# Psychologists in Colorado

> 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.

Source: Colorado Health Insurance Colorado Care Index (https://coloradohealthinsurance.com/care/psychologist), data updated 2026-11-11. Published by Grove Benefit Advisors LLC, a licensed Colorado health insurance agency.

## 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

- 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.
- Visit cost by metal level (standard plans):
  - Bronze: $0 to $80 a visit on 25 of 56 plans
  - Silver: $0 to $85 a visit on 35 of 58 plans
  - Gold: $0 to $90 a visit on 26 of 30 plans

## In Colorado

- 3,144 clinicians at 1,653 locations in public records (NPPES, CMS).
- 7,256 active Colorado licenses (DORA).

## 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?

## Sources

- [NIMH: Psychotherapies](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies)
- [NIMH: Help for mental illnesses](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help)
- [988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline](https://988lifeline.org/)