Psychiatrists in Denver, CO

Photo of Erica G Reiff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Erica G Reiff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
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 Ivy Hoo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ivy Hoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205
Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. My goal is to take a comprehensive and holistic approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that the care provided is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs. To check my availability go to our website and my first available will be listed there.
Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. My goal is to take a comprehensive and holistic approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that the care provided is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs. To check my availability go to our website and my first available will be listed there.
(720) 706-7520 View (720) 706-7520
Photo of Tracy Tyler - Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80236
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
(303) 502-2230 View (303) 502-2230
Photo of Ike Uzowulu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
(720) 743-5311 View (720) 743-5311
Photo of Queendroline Nkeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Queendroline Nkeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202
Queendroline Nkeh (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 12 years of experience in healthcare. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and is sincere. Most importantly, she encourages Integrative Psychiatric Medicine for all patients with what they are comfortable in utilizing. Incorporating vitamins and nutrition coaching, alongside medications and herbal supplements are strongly encouraged.
Queendroline Nkeh (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 12 years of experience in healthcare. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and is sincere. Most importantly, she encourages Integrative Psychiatric Medicine for all patients with what they are comfortable in utilizing. Incorporating vitamins and nutrition coaching, alongside medications and herbal supplements are strongly encouraged.
(833) 757-3773 View (833) 757-3773
Photo of Samuel Mingle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Samuel Mingle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an extensive amount of inpatient, outpatient and crisis stabilization experience. I specialize in psychiatric medication evaluation and management for adults (18+) who are struggling with symptoms of depression, mood instability, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, sleep disturbances, substance use, OCD and ADHD.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an extensive amount of inpatient, outpatient and crisis stabilization experience. I specialize in psychiatric medication evaluation and management for adults (18+) who are struggling with symptoms of depression, mood instability, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, sleep disturbances, substance use, OCD and ADHD.
(720) 712-1389 View (720) 712-1389
Husam Alex Salih
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
I am bilingual in English and Arabic. I have experience and offer services to those struggling with substances, domestic violence, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. I also have worked with veterans both overseas and state-side, those in the correctional system, and those who have or are struggling with homelessness. I have extensive experience working in correctional facilities and inpatient settings. My experience in these settings has afforded me the opportunity to work with individuals affected by significant traumas, multiple mental health ailments, and substance use.  
I am bilingual in English and Arabic. I have experience and offer services to those struggling with substances, domestic violence, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. I also have worked with veterans both overseas and state-side, those in the correctional system, and those who have or are struggling with homelessness. I have extensive experience working in correctional facilities and inpatient settings. My experience in these settings has afforded me the opportunity to work with individuals affected by significant traumas, multiple mental health ailments, and substance use.  
(833) 574-6290 View (833) 574-6290
Photo of Jared Sciarrotta - Now Taking New Clients, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Jared Sciarrotta - Now Taking New Clients
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80227
Schedule instantly through my website! Hey there! Congratulations on taking your first step towards healing in your mental health journey. If you're reading this, you're probably in a place where things could be going better. Maybe this is your first time looking for help, or perhaps you're looking for a fresh start, as your current treatment options have not been serving you well. This is where I come in to help. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is able to treat children, adolescents, and adults.
Schedule instantly through my website! Hey there! Congratulations on taking your first step towards healing in your mental health journey. If you're reading this, you're probably in a place where things could be going better. Maybe this is your first time looking for help, or perhaps you're looking for a fresh start, as your current treatment options have not been serving you well. This is where I come in to help. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is able to treat children, adolescents, and adults.
(720) 753-5297 View (720) 753-5297
Photo of Chris Archer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, GNP-BC
Chris Archer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, GNP-BC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80219
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
(720) 815-9735 View (720) 815-9735
Photo of Aaron Greenstein, Psychiatrist, MD
Aaron Greenstein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206
I am a Harvard-trained board-certified geriatric psychiatrist. While I work with all adults, I specialize in the management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, late life depression and anxiety, and the strain that family members experience when caring for those aging with dementia and mental illness. Common problems I address include apathy, agitation, insomnia, confusion, depression, anxiety, hallucinations, delusions and memory loss. I do not participate in Medicare or commercial insurance.
I am a Harvard-trained board-certified geriatric psychiatrist. While I work with all adults, I specialize in the management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, late life depression and anxiety, and the strain that family members experience when caring for those aging with dementia and mental illness. Common problems I address include apathy, agitation, insomnia, confusion, depression, anxiety, hallucinations, delusions and memory loss. I do not participate in Medicare or commercial insurance.
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Photo of Larry K Mortazavi, Psychiatrist, MD, CGP, FABP
Larry K Mortazavi
Psychiatrist, MD, CGP, FABP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
Please read before contacting my office: 1) My practice is focused on intense psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and group therapy. I DO NOT offer medication services except for the patients that receive therapy at my practice. 2)I’m out-of-network for all insurance plans. All the associated service fees would be considered out-of-network/out-of-pocket). Visit my website: insightfulattachment.com for more information about the new patients' intake process, and fees.
Please read before contacting my office: 1) My practice is focused on intense psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and group therapy. I DO NOT offer medication services except for the patients that receive therapy at my practice. 2)I’m out-of-network for all insurance plans. All the associated service fees would be considered out-of-network/out-of-pocket). Visit my website: insightfulattachment.com for more information about the new patients' intake process, and fees.
(720) 613-2465 View (720) 613-2465
Photo of Jessica Geihsler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Jessica Geihsler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal is to help individuals achieve optimal mental wellness through a holistic approach using psychotherapy and medication management. Mental health can be a roller coaster and my goal is to help you navigate each of the ups and downs that life offers.
My goal is to help individuals achieve optimal mental wellness through a holistic approach using psychotherapy and medication management. Mental health can be a roller coaster and my goal is to help you navigate each of the ups and downs that life offers.
(719) 204-5785 View (719) 204-5785
Photo of Kimbrelee Ray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kimbrelee Ray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients for medication management with immediate availability! Private insurance and Medicaid accepted. I am a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC and CARN-AP). I graduated from the University of Alabama in 2022. I have 11 years of experience. I believe my clients should be heard and be involved in their treatment plan. Each client should have evidence-based care tailored to their needs. Please feel free to book directly at Trendmentalhealth.com, or you can reach our scheduling team directly at 720.443.1691 (call or text)
Accepting new clients for medication management with immediate availability! Private insurance and Medicaid accepted. I am a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC and CARN-AP). I graduated from the University of Alabama in 2022. I have 11 years of experience. I believe my clients should be heard and be involved in their treatment plan. Each client should have evidence-based care tailored to their needs. Please feel free to book directly at Trendmentalhealth.com, or you can reach our scheduling team directly at 720.443.1691 (call or text)
(303) 395-5095 View (303) 395-5095
Photo of Samantha Cerqua, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Samantha Cerqua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Elmhurst University and Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Rush University. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked as a psychiatric registered nurse for seven years in various settings including: community behavioral health, inpatient psychiatry, residential treatment for substance abuse and obsessive compulsive disorders, and outpatient psychiatry.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Elmhurst University and Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Rush University. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked as a psychiatric registered nurse for seven years in various settings including: community behavioral health, inpatient psychiatry, residential treatment for substance abuse and obsessive compulsive disorders, and outpatient psychiatry.
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Photo of Susan Joshua, Psychiatrist, MD
Susan Joshua
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome. I am Susan Joshua MD, a psychiatrist who cares about your needs. I have 35 years experience in the field of adult psychiatry. I bring my skills and expertise, with an open heart, to help you with your current challenges and choices. We will use a comprehensive, integrative and holistic approach. An environment of care, support, and partnership will be created in order to assist you on your journey through challenging and chaotic times. We start with what needs attention today to address your immediate needs and goals. In doing so we will assess medication needs, therapy focus and lifestyle choices.
Welcome. I am Susan Joshua MD, a psychiatrist who cares about your needs. I have 35 years experience in the field of adult psychiatry. I bring my skills and expertise, with an open heart, to help you with your current challenges and choices. We will use a comprehensive, integrative and holistic approach. An environment of care, support, and partnership will be created in order to assist you on your journey through challenging and chaotic times. We start with what needs attention today to address your immediate needs and goals. In doing so we will assess medication needs, therapy focus and lifestyle choices.
(303) 529-9461 View (303) 529-9461
Photo of Alok Singh, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Alok Singh
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Dr. Singh and I am a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist. I've had the privilege of practicing medicine for many years, across various clinical settings. My philosophy is that true healing takes place through a holistic consideration of the mind, body, and spirit. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
Hello! My name is Dr. Singh and I am a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist. I've had the privilege of practicing medicine for many years, across various clinical settings. My philosophy is that true healing takes place through a holistic consideration of the mind, body, and spirit. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
(720) 743-6767 View (720) 743-6767
Photo of Creinthea Chritz - Taking New Clients, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Creinthea Chritz - Taking New Clients
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80227
Psychiatry and mental health is rapidly changing... More than ever before, we are seeing the effects of mental health physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Rest assured, you're valued here. I provide a safe, supportive space for clients to address their mental health and wellbeing. With my background in education, I foster a love of teaching and advocating; I teach my patients to do the same for themselves. With mental health care, I've watched as patients fall into the cracks of follow-ups with no improvements, and endless visits and diagnoses.
Psychiatry and mental health is rapidly changing... More than ever before, we are seeing the effects of mental health physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Rest assured, you're valued here. I provide a safe, supportive space for clients to address their mental health and wellbeing. With my background in education, I foster a love of teaching and advocating; I teach my patients to do the same for themselves. With mental health care, I've watched as patients fall into the cracks of follow-ups with no improvements, and endless visits and diagnoses.
(720) 704-1142 View (720) 704-1142
Photo of Caroline Fernandez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Caroline Fernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80216
Caroline “Callie” Fernandez is a Columbia University trained, and Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with extensive experience in medication management and psychotherapy. While Callie cares for clients across the lifespan, she has additional training in the treatment of children/adolescents, and integrates developmental strategies into all of her client work. Since focusing solely on medication might not address all of a client’s goals, Callie strives to understand the whole individual to tailor unique treatment recommendations.
Caroline “Callie” Fernandez is a Columbia University trained, and Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with extensive experience in medication management and psychotherapy. While Callie cares for clients across the lifespan, she has additional training in the treatment of children/adolescents, and integrates developmental strategies into all of her client work. Since focusing solely on medication might not address all of a client’s goals, Callie strives to understand the whole individual to tailor unique treatment recommendations.
(720) 330-8809 View (720) 330-8809
Photo of Kristina Mordecai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kristina Mordecai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Accepting New Patients! Kristina is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is currently accepting new clients. Her journey began in 1999 when she graduated with an Associate of Science in Nursing from Meridian Community College. She then progressed to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University in 2015 and graduated at the top of her class. After furthering her career in nursing management and stress management courses, she decided to pursue the Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatry, at Herzing University where she graduated with honors.
Accepting New Patients! Kristina is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is currently accepting new clients. Her journey began in 1999 when she graduated with an Associate of Science in Nursing from Meridian Community College. She then progressed to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University in 2015 and graduated at the top of her class. After furthering her career in nursing management and stress management courses, she decided to pursue the Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatry, at Herzing University where she graduated with honors.
(720) 730-2735 View (720) 730-2735
Photo of Britt Ritchie - Mind Alchemy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Britt Ritchie - Mind Alchemy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel like you’re constantly holding it together on the outside—while falling apart on the inside? I help ambitious women struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, perfectionism, imposter syndrome and burnout uncover the root causes of their symptoms and feel like themselves again—calm, focused, and empowered—through personalized, integrative psychiatric care. I help you move beyond survival mode and reconnect with your calm, focus, and sense of self—so confidence isn’t just something you show the world, it’s something you truly feel.
Do you feel like you’re constantly holding it together on the outside—while falling apart on the inside? I help ambitious women struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, perfectionism, imposter syndrome and burnout uncover the root causes of their symptoms and feel like themselves again—calm, focused, and empowered—through personalized, integrative psychiatric care. I help you move beyond survival mode and reconnect with your calm, focus, and sense of self—so confidence isn’t just something you show the world, it’s something you truly feel.
(720) 745-6902 View (720) 745-6902
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See more therapy options for Denver

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Denver, CO

600+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Denver, CO who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
94% Depression
84% ADHD
84% Bipolar Disorder
78% Medication Management
77% Trauma and PTSD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Denver, CO see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
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.