Psychiatrists in Boulder, CO
Reliant Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80303 (Online Only)
I am a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating patients across the lifespan. My focus is primarily working with adults in the mental health community. My emphasis is to promote stabilization while building a rapport, forming individualized treatment plans, and managing care.
I am a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating patients across the lifespan. My focus is primarily working with adults in the mental health community. My emphasis is to promote stabilization while building a rapport, forming individualized treatment plans, and managing care.
Shanin Vowell, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
Shanin completed her training at Walden university, and has been providing psychiatric care for patients across all ages since that time. She is board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She had previously worked in multiple different care settings, and appreciates working as an outpatient clinician because of the long term care she can provide to her patients during their journey of healing.
Shanin completed her training at Walden university, and has been providing psychiatric care for patients across all ages since that time. She is board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She had previously worked in multiple different care settings, and appreciates working as an outpatient clinician because of the long term care she can provide to her patients during their journey of healing.
My approach is integrative, which means that treatment with medications may be combined with non-medication options, such as mindfulness-based interventions, life-style optimization, and nutritional supplementation. Together, we will develop an individualized well-being plan, which will incorporate your unique goals, and importantly, your perspective on health. My role is to offer these treatment options to you, and guide you as you make the decisions about which of these is aligned with your goals. All treatment options are evidence-informed, based on the medical and scientific literature.
My approach is integrative, which means that treatment with medications may be combined with non-medication options, such as mindfulness-based interventions, life-style optimization, and nutritional supplementation. Together, we will develop an individualized well-being plan, which will incorporate your unique goals, and importantly, your perspective on health. My role is to offer these treatment options to you, and guide you as you make the decisions about which of these is aligned with your goals. All treatment options are evidence-informed, based on the medical and scientific literature.
My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best. I am a graduate of Harvard Medical School and the Johns Hopkins psychiatry residency program, and board-certified in psychiatry. I have over twenty years combined experience in psychiatry and primary care medicine, and work with adults and adolescents 16 and older. I treat depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and psychiatric issues related to neurological and medical conditions.
My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best. I am a graduate of Harvard Medical School and the Johns Hopkins psychiatry residency program, and board-certified in psychiatry. I have over twenty years combined experience in psychiatry and primary care medicine, and work with adults and adolescents 16 and older. I treat depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and psychiatric issues related to neurological and medical conditions.
Strock Medical Group-Psychiatry, & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
23 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80303
Our group specializes in psychiatric medication management and therapy. We see patients starting from the age of 7 and throughout the lifespan. We specialize in mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, medication assisted treatment (MAT) to treat addiction, and more. A majority of our providers provide Suboxone, Vivitrol, and Naltrexone medication management. Please see our website for a list of all of our services and to meet our providers. We have offices in Denver and Boulder. We offer evening and weekend appointments. We offer vitamin IV infusions & injections, and weight loss injections (Semaglutide/Tirzepatide).
Our group specializes in psychiatric medication management and therapy. We see patients starting from the age of 7 and throughout the lifespan. We specialize in mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, medication assisted treatment (MAT) to treat addiction, and more. A majority of our providers provide Suboxone, Vivitrol, and Naltrexone medication management. Please see our website for a list of all of our services and to meet our providers. We have offices in Denver and Boulder. We offer evening and weekend appointments. We offer vitamin IV infusions & injections, and weight loss injections (Semaglutide/Tirzepatide).
Shamim Namakula--Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat patients ages 8 and up experiencing mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, disordered eating, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, trauma, life transitions, grief, stressor-related disorders and so many more. I will listen to you and we will work together to find an individualized treatment plan to meet your specific needs. I apply an integrative approach that could include medication management, psychoeducation, nutrition, and complementary therapies.
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat patients ages 8 and up experiencing mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, disordered eating, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, trauma, life transitions, grief, stressor-related disorders and so many more. I will listen to you and we will work together to find an individualized treatment plan to meet your specific needs. I apply an integrative approach that could include medication management, psychoeducation, nutrition, and complementary therapies.
My lifelong passion has been to understand and support the complex mental, emotional, and behavioral journeys of adults, children, and adolescents. Every individual I have had the privilege to work with has taught me something new. My dedication to the younger demographic led me first to Yale to learn advanced psychiatric care and then to SUNY for a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Here, I delved deep into the nuanced challenges faced by young minds and how to best address and support their unique needs. My time at SUNY gave me invaluable experiences and insights into the delicate balance of young psyches.
My lifelong passion has been to understand and support the complex mental, emotional, and behavioral journeys of adults, children, and adolescents. Every individual I have had the privilege to work with has taught me something new. My dedication to the younger demographic led me first to Yale to learn advanced psychiatric care and then to SUNY for a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Here, I delved deep into the nuanced challenges faced by young minds and how to best address and support their unique needs. My time at SUNY gave me invaluable experiences and insights into the delicate balance of young psyches.
You matter, and you deserve good care. If you want a psychiatrist who takes time to listen and has expertise in both psychiatric medicine and psychotherapy, then the way I practice may well be a good fit for you. You bring your story, I'll bring my years of training and experience, and together we'll find a way forward that works for you. My undergraduate degree is from Yale University in psychobiology. I completed medical school and residency in my home state (West Virginia) at the WVU School of Medicine. I'm board certified in psychiatry.
You matter, and you deserve good care. If you want a psychiatrist who takes time to listen and has expertise in both psychiatric medicine and psychotherapy, then the way I practice may well be a good fit for you. You bring your story, I'll bring my years of training and experience, and together we'll find a way forward that works for you. My undergraduate degree is from Yale University in psychobiology. I completed medical school and residency in my home state (West Virginia) at the WVU School of Medicine. I'm board certified in psychiatry.
I have an extensive background in a wide range of treatment settings, eg. in-patient, out-patient, schools, inner city and chronic care facilities. I look for a person's strengths and talents as well as their difficulties. Treatment should be a working partnership for the best outcome. My outlook is caring, compassionate and hopeful no matter what the issues. Each patient is unique with treatment specific to his or her needs. I have fellowship training in psychopharmacology and am board-certified in both Adult and Child Psychiatry. *Genomind DNA testing for medication guidance is now available if clinically appropriate.*
I have an extensive background in a wide range of treatment settings, eg. in-patient, out-patient, schools, inner city and chronic care facilities. I look for a person's strengths and talents as well as their difficulties. Treatment should be a working partnership for the best outcome. My outlook is caring, compassionate and hopeful no matter what the issues. Each patient is unique with treatment specific to his or her needs. I have fellowship training in psychopharmacology and am board-certified in both Adult and Child Psychiatry. *Genomind DNA testing for medication guidance is now available if clinically appropriate.*
Marci Gleicher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301 (Online Only)
I work with clients age 17 and up for psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and second opinion evaluations. I provide a safe, judgment-free space for you to receive tailored psychiatric care. I uphold the highest standards of culturally competent care for all individuals, honoring differences of sexual orientation, gender and its expressions, racial and cultural identity or background, religious background, family structure, mental and physical health and ability, and educational and socioeconomic status. Every patient deserves equitable, ethical treatment from a provider who promotes a safe, respectful environment.
I work with clients age 17 and up for psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and second opinion evaluations. I provide a safe, judgment-free space for you to receive tailored psychiatric care. I uphold the highest standards of culturally competent care for all individuals, honoring differences of sexual orientation, gender and its expressions, racial and cultural identity or background, religious background, family structure, mental and physical health and ability, and educational and socioeconomic status. Every patient deserves equitable, ethical treatment from a provider who promotes a safe, respectful environment.
I offer treatment for anyone struggling with a mood disorder.
I offer treatment for anyone struggling with a mood disorder.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80305
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!
Ujay Egbuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DPN, FNP-c, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302 (Online Only)
Dr. Ujay Egbuji’s broad experience, knowledge, and expertise in the healthcare field make her uniquely suited to providing professional care for various health needs. Using telemedicine to serve her patients, she can personalize care, maximize efficiency, and make accessing care easy and comfortable for patients. She has over ten years of combined experience in the healthcare field.
Dr. Ujay Egbuji’s broad experience, knowledge, and expertise in the healthcare field make her uniquely suited to providing professional care for various health needs. Using telemedicine to serve her patients, she can personalize care, maximize efficiency, and make accessing care easy and comfortable for patients. She has over ten years of combined experience in the healthcare field.
I believe that creating a satisfying, meaningful and happy life is a worthy goal. There may be obstacles in the way. Getting help to identify and deal with those obstacles is one of the goals for therapy. Therapy is a collaborative process at its best and one in which the therapist uses skills and expertise as a consultant. That is my goal in providing therapy. I seek to understand and assist clients to live their lives to the fullest with a deep sense of satisfaction and realization of a life well lived.
I believe that creating a satisfying, meaningful and happy life is a worthy goal. There may be obstacles in the way. Getting help to identify and deal with those obstacles is one of the goals for therapy. Therapy is a collaborative process at its best and one in which the therapist uses skills and expertise as a consultant. That is my goal in providing therapy. I seek to understand and assist clients to live their lives to the fullest with a deep sense of satisfaction and realization of a life well lived.
Suniasol Integrative Mental Health & Ketamine Clinic (Suniasol.com) offers safe & supportive ketamine treatment as well as medication management for Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD. We empower you with tools essential for navigating mental/emotional & life challenges for more spaciousness, insight, ease, peace, joy, and connection. Ketamine Treatment is available for those meeting criteria. Our approach is integrative, holistic, compassionate, somatically-oriented, and trauma-informed. Mental Wellness is multifactoral so our approach is holistic and deeply heartfelt.
Suniasol Integrative Mental Health & Ketamine Clinic (Suniasol.com) offers safe & supportive ketamine treatment as well as medication management for Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD. We empower you with tools essential for navigating mental/emotional & life challenges for more spaciousness, insight, ease, peace, joy, and connection. Ketamine Treatment is available for those meeting criteria. Our approach is integrative, holistic, compassionate, somatically-oriented, and trauma-informed. Mental Wellness is multifactoral so our approach is holistic and deeply heartfelt.
Larson Mental Health - Olga Baturenko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat patients ages 8+ for most psychiatric conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders, OCD, addiction, psychotic disorders, and trauma-related disorders. I offer an integrative approach to psychiatric treatment that encompasses a mindful selection of psychiatric medication for each patient combined with recommendations for supplements, lifestyle interventions, and appropriate referrals to functional medicine providers, including acupuncturists, chiropractors, and naturopaths.
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat patients ages 8+ for most psychiatric conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders, OCD, addiction, psychotic disorders, and trauma-related disorders. I offer an integrative approach to psychiatric treatment that encompasses a mindful selection of psychiatric medication for each patient combined with recommendations for supplements, lifestyle interventions, and appropriate referrals to functional medicine providers, including acupuncturists, chiropractors, and naturopaths.
LB Mindful Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302 (Online Only)
We offer psychiatric and mental health medication management via telehealth in Colorado. Specializing in ADHD, post-partum, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders for adolescents and adults ages 15-60. For additional information about scheduling your first appointment, you can visit our website!
We offer psychiatric and mental health medication management via telehealth in Colorado. Specializing in ADHD, post-partum, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders for adolescents and adults ages 15-60. For additional information about scheduling your first appointment, you can visit our website!
Mental illness can make even the most routine of tasks near impossible, and it’s often hard to find help when you need it. Mental health treatment is not just about getting you "back to normal". It should help bring more meaning, purpose and wellbeing into your life. Hello, my name is Dr. Ari Aal and I want to welcome you in this journey as we work together toward your goals. In a first meeting with my patients, I get to know them on an emotional level. From there we work together and create plans for what they need in order feel better quickly while also providing the necessary tools that will help change their lives long-term.
Mental illness can make even the most routine of tasks near impossible, and it’s often hard to find help when you need it. Mental health treatment is not just about getting you "back to normal". It should help bring more meaning, purpose and wellbeing into your life. Hello, my name is Dr. Ari Aal and I want to welcome you in this journey as we work together toward your goals. In a first meeting with my patients, I get to know them on an emotional level. From there we work together and create plans for what they need in order feel better quickly while also providing the necessary tools that will help change their lives long-term.
Do you suffer from chronic health issues like addiction, depression, anxiety, and chronic pain? Do you feel like you've seen many doctors and counselors, but still have not found the answer to your health concerns? Are you ready to take back your life and health? Like you, I always wished to find a doctor who took an alternative and natural approach to medicine and health. I wanted a doctor who could recommend more than just medicines and surgery. Someone who would appreciate the connection of mind and body, the importance of stress on health, and the role of the mind in healing.
Do you suffer from chronic health issues like addiction, depression, anxiety, and chronic pain? Do you feel like you've seen many doctors and counselors, but still have not found the answer to your health concerns? Are you ready to take back your life and health? Like you, I always wished to find a doctor who took an alternative and natural approach to medicine and health. I wanted a doctor who could recommend more than just medicines and surgery. Someone who would appreciate the connection of mind and body, the importance of stress on health, and the role of the mind in healing.
Alyssa Gosselin, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
Alyssa received her Master of Science in Nursing from Rivier University where she specialized in psychiatric mental health. She is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, Alyssa worked as a staff nurse in the psychiatric inpatient setting for 10 years.
Alyssa received her Master of Science in Nursing from Rivier University where she specialized in psychiatric mental health. She is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, Alyssa worked as a staff nurse in the psychiatric inpatient setting for 10 years.
See more therapy options for Boulder
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Boulder, CO
100+
Average cost per session
$160
Psychiatrists in Boulder, CO who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
86% | Medication Management |
84% | ADHD |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Boulder, CO see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
31% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Boulder?
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.