Psychiatrists in Lakewood, CO

Sarah Masten, DNP has called Colorado home for fifteen years. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Arizona State University in 2006. Sarah worked as Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse and later a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health for several years before earning a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University in 2017. As an advanced practice nurse, she has worked in inpatient and outpatient mental health settings helping clients from diverse backgrounds to build a life worth living. Sarah uses a collaborative, evidence-based approach to medication management.
Sarah Masten, DNP has called Colorado home for fifteen years. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Arizona State University in 2006. Sarah worked as Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse and later a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health for several years before earning a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University in 2017. As an advanced practice nurse, she has worked in inpatient and outpatient mental health settings helping clients from diverse backgrounds to build a life worth living. Sarah uses a collaborative, evidence-based approach to medication management.

Not living your best life due to struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse or other mental health issues? I can help. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with 30 years of clinical experience in all areas of psychiatry and addiction. I can help you if you have a mood disorder (such as Major Depression or Bipolar Disorder), an anxiety disorder (such as PTSD, OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder or Agoraphobia), ADHD, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, TBI or a developmental disability. I can also provide medication to help with addiction to drugs or alcohol. I see patients age 13 and up.
Not living your best life due to struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse or other mental health issues? I can help. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with 30 years of clinical experience in all areas of psychiatry and addiction. I can help you if you have a mood disorder (such as Major Depression or Bipolar Disorder), an anxiety disorder (such as PTSD, OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder or Agoraphobia), ADHD, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, TBI or a developmental disability. I can also provide medication to help with addiction to drugs or alcohol. I see patients age 13 and up.

Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80214
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!

Judy Kwedar - Denver Wellness Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
I have been practicing as a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in the Denver area since 2019. I offer psychiatric medication evaluations and treatment for various conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and PTSD. I value practicing safe-competent care that incorporates current evidence-based practice. I hope to provide my clients with a comfortable environment where we can collaborate together to create an individualized treatment plan. I believe medication is just one of the many tools involved in treating mental health conditions.
I have been practicing as a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in the Denver area since 2019. I offer psychiatric medication evaluations and treatment for various conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and PTSD. I value practicing safe-competent care that incorporates current evidence-based practice. I hope to provide my clients with a comfortable environment where we can collaborate together to create an individualized treatment plan. I believe medication is just one of the many tools involved in treating mental health conditions.

Hayley Price
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Navigating mental health concerns can be overwhelming. Whether you’re experiencing persistent anxiety that interferes with daily life, battling feelings of hopelessness associated with depression, struggling with intrusive thoughts/rituals due to OCD, struggling with procrastination related to ADHD, or finding it difficult to get restorative sleep, I am here to help. My approach is rooted in empathy and respect for your unique experiences and goals. My goal is to empower you to live a fulfilling life by effectively managing your mental health. Together, we work towards enhancing your overall quality of life!
Navigating mental health concerns can be overwhelming. Whether you’re experiencing persistent anxiety that interferes with daily life, battling feelings of hopelessness associated with depression, struggling with intrusive thoughts/rituals due to OCD, struggling with procrastination related to ADHD, or finding it difficult to get restorative sleep, I am here to help. My approach is rooted in empathy and respect for your unique experiences and goals. My goal is to empower you to live a fulfilling life by effectively managing your mental health. Together, we work towards enhancing your overall quality of life!

Hello! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals overcome life’s challenges and achieve mental wellness. I am passionate about delivering compassionate, evidence-based care to those navigating their mental health journeys. My approach is holistic and collaborative—I work closely with each patient to develop personalized treatment plans that honor their unique experiences and goals. Whether through therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, my aim is to empower you to take charge of your mental health and thrive.
Hello! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals overcome life’s challenges and achieve mental wellness. I am passionate about delivering compassionate, evidence-based care to those navigating their mental health journeys. My approach is holistic and collaborative—I work closely with each patient to develop personalized treatment plans that honor their unique experiences and goals. Whether through therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, my aim is to empower you to take charge of your mental health and thrive.

Christopher Archer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, GNP-BC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80226
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.

Kayla completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice at Arizona State University. She has experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Kayla works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their background and their strengths, in order to provide an individualized approach. Kayla believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of treatment and creating lasting change.
Kayla completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice at Arizona State University. She has experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Kayla works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their background and their strengths, in order to provide an individualized approach. Kayla believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of treatment and creating lasting change.

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 inperson therapy and psychiatry services, covered by most 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 inperson therapy and psychiatry services, covered by most major insurance plans.

Fasilat Olasumbo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80214
I’m Fasilat Olasumbo, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, deeply committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate, and evidence-based mental health care. With a specialization in diagnosing and managing mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and other mental health concerns, my goal is to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience.
I’m Fasilat Olasumbo, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, deeply committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate, and evidence-based mental health care. With a specialization in diagnosing and managing mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and other mental health concerns, my goal is to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience.

Accepting New Clients—In-Person or Online Sessions Available! Hi, I’m Shelby, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals through life’s challenges. My journey into mental health care started with my background as a labor and delivery nurse, which gave me a unique perspective on the emotional and psychological aspects of major life transitions. I strive to create a warm, trusting environment where you feel supported in your journey toward healing and resilience.
Accepting New Clients—In-Person or Online Sessions Available! Hi, I’m Shelby, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals through life’s challenges. My journey into mental health care started with my background as a labor and delivery nurse, which gave me a unique perspective on the emotional and psychological aspects of major life transitions. I strive to create a warm, trusting environment where you feel supported in your journey toward healing and resilience.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

I believe that all persons choose and walk their own unique path to wellness and a meaningful, fulfilling life. I listen carefully and collaborate with my clients in helping them explore their personal values and goals for optimal mental health. Psychiatric medications may be a part of a comprehensive and effective mental health plan of care. I have 24 years of experience treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, ADHD. I consider myself an ally and have experience working with and treating members of the LGBTQ+ community.
I believe that all persons choose and walk their own unique path to wellness and a meaningful, fulfilling life. I listen carefully and collaborate with my clients in helping them explore their personal values and goals for optimal mental health. Psychiatric medications may be a part of a comprehensive and effective mental health plan of care. I have 24 years of experience treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, ADHD. I consider myself an ally and have experience working with and treating members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Laurel Tronsen - Denver Wellness Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80215
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Denver, Colorado. I received my doctorate degree from The University of Washington. I have experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder and schizophrenia. My goal is to provide compassionate, efficient and patient-centered evidence-based care. I enjoy working along side my clients, providing education, resources and options to develop a plan that feels comfortable to my clients.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Denver, Colorado. I received my doctorate degree from The University of Washington. I have experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder and schizophrenia. My goal is to provide compassionate, efficient and patient-centered evidence-based care. I enjoy working along side my clients, providing education, resources and options to develop a plan that feels comfortable to my clients.

I am now offering Spravato treatments. As an Integrative Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have cared for hundreds of clients across the lifespan. Nothing matters more to me than your health and comfort, which is why I’ve put in so much time and effort into advancing my medical practice and therapeutic techniques. In recognition that everyone has their own unique challenges and journeys towards achieving their personal definition of happy and healthy lives; I have developed Red Rocks Psychiatry to be a nurturing and safe place that fosters emotional healing, development and education to support resilient mental health.
I am now offering Spravato treatments. As an Integrative Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have cared for hundreds of clients across the lifespan. Nothing matters more to me than your health and comfort, which is why I’ve put in so much time and effort into advancing my medical practice and therapeutic techniques. In recognition that everyone has their own unique challenges and journeys towards achieving their personal definition of happy and healthy lives; I have developed Red Rocks Psychiatry to be a nurturing and safe place that fosters emotional healing, development and education to support resilient mental health.

CammieAnn is a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She graduated from Texas Tech University of Health Sciences with her master of science in nursing as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has her certification through ANCC (American Nures Credentialing Center). CammieAnn believes in collaberative care with her patients and other medical/ mental health professionals. CammieAnn encourages them to be active participants in their treatment. She believes in evidence-based practices and empowering her patients through education.
CammieAnn is a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She graduated from Texas Tech University of Health Sciences with her master of science in nursing as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has her certification through ANCC (American Nures Credentialing Center). CammieAnn believes in collaberative care with her patients and other medical/ mental health professionals. CammieAnn encourages them to be active participants in their treatment. She believes in evidence-based practices and empowering her patients through education.

Dr. Alison Burton Dnp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80235
I am a board-certified PMHNP who takes an individualized and holistic approach to mental health care, taking time to listen to your story and culminating with a diagnosis along with precise and safe prescribing. Keeping my finger on the pulse of mental health issues allows me to provide an accurate diagnosis along with medication services. I thank you for taking the first step in “taking back your life” from a mental illness.
I am a board-certified PMHNP who takes an individualized and holistic approach to mental health care, taking time to listen to your story and culminating with a diagnosis along with precise and safe prescribing. Keeping my finger on the pulse of mental health issues allows me to provide an accurate diagnosis along with medication services. I thank you for taking the first step in “taking back your life” from a mental illness.

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.

I bring a warm, compassionate, and calm energy to each patient interaction. As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I strive to provide a caring relationship where each person can feel safe and accepted. Research increasingly supports an integrative approach to mental health care, which can include medication, therapy, nutritional support, and exploration of habits, history, and stressors. I will collaborate with you to find a treatment plan that is clinically appropriate and sensitive to your personal needs. I recently completed additional training and certification in perinatal mental health.
I bring a warm, compassionate, and calm energy to each patient interaction. As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I strive to provide a caring relationship where each person can feel safe and accepted. Research increasingly supports an integrative approach to mental health care, which can include medication, therapy, nutritional support, and exploration of habits, history, and stressors. I will collaborate with you to find a treatment plan that is clinically appropriate and sensitive to your personal needs. I recently completed additional training and certification in perinatal mental health.

Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW
Verified Verified
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.

Meagan -pronounced May-gan- here! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, driven by a lifelong passion for supporting mental well-being. My journey began at Denver College of Nursing, where I earned my BSN. Eager to dive into the world of psychiatry, I spent over 6 years as a Mental Health Registered Nurse. Those years were invaluable, giving me experience in diverse settings like outpatient, inpatient, detox, and crisis care.
Meagan -pronounced May-gan- here! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, driven by a lifelong passion for supporting mental well-being. My journey began at Denver College of Nursing, where I earned my BSN. Eager to dive into the world of psychiatry, I spent over 6 years as a Mental Health Registered Nurse. Those years were invaluable, giving me experience in diverse settings like outpatient, inpatient, detox, and crisis care.
See more therapy options for Lakewood
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lakewood, CO
80+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Lakewood, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
98% | Depression |
93% | ADHD |
82% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Lakewood, CO see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lakewood?
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.