Psychiatrists in Denver, CO

Photo of Samantha Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Samantha Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Denver, CO 80203
Samantha works with ages 5 and up. When you meet with Samantha, you’ll feel welcomed in a warm and judgment-free environment that’s accepting of all individuals for who they are. She’ll empower you as an active member of your treatment team. When you leave a session with Samantha, you’ll feel educated, acknowledged, and with an understanding of how to get back to feeling your best self. Samantha’s patients can expect help to overcome life struggles, like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses.She uses active listening to identify her patients’ biggest areas of concern.
Samantha works with ages 5 and up. When you meet with Samantha, you’ll feel welcomed in a warm and judgment-free environment that’s accepting of all individuals for who they are. She’ll empower you as an active member of your treatment team. When you leave a session with Samantha, you’ll feel educated, acknowledged, and with an understanding of how to get back to feeling your best self. Samantha’s patients can expect help to overcome life struggles, like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses.She uses active listening to identify her patients’ biggest areas of concern.
(720) 386-6165 View (720) 386-6165
Photo of Ugochi Nwaobi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ugochi Nwaobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Driven by a profound passion for aiding individuals on their quest for optimal mental well-being, I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering personalized and high-quality mental health care to clients aged 18-99 years. My approach encompasses conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations and collaboratively crafting tailored evidence based treatment plans that account for all relevant factors impacting mental health. With over 12 years of extensive experience across diverse healthcare settings, including community mental health clinics and private practice.
Driven by a profound passion for aiding individuals on their quest for optimal mental well-being, I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering personalized and high-quality mental health care to clients aged 18-99 years. My approach encompasses conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations and collaboratively crafting tailored evidence based treatment plans that account for all relevant factors impacting mental health. With over 12 years of extensive experience across diverse healthcare settings, including community mental health clinics and private practice.
(720) 386-8353 View (720) 386-8353
Photo of Dr. Marjorie Lavin, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Marjorie Lavin
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
For the past 20 years, Dr. Lavin worked at the University of Denver Health and Counseling Center where she treated undergraduate and graduate students. She also worked at a training clinic for students pursuing their PsyD degree. She has supervised and taught psychiatry residents. She taught a psychopharmacology and differential diagnosis course to psychology trainees. Dr. Lavin has a strong interest in functional medicine and alternative therapies. She is board certified in adult psychiatry. Dr. Lavin focuses on a comprehensive medical assessment, medication management, psychoeducation, wellness, and alternative therapies.
For the past 20 years, Dr. Lavin worked at the University of Denver Health and Counseling Center where she treated undergraduate and graduate students. She also worked at a training clinic for students pursuing their PsyD degree. She has supervised and taught psychiatry residents. She taught a psychopharmacology and differential diagnosis course to psychology trainees. Dr. Lavin has a strong interest in functional medicine and alternative therapies. She is board certified in adult psychiatry. Dr. Lavin focuses on a comprehensive medical assessment, medication management, psychoeducation, wellness, and alternative therapies.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Photo of Dr. Kristina Eipl, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Kristina Eipl
Psychiatrist, MD
Denver, CO 80238
Dr. Kristina Eipl is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She completed her undergraduate education at Johns Hopkins University, where she graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a bachelor’s in neuroscience. Dr. Eipl later attended medical school at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. Her interest in neuroscience, combined with a passion for the humanistic side of medicine, led her to pursue a psychiatry residency at NYU. There, she gained experience working with a diverse patient population.
Dr. Kristina Eipl is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She completed her undergraduate education at Johns Hopkins University, where she graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a bachelor’s in neuroscience. Dr. Eipl later attended medical school at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. Her interest in neuroscience, combined with a passion for the humanistic side of medicine, led her to pursue a psychiatry residency at NYU. There, she gained experience working with a diverse patient population.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Photo of Naira Numanovic - Naira Numanovic - Avena Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Naira Numanovic - Avena Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my dedication is centered on supporting you through life's challenges and assisting you in realizing your utmost potential. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can openly discuss their mental health concerns.
Accepting new clients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my dedication is centered on supporting you through life's challenges and assisting you in realizing your utmost potential. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can openly discuss their mental health concerns.
(719) 631-8518 View (719) 631-8518
Photo of Alexandra Himel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Alexandra Himel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Online Only
Unlike many practitioners who focus solely on medication management, I bring a dual perspective, having been trained in both mental health counseling and psychiatric medications. I hold a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine, as well as a Doctorate in Psychiatric Nurse Practice. I am licensed to practice in both Massachusetts and Colorado and have experience practicing in both states. My clinical training took place in Boston, MA, and I have spent several years supporting clients with ADHD, autism, and comprehensive medication management.
Unlike many practitioners who focus solely on medication management, I bring a dual perspective, having been trained in both mental health counseling and psychiatric medications. I hold a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine, as well as a Doctorate in Psychiatric Nurse Practice. I am licensed to practice in both Massachusetts and Colorado and have experience practicing in both states. My clinical training took place in Boston, MA, and I have spent several years supporting clients with ADHD, autism, and comprehensive medication management.
(833) 854-5736 View (833) 854-5736
Photo of Dr. Adam Burstein, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Adam Burstein
Psychiatrist, DO
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
As a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, my passion is to help others improve their quality of life. You have my commitment to provide personalized, high-quality care on an ongoing or as-needed basis. I treat a wide range of mental health issues by combining psychotherapy and medication management. My ambition is to provide a full-service psychiatry practice for individuals in all stages of life. You can expect to have a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and a treatment plan designed for your specific needs.
As a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, my passion is to help others improve their quality of life. You have my commitment to provide personalized, high-quality care on an ongoing or as-needed basis. I treat a wide range of mental health issues by combining psychotherapy and medication management. My ambition is to provide a full-service psychiatry practice for individuals in all stages of life. You can expect to have a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and a treatment plan designed for your specific needs.
(720) 512-9175 View (720) 512-9175
Photo of Emily McCollum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Emily McCollum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Denver, CO 80203
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosing, treating, and supporting individuals with a wide range of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I help my patients navigate life's challenges by giving a well rounded approach to improve mental health well-being.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosing, treating, and supporting individuals with a wide range of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I help my patients navigate life's challenges by giving a well rounded approach to improve mental health well-being.
(855) 467-1804 View (855) 467-1804
Photo of Brent Whitley - Peak Mental Healthcare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Peak Mental Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
At Peak Mental Healthcare, our experienced psychiatric providers work with adults who are navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD. Our clients seek understanding, relief, and strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their daily lives. Their goals include achieving mental stability, enhancing personal growth, and ultimately, leading a fulfilling life despite their challenges....
At Peak Mental Healthcare, our experienced psychiatric providers work with adults who are navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD. Our clients seek understanding, relief, and strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their daily lives. Their goals include achieving mental stability, enhancing personal growth, and ultimately, leading a fulfilling life despite their challenges....
(720) 782-1489 View (720) 782-1489
Photo of Jared Sciarrotta - Taking New Clients, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Jared Sciarrotta - Taking New Clients
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80227
Schedule instantly through my website! 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! 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) 386-9854 View (720) 386-9854
Photo of Marianne Strauman (Med Management - Accepting New Clients!), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHMP
Marianne Strauman (Med Management - Accepting New Clients!)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHMP
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80227
NOW Accepting New Clients! Link in bio to schedule online instantly! > Marianne is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 12 years of experience in the medical profession. She began her career as a bedside nurse in the Intensive Care Unit, and then went on to obtain her Masters's Degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in primary care as well as palliative care, helping care for patients and families with multiple medical conditions and emotional needs.
NOW Accepting New Clients! Link in bio to schedule online instantly! > Marianne is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 12 years of experience in the medical profession. She began her career as a bedside nurse in the Intensive Care Unit, and then went on to obtain her Masters's Degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in primary care as well as palliative care, helping care for patients and families with multiple medical conditions and emotional needs.
(720) 821-7593 View (720) 821-7593
Photo of Mary Sturgis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Mary Sturgis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care is holistic and person-centered, addressing both mind and body to support overall wellness. I draw on evidence-based practices—including motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy—to help clients navigate their mental health journey with clarity and confidence..
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care is holistic and person-centered, addressing both mind and body to support overall wellness. I draw on evidence-based practices—including motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy—to help clients navigate their mental health journey with clarity and confidence..
(720) 669-6688 View (720) 669-6688
Photo of Cathleen Barrett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cathleen Barrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients for medication management, with immediate availability for both medicaid and private insurance! I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Addiction Registered Nurse Advanced Practice. I have more than 22 years of experience in mental health and I completed my PMHNP graduate education at Husson University in Maine in 2007. I have practiced in many different settings over the years including both inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities. I work with a wide range of ailments including PTSD, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, and many more.
Accepting new clients for medication management, with immediate availability for both medicaid and private insurance! I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Addiction Registered Nurse Advanced Practice. I have more than 22 years of experience in mental health and I completed my PMHNP graduate education at Husson University in Maine in 2007. I have practiced in many different settings over the years including both inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities. I work with a wide range of ailments including PTSD, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, and many more.
(720) 599-2024 View (720) 599-2024
Photo of Larry K Mortazavi, Psychiatrist, MD, CGP, FABP
Larry K Mortazavi
Psychiatrist, MD, CGP, FABP
Denver, CO 80209
Thank you for visiting my page. Please note that my practice is focused on intense psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and group therapy. I do NOT offer medication services except for the patients who receive psychotherapy at my practice. Also, I’m out-of-network for all insurance plans. All the associated service fees would be considered out-of-network/out-of-pocket. However, most insurance plans cover a portion of the treatment fee after the deductible is met. Visit my website for more information about the new patient intake process and fees.
Thank you for visiting my page. Please note that my practice is focused on intense psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and group therapy. I do NOT offer medication services except for the patients who receive psychotherapy at my practice. Also, I’m out-of-network for all insurance plans. All the associated service fees would be considered out-of-network/out-of-pocket. However, most insurance plans cover a portion of the treatment fee after the deductible is met. Visit my website for more information about the new patient intake process and fees.
(720) 613-2465 View (720) 613-2465
Photo of Akos Mersich, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Akos Mersich
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Denver, CO 80246
My practice includes child, adolescent, and adult patients. During your initial visit we will discuss your current concerns and assess the biological, psychological, developmental, and social factors that contribute to your concerns. We will then work collaboratively to establish a comprehensive plan to address each of these factors and discuss the role of medication and psychotherapy in your treatment. While I believe medications play a significant role in psychiatric treatment, I maintain a strong focus on psychotherapy, as this is a powerful tool for promoting lasting change and emotional well-being.
My practice includes child, adolescent, and adult patients. During your initial visit we will discuss your current concerns and assess the biological, psychological, developmental, and social factors that contribute to your concerns. We will then work collaboratively to establish a comprehensive plan to address each of these factors and discuss the role of medication and psychotherapy in your treatment. While I believe medications play a significant role in psychiatric treatment, I maintain a strong focus on psychotherapy, as this is a powerful tool for promoting lasting change and emotional well-being.
(720) 897-3547 View (720) 897-3547
Photo of Ashmira Rajwani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
Ashmira Rajwani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in adult mental healthcare. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, focusing on collaboration to create personalized treatment plans that integrate psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments. I aim to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for individuals to address their mental health concerns and work towards lasting well-being.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in adult mental healthcare. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, focusing on collaboration to create personalized treatment plans that integrate psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments. I aim to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for individuals to address their mental health concerns and work towards lasting well-being.
(866) 257-6755 View (866) 257-6755
Photo of Jennifer Sims, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(970) 579-4581 View (970) 579-4581
Photo of Mariah Dermody - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Denver, CO 80207
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(720) 730-2765 View (720) 730-2765
Photo of Jacob Bristow, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacob Bristow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
13 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80214
Open availability this week, call now to reserve. I am Jacob, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with advanced training from Regis University in Denver. I diagnose and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. My care blends psychiatric expertise with supportive therapy and practical wellness tools. Together we will create a personalized plan that helps you feel better and move toward your goals. Call 720 310 2773 or click “My Website” to book today.
Open availability this week, call now to reserve. I am Jacob, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with advanced training from Regis University in Denver. I diagnose and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. My care blends psychiatric expertise with supportive therapy and practical wellness tools. Together we will create a personalized plan that helps you feel better and move toward your goals. Call 720 310 2773 or click “My Website” to book today.
(720) 807-2962 View (720) 807-2962
Photo of Dr. Daniel Daylamani, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Daniel Daylamani
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
I am a board certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
(720) 868-9577 View (720) 868-9577

See more therapy options for Denver

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Denver, CO

700+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Denver, CO who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
94% Depression
83% ADHD
82% Bipolar Disorder
82% Medication Management
76% Trauma and PTSD
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
93% Cigna and Evernorth
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Denver, CO see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
28% 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.