Psychiatrists in Denver, CO
Dr. Christopher J. Smallwood, PhD, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206
My patients receive individualized treatment that is focused on them as a “whole person” with a unique set of needs and goals that guide their lives. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. I take the time and listen to my patients' needs to understand their symptoms and to identify the correct diagnosis(es). Then, we will work together to integrate my wealth of knowledge and experience into each treatment decision we mutually reach. My approach is scientific and constructivist, as I focus on the physiological aspects of disorders with the understanding that each person's perception of the world is unique.
My patients receive individualized treatment that is focused on them as a “whole person” with a unique set of needs and goals that guide their lives. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. I take the time and listen to my patients' needs to understand their symptoms and to identify the correct diagnosis(es). Then, we will work together to integrate my wealth of knowledge and experience into each treatment decision we mutually reach. My approach is scientific and constructivist, as I focus on the physiological aspects of disorders with the understanding that each person's perception of the world is unique.
Ingenious Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients! Are you seeking for a treatment that is client centered to manage your mental health issues? Managing life issues ranging from personal care, relationship, work, can be very challenging in today's ever changing world. I strive to serve adult clients who have depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, & other mental health issues, using a client focused holistic approach. I have worked with mental health clients for 5 years and have equally worked in emergency department where I served homeless communities. I have experience seeing mental health clients via telehealth and together, we can make each experience count.
Accepting New Patients! Are you seeking for a treatment that is client centered to manage your mental health issues? Managing life issues ranging from personal care, relationship, work, can be very challenging in today's ever changing world. I strive to serve adult clients who have depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, & other mental health issues, using a client focused holistic approach. I have worked with mental health clients for 5 years and have equally worked in emergency department where I served homeless communities. I have experience seeing mental health clients via telehealth and together, we can make each experience count.
Elizabeth DePalma
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205 (Online Only)
I am a doctorally prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing exceptional mental health care to clients across the lifespan. I have been working in healthcare for over 14 years, with the past 9 years focused on mental health treatment in both inpatient and outpatient settings. As a US Air Force veteran, I also have experience working with active duty service members and veterans to meet their mental health care needs.
I am a doctorally prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing exceptional mental health care to clients across the lifespan. I have been working in healthcare for over 14 years, with the past 9 years focused on mental health treatment in both inpatient and outpatient settings. As a US Air Force veteran, I also have experience working with active duty service members and veterans to meet their mental health care needs.
Capstone Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80261 (Online Only)
Now an Autism and ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to help. I know reaching out can be the hardest part. Don't suffer in silence. I know you want to take back control over your life and truly feel alive again! I promise you, I will offer a safe and confidential environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and work through any challenges you may be facing. We aren't pushy, we are a member of your healthcare team, and make decisions...as a team! You are in full control over your healthcare.
Now an Autism and ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to help. I know reaching out can be the hardest part. Don't suffer in silence. I know you want to take back control over your life and truly feel alive again! I promise you, I will offer a safe and confidential environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and work through any challenges you may be facing. We aren't pushy, we are a member of your healthcare team, and make decisions...as a team! You are in full control over your healthcare.
Kayla Sharpe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80216 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with prescriptive authority providing treatment for psychiatric conditions across the lifespan. Specializing in the treatment of mental health disorders allows me to provide excellent care for complications including Women's Health/Perinatal/Postpartum, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Substance Use/Dual Diagnosis, Psychosis, and behavioral concerns.
Hello! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with prescriptive authority providing treatment for psychiatric conditions across the lifespan. Specializing in the treatment of mental health disorders allows me to provide excellent care for complications including Women's Health/Perinatal/Postpartum, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Substance Use/Dual Diagnosis, Psychosis, and behavioral concerns.
Nichollette Dykes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
Nichollette is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management. Nichollette’s practice embodies a holistic approach towards psychiatric treatment that focuses on improving the overall mental well-being of an individual, rather than just treating the symptoms. With every patient, Nichollette strives to create a motivating and nurturing environment that is optimal for healing and growth. She utilizes an artful and collaborative process to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Nichollette is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management. Nichollette’s practice embodies a holistic approach towards psychiatric treatment that focuses on improving the overall mental well-being of an individual, rather than just treating the symptoms. With every patient, Nichollette strives to create a motivating and nurturing environment that is optimal for healing and growth. She utilizes an artful and collaborative process to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Jeanna Lee Dietz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222 (Online Only)
I have a true passion for mental health and for helping others. People often ask why I chose Psychiatry, and I respond that it chose me. I was a registered nurse for 17 years prior to embarking on this journey as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I've taught mental health to nursing students for several years, then started working as a Psych NP in 2018. I've worked with patients of all acuities and diagnoses, including substance abuse, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I am comfortable treating children and adults and have additional training in perinatal psychiatry(pregnancy and post-partum)
I have a true passion for mental health and for helping others. People often ask why I chose Psychiatry, and I respond that it chose me. I was a registered nurse for 17 years prior to embarking on this journey as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I've taught mental health to nursing students for several years, then started working as a Psych NP in 2018. I've worked with patients of all acuities and diagnoses, including substance abuse, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I am comfortable treating children and adults and have additional training in perinatal psychiatry(pregnancy and post-partum)
Lashandra Saulsberry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80237 (Online Only)
Shandra is dedicated to providing warm, compassionate care to each individual throughout their healing journey. She treats depression and complex mood disorders, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Women’s Health, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Insomnia, Grief and Loss, Life transitions, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, panic disorder and more.
Shandra is dedicated to providing warm, compassionate care to each individual throughout their healing journey. She treats depression and complex mood disorders, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Women’s Health, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Insomnia, Grief and Loss, Life transitions, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, panic disorder and more.
Kristina Mordecai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Accepting New Patients! Kristina is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is currently accepting new clients. Her journey began in 1999 when she graduated with an Associate of Science in Nursing from Meridian Community College. She then progressed to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University in 2015 and graduated at the top of her class. After furthering her career in nursing management and stress management courses, she decided to pursue the Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatry, at Herzing University where she graduated with honors.
Accepting New Patients! Kristina is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is currently accepting new clients. Her journey began in 1999 when she graduated with an Associate of Science in Nursing from Meridian Community College. She then progressed to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University in 2015 and graduated at the top of her class. After furthering her career in nursing management and stress management courses, she decided to pursue the Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatry, at Herzing University where she graduated with honors.
Julie Cain PMHNP/ Healthy Minds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80237 (Online Only)
Offering psychiatric medication management including ketamine treatment for clients seeking relief from depression, anxiety, PTSD and other mental health concerns. I enjoy working with clients who are open to change and transformation in their lives. I have a supportive, encouraging, intuitive style and enjoy partnering with clients on their goals to improve their quality of life. In addition to psychiatric medication management for mental health concerns and substance use disorders, I have additional training in psychedelic assisted therapy offering harm reduction, and psycho educational supports for interested clients.
Offering psychiatric medication management including ketamine treatment for clients seeking relief from depression, anxiety, PTSD and other mental health concerns. I enjoy working with clients who are open to change and transformation in their lives. I have a supportive, encouraging, intuitive style and enjoy partnering with clients on their goals to improve their quality of life. In addition to psychiatric medication management for mental health concerns and substance use disorders, I have additional training in psychedelic assisted therapy offering harm reduction, and psycho educational supports for interested clients.
Akos Mersich
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246
My practice includes child, adolescent, and adult patients. During your initial visit we will discuss your current concerns and assess the biological, psychological, developmental, and social factors that contribute to your concerns. We will then work collaboratively to establish a comprehensive plan to address each of these factors and discuss the role of medication and psychotherapy in your treatment. While I believe medications play a significant role in psychiatric treatment, I tend to maintain a strong focus on psychotherapy, as this is a powerful tool for promoting lasting change and emotional well-being.
My practice includes child, adolescent, and adult patients. During your initial visit we will discuss your current concerns and assess the biological, psychological, developmental, and social factors that contribute to your concerns. We will then work collaboratively to establish a comprehensive plan to address each of these factors and discuss the role of medication and psychotherapy in your treatment. While I believe medications play a significant role in psychiatric treatment, I tend to maintain a strong focus on psychotherapy, as this is a powerful tool for promoting lasting change and emotional well-being.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80219
*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.
Bailey Fraser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, NP, RXN
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246 (Online Only)
I am passionate about providing evidence-based psychiatric care. I believe in caring for the whole person, reducing polypharmacy, and that therapeutic rapport yields the best clinical outcomes. Telemedicine Only. There will be certain medications, such as stimulant medications for ADHD and benzodiazepine medications for anxiety, that will not be able to be prescribed due to Federal Telemedicine laws.
I am passionate about providing evidence-based psychiatric care. I believe in caring for the whole person, reducing polypharmacy, and that therapeutic rapport yields the best clinical outcomes. Telemedicine Only. There will be certain medications, such as stimulant medications for ADHD and benzodiazepine medications for anxiety, that will not be able to be prescribed due to Federal Telemedicine laws.
Donna Strickland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS RXN , PMHCNS-, BC LLC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Life throws us many curve balls If you are struggling with your life, exhausted from anxiety, experienced a difficult life transition, or more, you've come to the right place. Or perhaps you are a mom, juggling many priorities, with little left for yourself....or you've had a significant loss, and need help with bereavement. Or maybe you just want to feel the best you can & have energy to spare & get back to a place where you recognize yourself: Perhaps you are in need of medications to help you "get back on balance". Donna can also help you with these types of concerns.Donna is excited to offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
Life throws us many curve balls If you are struggling with your life, exhausted from anxiety, experienced a difficult life transition, or more, you've come to the right place. Or perhaps you are a mom, juggling many priorities, with little left for yourself....or you've had a significant loss, and need help with bereavement. Or maybe you just want to feel the best you can & have energy to spare & get back to a place where you recognize yourself: Perhaps you are in need of medications to help you "get back on balance". Donna can also help you with these types of concerns.Donna is excited to offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
Intrepid Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
We are a group of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners who are passionate about providing mental health care in an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We treat a wide range of issues including anxiety, trauma, depression, insomnia, irritability, anger, intense emotions, bipolar/mood disorders, and ADHD. We use a collaborative holistic approach to treatment which may include the use of psychiatric medications, but additionally we will explore possible root causes for your mental health symptoms and we may recommend things such as laboratory testing or natural supplements.
We are a group of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners who are passionate about providing mental health care in an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We treat a wide range of issues including anxiety, trauma, depression, insomnia, irritability, anger, intense emotions, bipolar/mood disorders, and ADHD. We use a collaborative holistic approach to treatment which may include the use of psychiatric medications, but additionally we will explore possible root causes for your mental health symptoms and we may recommend things such as laboratory testing or natural supplements.
Dr. Henrietta Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, GNPBC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202 (Online Only)
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice Dual Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP and Geriatric NP with over 29 years of patient care experience. My foundations and ethical beliefs have helped me to nurture, cultivate, and promote human well-being by showing my patients kindness, compassion, empathy, and humility to anyone that passes through my doors. My passion in life is to help others when they need it the most. My goal is the help each patient achieve total mental, physical, and spiritual wellness, especially people of color, women with low socioeconomic status, veterans, and the elderly.
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice Dual Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP and Geriatric NP with over 29 years of patient care experience. My foundations and ethical beliefs have helped me to nurture, cultivate, and promote human well-being by showing my patients kindness, compassion, empathy, and humility to anyone that passes through my doors. My passion in life is to help others when they need it the most. My goal is the help each patient achieve total mental, physical, and spiritual wellness, especially people of color, women with low socioeconomic status, veterans, and the elderly.
Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN, RXN
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238
Not accepting new clients
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority. I've been practicing since 2014, initially as an officer in the U.S. Army, and as a civilian since 2017. Treatment involves consistent communication and the consideration of your input. No one is immune from mental health concerns, but they don't have to derail your life. I have treated everyone from high school students, to successful professionals, to elite military officers. If you are struggling with feeling down, have experienced significant trauma, or feel like things aren't right, give me a call.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority. I've been practicing since 2014, initially as an officer in the U.S. Army, and as a civilian since 2017. Treatment involves consistent communication and the consideration of your input. No one is immune from mental health concerns, but they don't have to derail your life. I have treated everyone from high school students, to successful professionals, to elite military officers. If you are struggling with feeling down, have experienced significant trauma, or feel like things aren't right, give me a call.
Jim Resczenski (Not Accepting New Therapy Clients)
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
Therapy can be hard. Finding the right medications can feel impossible. Mental health treatments can be a difficult adventure to start. I want to help navigate the rocky waters of this journey alongside you. Life is complex and our paths can be convoluted. Let’s explore and learn more about what’s brought you to where you are today and where you want to be in the future. I offer both in-person and virtual options for medication management and/or regularly recurring psychodynamic psychotherapy. Meds aren’t for everyone; therapy isn’t for everyone. Let's figure out what's right for you.
Therapy can be hard. Finding the right medications can feel impossible. Mental health treatments can be a difficult adventure to start. I want to help navigate the rocky waters of this journey alongside you. Life is complex and our paths can be convoluted. Let’s explore and learn more about what’s brought you to where you are today and where you want to be in the future. I offer both in-person and virtual options for medication management and/or regularly recurring psychodynamic psychotherapy. Meds aren’t for everyone; therapy isn’t for everyone. Let's figure out what's right for you.
Beverly Ann White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN RXN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Life is full of changes that can disrupt sleep, cause anxiety, panic, mood dysregulation and a wide array of other symptoms. People may struggle with these symptoms throughout their lives or they can be brought on by new, expected or unexpected life stressors. It isn’t always easy to know where to turn to feel welcomed and accepted without judgment and to find yourself in a place of safety and security. This is where the broken road meets the journey of empowerment of healing.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Life is full of changes that can disrupt sleep, cause anxiety, panic, mood dysregulation and a wide array of other symptoms. People may struggle with these symptoms throughout their lives or they can be brought on by new, expected or unexpected life stressors. It isn’t always easy to know where to turn to feel welcomed and accepted without judgment and to find yourself in a place of safety and security. This is where the broken road meets the journey of empowerment of healing.
Chris Archer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, GNP-BC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80223
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.
See more therapy options for Denver
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Denver, CO
400+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Denver, CO who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
87% | Medication Management |
83% | ADHD |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | Aetna |
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Denver, CO see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
32% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Denver?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.