Psychiatrists in Boulder, CO

Photo of Jordan Logan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Logan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80305
I am a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner in Boulder, Colorado. I want to connect with my patients because developing a strong relationship is essential too good care. I am available to meet in person and I believe creating a strong relationship with my patients ensures we develop an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. I am a minimalist when it comes to medications and we will develop a treatment plan that incorporates your mind and body. I have been an athlete my whole life and I will work with you to develop healthy habits because they are integral to maximizing health.
I am a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner in Boulder, Colorado. I want to connect with my patients because developing a strong relationship is essential too good care. I am available to meet in person and I believe creating a strong relationship with my patients ensures we develop an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. I am a minimalist when it comes to medications and we will develop a treatment plan that incorporates your mind and body. I have been an athlete my whole life and I will work with you to develop healthy habits because they are integral to maximizing health.
(720) 573-0317 View (720) 573-0317
Photo of Joseph Yeretsian, MD, Psychiatrist
Joseph Yeretsian
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
I work closely with individuals struggling with anxiety in their daily lives. If anxiety is making your relationships problematic, or your work difficult to perform, it may be time to get help. In my approach, psychotherapy will generally be the first step taken in exploring your specific needs, and a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of medication use can be pursued if you are interested in the option. For more detailed information about the services I offer, please visit my practice website. Appointments requests can be made online quickly and securely at: optimindhealth.com
I work closely with individuals struggling with anxiety in their daily lives. If anxiety is making your relationships problematic, or your work difficult to perform, it may be time to get help. In my approach, psychotherapy will generally be the first step taken in exploring your specific needs, and a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of medication use can be pursued if you are interested in the option. For more detailed information about the services I offer, please visit my practice website. Appointments requests can be made online quickly and securely at: optimindhealth.com
(720) 466-7991 View (720) 466-7991
Photo of Dr. Ari Aal, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ari Aal
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
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.
(303) 481-2366 View (303) 481-2366
Photo of Adam Sheely, APRN, PMHNP, ACNP-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adam Sheely
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, ACNP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Are you looking for a partner in your health journey who offers more than a quick 15-minute appointment? Someone with unique perspectives who takes the time to understand your needs? As a specialist in integrative psychiatry and ketamine treatments, I’m here to guide you toward wellness with a personalized approach. With 17 years of clinical experience and a deep understanding of physiology and pharmacology, I combine evidence-based medicine with individualized care. From prescribing medications to exploring nutraceuticals and lifestyle changes, I’m committed to finding solutions that work for you.
Are you looking for a partner in your health journey who offers more than a quick 15-minute appointment? Someone with unique perspectives who takes the time to understand your needs? As a specialist in integrative psychiatry and ketamine treatments, I’m here to guide you toward wellness with a personalized approach. With 17 years of clinical experience and a deep understanding of physiology and pharmacology, I combine evidence-based medicine with individualized care. From prescribing medications to exploring nutraceuticals and lifestyle changes, I’m committed to finding solutions that work for you.
(303) 622-0328 View (303) 622-0328
Photo of Kari Stemm-Wolf, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kari Stemm-Wolf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80303  (Online Only)
​I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating mental health challenges and symptom management for children, teens and adults on the Autism Spectrum, and those with ADHD, Anxiety and OCD. Ages 3 and up. ​ I also have a background in the natural foods industry and can provide guidance with alternatives to pharmaceuticals as well. Being Non-Neurotypical myself with an ADHD diagnosis, I know about wrangling with mental health stigma. I want my clients to look forward to coming to see me and to feel better about who they are when they go
​I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating mental health challenges and symptom management for children, teens and adults on the Autism Spectrum, and those with ADHD, Anxiety and OCD. Ages 3 and up. ​ I also have a background in the natural foods industry and can provide guidance with alternatives to pharmaceuticals as well. Being Non-Neurotypical myself with an ADHD diagnosis, I know about wrangling with mental health stigma. I want my clients to look forward to coming to see me and to feel better about who they are when they go
(720) 727-6465 View (720) 727-6465
Photo of Gerald David Chitters, MD, Psychiatrist
Gerald David Chitters
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
I offer treatment for anyone struggling with a mood disorder.
I offer treatment for anyone struggling with a mood disorder.
(720) 715-8522 View (720) 715-8522
Photo of Becky Hamner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Becky Hamner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
We offer a broad scope of psychiatric medication management for patients with mental health needs. Specializing in ADHD, post-partum, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders for pediatrics and adults ages 10 - 60. For additional information about scheduling your first appointment, you can visit our website! Email or call us for more information.
We offer a broad scope of psychiatric medication management for patients with mental health needs. Specializing in ADHD, post-partum, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders for pediatrics and adults ages 10 - 60. For additional information about scheduling your first appointment, you can visit our website! Email or call us for more information.
(720) 817-6864 View (720) 817-6864
Photo of Clarence Johnson - Reflective Minds Mental Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reflective Minds Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Appointment Request: www.headway.co/providers/clarence-johnson Openings within a week! Hi! Also treating ADHD now as well! As a compassionate and thoughtful psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing exceptional care to individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. With extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, I strive to empower my patients to achieve optimal mental wellness and improve their overall quality of life.
Appointment Request: www.headway.co/providers/clarence-johnson Openings within a week! Hi! Also treating ADHD now as well! As a compassionate and thoughtful psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing exceptional care to individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. With extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, I strive to empower my patients to achieve optimal mental wellness and improve their overall quality of life.
(301) 468-8609 View (301) 468-8609
Photo of Dhonden Tenzin, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dhonden Tenzin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80303
Dhonden Tenzin is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who treats patients with a wide range of mental health issues. He is a competent and a compassionate provider who stays up to date with evidence-based practice. His unceasing dedication and unwavering vision for cultivating healthy minds, healthy lives and healthy communities truly aligns well with the practice values of the Strock Medical Group. Dhonden strongly believes the treatment of mental health conditions goes beyond just the resolution of psychiatric symptoms and thus includes comprehensive evaluation of the root causes in the mind and body.
Dhonden Tenzin is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who treats patients with a wide range of mental health issues. He is a competent and a compassionate provider who stays up to date with evidence-based practice. His unceasing dedication and unwavering vision for cultivating healthy minds, healthy lives and healthy communities truly aligns well with the practice values of the Strock Medical Group. Dhonden strongly believes the treatment of mental health conditions goes beyond just the resolution of psychiatric symptoms and thus includes comprehensive evaluation of the root causes in the mind and body.
(720) 706-6294 View (720) 706-6294
Photo of Sina Saidi, MD, Psychiatrist
Sina Saidi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
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.
(720) 463-2342 View (720) 463-2342
Photo of Rebecca Kass, MD, Psychiatrist
Rebecca Kass
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Whether you're facing trauma, depression, or feeling overwhelmed, you deserve care that goes beyond just managing symptoms. Hello, I'm Dr. Rebecca Kass, a psychiatrist specializing in integrative psychiatry. My approach is about helping you rediscover your innate strength and resilience, paving the way for a life filled with purpose and well-being. Our first meeting is about truly understanding your unique story – not just your symptoms, but your hopes, fears, and dreams. Together, we'll create a personalized treatment plan addressing immediate needs while building a foundation for lasting change.
Whether you're facing trauma, depression, or feeling overwhelmed, you deserve care that goes beyond just managing symptoms. Hello, I'm Dr. Rebecca Kass, a psychiatrist specializing in integrative psychiatry. My approach is about helping you rediscover your innate strength and resilience, paving the way for a life filled with purpose and well-being. Our first meeting is about truly understanding your unique story – not just your symptoms, but your hopes, fears, and dreams. Together, we'll create a personalized treatment plan addressing immediate needs while building a foundation for lasting change.
(720) 964-2160 View (720) 964-2160
Photo of Jeff Wyss, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeff Wyss
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients with next day, after hours, and weekend appointments available (please schedule at www.jeffwyssmd.com). I offer medications and psychotherapy for adults with a focus on making psychiatry accessible, convenient, and affordable via telehealth. I believe strongly in partnering with my patients and supporting their treatment decisions to the fullest extent possible. There are dramatic public misconceptions about psychiatric treatments and I take pride in explaining treatment options in a way that is empathetic, honest, and easily understood.
Accepting new patients with next day, after hours, and weekend appointments available (please schedule at www.jeffwyssmd.com). I offer medications and psychotherapy for adults with a focus on making psychiatry accessible, convenient, and affordable via telehealth. I believe strongly in partnering with my patients and supporting their treatment decisions to the fullest extent possible. There are dramatic public misconceptions about psychiatric treatments and I take pride in explaining treatment options in a way that is empathetic, honest, and easily understood.
(720) 740-1513 View (720) 740-1513
Photo of Caley Wekenmann, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Caley Wekenmann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
If you feel let down by what traditional psychiatry has to offer then integrative psychiatry may be for you. As an integrative provider I see clients as individuals worthy of a unique treatment plan derived from a mind/body perspective. Integrative treatment addresses issues related to the body (gut health, hormones, inflammation), lifestyle (nutrition, movement, stress, relationships), and mind (trauma, meaning/purpose, distorted thought patterns) to get to the root cause of mental health disturbances. This includes lifestyle interventions lab testing, green pharmacy, psychotherapy, and/or medications.
If you feel let down by what traditional psychiatry has to offer then integrative psychiatry may be for you. As an integrative provider I see clients as individuals worthy of a unique treatment plan derived from a mind/body perspective. Integrative treatment addresses issues related to the body (gut health, hormones, inflammation), lifestyle (nutrition, movement, stress, relationships), and mind (trauma, meaning/purpose, distorted thought patterns) to get to the root cause of mental health disturbances. This includes lifestyle interventions lab testing, green pharmacy, psychotherapy, and/or medications.
(720) 571-7359 View (720) 571-7359
Photo of Dr. Jason Barnhart - Degrees of Freedom, MD, Psychiatrist
Degrees of Freedom
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301
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.
(720) 310-8750 View (720) 310-8750
Photo of Shanin Vowell - Shanin Vowell, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(720) 619-8669 View (720) 619-8669
Photo of Marci Gleicher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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. ​
(720) 817-6220 View (720) 817-6220
Photo of Nicoline Frinwie - Nicoline Frinwie--Larson Mental Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicoline Frinwie--Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
Accepting New Patients, Book online at www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I specialize in treating patients ages 8+ with psychiatric, chemical dependency, and dual diagnosis concerns including but not limited to Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Abuse, Anxiety, ADHD, Schizophrenia/Psychosis, and Bipolar Disorder. I am driven to build strong relationships with patients and their families. My goal is to act as a patient advocate to achieve the best possible outcomes. If you are looking for a new provider, I am here to listen.
Accepting New Patients, Book online at www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I specialize in treating patients ages 8+ with psychiatric, chemical dependency, and dual diagnosis concerns including but not limited to Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Abuse, Anxiety, ADHD, Schizophrenia/Psychosis, and Bipolar Disorder. I am driven to build strong relationships with patients and their families. My goal is to act as a patient advocate to achieve the best possible outcomes. If you are looking for a new provider, I am here to listen.
(720) 619-8854 View (720) 619-8854
Photo of Precious Barnes Abbott, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Precious Barnes Abbott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80307
Are you currently feeling like life is getting the best of you? Like you are in a constant state of overwhelm or like you're just going through the motions most of the time? Are you finding it harder and harder to wind down or on the contrary find motivation to do daily tasks that were once a breeze for you? Is it hard for you to concentrate or find joy in things that you previously found fulfilling? Are you struggling to find balance between school/work or household responsibilities and self care? If so please allow me to help.
Are you currently feeling like life is getting the best of you? Like you are in a constant state of overwhelm or like you're just going through the motions most of the time? Are you finding it harder and harder to wind down or on the contrary find motivation to do daily tasks that were once a breeze for you? Is it hard for you to concentrate or find joy in things that you previously found fulfilling? Are you struggling to find balance between school/work or household responsibilities and self care? If so please allow me to help.
(720) 738-4793 View (720) 738-4793
Photo of Charles Berndt - Larson Mental Health-Charles Berndt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Larson Mental Health-Charles Berndt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
I see clients ages 8+, diagnosing and treating a wide range of concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, grief, disordered eating, and schizophrenia. (Click here to schedule with me online: nextpatient.co/p/larsonboulder/schedule.) I have been working in the mental health field for over 7 years. I started my career in mental health as a Psychiatric Nurse’s Assistant in a psychiatric hospital. While there, I quickly discovered my passion for mental health and became first an RN and then a PMHNP. My goal is to support clients as they navigate their chosen path towards mental well-being.
I see clients ages 8+, diagnosing and treating a wide range of concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, grief, disordered eating, and schizophrenia. (Click here to schedule with me online: nextpatient.co/p/larsonboulder/schedule.) I have been working in the mental health field for over 7 years. I started my career in mental health as a Psychiatric Nurse’s Assistant in a psychiatric hospital. While there, I quickly discovered my passion for mental health and became first an RN and then a PMHNP. My goal is to support clients as they navigate their chosen path towards mental well-being.
(720) 868-9345 View (720) 868-9345
Photo of Rob Clyman - Rob Clyman, MD LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Rob Clyman, MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
My intention is to provide compassionate and thoughtful treatment for every child, adolescent and adult I work with. I often see people who are uncertain if they want medicine and are concerned about the potential risks. I will listen carefully to your concerns, conduct a complete assessment, and then discuss the pro's and con's of your different treatment options so you can make the best decision for yourself or your child. I often recommend combinations of psychotherapy and medications. I have found that carefully prescribed medication frequently enables people to grow more rapidly in psychotherapy.
My intention is to provide compassionate and thoughtful treatment for every child, adolescent and adult I work with. I often see people who are uncertain if they want medicine and are concerned about the potential risks. I will listen carefully to your concerns, conduct a complete assessment, and then discuss the pro's and con's of your different treatment options so you can make the best decision for yourself or your child. I often recommend combinations of psychotherapy and medications. I have found that carefully prescribed medication frequently enables people to grow more rapidly in psychotherapy.
(720) 776-2820 View (720) 776-2820

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.

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.