Psychiatrists in Commerce City, CO
My name is John, a seasoned professional who has devoted over two decades to the field of Emergency Medicine, where I was privileged to witness the resilience of the human spirit in times of immense crisis. Throughout my tenure, I discovered the profound fulfillment that comes from being a compassionate listener and guide during people’s moments of vulnerability, helping them navigate through their personal stories of trials, triumphs, and transformations.
My name is John, a seasoned professional who has devoted over two decades to the field of Emergency Medicine, where I was privileged to witness the resilience of the human spirit in times of immense crisis. Throughout my tenure, I discovered the profound fulfillment that comes from being a compassionate listener and guide during people’s moments of vulnerability, helping them navigate through their personal stories of trials, triumphs, and transformations.
*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.
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. Asking for help takes courage, and my goal is to meet you where you are. I intend to understand your values, needs, and emotions. Effective treatment starts with trust and feeling heard without judgment. Your initial appointment can be in person or in the comfort of your home utilizing telehealth. By learning about you, your family history, and your symptoms, we can develop a treatment plan we are both comfortable with.
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. Asking for help takes courage, and my goal is to meet you where you are. I intend to understand your values, needs, and emotions. Effective treatment starts with trust and feeling heard without judgment. Your initial appointment can be in person or in the comfort of your home utilizing telehealth. By learning about you, your family history, and your symptoms, we can develop a treatment plan we are both comfortable with.
Sharell Thaxton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Commerce City, CO 80022 (Online Only)
Dr. Sharell Thaxton, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, is a dedicated and compassionate dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). With a terminal Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, Dr. Sharell Thaxton brings a holistic approach to mental health care. Driven by a passion for improving the lives of individuals struggling with these conditions, Dr. Sharell Thaxton offers comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment services tailored to each client's unique needs.
Dr. Sharell Thaxton, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, is a dedicated and compassionate dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). With a terminal Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, Dr. Sharell Thaxton brings a holistic approach to mental health care. Driven by a passion for improving the lives of individuals struggling with these conditions, Dr. Sharell Thaxton offers comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment services tailored to each client's unique needs.
Joe Crowley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commerce City, CO 80022
Accepting New Patients! - Joseph “Joe” P. Crowley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. He brings over seven years of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience to his patients while offering an attentive, accommodating patient care philosophy. Joe earned his BSN and MSN degrees at Regis University. He completed his inpatient and outpatient clinical training at various facilities in the Denver Metro area. He also received professional recognition for academic achievements and ICARE awards while working at the V.A. Eastern Colorado Health Care System.
Accepting New Patients! - Joseph “Joe” P. Crowley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. He brings over seven years of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience to his patients while offering an attentive, accommodating patient care philosophy. Joe earned his BSN and MSN degrees at Regis University. He completed his inpatient and outpatient clinical training at various facilities in the Denver Metro area. He also received professional recognition for academic achievements and ICARE awards while working at the V.A. Eastern Colorado Health Care System.
Accepting New Patients! Kyle is a dual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority in Colorado. Mr. Brown received his advanced degree from Regis University in Denver Colorado and has 14 years of experience in the healthcare arena; including pediatrics, communicable disease control, and integrated family practice. Kyle has a passion for current research and treatment therapies in psychiatry, with a focus on both pharmacological and non-medication management of psychiatric disorders. He has a particular interest in treatment resistant mood disorders and OCD.
Accepting New Patients! Kyle is a dual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority in Colorado. Mr. Brown received his advanced degree from Regis University in Denver Colorado and has 14 years of experience in the healthcare arena; including pediatrics, communicable disease control, and integrated family practice. Kyle has a passion for current research and treatment therapies in psychiatry, with a focus on both pharmacological and non-medication management of psychiatric disorders. He has a particular interest in treatment resistant mood disorders and OCD.
Appointments available! Henry is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who obtained his undergraduate and advanced nursing degree from Regis University in Denver, CO. He has over ten years of healthcare experience serving pediatric, adult and geriatric populations. Henry’s background includes an engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines, ecclesiastical work in service to the poor and underserved, and nursing services that include pediatric homecare, hospital inpatient and hospice care.
Appointments available! Henry is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who obtained his undergraduate and advanced nursing degree from Regis University in Denver, CO. He has over ten years of healthcare experience serving pediatric, adult and geriatric populations. Henry’s background includes an engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines, ecclesiastical work in service to the poor and underserved, and nursing services that include pediatric homecare, hospital inpatient and hospice care.
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.
My nursing career brought me the good fortune of traveling for work; I have lived in all four corners of the US (and in the middle, too!) and have enjoyed meeting and working with individuals of diverse backgrounds. As a nurse practitioner, curiosity and respect drive my practice; I join each person’s journey toward mental wellness with a collaborative treatment approach, taking time to “zoom out” and view symptoms through a holistic lens.
My nursing career brought me the good fortune of traveling for work; I have lived in all four corners of the US (and in the middle, too!) and have enjoyed meeting and working with individuals of diverse backgrounds. As a nurse practitioner, curiosity and respect drive my practice; I join each person’s journey toward mental wellness with a collaborative treatment approach, taking time to “zoom out” and view symptoms through a holistic lens.
Mary Beth Hutchinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Commerce City, CO 80022
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.
Accepting New Patients! Lauren Hood is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services and specializes in medication management. Lauren earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Wyoming. She became certified as a psychiatric registered nurse, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, as her career progressed. Lauren completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University.
Accepting New Patients! Lauren Hood is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services and specializes in medication management. Lauren earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Wyoming. She became certified as a psychiatric registered nurse, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, as her career progressed. Lauren completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University.
15 Second Videos
Andrew Nagy
Alison Baker
Joe Crowley
Kyle Brown
Henry Fagnant
Kristina Mordecai
Rhiannon Lee Brey
Mary Beth Hutchinson
Lauren Hood
Melissa Shulman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commerce City, CO 80022 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
Accepting New Clients! I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Meghan Dow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80022
If you are struggling with unmanageable moods or emotions, maybe you have tried treatment in the past but it has not worked for you. Please come see me and we can build off your history, making sure not to repeat things that have failed you in the past but rather build from this knowledge and improve your symptoms and quality of life through different treatment modalities. If this is further complicated from substance use or maybe originated with substance use we are here to support you, and your recovery.
If you are struggling with unmanageable moods or emotions, maybe you have tried treatment in the past but it has not worked for you. Please come see me and we can build off your history, making sure not to repeat things that have failed you in the past but rather build from this knowledge and improve your symptoms and quality of life through different treatment modalities. If this is further complicated from substance use or maybe originated with substance use we are here to support you, and your recovery.
Inner Joy Psychiatry | Zachary Wight PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80229
Accepting New Patients! I specialize in integrative psychiatry for individuals ages 16+ combining evidence-based medication management with holistic and non-traditional "whole-body" approaches for full-spectrum treatment of mental illnesses and substance abuse. I am accepting of all people and I provide non-judgmental care. Viewing the mind, body, emotions, and soul as beautifully interconnected, I will strive to gain a deep understanding of your unique history, the current struggles that are hindering mental wellness, and adaptation skills that can be enhanced to inspire a lasting sense of inner joy.
Accepting New Patients! I specialize in integrative psychiatry for individuals ages 16+ combining evidence-based medication management with holistic and non-traditional "whole-body" approaches for full-spectrum treatment of mental illnesses and substance abuse. I am accepting of all people and I provide non-judgmental care. Viewing the mind, body, emotions, and soul as beautifully interconnected, I will strive to gain a deep understanding of your unique history, the current struggles that are hindering mental wellness, and adaptation skills that can be enhanced to inspire a lasting sense of inner joy.
My patients are dedicated to enhancing their mental well-being and embrace a collaborative treatment approach. They recognize the significance of mental health and appreciate the value of therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and medication when appropriate. Committed to the therapeutic process, they are eager to engage in open communication with their providers and take an active role in their care journey. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, my patients are prepared to move forward toward a brighter future.
My patients are dedicated to enhancing their mental well-being and embrace a collaborative treatment approach. They recognize the significance of mental health and appreciate the value of therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and medication when appropriate. Committed to the therapeutic process, they are eager to engage in open communication with their providers and take an active role in their care journey. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, my patients are prepared to move forward toward a brighter future.
Breanna Millsap MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thornton, CO 80229
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability! She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your free consultation today!
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability! She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your free consultation today!
Shy Warren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80022 (Online Only)
I have garnered experience in medication management and caring for patients facing depression, anxiety, substance abuse, mood disorders, and behavioral disorders. I excel at performing comprehensive assessments, coming to swift diagnoses’, and building individualized treatment plans while empathetically educating and supporting patients to enable the best possible outcomes.
I have garnered experience in medication management and caring for patients facing depression, anxiety, substance abuse, mood disorders, and behavioral disorders. I excel at performing comprehensive assessments, coming to swift diagnoses’, and building individualized treatment plans while empathetically educating and supporting patients to enable the best possible outcomes.
If you are struggling with the daily tasks and finding you're having trouble day to day, and it is reaching a point, now is the time to reach out and consult. Let's target those areas and bring notable improvement in your level of functioning and making your goals clear and achievable. I am accepting new clientele for concierge and online treatment of ADHD and any other mental health concerns. Appointments are cash only and I'm not accepting insurance at this time, but generally have a better rate than most psychiatrists. If you have medicaid, per law you have to see a medicaid accepting provider,
If you are struggling with the daily tasks and finding you're having trouble day to day, and it is reaching a point, now is the time to reach out and consult. Let's target those areas and bring notable improvement in your level of functioning and making your goals clear and achievable. I am accepting new clientele for concierge and online treatment of ADHD and any other mental health concerns. Appointments are cash only and I'm not accepting insurance at this time, but generally have a better rate than most psychiatrists. If you have medicaid, per law you have to see a medicaid accepting provider,
Julie Cain PMHNP/ Healthy Minds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80022 (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.
I am currently a ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner here at Tranquility Telepsychiatry. I am a Savannah, GA native with over 5 years in psychiatric nursing experience ranging from forensic, inpatient crisis stabilization and travel. My specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse, Major Depression and Anxiety. I enjoy my free time shopping and traveling for leisure.
I am currently a ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner here at Tranquility Telepsychiatry. I am a Savannah, GA native with over 5 years in psychiatric nursing experience ranging from forensic, inpatient crisis stabilization and travel. My specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse, Major Depression and Anxiety. I enjoy my free time shopping and traveling for leisure.
See more therapy options for Commerce City
Nearby Searches for Commerce City
- Arvada
- Aurora
- Brighton
- Broomfield
- Denver
- Englewood
- Federal Heights
- Lakewood
- Northglenn
- Thornton
- Westminster
- Wheat Ridge
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Commerce City, CO
10+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Commerce City, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | ADHD |
92% | Anxiety |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Medication Management |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Commerce City, CO see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
55% | Female | |
45% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Commerce City?
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.