Psychiatrists in 02809

Photo of Amy Cosma - A Knew You and Wellness, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Knew You and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, RI 02809  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner treating individuals across the lifespan, anyone age 5 and older. I specialize in treating autism, ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, depression and mood disorders. My goal is to help you navigate your current symptoms and concerns through medication management and therapeutic listening. I offer insight and suggestions for coping skills and strategies to overcome challenges associated with mental health disorders. I also offer short therapy sessions on a case by case basis.
Hello! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner treating individuals across the lifespan, anyone age 5 and older. I specialize in treating autism, ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, depression and mood disorders. My goal is to help you navigate your current symptoms and concerns through medication management and therapeutic listening. I offer insight and suggestions for coping skills and strategies to overcome challenges associated with mental health disorders. I also offer short therapy sessions on a case by case basis.
(401) 655-2031 View (401) 655-2031
Photo of Jonathan L Crist, DO, Psychiatrist
Jonathan L Crist
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Bristol, RI 02809  (Online Only)
I enjoy treating adults and college students who are interested in changing patterns of behavior that are detrimental in their relationships and work life. This is achieved through psychotherapy (and medication where indicated) so that you can obtain your full potential. I am trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, an approach that looks comprehensively at an entire person's life, as well as cognitive and behavioral therapy. My psychotherapy training was through Leigh McCullough., a Harvard professor and clinician who also researched what causes true change in therapy. More recently I have studied AEDP a form of Positive Psychotherapy.
I enjoy treating adults and college students who are interested in changing patterns of behavior that are detrimental in their relationships and work life. This is achieved through psychotherapy (and medication where indicated) so that you can obtain your full potential. I am trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, an approach that looks comprehensively at an entire person's life, as well as cognitive and behavioral therapy. My psychotherapy training was through Leigh McCullough., a Harvard professor and clinician who also researched what causes true change in therapy. More recently I have studied AEDP a form of Positive Psychotherapy.
(401) 229-6078 View (401) 229-6078
Photo of Diane Marie Costa - A Knew You and Wellness LLC, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Knew You and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Bristol, RI 02809  (Online Only)
Dr. Costa is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Grief, Compulsive Disorders, Dementia/Cognitive Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
Dr. Costa is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Grief, Compulsive Disorders, Dementia/Cognitive Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
(401) 655-2031 View (401) 655-2031
Photo of Lilia Romero-Bosch, MD, Psychiatrist
Lilia Romero-Bosch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bristol, RI 02809
Not accepting new clients
Lilia Romero-Bosch, MD is a board certified psychiatrist that works with young children, adolescents and adults. She received training from Brown University in: General Pediatrics/General Adult Psychiatry/Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Bosch is also one of the only physicians in southern New England to practice Functional Psychiatry, which focuses on helping you find your healthiest self and not just helping you treat a "diagnosis".
Lilia Romero-Bosch, MD is a board certified psychiatrist that works with young children, adolescents and adults. She received training from Brown University in: General Pediatrics/General Adult Psychiatry/Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Bosch is also one of the only physicians in southern New England to practice Functional Psychiatry, which focuses on helping you find your healthiest self and not just helping you treat a "diagnosis".
(401) 213-3329 View (401) 213-3329
Photo of Doreen A Gendreau, EdD, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Doreen A Gendreau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Bristol, RI 02809  (Online Only)
I am called to serve those who have experienced the pain & suffering from Trauma, Mental health, grief & addictions. If you have been struggling with unexplained fear or anxiety, depression or mood fluctuations, grief, relationship or career issues, self image and negative self talk, overall hopelessness or despair-I imagine you are seeking relief from this pain. If you have experienced chronic trauma, you may have unshed emotions and have always wondered what's wrong with me-why cant I get my stuff together. If you are a mom or dad and are wondering if you make the grade-and are feeling overwhelmed- My mission is to help you heal!
I am called to serve those who have experienced the pain & suffering from Trauma, Mental health, grief & addictions. If you have been struggling with unexplained fear or anxiety, depression or mood fluctuations, grief, relationship or career issues, self image and negative self talk, overall hopelessness or despair-I imagine you are seeking relief from this pain. If you have experienced chronic trauma, you may have unshed emotions and have always wondered what's wrong with me-why cant I get my stuff together. If you are a mom or dad and are wondering if you make the grade-and are feeling overwhelmed- My mission is to help you heal!
(401) 382-3766 View (401) 382-3766
Photo of Dr. Denise Chase, FNP-BC, PMHNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Denise Chase
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
Bristol, RI 02809  (Online Only)
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
(610) 819-4144 View (610) 819-4144

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Elizabeth Niemiec, MD, Psychiatrist
Elizabeth Niemiec
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, RI 02871
As a board certified adult psychiatrist, I specialize in prescribing medication and providing psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, sleep disturbances and other emotional conditions. I studied at Harvard, Brown and Cornell Universities, and I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Patients often come to me when they are struggling to find the right psychiatric medication to manage their symptoms. It can be difficult to find a medication that offers relief without burdensome side effects. Together, we can find a regimen that works for you.
As a board certified adult psychiatrist, I specialize in prescribing medication and providing psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, sleep disturbances and other emotional conditions. I studied at Harvard, Brown and Cornell Universities, and I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Patients often come to me when they are struggling to find the right psychiatric medication to manage their symptoms. It can be difficult to find a medication that offers relief without burdensome side effects. Together, we can find a regimen that works for you.
(401) 205-0287 View (401) 205-0287
Photo of Kelsey Sorensen, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Kelsey Sorensen
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Barrington, RI 02806  (Online Only)
Are you considering starting medication but are apprehensive about the options? Are you already on medications but are struggling with side effects or the medication not working? Are you just not feeling like yourself? Let's work together to find the best treatment plan for you. My approach to care is conversational rather than clinical. I like to get to know you, as a person, not just a diagnosis. We will work together to find a treatment plan that feels comfortable. While my specialty is medication management, I focus on using the least amount of medication possible and reducing the use of multiple medications whenever able.
Are you considering starting medication but are apprehensive about the options? Are you already on medications but are struggling with side effects or the medication not working? Are you just not feeling like yourself? Let's work together to find the best treatment plan for you. My approach to care is conversational rather than clinical. I like to get to know you, as a person, not just a diagnosis. We will work together to find a treatment plan that feels comfortable. While my specialty is medication management, I focus on using the least amount of medication possible and reducing the use of multiple medications whenever able.
(401) 417-4840 View (401) 417-4840
Photo of Ruslan Berdichevsky - MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, RI 02806  (Online Only)
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(401) 420-7620 View (401) 420-7620
Photo of Bolanle Ahazie, NP, Psychiatric Nurse
Bolanle Ahazie
Psychiatric Nurse, NP
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02889  (Online Only)
My name is Bolanle Ahazie, NP and I am a licensed nurse practitioner offering online behavioral health services to adults and children. I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
My name is Bolanle Ahazie, NP and I am a licensed nurse practitioner offering online behavioral health services to adults and children. I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
(551) 288-7016 View (551) 288-7016
Photo of Susan Gagnon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Gagnon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02889
Nice to meet you! I am experienced in the treatment of ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, PTSD, and co-occurring substance use disorders. I have worked in psychiatry for over 17 years and I also have a diverse medical background. I consider many factors that can lead to mood symptoms including life circumstances as well as medical causes. I offer options and approaches that can be used to address your specific needs. I embrace a holistic approach to care, and I am knowledgeable with supplementation for additional support.
Nice to meet you! I am experienced in the treatment of ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, PTSD, and co-occurring substance use disorders. I have worked in psychiatry for over 17 years and I also have a diverse medical background. I consider many factors that can lead to mood symptoms including life circumstances as well as medical causes. I offer options and approaches that can be used to address your specific needs. I embrace a holistic approach to care, and I am knowledgeable with supplementation for additional support.
(401) 271-9922 View (401) 271-9922
Photo of Roseline Ekema, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Roseline Ekema
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02889  (Online Only)
My name is Roseline Eko, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults.
My name is Roseline Eko, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults.
(443) 551-2140 View (443) 551-2140
Photo of Ann Bisland, MSN, CPNP-PC, PMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ann Bisland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CPNP-PC, PMHS
Verified Verified
Barrington, RI 02806
I am a pediatric nurse practitioner and mental health specialist with over 10 years of experience working with young children, adolescents and young adults to foster academic success and mental wellness. I earned my Masters in Nursing at Yale University and am a current fellow of the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. I specialize in the diagnosis and management of ADHD, anxiety and depression in children that are struggling with their emotional regulation, impulsivity, attention and mood.
I am a pediatric nurse practitioner and mental health specialist with over 10 years of experience working with young children, adolescents and young adults to foster academic success and mental wellness. I earned my Masters in Nursing at Yale University and am a current fellow of the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. I specialize in the diagnosis and management of ADHD, anxiety and depression in children that are struggling with their emotional regulation, impulsivity, attention and mood.
(401) 360-9011 View (401) 360-9011
Photo of Mahreen Rashid - Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care ( SNBCare ), MD, Psych , NP, LICSW, Psychiatrist
Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care ( SNBCare )
Psychiatrist, MD, Psych , NP, LICSW
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02887  (Online Only)
Welcome to SNBCare: Your Path to Mental Wellness at SNBCare, we specialize in providing top-notch outpatient mental health services for adults, families, and couples. Our compassionate team offers Telemedicine, Teletherapy, and advanced TMS treatments. Accepting most insurances and new patients, we tailor personalized, evidence-based plans to meet your unique needs. With licensed Psychiatrists, PMHNPs, and Therapists, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. Take the first step to a healthier you with SNBCare today!
Welcome to SNBCare: Your Path to Mental Wellness at SNBCare, we specialize in providing top-notch outpatient mental health services for adults, families, and couples. Our compassionate team offers Telemedicine, Teletherapy, and advanced TMS treatments. Accepting most insurances and new patients, we tailor personalized, evidence-based plans to meet your unique needs. With licensed Psychiatrists, PMHNPs, and Therapists, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. Take the first step to a healthier you with SNBCare today!
(401) 307-4494 View (401) 307-4494
Photo of Kaitlin Kelley - Kaitlin Kelley-Revive Therapeutic Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kaitlin Kelley-Revive Therapeutic Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, RI 02806
Do you feel like you're not living the life you want to? Do you feel like there's something wrong with you, but you don't know what it is? At Revive Therapeutic Services, we specialize in helping people just like you. Our team of providers are ready to help with any condition or issue that might be holding you back from the life of your dreams—whether it's depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum disorders, ADHD, PTSD, life transitions…the list goes on. Your life doesn't have to be defined by your mental health struggles anymore. Let us help!
Do you feel like you're not living the life you want to? Do you feel like there's something wrong with you, but you don't know what it is? At Revive Therapeutic Services, we specialize in helping people just like you. Our team of providers are ready to help with any condition or issue that might be holding you back from the life of your dreams—whether it's depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum disorders, ADHD, PTSD, life transitions…the list goes on. Your life doesn't have to be defined by your mental health struggles anymore. Let us help!
(401) 593-3496 View (401) 593-3496
Photo of Laura Whiteley, MD, Psychiatrist
Laura Whiteley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Barrington, RI 02806
I am a board certified psychiatrist, with fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, mood, sleep, and attentional disorders in adults and adolescents. As a psychiatrist, I can provide both therapy and medications to integrate your care. If preferred, I can also work with your therapist to provide medication management. My office is conveniently located on the east side of Providence within walking distance from Brown, Rhode Island School of Design, and Johnson and Wales. Please visit: www.laurawhiteleymd.com for more information.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, with fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, mood, sleep, and attentional disorders in adults and adolescents. As a psychiatrist, I can provide both therapy and medications to integrate your care. If preferred, I can also work with your therapist to provide medication management. My office is conveniently located on the east side of Providence within walking distance from Brown, Rhode Island School of Design, and Johnson and Wales. Please visit: www.laurawhiteleymd.com for more information.
(401) 375-2708 View (401) 375-2708
Photo of Patricia Schneider, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia Schneider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, RI 02806
I’m an integrative psychiatrist who helps children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, and OCD to improve their self-esteem and feel more energized, happy, and motivated. I get to the root cause of health concerns by providing parents and young adults with a natural and integrative approach to healing that goes beyond traditional medicine. I also specialize in treating eating disorders, mood, and personality disorders, and working with families and children in the adoption and foster care system. If you think we would be a good fit, read on to learn more or you can visit my website.
I’m an integrative psychiatrist who helps children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, and OCD to improve their self-esteem and feel more energized, happy, and motivated. I get to the root cause of health concerns by providing parents and young adults with a natural and integrative approach to healing that goes beyond traditional medicine. I also specialize in treating eating disorders, mood, and personality disorders, and working with families and children in the adoption and foster care system. If you think we would be a good fit, read on to learn more or you can visit my website.
(401) 420-7951 View (401) 420-7951
Photo of Emily Daniell, MSN, PMHNP, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Daniell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Barrington, RI 02806
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who believes strongly in the collaborative relationship between practitioner and client. I believe in offering non-stigmatized care in a comfortable setting where a trusting rapport can be built. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, etc. I am a certified Addiction specialist and have a decade of experience treating Substance Use Disorders. I offer treatment with Suboxone, Sublocade, Brixadi, or Vivitrol as well as general psychiatric med management. If you are looking for MAT, psych med mgmt, or both, I would love to work with you.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who believes strongly in the collaborative relationship between practitioner and client. I believe in offering non-stigmatized care in a comfortable setting where a trusting rapport can be built. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, etc. I am a certified Addiction specialist and have a decade of experience treating Substance Use Disorders. I offer treatment with Suboxone, Sublocade, Brixadi, or Vivitrol as well as general psychiatric med management. If you are looking for MAT, psych med mgmt, or both, I would love to work with you.
(401) 343-7562 View (401) 343-7562
Photo of Ryan Andrews, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Andrews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02889
Ryan Andrews, PMHNP, serves patients across Rhode Island through LifeStance Health, specializing in medication management and comprehensive mental health care for adults aged 18 and older. He believes in taking a collaborative approach to treatment, ensuring that patients feel heard and valued throughout their journey to wellness. By combining evidence-based medication management with therapeutic concepts, Ryan helps individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma-related issues such as PTSD.
Ryan Andrews, PMHNP, serves patients across Rhode Island through LifeStance Health, specializing in medication management and comprehensive mental health care for adults aged 18 and older. He believes in taking a collaborative approach to treatment, ensuring that patients feel heard and valued throughout their journey to wellness. By combining evidence-based medication management with therapeutic concepts, Ryan helps individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma-related issues such as PTSD.
(401) 409-8975 View (401) 409-8975
Photo of Ike Uzowulu, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, RI 02871  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression and anxiety related disorders. Substance use disorder/MAT, ADHD, PTSD, Acute stress and sleep related disorders
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression and anxiety related disorders. Substance use disorder/MAT, ADHD, PTSD, Acute stress and sleep related disorders
(401) 208-0884 View (401) 208-0884

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 02809

< 10

Psychiatrists in 02809 who prioritize treating:

83% Depression
83% ADHD
83% Behavioral Issues
83% Medication Management
67% Anxiety
67% Grief
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

27 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Aetna
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 02809 see their clients

83% Online Only
17% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 02809?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.