Psychiatrists in Aurora, CO

Photo of Jessica Wettlin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jessica Wettlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Thank you for being here! I’m a seasoned mental health professional with over 23 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan. I am dedicated to supporting individuals in all stages of life, navigating a range of mental health challenges, and creating personalized care plans that work for you. I pride myself on providing a safe, welcoming, and therapeutic environment. My approach is built on being approachable, personable, caring, and attentive. I understand that seeking help can feel overwhelming, but I want you to feel comfortable knowing that your journey is my priority.
Thank you for being here! I’m a seasoned mental health professional with over 23 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan. I am dedicated to supporting individuals in all stages of life, navigating a range of mental health challenges, and creating personalized care plans that work for you. I pride myself on providing a safe, welcoming, and therapeutic environment. My approach is built on being approachable, personable, caring, and attentive. I understand that seeking help can feel overwhelming, but I want you to feel comfortable knowing that your journey is my priority.
(720) 964-1270 View (720) 964-1270
Photo of Kali Dove, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kali Dove
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m trained and experienced in caring for patients across all age groups, from pediatric to geriatric populations. My background includes providing psychiatric treatment and services for a range of diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance use, trauma, psychotic disorders, and other mental health conditions. I’m committed to providing a holistic approach to care that is supportive, compassionate, individualized, safe, and empowering. I strive to integrate the highest standards of care to help patients achieve optimal health and well-being.
I’m trained and experienced in caring for patients across all age groups, from pediatric to geriatric populations. My background includes providing psychiatric treatment and services for a range of diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance use, trauma, psychotic disorders, and other mental health conditions. I’m committed to providing a holistic approach to care that is supportive, compassionate, individualized, safe, and empowering. I strive to integrate the highest standards of care to help patients achieve optimal health and well-being.
(720) 613-6069 View (720) 613-6069
Photo of Alison Burton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alison Burton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Alison! I am a board-certified PMHNP in Colorado who takes an individualized and holistic approach to mental health care working with adults 18-60. My approach to care is taking the time to listen to the client’s story culminating with a diagnosis along with precise and safe prescribing. I keep my finger on the pulse of mental health issues, allowing me to provide accurate diagnoses along with medication services. I provide “light talk therapy” through motivational interviewing techniques, CBT, and patient-centered care.
Hi there, I'm Alison! I am a board-certified PMHNP in Colorado who takes an individualized and holistic approach to mental health care working with adults 18-60. My approach to care is taking the time to listen to the client’s story culminating with a diagnosis along with precise and safe prescribing. I keep my finger on the pulse of mental health issues, allowing me to provide accurate diagnoses along with medication services. I provide “light talk therapy” through motivational interviewing techniques, CBT, and patient-centered care.
(720) 698-4832 View (720) 698-4832
Photo of Liz Selander, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Liz Selander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80015
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I take a patient-centered, collaborative, and comprehensive approach to care. For over 20 years, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting mental health and wellness.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I take a patient-centered, collaborative, and comprehensive approach to care. For over 20 years, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting mental health and wellness.
(720) 508-2079 View (720) 508-2079
Photo of Tyler Andrew, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Tyler Andrew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Online Only
My ideal clients may face challenges like anxiety, depression, or addiction. They seek compassionate care, effective medication management, and personalized support. Their goal is to regain balance and control over their lives through a collaborative, holistic approach to mental wellness.
My ideal clients may face challenges like anxiety, depression, or addiction. They seek compassionate care, effective medication management, and personalized support. Their goal is to regain balance and control over their lives through a collaborative, holistic approach to mental wellness.
(720) 534-2097 View (720) 534-2097
Photo of Olamiju Olaleye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olamiju Olaleye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Olaleye Olamiju (Ola) is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. He holds a Doctor of Nursing from the University of North Florida. He is board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Ola specializes in behavioral health, treating adults with diverse psychiatric and mental illnesses, including ADHD, depression, and anxiety. He is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults.
Olaleye Olamiju (Ola) is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. He holds a Doctor of Nursing from the University of North Florida. He is board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Ola specializes in behavioral health, treating adults with diverse psychiatric and mental illnesses, including ADHD, depression, and anxiety. He is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults.
(888) 612-6735 View (888) 612-6735
Photo of Lynne Cappellucci, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Lynne Cappellucci
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Hello, I am Lynne Cappellucci. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and looking forward to working with you. What is happening in your life that you would like to share with me? We are going to be exploring your concerns together, as a team. There is no judgment, only genuine concern for your wellness. Together, we can work through any of life's challenges. I have practiced as a nurse practitioner for over 18 years. I have worked family medicine, urgent care, and correctional medicine. Prior to that, I practiced as an RN for 10 years in cardiology and ICU.
Hello, I am Lynne Cappellucci. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and looking forward to working with you. What is happening in your life that you would like to share with me? We are going to be exploring your concerns together, as a team. There is no judgment, only genuine concern for your wellness. Together, we can work through any of life's challenges. I have practiced as a nurse practitioner for over 18 years. I have worked family medicine, urgent care, and correctional medicine. Prior to that, I practiced as an RN for 10 years in cardiology and ICU.
(866) 335-5485 View (866) 335-5485
Photo of Risikat Ajoke Sanusi - Solutions Healthcare, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, BC
Solutions Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, BC
Aurora, CO 80014
My name is Risi Sanusi & I am a mental health provider with over 20 years of nursing & mental health experience. I cater to individuals aged 18 years and above facing various mental health challenges. My expertise lies in addressing a spectrum of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression disorders, bipolar disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, personality disorders, dementia, substance use disorders, addictive disorders, and more. Together, let's work towards a healthier and more resilient mental state.
My name is Risi Sanusi & I am a mental health provider with over 20 years of nursing & mental health experience. I cater to individuals aged 18 years and above facing various mental health challenges. My expertise lies in addressing a spectrum of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression disorders, bipolar disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, personality disorders, dementia, substance use disorders, addictive disorders, and more. Together, let's work towards a healthier and more resilient mental state.
(720) 715-7002 View (720) 715-7002
Photo of Olaf Garcia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Olaf Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
11 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(720) 759-3766 View (720) 759-3766
Photo of Juah Nimene, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Juah Nimene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I'm a certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a vast background in mental health. I've worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience as an emergency room nurse for over 15 years and a mental health nurse has equipped me with good assessment skills, compassion, understanding, patience, and empathy. My care approach focuses on active listening, and empathy, establishing a safe and supportive environment, and promoting a structured routine with opportunities for mental stimulation and physical activities.
I'm a certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a vast background in mental health. I've worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience as an emergency room nurse for over 15 years and a mental health nurse has equipped me with good assessment skills, compassion, understanding, patience, and empathy. My care approach focuses on active listening, and empathy, establishing a safe and supportive environment, and promoting a structured routine with opportunities for mental stimulation and physical activities.
(720) 463-2043 View (720) 463-2043
Photo of Kristina Mordecai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kristina Mordecai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aurora, CO 80011
Accepting New Patients! Kristina is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is currently accepting new clients. Her journey began in 1999 when she graduated with an Associate of Science in Nursing from Meridian Community College. She then progressed to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University in 2015 and graduated at the top of her class. After furthering her career in nursing management and stress management courses, she decided to pursue the Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatry, at Herzing University where she graduated with honors.
Accepting New Patients! Kristina is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is currently accepting new clients. Her journey began in 1999 when she graduated with an Associate of Science in Nursing from Meridian Community College. She then progressed to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University in 2015 and graduated at the top of her class. After furthering her career in nursing management and stress management courses, she decided to pursue the Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatry, at Herzing University where she graduated with honors.
(720) 606-4748 View (720) 606-4748
Photo of Lori A Bailey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Lori A Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80014
Medication can only take you so far in healing. Medication can help restore chemical balance. But nutrition, physical activity, and a good therapist are needed to change negative habits of mind that develop when we don't feel well. I can help by working with you and your therapist to develop a treatment plan that maximizes your ability to participate in therapy and a healthy, peaceful life! In addition to appropriate medications, we will also look at how diet, physical activity, sleep, and mindful practices can improve brain health and healing! Let me help remove barriers to joy!
Medication can only take you so far in healing. Medication can help restore chemical balance. But nutrition, physical activity, and a good therapist are needed to change negative habits of mind that develop when we don't feel well. I can help by working with you and your therapist to develop a treatment plan that maximizes your ability to participate in therapy and a healthy, peaceful life! In addition to appropriate medications, we will also look at how diet, physical activity, sleep, and mindful practices can improve brain health and healing! Let me help remove barriers to joy!
(720) 741-7428 View (720) 741-7428
Photo of Ellison Dart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ellison Dart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, "PMHNP" or "Psych NP" for short. I am board-certified in Psychiatry. The best part about my job is seeing my patients transform from a place of struggle to one of serenity. My number one priority with my patients is to listen. Then use my knowledge and experience, in addition to what's most important to my patients, and implement those attributes into a treatment plan that will be successful.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, "PMHNP" or "Psych NP" for short. I am board-certified in Psychiatry. The best part about my job is seeing my patients transform from a place of struggle to one of serenity. My number one priority with my patients is to listen. Then use my knowledge and experience, in addition to what's most important to my patients, and implement those attributes into a treatment plan that will be successful.
(855) 611-0318 View (855) 611-0318
Photo of Rodric Falcon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Rodric Falcon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 14 years of experience in Adult Psychiatry in a variety of settings such as inpatient, rehab, intensive outpatient, the justice system, and outpatient. I use a collaborative approach with those concerned to assist in clarifying goals, focusing on strengths, and using a problem-solving approach for better stability, functioning, or needed change. I specialize in treating concerns of anxiety, depression, OCD, mood swings, trauma, ADHD concerns, substance abuse concerns, bipolar, schizophrenia, and generally most mental health concerns, medications, and/or therapy.
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 14 years of experience in Adult Psychiatry in a variety of settings such as inpatient, rehab, intensive outpatient, the justice system, and outpatient. I use a collaborative approach with those concerned to assist in clarifying goals, focusing on strengths, and using a problem-solving approach for better stability, functioning, or needed change. I specialize in treating concerns of anxiety, depression, OCD, mood swings, trauma, ADHD concerns, substance abuse concerns, bipolar, schizophrenia, and generally most mental health concerns, medications, and/or therapy.
(720) 419-1173 View (720) 419-1173
Photo of Ashmira Rajwani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
Ashmira Rajwani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in adult mental healthcare. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, focusing on collaboration to create personalized treatment plans that integrate psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments. I aim to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for individuals to address their mental health concerns and work towards lasting well-being.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in adult mental healthcare. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, focusing on collaboration to create personalized treatment plans that integrate psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments. I aim to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for individuals to address their mental health concerns and work towards lasting well-being.
(866) 257-6755 View (866) 257-6755
Photo of Kyle Dietz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kyle Dietz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aurora, CO 80013
Now Accepting New Patients. Book Today! I’m Kyle Dietz, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of healthcare experience. I offer evidence-based care for a wide range of mental health needs. My services include medication management, Suboxone for opioid use disorder, and ketamine treatment for depression. I earned my advanced degree from Clarkson College in Omaha, NE, and bring a deep understanding of both acute and psychiatric care to every session.
Now Accepting New Patients. Book Today! I’m Kyle Dietz, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of healthcare experience. I offer evidence-based care for a wide range of mental health needs. My services include medication management, Suboxone for opioid use disorder, and ketamine treatment for depression. I earned my advanced degree from Clarkson College in Omaha, NE, and bring a deep understanding of both acute and psychiatric care to every session.
(855) 687-8052 View (855) 687-8052
Photo of Alexa Potts, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alexa Potts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I'm a Board Certified Doctor of Nursing Practice who believes that heart, soul, hope, and intention are just a few curative factors that can facilitate healing. I make listening to my patients my top priority. I specialize in caring for teens, college-aged, and young to middle-aged adults. I treat eating disorders/disordered eating, depression, anxiety, PTSD, behavioral and mood disorders, military and first responder-related concerns, and ADHD. I also hold ADHD-CCSP certification.
I'm a Board Certified Doctor of Nursing Practice who believes that heart, soul, hope, and intention are just a few curative factors that can facilitate healing. I make listening to my patients my top priority. I specialize in caring for teens, college-aged, and young to middle-aged adults. I treat eating disorders/disordered eating, depression, anxiety, PTSD, behavioral and mood disorders, military and first responder-related concerns, and ADHD. I also hold ADHD-CCSP certification.
(833) 968-1565 View (833) 968-1565
Photo of Robyn Goldsmith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Robyn Goldsmith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
46 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80014
Are you proactive and open to a holistic approach to mental health care? Are you dealing with chronic issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders and looking to understand the root causes rather than just treating the symptoms? Do you need comprehensive assessments, personalized treatment plans, and a blend of lifestyle changes and medication management? Are your goals to achieve long-term mental well-being, reduce symptoms, and improve your overall quality of life? If so, I can help. I provide a holistic, evidence-based approach that addresses underlying imbalances and tailors treatment to your unique needs. Together, we'l
Are you proactive and open to a holistic approach to mental health care? Are you dealing with chronic issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders and looking to understand the root causes rather than just treating the symptoms? Do you need comprehensive assessments, personalized treatment plans, and a blend of lifestyle changes and medication management? Are your goals to achieve long-term mental well-being, reduce symptoms, and improve your overall quality of life? If so, I can help. I provide a holistic, evidence-based approach that addresses underlying imbalances and tailors treatment to your unique needs. Together, we'l
(720) 804-0476 View (720) 804-0476
Photo of Afolake Awolaja, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Afolake Awolaja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Afolake Awolaja, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She brings many years of experience working on acute psychiatric units and is passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each patient. Dr. Awolaja’s approach centers on building trusting relationships and addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma-related conditions.
Dr. Afolake Awolaja, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She brings many years of experience working on acute psychiatric units and is passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each patient. Dr. Awolaja’s approach centers on building trusting relationships and addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma-related conditions.
(720) 783-5845 View (720) 783-5845
Photo of Dawn O'Keefe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dawn O'Keefe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My Colorado License is APN.0994254-NP. I provide telehealth and in-office options for patients aged 12 through the lifespan. I am a passionate patient-centered provider and approach every patient by listening to their needs, providing comprehensive diagnosis with rationale and offer treatment recommendations using all the knowledge through my experience and training in the practice of psychiatric and addiction treatment. The door is always open to everyone at any place in their journey.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My Colorado License is APN.0994254-NP. I provide telehealth and in-office options for patients aged 12 through the lifespan. I am a passionate patient-centered provider and approach every patient by listening to their needs, providing comprehensive diagnosis with rationale and offer treatment recommendations using all the knowledge through my experience and training in the practice of psychiatric and addiction treatment. The door is always open to everyone at any place in their journey.
(720) 408-6827 View (720) 408-6827

See more therapy options for Aurora

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Aurora, CO

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Aurora, CO who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
97% Anxiety
88% ADHD
83% Bipolar Disorder
74% Trauma and PTSD
69% Medication Management
66% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Cigna and Evernorth
94% Aetna
92% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Aurora, CO see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Aurora?

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.