What does a psychologist do?
A psychologist has a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) and treats mental health conditions with talk therapy. Psychologists also do psychological testing. Most don't prescribe medication; in Colorado, psychologists with a state prescription certificate can prescribe some psychiatric medicines. In a crisis, call or text 988.
Last updated November 11, 2026
When people see one
- You want talk therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress.
- You need testing for ADHD, learning differences, or memory problems.
- You want structured therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy.
How it differs
Psychiatrist: A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication. A psychologist focuses on therapy and testing.
Licensed professional counselor: A counselor has a master's degree and provides talk therapy. A psychologist has a doctorate and can also do formal testing.
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 3,144 psychologists at 1,653 Colorado locations. Colorado shows 7,256 active licenses of this kind, including people who don't see patients or work out of state.
- Denver County: 318 locations
- El Paso County: 238 locations
- Boulder County: 190 locations
- Arapahoe County: 188 locations
- Jefferson County: 163 locations
- Larimer County: 134 locations
Counties with the fewest: Saguache (1), Rio Grande (1), Rio Blanco (1), Park (1), Morgan (1). 18 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, and do you do psychological testing?
- How long is the wait, and do you bill insurance or take self-pay only?