Psychiatrists in Arvada, CO

Specialize in treating ADHD, Autism, OCD and PTSD particularly in women who are often overlooked in these diagnoses. Will help to manage symptoms, establish coping skills and identify if any additional supplementation/medication is needed.
Specialize in treating ADHD, Autism, OCD and PTSD particularly in women who are often overlooked in these diagnoses. Will help to manage symptoms, establish coping skills and identify if any additional supplementation/medication is needed.

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.

I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat patients struggling with a variety of mental health disorders, such as, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, addiction, OCD, as well as thyroid diseases, hormone imbalances, and weight loss. I enjoy working with all ages-children, adolescents, adults and elderly patients.
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat patients struggling with a variety of mental health disorders, such as, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, addiction, OCD, as well as thyroid diseases, hormone imbalances, and weight loss. I enjoy working with all ages-children, adolescents, adults and elderly patients.

Mind and Soul Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
My name is Jennifer Medina, and I am a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Through my work with various populations, I have gained extensive experience helping individuals navigate challenging times. I am here to offer my expertise to those struggling with issues such as ADHD, trauma, crisis, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and relationship problems.
My name is Jennifer Medina, and I am a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Through my work with various populations, I have gained extensive experience helping individuals navigate challenging times. I am here to offer my expertise to those struggling with issues such as ADHD, trauma, crisis, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and relationship problems.

Mountain Valley Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80002
I believe everyone deserves quality mental health care and that is why I chose to be a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Let's talk and see if we can get you on track to mental wellness. PLEASE SCHEDULE ONLINE: www.mountainvalleymentalhealth.com At Mountain Valley Mental Health we have a few providers, Mr. Dahlberg is only taking a few new patients monthly, however - we have Harmony Wright taking new patients and another practitioner Bryan Eckhard joining in Aug/Sept. Please CALL TODAY to set up appointment or schedule online @ www.mountainvalleymentalhealth.com
I believe everyone deserves quality mental health care and that is why I chose to be a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Let's talk and see if we can get you on track to mental wellness. PLEASE SCHEDULE ONLINE: www.mountainvalleymentalhealth.com At Mountain Valley Mental Health we have a few providers, Mr. Dahlberg is only taking a few new patients monthly, however - we have Harmony Wright taking new patients and another practitioner Bryan Eckhard joining in Aug/Sept. Please CALL TODAY to set up appointment or schedule online @ www.mountainvalleymentalhealth.com

Daniel Plastino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
Accepting new clients! Life is a journey and healing is often a nonlinear process. Sometimes it can seem like we take one step forward and two steps back. It can be hard to feel connected to ourselves. We may feel controlled by our past history or current stressful life events. Fear and doubt often inevitably creep in and can affect our daily lives and our relationships. I am passionate about practicing behavioral health using a trauma informed, integrative approach to wellness. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who blends conventional treatments with complementary practices.
Accepting new clients! Life is a journey and healing is often a nonlinear process. Sometimes it can seem like we take one step forward and two steps back. It can be hard to feel connected to ourselves. We may feel controlled by our past history or current stressful life events. Fear and doubt often inevitably creep in and can affect our daily lives and our relationships. I am passionate about practicing behavioral health using a trauma informed, integrative approach to wellness. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who blends conventional treatments with complementary practices.

Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
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!

Breanna Millsap MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability! She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your free consultation today!
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability! She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your free consultation today!

Dr. Isaiah Bercot M.D. - Denver Mind and Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD, BS
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80007
*Accepting new patients.* I am Dr. Isaiah Bercot, a licensed psychiatrist located in the greater Denver area, and serving all of Colorado via telehealth. My areas of specialty include ADD, ADHD, anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, sensory processing disorder and depression including altitude induced and seasonal depression. I work with both teenagers and adults. I take an individualized and patient-centered approach to medical care. I know that no two patients are alike and that there is no magical pill that will treat everyone.
*Accepting new patients.* I am Dr. Isaiah Bercot, a licensed psychiatrist located in the greater Denver area, and serving all of Colorado via telehealth. My areas of specialty include ADD, ADHD, anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, sensory processing disorder and depression including altitude induced and seasonal depression. I work with both teenagers and adults. I take an individualized and patient-centered approach to medical care. I know that no two patients are alike and that there is no magical pill that will treat everyone.

FundaMental Health and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I practice a whole-person approach that includes motivational interviewing (MI), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness practices. I will spend time listening to you and learning what makes your challenges unique. I am an expert at safely prescribing medications to alleviate your unwanted psychiatric symptoms. I have successfully treated clients with depression, anxiety, OCD, substance use, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and many other conditions to achieve remission of unwanted symptoms.
I practice a whole-person approach that includes motivational interviewing (MI), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness practices. I will spend time listening to you and learning what makes your challenges unique. I am an expert at safely prescribing medications to alleviate your unwanted psychiatric symptoms. I have successfully treated clients with depression, anxiety, OCD, substance use, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and many other conditions to achieve remission of unwanted symptoms.

Open Availability This Week—Call to Reserve Your Spot! Hi, I’m Angel Julmy, PMHNP-BC, and I bring a unique perspective to mental health care. Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked in the oilfield, airlines, and industrial sectors. Those experiences taught me just how challenging it can be to balance life’s demands while maintaining mental wellness. I know how overwhelming it can feel, and I’m here to provide compassionate support and guidance to help you find balance and resilience.
Open Availability This Week—Call to Reserve Your Spot! Hi, I’m Angel Julmy, PMHNP-BC, and I bring a unique perspective to mental health care. Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked in the oilfield, airlines, and industrial sectors. Those experiences taught me just how challenging it can be to balance life’s demands while maintaining mental wellness. I know how overwhelming it can feel, and I’m here to provide compassionate support and guidance to help you find balance and resilience.
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Great Plains Mental Health Partners Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
Great Plains Mental Health Partners Inc is a Veteran owned and operated Psychiatric/Behavioral Health practice located in Colorado. The providers are all trained and licensed as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners – Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). Some have additional training in Family Practice (FNP-C) and Adult Gerontology Primary Care (AGPCNP-BC). They all share a compassion for and desire to help people live happy healthy lives.
Great Plains Mental Health Partners Inc is a Veteran owned and operated Psychiatric/Behavioral Health practice located in Colorado. The providers are all trained and licensed as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners – Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). Some have additional training in Family Practice (FNP-C) and Adult Gerontology Primary Care (AGPCNP-BC). They all share a compassion for and desire to help people live happy healthy lives.

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.

Search google for my practice "NowPsych Sean Paul, MD" for reviews and more. Empathetic, holistic, and inclusive psychiatrist for all ages. I offer personalized care for children, teens, and adults facing various mental health challenges. Consultations are available virtually via computer, phone, or tablet for residents of Colorado and Florida. My expertise includes ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma. Common concerns addressed are depression, anxiety, academic struggles, behavioral issues at home, and interpersonal relationship difficulties.
Search google for my practice "NowPsych Sean Paul, MD" for reviews and more. Empathetic, holistic, and inclusive psychiatrist for all ages. I offer personalized care for children, teens, and adults facing various mental health challenges. Consultations are available virtually via computer, phone, or tablet for residents of Colorado and Florida. My expertise includes ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma. Common concerns addressed are depression, anxiety, academic struggles, behavioral issues at home, and interpersonal relationship difficulties.

Hi, I’m Abbey Stone, a PMHNP passionate about personalized mental health care. With a background in cardiovascular ICU nursing and a degree from Regis University, I offer compassionate, customized treatment through traditional medication management, Ketamine-assisted therapy, and Integrative Psychiatry. I specialize in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, and trauma—approaching care holistically by considering nutrition, movement, breathwork, and overall well-being. My practice is built on authenticity, curiosity, and warmth. Let’s work together to uncover your strength and light.
Hi, I’m Abbey Stone, a PMHNP passionate about personalized mental health care. With a background in cardiovascular ICU nursing and a degree from Regis University, I offer compassionate, customized treatment through traditional medication management, Ketamine-assisted therapy, and Integrative Psychiatry. I specialize in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, and trauma—approaching care holistically by considering nutrition, movement, breathwork, and overall well-being. My practice is built on authenticity, curiosity, and warmth. Let’s work together to uncover your strength and light.

Hello! I graduated with a degree in nursing from Santa Monica College in 2009. Since that time, I’ve worked in several hospital settings including intensive care. I finished my first masters degree as and Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist in 2017 from California State University at Dominguez Hills and started managing extremely sick people in a long-term acute care hospital One universal I’ve seen throughout my many different careers in and out of healthcare is that the presence (or absence) of good mental health care spells the difference between success and failure in any environment.
Hello! I graduated with a degree in nursing from Santa Monica College in 2009. Since that time, I’ve worked in several hospital settings including intensive care. I finished my first masters degree as and Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist in 2017 from California State University at Dominguez Hills and started managing extremely sick people in a long-term acute care hospital One universal I’ve seen throughout my many different careers in and out of healthcare is that the presence (or absence) of good mental health care spells the difference between success and failure in any environment.

Dr. Sharell Thaxton, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, is a dedicated and compassionate dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). With a terminal Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, Dr. Sharell Thaxton brings a holistic approach to mental health care. Driven by a passion for improving the lives of individuals struggling with these conditions, Dr. Sharell Thaxton offers comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment services tailored to each client's unique needs.
Dr. Sharell Thaxton, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, is a dedicated and compassionate dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). With a terminal Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, Dr. Sharell Thaxton brings a holistic approach to mental health care. Driven by a passion for improving the lives of individuals struggling with these conditions, Dr. Sharell Thaxton offers comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment services tailored to each client's unique needs.

Mindful Minds Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Mindful Minds Psychiatry is a group outpatient psychiatric practice in Colorado, offering in person and telehealth to children starting at 3years old, adolescents, and adults in our multiple locations.
Mindful Minds Psychiatry is a group outpatient psychiatric practice in Colorado, offering in person and telehealth to children starting at 3years old, adolescents, and adults in our multiple locations.

Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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!

Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. My goal is to take a comprehensive and holistic approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that the care provided is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs. To check my availability go to our website and my first available will be listed there.
Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. My goal is to take a comprehensive and holistic approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that the care provided is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs. To check my availability go to our website and my first available will be listed there.
See more therapy options for Arvada
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Arvada, CO
50+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Arvada, CO who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
97% | Depression |
88% | ADHD |
85% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
98% | Aetna |
98% | Cigna and Evernorth |
98% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Arvada, CO see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
59% | Female | |
41% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Arvada?
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.