Psychiatrists in 80206
![Photo of Dr. Kelly Tull, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9b4021a-13cc-4c9d-9570-295e820a0e89/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist practicing in Colorado who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management, with special expertise in reproductive psychiatry. I provide compassionate and specialized care for a broad range of conditions. I commonly help people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma. I love working with women planning for pregnancy and through the perinatal period, as well as supporting those experiencing infertility and women facing the hormone shifts of perimenopause.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist practicing in Colorado who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management, with special expertise in reproductive psychiatry. I provide compassionate and specialized care for a broad range of conditions. I commonly help people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma. I love working with women planning for pregnancy and through the perinatal period, as well as supporting those experiencing infertility and women facing the hormone shifts of perimenopause.
![Photo of Creinthea “Cre” Chritz - Coherent Care: Women's & Maternal Wellness, APRN, BSN, MEd, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4067f0e1-b359-4390-9ca7-6cedc1907770/2/320x400.png)
Coherent Care: Women's & Maternal Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BSN, MEd, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206 (Online Only)
Do you want to FEEL confident again? Laugh and actually MEAN IT? Not shake when you're NERVOUS? Be able to get OVER issues? STOP the crying spells? Or maybe even just trying to NOT compare yourself? We serve the adolescent, collegebound, pregnant, postpartum, professional, and "everything-in-between" woman. Too often, women are left to find their own therapist and psychiatrist for mental health services, and are NOT listened to. Listen, great care is hard to find! Take control of your life, instead of comparing it. Ditch the anxiety and bad vibes like an Ex. And find YOU.
Do you want to FEEL confident again? Laugh and actually MEAN IT? Not shake when you're NERVOUS? Be able to get OVER issues? STOP the crying spells? Or maybe even just trying to NOT compare yourself? We serve the adolescent, collegebound, pregnant, postpartum, professional, and "everything-in-between" woman. Too often, women are left to find their own therapist and psychiatrist for mental health services, and are NOT listened to. Listen, great care is hard to find! Take control of your life, instead of comparing it. Ditch the anxiety and bad vibes like an Ex. And find YOU.
![Photo of Marjorie Lavin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9fb393c-f541-440a-94de-ac9c1d695d7a/2/320x400.jpeg)
For the past 20 years, Dr. Lavin worked at the University of Denver Health and Counseling Center where she treated undergraduate and graduate students. She also worked at a training clinic for students pursuing their PsyD degree. She has supervised and taught psychiatry residents. She taught a psychopharmacology and differential diagnosis course to psychology trainees. Dr. Lavin has a strong interest in functional medicine and alternative therapies. She is board certified in adult psychiatry. Dr. Lavin focuses on a comprehensive medical assessment, medication management, psychoeducation, wellness, and alternative therapies.
For the past 20 years, Dr. Lavin worked at the University of Denver Health and Counseling Center where she treated undergraduate and graduate students. She also worked at a training clinic for students pursuing their PsyD degree. She has supervised and taught psychiatry residents. She taught a psychopharmacology and differential diagnosis course to psychology trainees. Dr. Lavin has a strong interest in functional medicine and alternative therapies. She is board certified in adult psychiatry. Dr. Lavin focuses on a comprehensive medical assessment, medication management, psychoeducation, wellness, and alternative therapies.
![Photo of Michelle Weil, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bb397fd-f671-4998-8fce-361b4ba04ea8/1/320x400.jpeg)
My mission is to provide compassionate, personalized care for adult individuals struggling with mental health issues and/or substance addiction. I specialize in treating substance addiction & co-occurring disorders, mood disorders (depression & bipolar), anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, adjustment disorders, trauma disorders, & sleep disorders, to name a few. As a psychiatrist, I prescribe medications when needed. I also provide psychotherapy: psychodynamic psychotherapy, motivational enhancement therapy, & supportive therapy (blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, & mindfulness).
My mission is to provide compassionate, personalized care for adult individuals struggling with mental health issues and/or substance addiction. I specialize in treating substance addiction & co-occurring disorders, mood disorders (depression & bipolar), anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, adjustment disorders, trauma disorders, & sleep disorders, to name a few. As a psychiatrist, I prescribe medications when needed. I also provide psychotherapy: psychodynamic psychotherapy, motivational enhancement therapy, & supportive therapy (blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, & mindfulness).
![Photo of Sean Elrod - Capstone Mental Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3acda6f0-a273-4bb7-8f6d-eb978fc4d8ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Capstone Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206 (Online Only)
ADHD Certified! As nurse practitioners our primary goal is to help individuals overcome their mental health challenges and live a happy and fulfilling life. We understand that seeking help for mental health issues can be a difficult decision, and we want to assure you that you have made a brave and important step by considering professional support. Our approach is centered on a collaborative and personalized treatment plan that considers each patient's unique circumstances, needs, & goals. We believe that effective treatment requires an open and honest dialogue between the patient and the np, where the patient feels heard.
ADHD Certified! As nurse practitioners our primary goal is to help individuals overcome their mental health challenges and live a happy and fulfilling life. We understand that seeking help for mental health issues can be a difficult decision, and we want to assure you that you have made a brave and important step by considering professional support. Our approach is centered on a collaborative and personalized treatment plan that considers each patient's unique circumstances, needs, & goals. We believe that effective treatment requires an open and honest dialogue between the patient and the np, where the patient feels heard.
![Photo of Suzanne Monsivais, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd39e8c7-5955-4230-9f32-4479e3328dd1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents and adults of all ages. When working with children and adolescents, I aim to include caregivers, as much as possible, in the assessment and treatment process. Whether you are seeking treatment for yourself or for a child or adolescent in your life, my hope is that we can build a team together, working in support of you and/or your family.
I am board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents and adults of all ages. When working with children and adolescents, I aim to include caregivers, as much as possible, in the assessment and treatment process. Whether you are seeking treatment for yourself or for a child or adolescent in your life, my hope is that we can build a team together, working in support of you and/or your family.
![Photo of Mustafa Taquee, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d11b8a84-5e12-4a5d-a020-6c4d8c106b60/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mustafa Taquee is a board-eligible Adult Psychiatrist, starting his post-graduate practice with Talkiatry. After receiving his undergraduate degree from Wayne State University in Detroit, he completed his medical degree at Oakland University William Beaumont in Rochester, MI. He is a recent graduate from the Adult Psychiatry Residency Program at St. Mary Mercy Hospital in Livonia, MI. Additionally, Dr. Taquee has completed a psychotherapy fellowship through the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute.
Dr. Mustafa Taquee is a board-eligible Adult Psychiatrist, starting his post-graduate practice with Talkiatry. After receiving his undergraduate degree from Wayne State University in Detroit, he completed his medical degree at Oakland University William Beaumont in Rochester, MI. He is a recent graduate from the Adult Psychiatry Residency Program at St. Mary Mercy Hospital in Livonia, MI. Additionally, Dr. Taquee has completed a psychotherapy fellowship through the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute.
![Photo of Holly Vause, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf06486-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in psychiatric medication evaluation and management for children, adolescents and adults.I believe we must have a collaborative relationship working together to meet your treatment goals. This collaboration is achieved through honest communication about your symptoms of concern and medication effects. I do not believe medications are appropriate for everyone dealing with emotional, behavioral, and/or relational issues. I do believe that some form of therapy is critical for maintaining long-term benefits. In many situations therapy as well as medications provide the best outcomes. Working together, we will determine the best course of treatment for you.
I specialize in psychiatric medication evaluation and management for children, adolescents and adults.I believe we must have a collaborative relationship working together to meet your treatment goals. This collaboration is achieved through honest communication about your symptoms of concern and medication effects. I do not believe medications are appropriate for everyone dealing with emotional, behavioral, and/or relational issues. I do believe that some form of therapy is critical for maintaining long-term benefits. In many situations therapy as well as medications provide the best outcomes. Working together, we will determine the best course of treatment for you.
![Photo of Satveet Khela, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3b2a4f4-a09a-4c36-aab3-9c0a34b430ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Satveet Khela is a board certified physician specializing in adult psychiatry. She has been practicing since 2021. n addition to focusing on medication management, Dr Khela's practice also prioritizes a whole person approach, incorporating aspects of nutrition, lifestyle, mindfulness, and supportive or brief cognitive behavioral therapy into the treatment plan. Occasionally, Dr. Khela may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you see a separate therapist to provide the best outcome. Dr. Khela received her undergraduate degree from University of California Berkeley and her medical degree from A.T. Still.
Dr. Satveet Khela is a board certified physician specializing in adult psychiatry. She has been practicing since 2021. n addition to focusing on medication management, Dr Khela's practice also prioritizes a whole person approach, incorporating aspects of nutrition, lifestyle, mindfulness, and supportive or brief cognitive behavioral therapy into the treatment plan. Occasionally, Dr. Khela may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you see a separate therapist to provide the best outcome. Dr. Khela received her undergraduate degree from University of California Berkeley and her medical degree from A.T. Still.
![Photo of Marla Richard, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b112781-ab01-42c2-8b64-5a564c79b215/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marla Richard is Stanford trained board-certified psychiatrist and board eligible in geriatric psychiatry from UCSD. She has been practicing in a variety of settings for the last 30 years. Dr. Richard uses an an integrated health paradigm with general and geriatric patients using traditional psychopharmacology, interpersonal neurobiology practices, and personality assessments to look at root motivations for behaviors to address core issues and with medication management as needed. Dr. Marla believes that you need to take a whole-person approach to both mental and physical health.
Dr. Marla Richard is Stanford trained board-certified psychiatrist and board eligible in geriatric psychiatry from UCSD. She has been practicing in a variety of settings for the last 30 years. Dr. Richard uses an an integrated health paradigm with general and geriatric patients using traditional psychopharmacology, interpersonal neurobiology practices, and personality assessments to look at root motivations for behaviors to address core issues and with medication management as needed. Dr. Marla believes that you need to take a whole-person approach to both mental and physical health.
![Photo of Alexis Adams, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4939db47-7fdc-452a-81e6-1b54496d9edc/1/320x400.jpeg)
As an experienced Nurse Practitioner with 12 years in healthcare, my passion lies in providing exceptional mental health services and medication management. Throughout my journey, I have honed my expertise across multiple specialties, catering to diverse age groups to include pediatrics and adults. Working closely with clients facing various mental health diagnoses, I have developed a deep understanding of their unique needs. My commitment to empowering individuals is reflected in my ability to create personalized treatment plans that align with clients' goals and values.
As an experienced Nurse Practitioner with 12 years in healthcare, my passion lies in providing exceptional mental health services and medication management. Throughout my journey, I have honed my expertise across multiple specialties, catering to diverse age groups to include pediatrics and adults. Working closely with clients facing various mental health diagnoses, I have developed a deep understanding of their unique needs. My commitment to empowering individuals is reflected in my ability to create personalized treatment plans that align with clients' goals and values.
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![Photo of Kristin Ratz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8aceac72-d6f0-4d3f-ab64-107e30beb972/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kristin Ratz is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who is an expert in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. She specializes in medication management combined with supportive therapy during 30-minute follow-up sessions. A California local, Dr. Ratz obtained her undergraduate education at University of California, Davis, graduating magna cum laude.t. She then attended medical school at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, obtaining her Medical Doctorate. Following this, she completed her adult psychiatry residency training at the University of California, Irvine.
Dr. Kristin Ratz is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who is an expert in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. She specializes in medication management combined with supportive therapy during 30-minute follow-up sessions. A California local, Dr. Ratz obtained her undergraduate education at University of California, Davis, graduating magna cum laude.t. She then attended medical school at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, obtaining her Medical Doctorate. Following this, she completed her adult psychiatry residency training at the University of California, Irvine.
![Photo of David Jiang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1748cf6-6187-4e94-b5ae-d6fe9a2e1700/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jiang is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. His practice focuses on medication management and supportive therapy. His major goal is for treatment to be patient centered, with a focus on high quality, evidence-based care in the safest and most meaningful way.
Dr. Jiang is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. His practice focuses on medication management and supportive therapy. His major goal is for treatment to be patient centered, with a focus on high quality, evidence-based care in the safest and most meaningful way.
![Photo of Amy Franks, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d2d1a00-ed22-4410-a08f-dbbddb0685d6/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping my patients navigate a wide array of mental health challenges, ranging from depression and anxiety to trauma and addiction. My approach involves conducting thorough and comprehensive evaluations to gain a holistic understanding of my patients' lives and symptoms. This forms the basis for my treatment recommendations, which may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both. My goal is to deeply understand my patients in order to provide compassionate care and facilitate lasting change.
I am passionate about helping my patients navigate a wide array of mental health challenges, ranging from depression and anxiety to trauma and addiction. My approach involves conducting thorough and comprehensive evaluations to gain a holistic understanding of my patients' lives and symptoms. This forms the basis for my treatment recommendations, which may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both. My goal is to deeply understand my patients in order to provide compassionate care and facilitate lasting change.
![Photo of Laura Obler, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d533db40-93a2-4bb1-be8e-442b6a7c0b72/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Laura Obler is board-certified in adult psychiatry. She received her medical degree from the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA in Los Angeles, California, where she stayed to complete her psychiatry residency at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience. During residency she received specialized training in reproductive psychiatry (the treatment of women who are considering pregnancy or are pregnant or postpartum) and acted as Chief Resident of the Women’s Life Center at UCLA. She has previously worked in community clinics in the greater Los Angeles area and as a staff psychiatrist at UCLA.
Dr. Laura Obler is board-certified in adult psychiatry. She received her medical degree from the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA in Los Angeles, California, where she stayed to complete her psychiatry residency at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience. During residency she received specialized training in reproductive psychiatry (the treatment of women who are considering pregnancy or are pregnant or postpartum) and acted as Chief Resident of the Women’s Life Center at UCLA. She has previously worked in community clinics in the greater Los Angeles area and as a staff psychiatrist at UCLA.
![Photo of Dr. Rebecca I Katz, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b98f486-ce22-4346-874a-273635a7ef63/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wellcova Health is excited to announce that Dr. Katz has joined our team. She brings a vast amount of knowledge and expertise in psychiatric medication management in both pediatric and adult patients. Dr. Rebecca Katz is a Board Certified Psychiatrist. Prior to becoming a physician, Dr. Katz received a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Pittsburgh and was a High School Science and Math Teacher as well as an Athletic coach in Pennsylvania for 6 years. She went on to receive a Master’s in Biomedical Sciences with a focus in stroke research from Rutgers’s University before changing careers to study medicine.
Wellcova Health is excited to announce that Dr. Katz has joined our team. She brings a vast amount of knowledge and expertise in psychiatric medication management in both pediatric and adult patients. Dr. Rebecca Katz is a Board Certified Psychiatrist. Prior to becoming a physician, Dr. Katz received a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Pittsburgh and was a High School Science and Math Teacher as well as an Athletic coach in Pennsylvania for 6 years. She went on to receive a Master’s in Biomedical Sciences with a focus in stroke research from Rutgers’s University before changing careers to study medicine.
![Photo of Aaron Greenstein, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4738fcd0-f553-46d5-ab50-74611658e22b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Harvard-trained board-certified geriatric psychiatrist. While I work with all adults, I specialize in the management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, late life depression and anxiety, and the strain that family members experience when caring for those aging with dementia and mental illness. Common problems I address include apathy, agitation, insomnia, confusion, depression, anxiety, hallucinations, delusions and memory loss. I do not participate in Medicare or commercial insurance.
I am a Harvard-trained board-certified geriatric psychiatrist. While I work with all adults, I specialize in the management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, late life depression and anxiety, and the strain that family members experience when caring for those aging with dementia and mental illness. Common problems I address include apathy, agitation, insomnia, confusion, depression, anxiety, hallucinations, delusions and memory loss. I do not participate in Medicare or commercial insurance.
![Photo of Kim Massetti - Spark Mental Health Clinics - Colorado, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e21c780-5309-4037-91a0-d3f3f2f11b17/1/320x400.jpeg)
Spark Mental Health Clinics - Colorado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206 (Online Only)
Spark is accepting new patients and we have SAME & NEXT DAY appointments readily available! Plus, and more importantly, we are a fully 5 STAR rated Psychiatric Practices across all review sites. We specialize in treating depression, anxiety and attention deficit disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. We use technology to offer the most convenient care possible. In most cases, you can self-schedule appointments online, see your provider by HIPPA secure video, and have prescriptions sent in real-time electronically to the pharmacy of your choice.
Spark is accepting new patients and we have SAME & NEXT DAY appointments readily available! Plus, and more importantly, we are a fully 5 STAR rated Psychiatric Practices across all review sites. We specialize in treating depression, anxiety and attention deficit disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. We use technology to offer the most convenient care possible. In most cases, you can self-schedule appointments online, see your provider by HIPPA secure video, and have prescriptions sent in real-time electronically to the pharmacy of your choice.
![Photo of John Whittier, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50149e16-1347-407b-af2d-95b4f9eb91af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. John Whittier is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and mood disorders. Dr. Whittier is primarily focused on medication management of general psychiatric conditions. He approaches each client as an individual, using the one-hour initial intake to get a comprehensive look at each client’s unique needs. From there he works with his clients to provide options and flexibility in the treatment plan utilizing a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and evidence-based alternative therapies.
Dr. John Whittier is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and mood disorders. Dr. Whittier is primarily focused on medication management of general psychiatric conditions. He approaches each client as an individual, using the one-hour initial intake to get a comprehensive look at each client’s unique needs. From there he works with his clients to provide options and flexibility in the treatment plan utilizing a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and evidence-based alternative therapies.
![Photo of Cindy Rossetti, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/899c72a8-bf28-4065-8f88-e058d858156f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cindy Rossetti is board certified in Adult Psychiatry. She has been practicing for over 13 years. Dr. Rossetti received her medical degree from The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. She completed her general psychiatry residency at University of Kentucky in Lexington where she was chief resident. She worked at Eastern State Hospital in Kentucky treating severe and persistent mental illness. She spent most of her post graduate time providing outpatient care in a rural and underserved area of Arkansas.
Dr. Cindy Rossetti is board certified in Adult Psychiatry. She has been practicing for over 13 years. Dr. Rossetti received her medical degree from The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. She completed her general psychiatry residency at University of Kentucky in Lexington where she was chief resident. She worked at Eastern State Hospital in Kentucky treating severe and persistent mental illness. She spent most of her post graduate time providing outpatient care in a rural and underserved area of Arkansas.
See more therapy options for 80206
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 80206
50+
Average cost per session
$195
Psychiatrists in 80206 who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
95% | Medication Management |
91% | Depression |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
85% | Aetna |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 80206 see their clients
57% | In Person and Online | |
43% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Female | |
34% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 80206?
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.