Psychiatrists in Jefferson County, CO

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Photo of Giselle McIntyre, Psychiatrist, MD
Giselle McIntyre
Psychiatrist, MD
Golden, CO 80401
I am a strong believer in the inter-connectedness between mind, body, and spirit. My goal is to help others recognize their own power in their lives, using varying tools including medication, therapeutic, and holistic approaches.
I am a strong believer in the inter-connectedness between mind, body, and spirit. My goal is to help others recognize their own power in their lives, using varying tools including medication, therapeutic, and holistic approaches.
(720) 487-1063 View (720) 487-1063
Photo of Tracy Tyler - Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
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) 493-9563 View (303) 493-9563
Photo of Jacob Bristow, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacob Bristow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Littleton, CO 80128
Open Availability This Week—Call Now to Reserve! I’m Jacob, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a degree from Regis University in Denver, CO. I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing a variety of mental health disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care and offer medication management and wellness strategies tailored to your unique needs.
Open Availability This Week—Call Now to Reserve! I’m Jacob, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a degree from Regis University in Denver, CO. I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing a variety of mental health disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care and offer medication management and wellness strategies tailored to your unique needs.
(720) 580-4734 View (720) 580-4734
Photo of Shawn Howard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shawn Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Shawn Howard, and I am a ANCC-board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of psychiatric experience, ranging from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient psychiatric care. My specialties include depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep, OCD, ADHD and more. My approach to providing care to my patients is to actively listen to the patient and help them with the best choices to improve their self well -being.
I am Shawn Howard, and I am a ANCC-board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of psychiatric experience, ranging from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient psychiatric care. My specialties include depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep, OCD, ADHD and more. My approach to providing care to my patients is to actively listen to the patient and help them with the best choices to improve their self well -being.
(844) 849-9277 View (844) 849-9277
Photo of Sami Tengberg - Sami Tengberg - Denver Wellness Associates, Physician Assistant, PA-C , MMS
Sami Tengberg - Denver Wellness Associates
Physician Assistant, PA-C , MMS
Lakewood, CO 80215
I am psychiatry physician assistant. I see medication management patients, just like a Psychiatrist would, and are currently open to new patients. I am a Certified Physician Assistant who graduated from Midwestern University. I am originally from Phoenix, Arizona who decided to get out of the heat and move to Denver in 2019. I work mainly with young adults, however I like working with people across all spans of life. I deal with patients of varying disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
I am psychiatry physician assistant. I see medication management patients, just like a Psychiatrist would, and are currently open to new patients. I am a Certified Physician Assistant who graduated from Midwestern University. I am originally from Phoenix, Arizona who decided to get out of the heat and move to Denver in 2019. I work mainly with young adults, however I like working with people across all spans of life. I deal with patients of varying disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
(720) 650-7628 View (720) 650-7628
Photo of Cristy Hamilton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP
Cristy Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP
Online Only
I am a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. I earned my degrees from the University of Colorado, Anschutz. I have been an FNP for over 15 years working in an outpatient clinic treating common physical health issues with a focus on health promotion and wellness. One thing that has changed immensely since starting my work in family practice is the amount of mental health issues that comes through primary care and how closely our physical and mental health are truly aligned. This is what started my desire to learn more about mental illness, its relationship to physical health, and the medications and therapies.
I am a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. I earned my degrees from the University of Colorado, Anschutz. I have been an FNP for over 15 years working in an outpatient clinic treating common physical health issues with a focus on health promotion and wellness. One thing that has changed immensely since starting my work in family practice is the amount of mental health issues that comes through primary care and how closely our physical and mental health are truly aligned. This is what started my desire to learn more about mental illness, its relationship to physical health, and the medications and therapies.
(720) 759-2317 View (720) 759-2317
Photo of Kevin Moffett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kevin Moffett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am deeply passionate about promoting whole health, with a particular focus on mental and spiritual well-being. My approach integrates both medication management and brief therapeutic interventions to support individuals on their path to recovery. I am open to a more natural and religious approach through therapeutic healing conversation and alternative modalities if sought. I completed my psychiatric nurse practitioner training at Regis University, followed by a residency at the VA Medical Center in Grand Junction, where I gained invaluable experience in trauma-informed care.
I am deeply passionate about promoting whole health, with a particular focus on mental and spiritual well-being. My approach integrates both medication management and brief therapeutic interventions to support individuals on their path to recovery. I am open to a more natural and religious approach through therapeutic healing conversation and alternative modalities if sought. I completed my psychiatric nurse practitioner training at Regis University, followed by a residency at the VA Medical Center in Grand Junction, where I gained invaluable experience in trauma-informed care.
(303) 402-5624 View (303) 402-5624
Photo of Jordan Gardner, Psychiatrist, MD
Jordan Gardner
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Golden, CO 80401
I am board certified in adult, child, & adolescent psychiatry. My goals are to alleviate suffering and focus on improving my patients' relationships, school or work-life balance, and ultimate acceptance of the self. My preference is to pursue wellness first through therapy, nutrition, exercise, and optimizing sleep. Medications may also be needed, and with my medical background I can prescribe them using safety and the newest evidenced based practices. I feel the therapeutic alliance, or the partnership between a psychiatrist and patient, is essential for an individual to receive the greatest possible benefits from the therapy.
I am board certified in adult, child, & adolescent psychiatry. My goals are to alleviate suffering and focus on improving my patients' relationships, school or work-life balance, and ultimate acceptance of the self. My preference is to pursue wellness first through therapy, nutrition, exercise, and optimizing sleep. Medications may also be needed, and with my medical background I can prescribe them using safety and the newest evidenced based practices. I feel the therapeutic alliance, or the partnership between a psychiatrist and patient, is essential for an individual to receive the greatest possible benefits from the therapy.
(720) 500-6993 View (720) 500-6993
Photo of Peter J Dahlberg - Mountain Valley Mental Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Mountain Valley Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Arvada, CO 80002
I believe everyone deserves quality mental health care and that is why I chose to be a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Let's talk and see if we can get you on track to mental wellness. PLEASE SCHEDULE ONLINE: www.mountainvalleymentalhealth.com At Mountain Valley Mental Health we have a few providers, Mr. Dahlberg is only taking a few new patients monthly, however - we have Harmony Wright taking new patients and another practitioner Bryan Eckhard joining in Aug/Sept. Please CALL TODAY to set up appointment or schedule online @ www.mountainvalleymentalhealth.com
I believe everyone deserves quality mental health care and that is why I chose to be a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Let's talk and see if we can get you on track to mental wellness. PLEASE SCHEDULE ONLINE: www.mountainvalleymentalhealth.com At Mountain Valley Mental Health we have a few providers, Mr. Dahlberg is only taking a few new patients monthly, however - we have Harmony Wright taking new patients and another practitioner Bryan Eckhard joining in Aug/Sept. Please CALL TODAY to set up appointment or schedule online @ www.mountainvalleymentalhealth.com
(720) 696-9430 View (720) 696-9430
Photo of Afusat Adeyemi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Afusat Adeyemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Lara Adeyemi, DNP, APRN, AGPCNP-C, PMHNP-BC, brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to the field of psychiatric care. With a distinguished background spanning a decade plus, Dr. Adeyemi is dedicated to providing comprehensive, evidence-based treatment to individuals across the lifespan, from children to geriatric patients. Specializing in virtual/telemedicine services, Dr. Adeyemi ensures accessibility and convenience without compromising the quality of care.
Dr. Lara Adeyemi, DNP, APRN, AGPCNP-C, PMHNP-BC, brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to the field of psychiatric care. With a distinguished background spanning a decade plus, Dr. Adeyemi is dedicated to providing comprehensive, evidence-based treatment to individuals across the lifespan, from children to geriatric patients. Specializing in virtual/telemedicine services, Dr. Adeyemi ensures accessibility and convenience without compromising the quality of care.
(844) 967-0141 View (844) 967-0141
Photo of Creinthea Chritz- Book Instantly On Website, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Creinthea Chritz- Book Instantly On Website
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
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 Hope Manning, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQPsyc, MMS
Hope Manning
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQPsyc, MMS
Lakewood, CO 80228
Accepting new clients! Virtual visits across Colorado & in person availability. Are you seeking a comprehensive, personalized approach to guide you out of mental suffering and back onto your desired path? Your growth and healing is my focus and commitment.
Accepting new clients! Virtual visits across Colorado & in person availability. Are you seeking a comprehensive, personalized approach to guide you out of mental suffering and back onto your desired path? Your growth and healing is my focus and commitment.
(720) 776-8378 View (720) 776-8378
Photo of Kristina Mordecai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kristina Mordecai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Denver, CO 80227
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) 669-7966 View (720) 669-7966
Photo of Jessica Stuenzi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MACP, PMHNP
Jessica Stuenzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MACP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Goodness can life be hard! While knowing that each of us experience difficulties in different ways throughout our lives, a few things that I believe can buffer some of life’s challenges include kindness, relationship, and self-care. I am glad that you are here, and I would be honored to be a part of your support system if that feels helpful. My primary role is to discuss and prescribe medications that may support you physiologically and therefore emotionally, should you choose medication as a tool in reaching your treatment goals. It would be a privilege to walk alongside you in the journey.
Goodness can life be hard! While knowing that each of us experience difficulties in different ways throughout our lives, a few things that I believe can buffer some of life’s challenges include kindness, relationship, and self-care. I am glad that you are here, and I would be honored to be a part of your support system if that feels helpful. My primary role is to discuss and prescribe medications that may support you physiologically and therefore emotionally, should you choose medication as a tool in reaching your treatment goals. It would be a privilege to walk alongside you in the journey.
(720) 790-3566 View (720) 790-3566
Photo of Rhiannon Brey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rhiannon Brey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Broomfield, CO 80021
My nursing career brought me the good fortune of traveling for work; I have lived in all four corners of the US (and in the middle, too!) and have enjoyed meeting and working with individuals of diverse backgrounds. As a nurse practitioner, curiosity and respect drive my practice; I join each person’s journey toward mental wellness with a collaborative treatment approach, taking time to “zoom out” and view symptoms through a holistic lens. I work closely with all my clients to make thoughtful, evidence-based, and safe decisions regarding treatment plans.
My nursing career brought me the good fortune of traveling for work; I have lived in all four corners of the US (and in the middle, too!) and have enjoyed meeting and working with individuals of diverse backgrounds. As a nurse practitioner, curiosity and respect drive my practice; I join each person’s journey toward mental wellness with a collaborative treatment approach, taking time to “zoom out” and view symptoms through a holistic lens. I work closely with all my clients to make thoughtful, evidence-based, and safe decisions regarding treatment plans.
(720) 912-5018 View (720) 912-5018
Photo of Alicia Kielas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alicia Kielas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
My name is Alicia Kielas and I am an Advanced Practiced Registered Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a special interest in caring for the medical and psychiatric-mental health needs of my patients, optimizing care for the whole person. I provide patient-centered psychiatric-mental health evaluations and medication management for my patients across the life span, of all backgrounds, and with various mental and emotional health conditions across spectrums and continuums including anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, autism
My name is Alicia Kielas and I am an Advanced Practiced Registered Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a special interest in caring for the medical and psychiatric-mental health needs of my patients, optimizing care for the whole person. I provide patient-centered psychiatric-mental health evaluations and medication management for my patients across the life span, of all backgrounds, and with various mental and emotional health conditions across spectrums and continuums including anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, autism
(888) 609-2017 View (888) 609-2017
Photo of Jared Sciarrotta - Taking New Clients, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Jared Sciarrotta - Taking New Clients
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
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) 712-2326 View (720) 712-2326
Photo of Chandra Price, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chandra Price
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! Chandra Price here. I am a double-boarded family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner deeply committed to providing compassionate care. With a focus on integrated behavioral health, I draw from my extensive experience in community-based clinics to address both mental health and general medical concerns. I believe in building strong relationships with my patients and collaborating with them to develop evidence-based treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. I'm dedicated to supporting you on your journey to better health and well-being.
Hello! Chandra Price here. I am a double-boarded family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner deeply committed to providing compassionate care. With a focus on integrated behavioral health, I draw from my extensive experience in community-based clinics to address both mental health and general medical concerns. I believe in building strong relationships with my patients and collaborating with them to develop evidence-based treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. I'm dedicated to supporting you on your journey to better health and well-being.
(877) 741-0585 View (877) 741-0585
Photo of Amber Grob, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, PMH-C
Amber Grob
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Amber Grob has been providing psychiatric medication management for the past 8 years. Prior to, Amber Grob worked in the hospital setting as a psychiatric nurse. Amber Grob has extensive experience managing chronic conditions such as depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and chronic pain.
Amber Grob has been providing psychiatric medication management for the past 8 years. Prior to, Amber Grob worked in the hospital setting as a psychiatric nurse. Amber Grob has extensive experience managing chronic conditions such as depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and chronic pain.
(720) 779-1998 View (720) 779-1998
Photo of Amanda Farrell - Wellness Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW
Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW
Lakewood, CO 80401
We specialize in integrative psychiatry services, emphasizing a holistic approach to mental health & well-being. Our goal is to make sure that each of our patients receives the best possible care. Drawing from our expertise, our philosophy centers around providing clients with personalized treatment plans tailored to their individual needs and goals. We understand that there is no single factor that determines one’s mental health, but rather a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social elements. Our practice is based on the principle that patients’ mental health can only improve if we attend to all of these factors.
We specialize in integrative psychiatry services, emphasizing a holistic approach to mental health & well-being. Our goal is to make sure that each of our patients receives the best possible care. Drawing from our expertise, our philosophy centers around providing clients with personalized treatment plans tailored to their individual needs and goals. We understand that there is no single factor that determines one’s mental health, but rather a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social elements. Our practice is based on the principle that patients’ mental health can only improve if we attend to all of these factors.
(720) 896-3164 View (720) 896-3164

See more therapy options for Jefferson County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Jefferson County, CO

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Jefferson County, CO who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
96% Depression
89% ADHD
84% Bipolar Disorder
79% Trauma and PTSD
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Cigna and Evernorth
96% Aetna
93% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Jefferson County, CO see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Jefferson County?

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

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

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

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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