Psychiatrists in Wheat Ridge, CO

Photo of Dr. Nicholas Sahagian - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(303) 327-9948 View (303) 327-9948
Photo of Richard Craven, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Richard Craven
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
I have over 20 years experience working with and prescribing medications for young adults, adults, and the geriatric population in hospitals and outpatient clinics. I have training in Psychiatry and general medicine. The first appointment will be a focused evaluation where I will get to know you as an individual and ask detailed questions so an appropriate diagnosis can be made. Perhaps you are not sure whether medication is right for you, or you have had many medication trials in the past. During the initial evaluation, we will discuss the potential benefits and risks of medication for you as an individual.
I have over 20 years experience working with and prescribing medications for young adults, adults, and the geriatric population in hospitals and outpatient clinics. I have training in Psychiatry and general medicine. The first appointment will be a focused evaluation where I will get to know you as an individual and ask detailed questions so an appropriate diagnosis can be made. Perhaps you are not sure whether medication is right for you, or you have had many medication trials in the past. During the initial evaluation, we will discuss the potential benefits and risks of medication for you as an individual.
(970) 825-1519 View (970) 825-1519
Photo of Amber Grob, PMHNP, APRN, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amber Grob
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, PMH-C
Verified Verified
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 Jeff Moore, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeff Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's demands? Do anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues prevent you from finding the clarity and peace you long for? Addressing your mental health doesn't have to be done alone. I specialize in medication management to balance symptoms and help you build healthier coping strategies. Together, we can work toward finding the clarity and relief you're seeking.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's demands? Do anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues prevent you from finding the clarity and peace you long for? Addressing your mental health doesn't have to be done alone. I specialize in medication management to balance symptoms and help you build healthier coping strategies. Together, we can work toward finding the clarity and relief you're seeking.
(720) 792-4611 View (720) 792-4611
Photo of Elizabeth Stevens, DO, Psychiatrist
Elizabeth Stevens
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Not accepting new clients
I have a unique perspective with respect to trauma, with both personal experience as well as training. I wrote a book to help people dive deeper through my story and the stories of others in order to provide tangible tools and insights into pathways towards healing. You can order it on Amazon or other retailers under Unshackled by Dr. Elizabeth Stevens.
I have a unique perspective with respect to trauma, with both personal experience as well as training. I wrote a book to help people dive deeper through my story and the stories of others in order to provide tangible tools and insights into pathways towards healing. You can order it on Amazon or other retailers under Unshackled by Dr. Elizabeth Stevens.
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Photo of Nicholas Sahagian, MD, Psychiatrist
Nicholas Sahagian
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Dr. Nicholas Sahagian is a Psychiatrist in Colorado who has been practicing since 2023. He completed his MD and Adult Psychiatry Residency at the Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University and earned his BA in Neuroscience at Skidmore College. Dr. Sahagian has experience managing a broad array of complex psychiatric diagnoses in patients of diverse socioeconomic, cultural, and clinical backgrounds. He offers psychiatric medication management but also routinely incorporates elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, lifestyle interventions, and family psychoeducation into his practice.
Dr. Nicholas Sahagian is a Psychiatrist in Colorado who has been practicing since 2023. He completed his MD and Adult Psychiatry Residency at the Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University and earned his BA in Neuroscience at Skidmore College. Dr. Sahagian has experience managing a broad array of complex psychiatric diagnoses in patients of diverse socioeconomic, cultural, and clinical backgrounds. He offers psychiatric medication management but also routinely incorporates elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, lifestyle interventions, and family psychoeducation into his practice.
(720) 821-7028 View (720) 821-7028
Photo of Alan Ray Reed, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alan Ray Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Many struggle with looking in the mirror - physically, psychologically, or both. Looking Glass Mental Health exists to support individuals challenged by how they see and interact with themselves, others, and the world. Together we'll explore how your past experiences and current circumstances drive the way you think, feel, and act. Ultimately, I want to help you achieve your ideal version of recovery and wellness.
Many struggle with looking in the mirror - physically, psychologically, or both. Looking Glass Mental Health exists to support individuals challenged by how they see and interact with themselves, others, and the world. Together we'll explore how your past experiences and current circumstances drive the way you think, feel, and act. Ultimately, I want to help you achieve your ideal version of recovery and wellness.
(720) 605-1854 View (720) 605-1854
Photo of Angela Graham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Graham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and the founder of authentic mental health, PLLC.  I am a compassionate, down-to-earth provider, who is dedicated to helping individuals manage their mental and emotional well-being while creating healthy, fulfilling lives. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions within a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working towards their mental health goals. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance and involving clients in their own treatment plans.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and the founder of authentic mental health, PLLC.  I am a compassionate, down-to-earth provider, who is dedicated to helping individuals manage their mental and emotional well-being while creating healthy, fulfilling lives. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions within a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working towards their mental health goals. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance and involving clients in their own treatment plans.
(720) 712-2596 View (720) 712-2596
Photo of Joe Maxwell, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse
Joe Maxwell
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
My style of practice includes a comprehensive patient-centered focus of care that supports traditional as well as holistic care. I believe that treatment of the whole person to be included as mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. My style of conservative psychopharmcological treatment is designed to be utilized collaboratively with the addition of a primary psychotherapist. Other important aspects of focus in his practice include: complementary and alternative medicine, lifestyle modification, exercise, nutrition, and stress management.
My style of practice includes a comprehensive patient-centered focus of care that supports traditional as well as holistic care. I believe that treatment of the whole person to be included as mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. My style of conservative psychopharmcological treatment is designed to be utilized collaboratively with the addition of a primary psychotherapist. Other important aspects of focus in his practice include: complementary and alternative medicine, lifestyle modification, exercise, nutrition, and stress management.
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Photo of Hayley Price, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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!
(720) 776-2021 View (720) 776-2021
Photo of Brittnee Rogers, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittnee Rogers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Prior to completing my Master of Science in Nursing I worked as a surgical nurse caring for patients during one of their most vulnerable times. I have worked in healthcare for fourteen years and found my passion caring for people in the mental health field through professional and personal experiences.
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Prior to completing my Master of Science in Nursing I worked as a surgical nurse caring for patients during one of their most vulnerable times. I have worked in healthcare for fourteen years and found my passion caring for people in the mental health field through professional and personal experiences.
(720) 927-9573 View (720) 927-9573
Photo of Maria Pontiero, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maria Pontiero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have an easygoing, friendly, and warm approach that will help you feel understood and supported. I will partner with you to create an integrative treatment plan combining pharmaceutical treatments, therapy, and complementary medicine including nutrition, exercise, stress reduction, balancing hormones, and utilizing the gut-brain connection to help you optimize your mental health. I work with patients ages 18 and up with all psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, OCD, trauma and issues affecting the LGBTQIA+ community.
I have an easygoing, friendly, and warm approach that will help you feel understood and supported. I will partner with you to create an integrative treatment plan combining pharmaceutical treatments, therapy, and complementary medicine including nutrition, exercise, stress reduction, balancing hormones, and utilizing the gut-brain connection to help you optimize your mental health. I work with patients ages 18 and up with all psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, OCD, trauma and issues affecting the LGBTQIA+ community.
(720) 637-5686 View (720) 637-5686
Photo of Alyssa Jennings, PMHNP-B, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alyssa Jennings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients! Now accepting Anthem, United, Cigna, Colorado Medicaid, and Self-Pay clients! Specializing in all ages from children to adults with mental health concerns. I have worked with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, attention disorders, trauma disorders, eating disorders, and a variety of other mood disorders. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient care.
Accepting New Patients! Now accepting Anthem, United, Cigna, Colorado Medicaid, and Self-Pay clients! Specializing in all ages from children to adults with mental health concerns. I have worked with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, attention disorders, trauma disorders, eating disorders, and a variety of other mood disorders. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient care.
(970) 627-4370 View (970) 627-4370
Photo of Megan McNamee, MD, Psychiatrist
Megan McNamee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I believe authentic relationship and a depth of understanding are essential keys to best mental health treatment and support. Whether I am evaluating for therapy or medication services, I conduct comprehensive intakes so as to appreciate the complex roles and interplay of personal psychological development, attachment relationships, trauma, genetics, physical wellness and medical illness, brain injury, neurodevelopment, medications, treatment history, substance use, social roles, values, culture, and spiritual focus in a person’s life. My treatment approach is relational and works to support progress through insight.
I believe authentic relationship and a depth of understanding are essential keys to best mental health treatment and support. Whether I am evaluating for therapy or medication services, I conduct comprehensive intakes so as to appreciate the complex roles and interplay of personal psychological development, attachment relationships, trauma, genetics, physical wellness and medical illness, brain injury, neurodevelopment, medications, treatment history, substance use, social roles, values, culture, and spiritual focus in a person’s life. My treatment approach is relational and works to support progress through insight.
(720) 706-2995 View (720) 706-2995
Photo of Deimys D Vigil - Mindful Minds Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mindful Minds Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Mindful Minds Psychiatry is a group outpatient psychiatric practice in Colorado, offering in person and telehealth to children starting at 3years old, adolescents, and adults in our multiple locations.
Mindful Minds Psychiatry is a group outpatient psychiatric practice in Colorado, offering in person and telehealth to children starting at 3years old, adolescents, and adults in our multiple locations.
(720) 664-9721 View (720) 664-9721
Photo of Paige Murphy-Floyd, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paige Murphy-Floyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
(720) 790-3038 View (720) 790-3038

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kiley Gilbert, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kiley Gilbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Together, we'll navigate the twists and turns of life, offering insightful medication management strategies to work toward healing and growth. As a board-certified nurse practitioner who has worked in a variety of treatment settings, I am dedicated to providing personalized treatment strategies that integrate medication management to promote improved well-being. With an understanding of psychiatric conditions and pharmacology, I specialize in prescribing medication to address a wide range of mental health concerns. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and guided by a commitment to individualized care.
Together, we'll navigate the twists and turns of life, offering insightful medication management strategies to work toward healing and growth. As a board-certified nurse practitioner who has worked in a variety of treatment settings, I am dedicated to providing personalized treatment strategies that integrate medication management to promote improved well-being. With an understanding of psychiatric conditions and pharmacology, I specialize in prescribing medication to address a wide range of mental health concerns. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and guided by a commitment to individualized care.
(720) 915-2325 View (720) 915-2325
Photo of Joelle Bailey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joelle Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Colorado native, I attended graduate school at the University of Colorado at the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora. Currently, I reside in Pueblo, and have made it my home for the last 10 years. I have provided care as a Psychiatric Advanced Practice Registered Nurse for children, adults, and geriatrics for over six years and have over 10 years of experience in mental health. Some examples of diagnoses I treat include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, and OCD. I strive to foster an environment built on compassion and mutual respect. New in-person limited weekend appointments in Lakewood are available.
As a Colorado native, I attended graduate school at the University of Colorado at the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora. Currently, I reside in Pueblo, and have made it my home for the last 10 years. I have provided care as a Psychiatric Advanced Practice Registered Nurse for children, adults, and geriatrics for over six years and have over 10 years of experience in mental health. Some examples of diagnoses I treat include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, and OCD. I strive to foster an environment built on compassion and mutual respect. New in-person limited weekend appointments in Lakewood are available.
(866) 891-6357 View (866) 891-6357
Photo of Mary Beth Hutchinson, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Beth Hutchinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123
Are you depressed or anxious? I can help with your medication management. My name is Mary "Beth" Hutchinson. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, treating patients ages 4 and up. I am also certified as a family nurse practitioner, which provides a broad base to individualize age appropriate treatment. We can meet and have our sessions through video on our telemedicine platform, so you can be at the comfort of your home while we meet. We will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a practical plan, and I'll support you through the process of improving your life.
Are you depressed or anxious? I can help with your medication management. My name is Mary "Beth" Hutchinson. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, treating patients ages 4 and up. I am also certified as a family nurse practitioner, which provides a broad base to individualize age appropriate treatment. We can meet and have our sessions through video on our telemedicine platform, so you can be at the comfort of your home while we meet. We will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a practical plan, and I'll support you through the process of improving your life.
(720) 712-1467 View (720) 712-1467
Photo of Angel Julmy, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angel Julmy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231
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.
(833) 364-6387 View (833) 364-6387

See more therapy options for Wheat Ridge

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Wheat Ridge, CO

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Wheat Ridge, CO who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
94% Trauma and PTSD
94% Bipolar Disorder
88% ADHD
69% Psychosis

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
92% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Wheat Ridge, CO see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Wheat Ridge?

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.