Psychiatrists in Boulder County, CO

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Photo of Precious (Barnes) Abbott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , PMHNP, FNP
Precious (Barnes) Abbott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , PMHNP, FNP
17 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
So you've decided to take the plunge and address your mental health.... Now you're faced with the task of choosing the correct provider for you out of hundreds of options. 5 ways to know if we're a match: 1.) You value feeling heard and empowered. 2.) You prefer appointments that aren't rushed. 3.) You prefer to actually be able to reach your provider for refills or questions.... easily. 4.) You prefer an integrative approach considering some natural methods to help with symptom management as well. 5.) You're highly motivated to get better now! Call or text me today at (720)790-7406 ! Talk soon, Thanks :)
So you've decided to take the plunge and address your mental health.... Now you're faced with the task of choosing the correct provider for you out of hundreds of options. 5 ways to know if we're a match: 1.) You value feeling heard and empowered. 2.) You prefer appointments that aren't rushed. 3.) You prefer to actually be able to reach your provider for refills or questions.... easily. 4.) You prefer an integrative approach considering some natural methods to help with symptom management as well. 5.) You're highly motivated to get better now! Call or text me today at (720)790-7406 ! Talk soon, Thanks :)
(720) 310-1670 View (720) 310-1670
Photo of Ryan Brown, Psychiatrist, MD
Ryan Brown
Psychiatrist, MD
Longmont, CO 80503
Dr. Ryan Brown is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. Dr. Brown earned his Bachelor's degree in history from Southwestern University and his medical degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. He completed a residency in general psychiatry at the University of North Carolina Medical Center and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Texas Dell Medical School. Dr. Brown has experience and specialization in the treatment of acute mental illness, developmental disorders, and integrated whole person mental health care.
Dr. Ryan Brown is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. Dr. Brown earned his Bachelor's degree in history from Southwestern University and his medical degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. He completed a residency in general psychiatry at the University of North Carolina Medical Center and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Texas Dell Medical School. Dr. Brown has experience and specialization in the treatment of acute mental illness, developmental disorders, and integrated whole person mental health care.
(720) 790-3097 View (720) 790-3097
Photo of Michelle Sanay, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, RXN, RN, MD
Michelle Sanay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, RXN, RN, MD
Boulder, CO 80302
Do you feel you're having hard time dealing with your daily life? Any decline in your level of functioning? I apply to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 6th Edition by American Psychiatric Association to evaluate if your signs and symptoms fit the criteria for any psychiatric disorders. Treatments are client-centered and follows the FDA guidelines and the most current and reliable scientific research. The treatment plan is co-designed by you and me; addressing your short and long term goals, prioritizing your most urgent concerns to improve your overall health and functioning.
Do you feel you're having hard time dealing with your daily life? Any decline in your level of functioning? I apply to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 6th Edition by American Psychiatric Association to evaluate if your signs and symptoms fit the criteria for any psychiatric disorders. Treatments are client-centered and follows the FDA guidelines and the most current and reliable scientific research. The treatment plan is co-designed by you and me; addressing your short and long term goals, prioritizing your most urgent concerns to improve your overall health and functioning.
(720) 897-1183 View (720) 897-1183
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Boulder, CO 80303
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(720) 802-6031 View (720) 802-6031
Photo of Rachel Lynn Michaud, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Rachel Lynn Michaud
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Louisville, CO 80027
My ideal patients are those who advocate for their healing process and journey. As a Physician Assistant I greatly value being a guide and resource for patients, aiding them in discovering their full potential. I greatly appreciate providing an array of healing modalities including, but not limited to, medication management, holistic/herbal remedies, and brief psychotherapeutic support. While I enjoy working with all demographics, what I am truly passionate about is working with middle-aged women, especially those struggling with menstruation and/or additional complications or concerns of the female body and function.
My ideal patients are those who advocate for their healing process and journey. As a Physician Assistant I greatly value being a guide and resource for patients, aiding them in discovering their full potential. I greatly appreciate providing an array of healing modalities including, but not limited to, medication management, holistic/herbal remedies, and brief psychotherapeutic support. While I enjoy working with all demographics, what I am truly passionate about is working with middle-aged women, especially those struggling with menstruation and/or additional complications or concerns of the female body and function.
(720) 513-9539 View (720) 513-9539
Photo of Stacy Green, Psychiatrist, MD
Stacy Green
Psychiatrist, MD
Boulder, CO 80304
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.
(720) 753-5095 View (720) 753-5095
Photo of Kerry Patterson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kerry Patterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Boulder, CO 80304
I have been supporting clients on their journey toward better mental health and living in my role as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2007. I have been holding space for people as a nurse of 30 years. While there's no pill to solve all your problems, when psychiatric medications are indicated, they are such a gift to yourself. Psychiatric medication can afford you an opportunity to live more in alignment with the fullest and best version of yourself. My goal is for you to feel more like yourself, living to your full potential, with the support of psychiatric medication, if needed.
I have been supporting clients on their journey toward better mental health and living in my role as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2007. I have been holding space for people as a nurse of 30 years. While there's no pill to solve all your problems, when psychiatric medications are indicated, they are such a gift to yourself. Psychiatric medication can afford you an opportunity to live more in alignment with the fullest and best version of yourself. My goal is for you to feel more like yourself, living to your full potential, with the support of psychiatric medication, if needed.
(720) 706-5298 View (720) 706-5298
Photo of Janelle Adrienne Aguilon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BSW
Janelle Adrienne Aguilon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BSW
15 Endorsed
Online Only
With 10+ years of healthcare experience, I help children and adults find safe, effective treatment by listening to your story and priorities. Visit my website to schedule online! Feeling like nothing is working for you or your child no matter how hard you try? Maybe it's stress, mood swings, or simply the weight of mental health that's been building up for too long. It makes sense that you're exhausted! You're here looking for genuine support, a better understanding of what's going on, and an effective plan that feels both safe and doable. You want to feel like yourself again or maybe discover who you are without the mental strain.
With 10+ years of healthcare experience, I help children and adults find safe, effective treatment by listening to your story and priorities. Visit my website to schedule online! Feeling like nothing is working for you or your child no matter how hard you try? Maybe it's stress, mood swings, or simply the weight of mental health that's been building up for too long. It makes sense that you're exhausted! You're here looking for genuine support, a better understanding of what's going on, and an effective plan that feels both safe and doable. You want to feel like yourself again or maybe discover who you are without the mental strain.
(720) 712-3213 View (720) 712-3213
Photo of Brea Kilpatrick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brea Kilpatrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Brea Kilpatrick. PMHNP-BC. I specialize in treating mood disorders (depression & bipolar), anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, adjustment disorders, depression, trauma disorders, & attention disorders, to name a few. As a nurse practitioner, I prescribe medications when needed.
Hi there, I'm Brea Kilpatrick. PMHNP-BC. I specialize in treating mood disorders (depression & bipolar), anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, adjustment disorders, depression, trauma disorders, & attention disorders, to name a few. As a nurse practitioner, I prescribe medications when needed.
(303) 536-3551 View (303) 536-3551
Photo of Kartiki Churi, Psychiatrist, MD
Kartiki Churi
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Churi is an adult psychiatrist who practices evidence-based treatment for various mental health illnesses. She treats wide array of diagnosis including depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, amongst others. Her treatment approach is collaborative in nature, and she pursues an integrated approach to care, with focus on the whole person. She is passionate about providing care for individuals struggling with treatment resistant depression.
Dr. Churi is an adult psychiatrist who practices evidence-based treatment for various mental health illnesses. She treats wide array of diagnosis including depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, amongst others. Her treatment approach is collaborative in nature, and she pursues an integrated approach to care, with focus on the whole person. She is passionate about providing care for individuals struggling with treatment resistant depression.
(720) 796-9330 View (720) 796-9330
Photo of Michael Moore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michael Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Michael Moore, PMHNP-BC I deeply value the opportunity to build strong, therapeutic relationships with my participants. I strive to optimize a holistic approach, combining both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. I specialize in both adult and geriatric psychiatry. I understand we are all unique, with vastly different lived experiences. I tailor my approach to the individual, while incorporating aspects of brief solutions focused therapy, CBT and family systems. Medications are just one piece of the puzzle, as I work to provide my patients with as many tools as possible for future successes.
Michael Moore, PMHNP-BC I deeply value the opportunity to build strong, therapeutic relationships with my participants. I strive to optimize a holistic approach, combining both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. I specialize in both adult and geriatric psychiatry. I understand we are all unique, with vastly different lived experiences. I tailor my approach to the individual, while incorporating aspects of brief solutions focused therapy, CBT and family systems. Medications are just one piece of the puzzle, as I work to provide my patients with as many tools as possible for future successes.
(720) 896-7109 View (720) 896-7109
Photo of Christopher Flanagan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, BC
Christopher Flanagan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, BC
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80305
Currently accepting In-person and virtual appointments. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Boulder CO. My focus has been in college mental health and see patients from the beginning of undergrad through the end of their PHD. Outside of this focus I have specialized in acute psychiatric care and substance use disorder working in major University Hospital's. I strive to provide collaborative and patient focused care for my clients and listen to their mental health concerns. Please reach out via e-mail or visit our website to set up an appointment.
Currently accepting In-person and virtual appointments. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Boulder CO. My focus has been in college mental health and see patients from the beginning of undergrad through the end of their PHD. Outside of this focus I have specialized in acute psychiatric care and substance use disorder working in major University Hospital's. I strive to provide collaborative and patient focused care for my clients and listen to their mental health concerns. Please reach out via e-mail or visit our website to set up an appointment.
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Photo of Jo Ann Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jo Ann Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Jo Ann Brown. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I utilize evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy; both are gold standards for mental health wellbeing. My areas of experience include, but are not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, and Alcohol Use Disorders. My approach to practice is characterized by a holistic approach. I understand optimum mental health wellbeing are about implementing a long-term plan for life. I use evidence-based CBT and Motivational Interviewing to help people modify their thoughts and behaviors to improve mental health.
Hello, my name is Jo Ann Brown. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I utilize evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy; both are gold standards for mental health wellbeing. My areas of experience include, but are not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, and Alcohol Use Disorders. My approach to practice is characterized by a holistic approach. I understand optimum mental health wellbeing are about implementing a long-term plan for life. I use evidence-based CBT and Motivational Interviewing to help people modify their thoughts and behaviors to improve mental health.
(720) 802-0341 View (720) 802-0341
Photo of Katharine Selina Church, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Katharine Selina Church
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Louisville, CO 80027
Accepting new patients this week. Boulder is beautiful, but there's also so much low-key pressure to be successful, active, and smiling. If your smile is fake and depression, anxiety, PTSD, or complex PTSD has taken over your life, I can help with or without meds. My clinic has won the Best of Mile High Award for the last 2 years, and we're ready to bring that same level of care to Boulder. No judgment. Just understanding and appreciation for your bravery.
Accepting new patients this week. Boulder is beautiful, but there's also so much low-key pressure to be successful, active, and smiling. If your smile is fake and depression, anxiety, PTSD, or complex PTSD has taken over your life, I can help with or without meds. My clinic has won the Best of Mile High Award for the last 2 years, and we're ready to bring that same level of care to Boulder. No judgment. Just understanding and appreciation for your bravery.
(970) 649-4471 View (970) 649-4471
Photo of Alexandra Hope Antonioli, Psychiatrist, MD , PhD
Alexandra Hope Antonioli
Psychiatrist, MD , PhD
Boulder, CO 80301
Navigating therapy or starting new medication can be daunting. I aim to cultivate a safe online space where patients can feel free from judgment. We will collaborate on personalized treatment plans aligned with your goals. Specializing in aiding individuals facing life transitions or acute stressors, I find fulfillment in assisting with challenges like dating, divorce, job transitions, infertility, and coping with loss among others. Therapy can be intense at times so I also ask my patients to really set aside time in their schedule where they can focus on themselves and have space after the session to reflect.
Navigating therapy or starting new medication can be daunting. I aim to cultivate a safe online space where patients can feel free from judgment. We will collaborate on personalized treatment plans aligned with your goals. Specializing in aiding individuals facing life transitions or acute stressors, I find fulfillment in assisting with challenges like dating, divorce, job transitions, infertility, and coping with loss among others. Therapy can be intense at times so I also ask my patients to really set aside time in their schedule where they can focus on themselves and have space after the session to reflect.
(469) 286-0834 View (469) 286-0834
Photo of Dhonden Tenzin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Dhonden Tenzin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
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 Courtney Daniels, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Courtney Daniels
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lafayette, CO 80026
As a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse and Pediatric, I bring over a decade of experience in pediatric healthcare to my role in outpatient mental health. The majority of my journey in healthcare has been at Children's Hospital Colorado, where I spent more than 15 years as a nurse and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in inpatient pediatrics and the newborn nursery. Recently, I've expanded my expertise by becoming certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am excited to offer psychiatric medication management and brief therapy for both children and adults.
As a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse and Pediatric, I bring over a decade of experience in pediatric healthcare to my role in outpatient mental health. The majority of my journey in healthcare has been at Children's Hospital Colorado, where I spent more than 15 years as a nurse and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in inpatient pediatrics and the newborn nursery. Recently, I've expanded my expertise by becoming certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am excited to offer psychiatric medication management and brief therapy for both children and adults.
(970) 550-8863 View (970) 550-8863
Photo of Rob Clyman - Rob Clyman, MD LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Rob Clyman, MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Boulder, CO 80302
My intention is to provide compassionate and thoughtful treatment for every adult, adolescent and child 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 adult, adolescent and child 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
Photo of Risikat Lawal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Risikat Lawal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
My name is Reesey Lawal, and it is my greatest pleasure that you have considered me as your healthcare provider. I specialize in adult, senior, and addiction psychiatric treatment. I am a very compassionate, warm, humorous, relaxed, down-to-earth, and honest provider. I treat people the way I want to be treated. I empower patients to have a say in their treatment. I bring empathy and compassion to my practice. I believe in a holistic form of treatment, meaning mind, body, and soul. I based my treatment approach on evidence-based practice.
My name is Reesey Lawal, and it is my greatest pleasure that you have considered me as your healthcare provider. I specialize in adult, senior, and addiction psychiatric treatment. I am a very compassionate, warm, humorous, relaxed, down-to-earth, and honest provider. I treat people the way I want to be treated. I empower patients to have a say in their treatment. I bring empathy and compassion to my practice. I believe in a holistic form of treatment, meaning mind, body, and soul. I based my treatment approach on evidence-based practice.
(303) 529-9868 View (303) 529-9868
Photo of Tamara Bockman - Tamara Bockman- Amavi Integrative Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APN, ACCNS, PMHNP
Tamara Bockman- Amavi Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APN, ACCNS, PMHNP
Niwot, CO 80503
Hello! I am dual board certified as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Adult/Geriatric Clinical Nurse Specialist. I bring nearly thirty years of experience to my mental health practice. My expertise includes both acute and maintenance psychiatric treatment, the establishment of new treatment plans, medication management, and psychiatric diagnostics for adults and geriatric patients. I use both an empathetic and compassionate approach to treating my client's mental health needs.
Hello! I am dual board certified as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Adult/Geriatric Clinical Nurse Specialist. I bring nearly thirty years of experience to my mental health practice. My expertise includes both acute and maintenance psychiatric treatment, the establishment of new treatment plans, medication management, and psychiatric diagnostics for adults and geriatric patients. I use both an empathetic and compassionate approach to treating my client's mental health needs.
(303) 974-9400 View (303) 974-9400

See more therapy options for Boulder County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Boulder County, CO

200+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Boulder County, CO who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
84% ADHD
79% Medication Management
78% Bipolar Disorder
77% Trauma and PTSD
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
92% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Boulder County, CO see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
31% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Boulder County?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.