Psychiatrists in Thornton, CO

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.

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.

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.

Women's and Children Psychiatry| Grace Stimpson NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in perinatal mental health, child and adolescent psychiatry, developmental pediatrics, women's issues, and LGBTQ+ mental health . I work with people in all stages of life who are experiencing burnout, anxiety, depression, frustration, and fatigue. Whether you're struggling with infertility, gender dysphoria and transitioning, postpartum depression, or the transition into motherhood, I'm here for you! I also offer ADHD coaching for those seeking additional support in addition to medication management
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in perinatal mental health, child and adolescent psychiatry, developmental pediatrics, women's issues, and LGBTQ+ mental health . I work with people in all stages of life who are experiencing burnout, anxiety, depression, frustration, and fatigue. Whether you're struggling with infertility, gender dysphoria and transitioning, postpartum depression, or the transition into motherhood, I'm here for you! I also offer ADHD coaching for those seeking additional support in addition to medication management

Board-certified PA-C with a CAQ in Psychiatry, Chad provides mental health medication management for adults, children, and adolescents. His inpatient/outpatient experience provides a strong foundation in general and specialized care. He prioritizes therapy as a cornerstone of long-term wellness, using a conservative medication approach with low-dose, lower-risk options when needed. He empowers patients to achieve their goals through compassionate treatment, emphasizing healthy lifestyle practices and good sleep hygiene. Whether you're seeking an initial evaluation or ongoing management, Chad is committed to partnering with you.
Board-certified PA-C with a CAQ in Psychiatry, Chad provides mental health medication management for adults, children, and adolescents. His inpatient/outpatient experience provides a strong foundation in general and specialized care. He prioritizes therapy as a cornerstone of long-term wellness, using a conservative medication approach with low-dose, lower-risk options when needed. He empowers patients to achieve their goals through compassionate treatment, emphasizing healthy lifestyle practices and good sleep hygiene. Whether you're seeking an initial evaluation or ongoing management, Chad is committed to partnering with you.

Open Availability This Week—Reserve Your Appointment Today! My nursing career began in emergency departments and later transitioned to inpatient psychiatric care, where my passion for mental health truly flourished. Supporting patients has inspired my deep compassion for the human experience, and I’ve been honored to help individuals improve their mental well-being even in the face of extraordinary challenges.
Open Availability This Week—Reserve Your Appointment Today! My nursing career began in emergency departments and later transitioned to inpatient psychiatric care, where my passion for mental health truly flourished. Supporting patients has inspired my deep compassion for the human experience, and I’ve been honored to help individuals improve their mental well-being even in the face of extraordinary challenges.

Open Availability This Week—Call to Reserve Your Spot! Hi, I’m Angel Julmy, PMHNP-BC, and I bring a unique perspective to mental health care. Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked in the oilfield, airlines, and industrial sectors. Those experiences taught me just how challenging it can be to balance life’s demands while maintaining mental wellness. I know how overwhelming it can feel, and I’m here to provide compassionate support and guidance to help you find balance and resilience.
Open Availability This Week—Call to Reserve Your Spot! Hi, I’m Angel Julmy, PMHNP-BC, and I bring a unique perspective to mental health care. Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked in the oilfield, airlines, and industrial sectors. Those experiences taught me just how challenging it can be to balance life’s demands while maintaining mental wellness. I know how overwhelming it can feel, and I’m here to provide compassionate support and guidance to help you find balance and resilience.

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.

Welcome! I’m so glad you’ve found your way here. At Kinetic Mind, my practice is rooted in a deep commitment to providing compassionate, comprehensive mental health care. I believe in creating a nurturing, safe space where you can explore your personal journey and move toward becoming your best self. I take a holistic approach, recognizing the profound connection between mind, body, and spirit. I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2009 and bring a wealth of experience and insight to share with you.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’ve found your way here. At Kinetic Mind, my practice is rooted in a deep commitment to providing compassionate, comprehensive mental health care. I believe in creating a nurturing, safe space where you can explore your personal journey and move toward becoming your best self. I take a holistic approach, recognizing the profound connection between mind, body, and spirit. I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2009 and bring a wealth of experience and insight to share with you.

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.

I am a passionate and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 16 years of health care experience. I provide specialized care for individuals facing mental health challenges. With a commitment to compassionate care, I work closely with adult clients, creating a safe and understanding space to address their mental health needs. I am dedicated to fostering a stigma-free environment that allows clients to openly share their concerns free of judgment. What is really important to me as a provider is that my clients feel heard.
I am a passionate and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 16 years of health care experience. I provide specialized care for individuals facing mental health challenges. With a commitment to compassionate care, I work closely with adult clients, creating a safe and understanding space to address their mental health needs. I am dedicated to fostering a stigma-free environment that allows clients to openly share their concerns free of judgment. What is really important to me as a provider is that my clients feel heard.

I understand how difficult life can be when we are trying to manage family, work, school, finances, and relationships while also struggling with mental health challenges. I would like the opportunity to help you navigate through these challenges by collaborative management of symptoms, psychoeducation, support, and empathy. Together, I believe that we can find ways to make your path more navigable.
I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for over 3 years. I primarily work with older teens, young adults, and middle-aged adults who are experiencing struggles related to anxiety, depression, mood disorders, sleep disturbances
I understand how difficult life can be when we are trying to manage family, work, school, finances, and relationships while also struggling with mental health challenges. I would like the opportunity to help you navigate through these challenges by collaborative management of symptoms, psychoeducation, support, and empathy. Together, I believe that we can find ways to make your path more navigable.
I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for over 3 years. I primarily work with older teens, young adults, and middle-aged adults who are experiencing struggles related to anxiety, depression, mood disorders, sleep disturbances

Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.

I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner. I am board-certified in PMHNP (psychiatric mental health) and FNP (family practice). I am also certified in treating ADHD from PESI (ADHD-CCSP) and have finished a Master Psychopharmacology program from NEI. I have been a clinician since 2018. I am partnered with Genesight to provide gene testing to interested patients who would like to know how genetics apply to their current or future psychiatric medications. I am licensed in 12+ states in the US and am knowledgeable in different state laws and practices concerning psychiatry.
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner. I am board-certified in PMHNP (psychiatric mental health) and FNP (family practice). I am also certified in treating ADHD from PESI (ADHD-CCSP) and have finished a Master Psychopharmacology program from NEI. I have been a clinician since 2018. I am partnered with Genesight to provide gene testing to interested patients who would like to know how genetics apply to their current or future psychiatric medications. I am licensed in 12+ states in the US and am knowledgeable in different state laws and practices concerning psychiatry.

I am devoted to supporting my patients as they overcome life's challenges. My mission is to deliver services that promote health, self-sufficiency, and overall well-being for both visible and invisible wounds. My commitment to those we serve is to remain compassionate, confidential, and approachable. Supportive I understand that not one method fits all.
I am devoted to supporting my patients as they overcome life's challenges. My mission is to deliver services that promote health, self-sufficiency, and overall well-being for both visible and invisible wounds. My commitment to those we serve is to remain compassionate, confidential, and approachable. Supportive I understand that not one method fits all.

Life can be hard to explore, particularly during life events that present uncertainties that accompany adulthood. Sometimes, it becomes hard to deal with these uncertainties as they appear when we don’t have the right tools to deal with them. If not properly taken care of, these uncertainties can impact one's overall well-being. I can help with both pharmacotherapy and non-pharmacotherapy approaches to help calm the waters, and together we can figure out how to deal with the difficulties life tosses at you.
Life can be hard to explore, particularly during life events that present uncertainties that accompany adulthood. Sometimes, it becomes hard to deal with these uncertainties as they appear when we don’t have the right tools to deal with them. If not properly taken care of, these uncertainties can impact one's overall well-being. I can help with both pharmacotherapy and non-pharmacotherapy approaches to help calm the waters, and together we can figure out how to deal with the difficulties life tosses at you.

*Accepting New Patients!* I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call.
*Accepting New Patients!* I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link or call.

Joyce Kibet graduated from Colorado State University-Pueblo. She is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). Joyce has extensive clinical nursing experience with 10 years in the psychiatric field. Joyce's psychiatric experience involves taking care of children, adolescents, and adults in the community, in the comfort of their homes, military facilities, and inpatient psychiatric mental health centers.
Joyce Kibet graduated from Colorado State University-Pueblo. She is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). Joyce has extensive clinical nursing experience with 10 years in the psychiatric field. Joyce's psychiatric experience involves taking care of children, adolescents, and adults in the community, in the comfort of their homes, military facilities, and inpatient psychiatric mental health centers.

I am here to assist you or your child in finding peace in this life of chaos. We will work as a team to find treatment options that you feel informed and comfortable with, from holistic nutraceuticals to the most effective medications available.
I practice in a trauma-informed method, utilizing therapeutic techniques of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness. I love to teach and support patients in their quest to find peace using mindfulness-based techniques that augment medication management.
My goal is to assist you in achieving YOUR goals!
I am here to assist you or your child in finding peace in this life of chaos. We will work as a team to find treatment options that you feel informed and comfortable with, from holistic nutraceuticals to the most effective medications available.
I practice in a trauma-informed method, utilizing therapeutic techniques of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness. I love to teach and support patients in their quest to find peace using mindfulness-based techniques that augment medication management.
My goal is to assist you in achieving YOUR goals!

I'm a Johns Hopkins-trained, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a deeply empathetic, evidence-based, and down-to-earth approach to mental health. I work with adults (18 and older) experiencing anxiety, depression, difficulty sleeping, life transitions, attention and focus issues/ADHD, and the mental health aspects of chronic pain. I take the time to get to know my patients and make sure they are well-informed to make the best decisions for themselves.
I'm a Johns Hopkins-trained, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a deeply empathetic, evidence-based, and down-to-earth approach to mental health. I work with adults (18 and older) experiencing anxiety, depression, difficulty sleeping, life transitions, attention and focus issues/ADHD, and the mental health aspects of chronic pain. I take the time to get to know my patients and make sure they are well-informed to make the best decisions for themselves.
See more therapy options for Thornton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Thornton, CO
60+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Thornton, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
90% | ADHD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
61% | Stress |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
97% | Aetna |
97% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Thornton, CO see their clients
53% | Online Only | |
47% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Thornton?
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.