Psychiatrists in Denver, CO
Shanika is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Masters in Nursing Education, and a Post-Master’s Certificate as a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Shanika is known for her patient-centered approach, prioritizing empathy, respect, and individualized care. She is committed to building strong therapeutic relationships grounded in trust and open communication.
Shanika is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Masters in Nursing Education, and a Post-Master’s Certificate as a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Shanika is known for her patient-centered approach, prioritizing empathy, respect, and individualized care. She is committed to building strong therapeutic relationships grounded in trust and open communication.
Dr. Bardugon is a board-eligible psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults. He has experience in treating patients with various forms of depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, PTSD and substance use disorders. He seeks to provide a safe, non-judgmental, gender affirming space for patients as they strive to lead a happier, more contented life. After a pediatrics residency, Dr Bardugon worked for 13 years as a pediatric ER physician. His interest in psychiatry was piqued during this time as he witnessed the emergence of a child and adolescent mental health crisis.
Dr. Bardugon is a board-eligible psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults. He has experience in treating patients with various forms of depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, PTSD and substance use disorders. He seeks to provide a safe, non-judgmental, gender affirming space for patients as they strive to lead a happier, more contented life. After a pediatrics residency, Dr Bardugon worked for 13 years as a pediatric ER physician. His interest in psychiatry was piqued during this time as he witnessed the emergence of a child and adolescent mental health crisis.
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.
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping people improve their mental health and live more fulfilling lives. My approach is comprehensive and holistic, looking at all factors that may affect well-being. I work collaboratively with patients, families, and healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective care that is personalized to each individual. Appointments are available in person or online. Call 720-310-2773 or click “My Website” to see my availability and schedule your first visit today.
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping people improve their mental health and live more fulfilling lives. My approach is comprehensive and holistic, looking at all factors that may affect well-being. I work collaboratively with patients, families, and healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective care that is personalized to each individual. Appointments are available in person or online. Call 720-310-2773 or click “My Website” to see my availability and schedule your first visit today.
I was drawn to psychiatry because I wanted to make a lasting difference in people’s lives — especially young people learning to navigate mental health challenges. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in the idea of progress over perfection. I’ll meet you where you are, listen without judgment, and help you find a path that fits your life. Together, we’ll build a plan that blends psychiatric medication with holistic practices that support your whole well-being. My goal is to help you feel affirmed, balanced, and confident in your care.
I was drawn to psychiatry because I wanted to make a lasting difference in people’s lives — especially young people learning to navigate mental health challenges. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in the idea of progress over perfection. I’ll meet you where you are, listen without judgment, and help you find a path that fits your life. Together, we’ll build a plan that blends psychiatric medication with holistic practices that support your whole well-being. My goal is to help you feel affirmed, balanced, and confident in your care.
Hello! I am currently accepting new patients as of 1/20/2022. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Colorado or Massachusetts. My love for what I do in psychiatry, comes from the joy I get in helping others improve their lives. Most of my patients do not know which direction to go when then come to me, and that is ok. Some people come to me looking for second or third opinions about diagnosis or medications, some people are referred by a therapist to start medication. We can openly discuss decisions and options. This is a judgement free zone. There is no way you can TMI me!
Hello! I am currently accepting new patients as of 1/20/2022. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Colorado or Massachusetts. My love for what I do in psychiatry, comes from the joy I get in helping others improve their lives. Most of my patients do not know which direction to go when then come to me, and that is ok. Some people come to me looking for second or third opinions about diagnosis or medications, some people are referred by a therapist to start medication. We can openly discuss decisions and options. This is a judgement free zone. There is no way you can TMI me!
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate and effective care. Reaching out takes courage, and I strive to create a safe space where you feel heard and understood. Your first visit can be in person or from home using telehealth. Together we will review your history, symptoms, and goals to create a personalized treatment plan that feels right for you. Take the first step toward better mental health by clicking “My Website” or calling 720-310-2773 today.
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate and effective care. Reaching out takes courage, and I strive to create a safe space where you feel heard and understood. Your first visit can be in person or from home using telehealth. Together we will review your history, symptoms, and goals to create a personalized treatment plan that feels right for you. Take the first step toward better mental health by clicking “My Website” or calling 720-310-2773 today.
I originally graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in communication and art history from Denison University. After some searching, I learned my passion was in helping others. I have been an emergency room nurse for over 11 years, but I felt there was a disconnect in treating the diagnosis, but not the person. I have my master’s in nursing with a specialty in psychiatry from Saint Louis University and have a certificate degree in alternative and integrative medicine from the University of Colorado. I see the future of psychiatric medicine taking on new pathways with the addition of psychedelics as treatment options.
I originally graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in communication and art history from Denison University. After some searching, I learned my passion was in helping others. I have been an emergency room nurse for over 11 years, but I felt there was a disconnect in treating the diagnosis, but not the person. I have my master’s in nursing with a specialty in psychiatry from Saint Louis University and have a certificate degree in alternative and integrative medicine from the University of Colorado. I see the future of psychiatric medicine taking on new pathways with the addition of psychedelics as treatment options.
Dr. Meyen graduated from the University of Missouri School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency training at Harvard South Shore. She completed a fellowship in geriatric psychiatry through Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA. Dr. Meyen was employed by the Department of Veteran Affairs for 10 years prior to joining Talkiatry. She is board certified in both adult and geriatric psychiatry. She specializes in depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, and many other mental health disorders.
Dr. Meyen graduated from the University of Missouri School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency training at Harvard South Shore. She completed a fellowship in geriatric psychiatry through Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA. Dr. Meyen was employed by the Department of Veteran Affairs for 10 years prior to joining Talkiatry. She is board certified in both adult and geriatric psychiatry. She specializes in depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, and many other mental health disorders.
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.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I recently moved from upstate New York to Colorado with my family. I earned my Master of Science degree from Binghamton University in New York, and received my nursing degree from Gannon University. Overall, I have almost ten years of experience in healthcare. I have worked in various nursing settings, with most of time spent on medical as well as inpatient psychiatric nursing. I am currently seeing clients both in person, and virtually through telehealth. I believe in working collaboratively with each patient to attain optimal care.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I recently moved from upstate New York to Colorado with my family. I earned my Master of Science degree from Binghamton University in New York, and received my nursing degree from Gannon University. Overall, I have almost ten years of experience in healthcare. I have worked in various nursing settings, with most of time spent on medical as well as inpatient psychiatric nursing. I am currently seeing clients both in person, and virtually through telehealth. I believe in working collaboratively with each patient to attain optimal care.
I’m Kristy, a Psychiatric NP committed to providing integrative mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults. I combine traditional psychiatric care with holistic approaches that promote well-being, such as mindfulness, sleep hygiene practices, grounding techniques, lifestyle modification, and herbal supplements or medications if indicated. Whether you’re processing new stress or haven’t felt like yourself in a while, we can work together to create an individualized plan tailored to your specific concerns and needs. I prioritize building trust while providing a safe space for individuals to feel empowered.
I’m Kristy, a Psychiatric NP committed to providing integrative mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults. I combine traditional psychiatric care with holistic approaches that promote well-being, such as mindfulness, sleep hygiene practices, grounding techniques, lifestyle modification, and herbal supplements or medications if indicated. Whether you’re processing new stress or haven’t felt like yourself in a while, we can work together to create an individualized plan tailored to your specific concerns and needs. I prioritize building trust while providing a safe space for individuals to feel empowered.
Mei empowers clients to achieve their goals while meeting them where they are on their mental health journey. She specializes in treating trauma and cultural adjustment, focusing on supporting individuals navigating life transitions and challenges rooted in cultural or societal shifts. Her clinical philosophy emphasizes understanding and addressing the complexities of trauma with sensitivity, creating a safe space for healing.
Mei empowers clients to achieve their goals while meeting them where they are on their mental health journey. She specializes in treating trauma and cultural adjustment, focusing on supporting individuals navigating life transitions and challenges rooted in cultural or societal shifts. Her clinical philosophy emphasizes understanding and addressing the complexities of trauma with sensitivity, creating a safe space for healing.
Accepting New Clients! Schedule a free consultation instantly through our website in bio! We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
Accepting New Clients! Schedule a free consultation instantly through our website in bio! We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take great pride in helping individuals work through their mental health challenges to reach their goals. Using a straightforward and down-to-earth approach to care, I aim to maximize outcomes using a conservative approach to prescribing medications. I implement a holistic approach to mental healthcare - integrating therapy, diet, exercise, and herbal therapies when appropriate in conjunction with prescription medications.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take great pride in helping individuals work through their mental health challenges to reach their goals. Using a straightforward and down-to-earth approach to care, I aim to maximize outcomes using a conservative approach to prescribing medications. I implement a holistic approach to mental healthcare - integrating therapy, diet, exercise, and herbal therapies when appropriate in conjunction with prescription medications.
Dr. Erin Knopf is a Board-Certified Pediatrician, Adult Psychiatrist, and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist, as well as an iaedp Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. She specializes in treating eating disorder behaviors and comorbid symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD and more. She is the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of VERY (Virtual Eating Recovery for You). VERY provides virtual eating disorder care services (psychiatry, therapy, dietary) in 10 states (CO, WA, UT, KY, IN, OH, TN, TX, NJ, NY). We work with your outside providers to ensure cohesive care!
Dr. Erin Knopf is a Board-Certified Pediatrician, Adult Psychiatrist, and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist, as well as an iaedp Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. She specializes in treating eating disorder behaviors and comorbid symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD and more. She is the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of VERY (Virtual Eating Recovery for You). VERY provides virtual eating disorder care services (psychiatry, therapy, dietary) in 10 states (CO, WA, UT, KY, IN, OH, TN, TX, NJ, NY). We work with your outside providers to ensure cohesive care!
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
I'm here to help you. I specialize in Couples Therapy using the Gottman Method.I have skills to help you move through conflict & affairs. I offer marathon sessions for couples. I have expertise in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Grief, PTSD,& Substance Use Disorders. I've been in this field a very long time, & have seen people go years suffering with anxiety & depression & painful relationships because they were afraid to get help. I have prescriptive authority & can help you with medication management. No matter what your concern, we will figure out together the next best right step for you. Don't wait any longer.
I'm here to help you. I specialize in Couples Therapy using the Gottman Method.I have skills to help you move through conflict & affairs. I offer marathon sessions for couples. I have expertise in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Grief, PTSD,& Substance Use Disorders. I've been in this field a very long time, & have seen people go years suffering with anxiety & depression & painful relationships because they were afraid to get help. I have prescriptive authority & can help you with medication management. No matter what your concern, we will figure out together the next best right step for you. Don't wait any longer.
Do you look like you have it all together—but feel like you’re quietly falling apart inside? I specialize in helping ambitious, high-achieving women who feel overwhelmed, drained, or disconnected despite their success. Together, we rebuild your sense of control and restore your energy, confidence, and connection through boutique, holistic psychiatric care that’s as thoughtful and intentional as the life you’ve worked so hard to create—but haven’t been able to fully enjoy.
Do you look like you have it all together—but feel like you’re quietly falling apart inside? I specialize in helping ambitious, high-achieving women who feel overwhelmed, drained, or disconnected despite their success. Together, we rebuild your sense of control and restore your energy, confidence, and connection through boutique, holistic psychiatric care that’s as thoughtful and intentional as the life you’ve worked so hard to create—but haven’t been able to fully enjoy.
You may be navigating a difficult season, feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of what’s next — and you're looking for support that truly sees you. I work with individuals across a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and neurodevelopmental differences such as autism spectrum disorder. My ideal client is someone ready to take an active role in their mental wellness, whether that means exploring new treatment options or simply being heard in a safe, nonjudgmental space.
You may be navigating a difficult season, feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of what’s next — and you're looking for support that truly sees you. I work with individuals across a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and neurodevelopmental differences such as autism spectrum disorder. My ideal client is someone ready to take an active role in their mental wellness, whether that means exploring new treatment options or simply being heard in a safe, nonjudgmental space.
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 |
| 83% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 76% | Medication Management |
| 75% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 95% | Aetna |
| 94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Denver, CO see their clients
| 52% | In Person and Online | |
| 48% | 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


