Psychiatrists in Denver, CO

Photo of Katie Farley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Katie Farley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! Private insurance and Medicaid accepted. My name is Katie Farley and I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of experience. I have worked in various settings including inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, medical oncology, med surg, surgery, infusion therapy, and nurse navigation. In every nursing position I’ve held, the impact mental health has had on patients’ overall wellbeing has been incredibly profound. I became a PMHNP because I am passionate about the transformative power that caring for mental health can provide.
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! Private insurance and Medicaid accepted. My name is Katie Farley and I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of experience. I have worked in various settings including inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, medical oncology, med surg, surgery, infusion therapy, and nurse navigation. In every nursing position I’ve held, the impact mental health has had on patients’ overall wellbeing has been incredibly profound. I became a PMHNP because I am passionate about the transformative power that caring for mental health can provide.
(866) 751-4722 View (866) 751-4722
Photo of Erica G Reiff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Erica G Reiff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Denver, CO 80205
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in private practice. I have over a decade of experience in the field of mental health working with adults and adolescents. I work collaboratively with patients to optimize a patient's ability to function in the world and to meet patient-identified goals of treatment. I prioritize patient education in a calm, therapeutic environment so patients are able to make informed decisions in a judgment-free atmosphere.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in private practice. I have over a decade of experience in the field of mental health working with adults and adolescents. I work collaboratively with patients to optimize a patient's ability to function in the world and to meet patient-identified goals of treatment. I prioritize patient education in a calm, therapeutic environment so patients are able to make informed decisions in a judgment-free atmosphere.
(720) 619-2347 View (720) 619-2347
Photo of Hilary Holmes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Hilary Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246
New appointments available within 2 weeks! Now Accepting Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Anthem, Optum and United Healthcare Insurances. As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Hilary is licensed and trained to treat behavioral health concerns across the lifespan. Specific clinical interests include: integrative psychiatry, disordered eating, addiction, as well as adolescent and young adult issues. She treats clients age 12 and up.
New appointments available within 2 weeks! Now Accepting Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Anthem, Optum and United Healthcare Insurances. As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Hilary is licensed and trained to treat behavioral health concerns across the lifespan. Specific clinical interests include: integrative psychiatry, disordered eating, addiction, as well as adolescent and young adult issues. She treats clients age 12 and up.
(720) 619-2740 View (720) 619-2740
Photo of Charles Ventriglia, Psychiatrist, MD
Charles Ventriglia
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
We believe in taking a personalized, compassionate approach to mental health care. As a board-certified psychiatrist, my goal is to help you navigate the challenges you're facing by treating you as a whole person—addressing both biological and emotional factors. I take the time to understand your unique experiences, and together, we’ll collaborate to develop a treatment plan that fits your individual needs. Whether you’re seeking therapy, medication management, or both, we are here to support you on your journey in a safe, non-judgmental space.
We believe in taking a personalized, compassionate approach to mental health care. As a board-certified psychiatrist, my goal is to help you navigate the challenges you're facing by treating you as a whole person—addressing both biological and emotional factors. I take the time to understand your unique experiences, and together, we’ll collaborate to develop a treatment plan that fits your individual needs. Whether you’re seeking therapy, medication management, or both, we are here to support you on your journey in a safe, non-judgmental space.
(720) 262-2624 View (720) 262-2624
Photo of Svitlana Crawley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Svitlana Crawley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denver, CO 80223
Now accepting new patients! I’m Svitlana, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of healthcare experience. I provide medication management focused on improving your mental health, confidence, and quality of life. My care is personalized, compassionate, and evidence-based. I speak English, Ukrainian, and Russian, and offer both in-office and virtual appointments. Call today or click the “My Website” link to schedule your visit.
Now accepting new patients! I’m Svitlana, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of healthcare experience. I provide medication management focused on improving your mental health, confidence, and quality of life. My care is personalized, compassionate, and evidence-based. I speak English, Ukrainian, and Russian, and offer both in-office and virtual appointments. Call today or click the “My Website” link to schedule your visit.
(720) 640-8615 View (720) 640-8615
Photo of Joanna Westerfield - Joanna Westerfield - Denver Wellness Associates, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Joanna Westerfield - Denver Wellness Associates
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Denver, CO 80209
Hello! My name is Joanna Westerfield and I am a certified physician assistant. My practice is built on compassion, respect, and evidence-based approaches to psychiatric medicine. I am especially committed to working alongside you to build a holistic, whole-person treatment plan that optimizes your mental, spiritual, and physical well-being. My goal is to deliver the highest quality care, ranging from the standard treatment protocols to newer approaches including genetic testing, TMS and ketamine therapy when indicated.
Hello! My name is Joanna Westerfield and I am a certified physician assistant. My practice is built on compassion, respect, and evidence-based approaches to psychiatric medicine. I am especially committed to working alongside you to build a holistic, whole-person treatment plan that optimizes your mental, spiritual, and physical well-being. My goal is to deliver the highest quality care, ranging from the standard treatment protocols to newer approaches including genetic testing, TMS and ketamine therapy when indicated.
(720) 637-1979 View (720) 637-1979
Photo of Michaelle Valcourt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michaelle Valcourt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Telehealth in CO, WA, and FL + Free 10-Minute Consultation Maybe you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or just not like yourself. Whether you're a child, teen, or adult, you know something’s off and you're ready for change. You may be facing mood shifts, trauma, or challenges in school, work, or relationships. I’m here to listen and help you make sense of what you're feeling. I offer compassionate, personalized care in a safe, affirming space for everyone, including the LGBTQ+ community. You don’t have to do this alone.
Telehealth in CO, WA, and FL + Free 10-Minute Consultation Maybe you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or just not like yourself. Whether you're a child, teen, or adult, you know something’s off and you're ready for change. You may be facing mood shifts, trauma, or challenges in school, work, or relationships. I’m here to listen and help you make sense of what you're feeling. I offer compassionate, personalized care in a safe, affirming space for everyone, including the LGBTQ+ community. You don’t have to do this alone.
(720) 513-6123 View (720) 513-6123
Photo of Modupe Okonofua, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Modupe Okonofua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Great to meet you! Starting with a new provider can be intimidating, but I hope you will take a deep breath, call, and see how I can help you! I am Dr. Modupe "Mary" Okonofua with dual certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and FNP at Walden University. I currently teach for MSN-PMHNP programs at two universities. My goal is to ensure a speedy recovery for my patients. I am currently accepting new patients.
Great to meet you! Starting with a new provider can be intimidating, but I hope you will take a deep breath, call, and see how I can help you! I am Dr. Modupe "Mary" Okonofua with dual certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and FNP at Walden University. I currently teach for MSN-PMHNP programs at two universities. My goal is to ensure a speedy recovery for my patients. I am currently accepting new patients.
(303) 569-8801 View (303) 569-8801
Photo of Laira Cowper, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Laira Cowper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Denver, CO 80203
Not accepting new clients
You’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from the things that used to bring you joy. Maybe anxiety or depression is making everyday tasks harder, or you’re struggling to find the right treatment. You want to feel better, regain control, and have a care plan that’s designed for you.
You’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from the things that used to bring you joy. Maybe anxiety or depression is making everyday tasks harder, or you’re struggling to find the right treatment. You want to feel better, regain control, and have a care plan that’s designed for you.
(833) 974-4128 View (833) 974-4128
Photo of Cicely B. Hooten, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, ACNS
Cicely B. Hooten
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, ACNS
Online Only
Welcome! I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 16 years of experience in behavioral health. My journey began as a registered nurse, and my dedication to expanding access to compassionate, high-quality mental health care led me to pursue advanced practice certification. I am committed to recognizing each patient as a unique individual, honoring both your personal story and shared human experiences.
Welcome! I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 16 years of experience in behavioral health. My journey began as a registered nurse, and my dedication to expanding access to compassionate, high-quality mental health care led me to pursue advanced practice certification. I am committed to recognizing each patient as a unique individual, honoring both your personal story and shared human experiences.
(303) 622-0498 View (303) 622-0498
Photo of Tyler Andrew - Tyler Andrew PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Tyler Andrew PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Gentle, respectful support. I provide affordable, low-side-effect treatments to overcome depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, autism, insomnia, and schizophrenia. Feel heard and be treated with a holistic approach.
Gentle, respectful support. I provide affordable, low-side-effect treatments to overcome depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, autism, insomnia, and schizophrenia. Feel heard and be treated with a holistic approach.
(720) 702-8528 View (720) 702-8528
Photo of Todd Kline, Psychiatrist, MD
Todd Kline
Psychiatrist, MD
Denver, CO 80238
Hey! I'm Dr. Todd Kline and welcome to my private practice. I can now offer psychiatric evaluations and begin treatment within about 2-3 weeks. Sometimes a cancellation allows for a sooner opening. I treat Adults, Children and Adolescents primarily with Psychotherapy and Medications, specializing in Anxiety/Panic, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Mood illnesses and Attention Deficit Disorder. I take Anthem/BCBS, Cigna, and out-of-network/out of pocket payments.
Hey! I'm Dr. Todd Kline and welcome to my private practice. I can now offer psychiatric evaluations and begin treatment within about 2-3 weeks. Sometimes a cancellation allows for a sooner opening. I treat Adults, Children and Adolescents primarily with Psychotherapy and Medications, specializing in Anxiety/Panic, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Mood illnesses and Attention Deficit Disorder. I take Anthem/BCBS, Cigna, and out-of-network/out of pocket payments.
(720) 275-3521 View (720) 275-3521
Photo of Theresa Angel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Theresa Angel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in both Primary Care Pediatrics and Psychiatric Mental Health. I am passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers children, adolescents, and their families to thrive. I partner closely with families to create personalized treatment plans that nurture both mind and body.
I am a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in both Primary Care Pediatrics and Psychiatric Mental Health. I am passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers children, adolescents, and their families to thrive. I partner closely with families to create personalized treatment plans that nurture both mind and body.
View
Photo of Weichen (Sabrina) Chen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Weichen (Sabrina) Chen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I now see patients at Reiff Mental Health and accept new patients. Since 2013, I have assisted clients in recognizing how their past affects their present physical and mental health. My goal is to help my clients restore their mental wellness. Working collaboratively, you and I will create a personalized treatment plan to meet your unique needs and circumstances. Because medication can only relieve symptoms and not make one's life better and more meaningful, we will take a holistic approach to your treatment.
I now see patients at Reiff Mental Health and accept new patients. Since 2013, I have assisted clients in recognizing how their past affects their present physical and mental health. My goal is to help my clients restore their mental wellness. Working collaboratively, you and I will create a personalized treatment plan to meet your unique needs and circumstances. Because medication can only relieve symptoms and not make one's life better and more meaningful, we will take a holistic approach to your treatment.
(720) 466-2789 View (720) 466-2789
Photo of Therese J Calabrese, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Therese J Calabrese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Accepting new patients via tele-psychiatry, a virtual practice, I provide psychiatric/mental health management with a holistic approach. Specializing in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. Treatment is provided in a judgement free atmosphere from the initial evaluation, ongoing medication management and psychotherapy working in a partnership, establishing goals and providing the tools for you to achieve them. Through telehealth I am able to see patients in New York, Colorado and FLorida.
Accepting new patients via tele-psychiatry, a virtual practice, I provide psychiatric/mental health management with a holistic approach. Specializing in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. Treatment is provided in a judgement free atmosphere from the initial evaluation, ongoing medication management and psychotherapy working in a partnership, establishing goals and providing the tools for you to achieve them. Through telehealth I am able to see patients in New York, Colorado and FLorida.
(850) 601-8614 View (850) 601-8614
Photo of Sarah Lopez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-PMH
Sarah Lopez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-PMH
Denver, CO 80203
Sarah Lopez is a dedicated mental health prescriber at LifeStance Health, committed to supporting individuals and families across Colorado through expert care and compassionate collaboration. Serving children, teens, adults, and seniors, Sarah helps clients navigate challenges related to mood disorders, anxiety, and behavioral concerns. Through a combination of medication management and therapeutic interventions, she works to create sustainable progress tailored to each person’s unique journey.
Sarah Lopez is a dedicated mental health prescriber at LifeStance Health, committed to supporting individuals and families across Colorado through expert care and compassionate collaboration. Serving children, teens, adults, and seniors, Sarah helps clients navigate challenges related to mood disorders, anxiety, and behavioral concerns. Through a combination of medication management and therapeutic interventions, she works to create sustainable progress tailored to each person’s unique journey.
(720) 613-2271 View (720) 613-2271
Photo of Kristina Mordecai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kristina Mordecai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
Accepting New Patients! Kristina is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering compassionate and individualized care. She began her nursing career in 1999 and advanced her training through Chamberlain University and Herzing University, graduating with honors. Kristina provides psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive care for a wide range of mental health concerns. Appointments are available both in person and online for your convenience. Call 720-310-2773 or click “My Website” to schedule your first visit today.
Accepting New Patients! Kristina is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering compassionate and individualized care. She began her nursing career in 1999 and advanced her training through Chamberlain University and Herzing University, graduating with honors. Kristina provides psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive care for a wide range of mental health concerns. Appointments are available both in person and online for your convenience. Call 720-310-2773 or click “My Website” to schedule your first visit today.
(720) 730-2735 View (720) 730-2735
Photo of Katrina Moore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APN
Katrina Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APN
Online Only
My approach to your care will be individualized and holistic. I believe all people have their walks of life, which are to be respected, cherished, and optimized. I believe in understanding you and your goals first and foremost and guiding you toward optimal mental health to live your best life. I use a compassionate, person-centered approach as we work together. I have a non-judgmental, empathetic approach for clients to feel safe and progress towards health.
My approach to your care will be individualized and holistic. I believe all people have their walks of life, which are to be respected, cherished, and optimized. I believe in understanding you and your goals first and foremost and guiding you toward optimal mental health to live your best life. I use a compassionate, person-centered approach as we work together. I have a non-judgmental, empathetic approach for clients to feel safe and progress towards health.
(720) 796-7347 View (720) 796-7347
Photo of Andrew Nagy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Andrew Nagy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner providing medication management for ADHD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and more. Care is simple and accessible with secure virtual visits, so you can connect from home, or you may choose an in-office appointment. I accept most major insurances to make treatment affordable and convenient. Take the first step toward better mental health today by clicking the “My Website” link or calling 720-310-2773 to schedule your first appointment.
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner providing medication management for ADHD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and more. Care is simple and accessible with secure virtual visits, so you can connect from home, or you may choose an in-office appointment. I accept most major insurances to make treatment affordable and convenient. Take the first step toward better mental health today by clicking the “My Website” link or calling 720-310-2773 to schedule your first appointment.
(319) 984-0809 View (319) 984-0809
Photo of Eva Diaz, Psychiatrist, MD
Eva Diaz
Psychiatrist, MD
Denver, CO 80238
I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have difficulties with relationships, mood, anxiety, self-esteem, and attention. I also have expertise in helping individuals with perinatal mental health concerns. I strive to help folks understand and accept themselves, while thoughtfully prescribing indicated psychotropic medications. In treating youth, I see myself as a partner with parents to drive development forward.
I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have difficulties with relationships, mood, anxiety, self-esteem, and attention. I also have expertise in helping individuals with perinatal mental health concerns. I strive to help folks understand and accept themselves, while thoughtfully prescribing indicated psychotropic medications. In treating youth, I see myself as a partner with parents to drive development forward.
(720) 782-2167 View (720) 782-2167

See more therapy options for Denver

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Denver, CO

600+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Denver, CO who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
94% Depression
83% ADHD
82% Bipolar Disorder
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Medication Management
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Denver, CO see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
27% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Denver?

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.