Psychiatrists in Edgewater, CO
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.
Katelyn Gray is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters from Regis-University. Katelyn believes that people seeking help for their mental illness or substance use disorders should feel empowered and supported “ not be ashamed of themselves or feel embarrassed. In her spare time, Katelyn enjoys skiing, swimming, enjoying nature, and anything that involves her dogs.
Katelyn Gray is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters from Regis-University. Katelyn believes that people seeking help for their mental illness or substance use disorders should feel empowered and supported “ not be ashamed of themselves or feel embarrassed. In her spare time, Katelyn enjoys skiing, swimming, enjoying nature, and anything that involves her dogs.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in several psychiatric settings. I completed my psychiatric training at the University of Kentucky and his PhD at the University of Texas Medical Branch. I obtained an advanced training in psychopharmacology and has presented several posters and spoken at several national psychiatry conferences.
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in several psychiatric settings. I completed my psychiatric training at the University of Kentucky and his PhD at the University of Texas Medical Branch. I obtained an advanced training in psychopharmacology and has presented several posters and spoken at several national psychiatry conferences.
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80226
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
All Seasons Psychiatry exists to provide hopeful and empathetic psychiatric care in a safe, supportive and mindful space. The primary purpose of this practice is to evaluate psychiatric diagnoses and provide medication treatment options. I also incorporate therapy themes from DBT, CBT, solution focused, Enneagram and IFS theories.
All Seasons Psychiatry exists to provide hopeful and empathetic psychiatric care in a safe, supportive and mindful space. The primary purpose of this practice is to evaluate psychiatric diagnoses and provide medication treatment options. I also incorporate therapy themes from DBT, CBT, solution focused, Enneagram and IFS theories.
Marianne Strauman (Med Management - Accepting New Clients!)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
NOW Accepting New Clients! Link in bio to schedule online instantly! Marianne is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 12 years of experience in the medical profession. She began her career as a bedside nurse in the Intensive Care Unit, and then went on to obtain her Masters's Degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in primary care as well as palliative care, helping care for patients and families with multiple medical conditions and emotional needs.
NOW Accepting New Clients! Link in bio to schedule online instantly! Marianne is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 12 years of experience in the medical profession. She began her career as a bedside nurse in the Intensive Care Unit, and then went on to obtain her Masters's Degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in primary care as well as palliative care, helping care for patients and families with multiple medical conditions and emotional needs.
I have over 15 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 15 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.
Joe Maxwell
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 (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.
Amber Gates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80033
I believe that everyone should have access to mental health care. I accept most major insurances and offer self-pay rates. After initial in person appointment, I offer the flexibility of virtual and in person appointments. I take a holistic approach to care by looking at other physiological causes such as nutrition deficiencies, thyroid abnormalities, etc. With 5 years of family practice background, I can manage basic needs without the need for juggling multiple providers.
I believe that everyone should have access to mental health care. I accept most major insurances and offer self-pay rates. After initial in person appointment, I offer the flexibility of virtual and in person appointments. I take a holistic approach to care by looking at other physiological causes such as nutrition deficiencies, thyroid abnormalities, etc. With 5 years of family practice background, I can manage basic needs without the need for juggling multiple providers.
Judy Kwedar - Denver Wellness Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80215
I have been practicing as a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in the Denver area since 2019. I offer psychiatric medication evaluations and treatment for various conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and PTSD. I value practicing safe-competent care that incorporates current evidence-based practice. I hope to provide my clients with a comfortable environment where we can collaborate together to create an individualized treatment plan. I believe medication is just one of the many tools involved in treating mental health conditions.
I have been practicing as a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in the Denver area since 2019. I offer psychiatric medication evaluations and treatment for various conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and PTSD. I value practicing safe-competent care that incorporates current evidence-based practice. I hope to provide my clients with a comfortable environment where we can collaborate together to create an individualized treatment plan. I believe medication is just one of the many tools involved in treating mental health conditions.
Accepting New Patients in Colorado - Are you struggling to get the help you need for yourself or your child? Have you seen professionals already, but things are not getting better? I am Board certified in child, adolescent & adult psychiatry and specialize in complex cases and second opinions. I work together with patients and families, to achieve goals as quickly and effectively, as possible. It begins with an accurate diagnosis and a plan that is clear, measurable and understandable. We will work together to track progress and make changes to treatment, as needed, in order to achieve your treatment goals.
Accepting New Patients in Colorado - Are you struggling to get the help you need for yourself or your child? Have you seen professionals already, but things are not getting better? I am Board certified in child, adolescent & adult psychiatry and specialize in complex cases and second opinions. I work together with patients and families, to achieve goals as quickly and effectively, as possible. It begins with an accurate diagnosis and a plan that is clear, measurable and understandable. We will work together to track progress and make changes to treatment, as needed, in order to achieve your treatment goals.
Daniel Plastino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80226
Accepting new clients! Life is a journey and healing is often a nonlinear process. Sometimes it can seem like we take one step forward and two steps back. It can be hard to feel connected to ourselves. We may feel controlled by our past history or current stressful life events. Fear and doubt often inevitably creep in and can affect our daily lives and our relationships. I am passionate about practicing behavioral health using a trauma informed, integrative approach to wellness. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who blends conventional treatments with complementary practices.
Accepting new clients! Life is a journey and healing is often a nonlinear process. Sometimes it can seem like we take one step forward and two steps back. It can be hard to feel connected to ourselves. We may feel controlled by our past history or current stressful life events. Fear and doubt often inevitably creep in and can affect our daily lives and our relationships. I am passionate about practicing behavioral health using a trauma informed, integrative approach to wellness. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who blends conventional treatments with complementary practices.
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80214
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
Hayley Price
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 (Online Only)
I understand that 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 and rituals due to OCD, 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 reducing symptoms, improving coping strategies, and enhancing your overall quality of life.
I understand that 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 and rituals due to OCD, 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 reducing symptoms, improving coping strategies, and enhancing your overall quality of life.
Mindful Minds Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
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.
Christopher Archer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, GNP-BC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80226
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
Peter Bordelon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80214 (Online Only)
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Anthropology from the University of Rochester. A few years later, I completed a Master of Social Work at Syracuse University. I worked as a Clinical Social Worker for several years with youth in various community, school and hospital settings before returning to school to completed a Masters in Nursing (University of Maryland) and a post master's certificate in psychiatry and mental health (University of Virginia).
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Anthropology from the University of Rochester. A few years later, I completed a Master of Social Work at Syracuse University. I worked as a Clinical Social Worker for several years with youth in various community, school and hospital settings before returning to school to completed a Masters in Nursing (University of Maryland) and a post master's certificate in psychiatry and mental health (University of Virginia).
I provide psychiatric care with psychotherapy and when appropriate pharmacotherapy. I have experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, addiction, and complex mental illness. I am an expert in using medication assisted therapy for the treatment of addictions. I can also provide ketamine treatment for severe depression.
I provide psychiatric care with psychotherapy and when appropriate pharmacotherapy. I have experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, addiction, and complex mental illness. I am an expert in using medication assisted therapy for the treatment of addictions. I can also provide ketamine treatment for severe depression.
Balanced Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMNHP-B
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80204
Appointments available within 1 week or less and most insurance plans accepted! Balanced Mental Wellness is a psychiatric practice aimed at reducing stigma and helping you connect with your true self as you achieve optimal mental wellness. We are a heart centered practice that believes in treating you as a whole person. We currently provide a multi-modal approach and offer medication management and ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Our network of psychiatric nurse practitioners and therapists are dedicated to creating individualized care with integrity while offering a variety of treatment options to suit your needs.
Appointments available within 1 week or less and most insurance plans accepted! Balanced Mental Wellness is a psychiatric practice aimed at reducing stigma and helping you connect with your true self as you achieve optimal mental wellness. We are a heart centered practice that believes in treating you as a whole person. We currently provide a multi-modal approach and offer medication management and ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Our network of psychiatric nurse practitioners and therapists are dedicated to creating individualized care with integrity while offering a variety of treatment options to suit your needs.
Derenda Beasley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80212 (Online Only)
I specialize in providing a comprehensive secure psychiatric mental health evaluation and medication management for children, teens, and adults who are struggling with a variety of symptoms. These include anxiety, depression, ADHD, unstable moods, personality disorders, trauma, sleep disturbances, substance use, OCD and psychosis. Patients seek privacy and educated treatment within a non-judgmental space to ultimately lead to a more healthy, productive and positive experience with the management of mental health concerns.
I specialize in providing a comprehensive secure psychiatric mental health evaluation and medication management for children, teens, and adults who are struggling with a variety of symptoms. These include anxiety, depression, ADHD, unstable moods, personality disorders, trauma, sleep disturbances, substance use, OCD and psychosis. Patients seek privacy and educated treatment within a non-judgmental space to ultimately lead to a more healthy, productive and positive experience with the management of mental health concerns.
See more therapy options for Edgewater
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Edgewater, CO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Edgewater, CO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Edgewater, CO see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Edgewater?
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.