of Lauren Hood, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Hood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80221
Accepting New Patients! Lauren Hood is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services and specializes in medication management. Lauren earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Wyoming. She became certified as a psychiatric registered nurse, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, as her career progressed. Lauren completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University.
Accepting New Patients! Lauren Hood is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services and specializes in medication management. Lauren earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Wyoming. She became certified as a psychiatric registered nurse, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, as her career progressed. Lauren completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University.
(720) 408-6674 View (720) 408-6674
Photo of Kyle Brown, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kyle Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80221
Accepting New Patients! Kyle is a dual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority in Colorado. Mr. Brown received his advanced degree from Regis University in Denver Colorado and has 14 years of experience in the healthcare arena; including pediatrics, communicable disease control, and integrated family practice. Kyle has a passion for current research and treatment therapies in psychiatry, with a focus on both pharmacological and non-medication management of psychiatric disorders. He has a particular interest in treatment resistant mood disorders and OCD.
Accepting New Patients! Kyle is a dual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority in Colorado. Mr. Brown received his advanced degree from Regis University in Denver Colorado and has 14 years of experience in the healthcare arena; including pediatrics, communicable disease control, and integrated family practice. Kyle has a passion for current research and treatment therapies in psychiatry, with a focus on both pharmacological and non-medication management of psychiatric disorders. He has a particular interest in treatment resistant mood disorders and OCD.
(720) 792-6083 View (720) 792-6083

See more therapy options for Adams County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Adams County, CO

100+

Average cost per session

$265

Psychiatrists in Adams County, CO who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
84% ADHD
79% Medication Management
77% Bipolar Disorder
73% Trauma and PTSD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
96% Cigna and Evernorth
92% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Adams County, CO see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Adams County?

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.