What does a psychiatrist do?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who diagnoses and treats mental health conditions. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication, and many also offer talk therapy. In a crisis, call or text 988.
Last updated November 11, 2026
When people see one
- You think medication might help with depression, anxiety, or ADHD.
- Your symptoms are severe or have not improved with therapy.
- You take psychiatric medication and need a prescriber.
- You need a diagnosis for a complex mental health condition.
How it differs
Psychologist: A psychologist does therapy and testing but does not prescribe medication in Colorado. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe.
Psychiatric nurse practitioner: A psychiatric nurse practitioner also prescribes and treats mental health conditions. The training path differs, and the day-to-day care is often similar.
On 2027 Colorado plans
Do you need a referral? Not on most plans. Kaiser Permanente plans need a referral for some specialists, so ask the insurance company before you book. The other plans don't require one for outpatient mental health care, according to each plan's 2027 summary of benefits.
What a visit costs (the plan's filed "Office Visit - Mental/Behavioral Health" benefit, in network, before any extra savings on silver plans):
- Bronze: $0 to $80 a visit on 25 of 56 plans; on the other 31, you pay toward your deductible or a share of the bill.
- Silver: $0 to $85 a visit on 35 of 58 plans; on the other 23, you pay toward your deductible or a share of the bill.
- Gold: $0 to $90 a visit on 26 of 30 plans; on the other 4, you pay toward your deductible or a share of the bill.
In-network care costs less. Out-of-network visits on an HMO or EPO usually aren't covered except in an emergency.
In Colorado
Public records list 1,048 psychiatrists at 554 Colorado locations.
- Denver County: 124 locations
- El Paso County: 70 locations
- Arapahoe County: 63 locations
- Boulder County: 57 locations
- Jefferson County: 41 locations
- Larimer County: 41 locations
Counties with the fewest: Teller (1), Sedgwick (1), Routt (1), Pitkin (1), Phillips (1). 31 counties have none.
Questions to ask the office
- Are you taking new patients?
- Do you bill my 2027 plan? Which plan and network name do you use?
- Do you offer telehealth visits?
- How long is the wait for a first appointment, and do you bill insurance or take self-pay only?